Topological Constraints on Magnetic Field Relaxation

Candelaresi, S. and Brandenburg, A. (2012) Topological Constraints on Magnetic Field Relaxation. In: Solar and Astrophysical Dynamos and Magnetic Activity, Beijing, China, 27-31 Aug 2012, pp. 353-357. (doi: 10.1017/S1743921313002743)

Abstract

Magnetic field relaxation is determined by both the field's geometry and its topology. For relaxation processes, however, it turns out that its topology is a much more stringent constraint. As quantifier for the topology we use magnetic helicity and test whether it is a stronger condition than the linking of field lines. Further, we search for evidence of other topological invariants, which give rise to further restrictions in the field's relaxation. We find that magnetic helicity is the sole determinant in most cases. Nevertheless, we see evidence for restrictions not captured through magnetic helicity.

• Item Type: Conference Proceedings
• Status: Published
• Refereed: Yes
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: Candelaresi, Dr Simon
• Authors: Candelaresi, S., and Brandenburg, A.
• College/School: College of Science and Engineering > School of Mathematics and Statistics > Mathematics
• ISSN: 1743-9213