A cautionary note on cosmological magnetic fields

Teodoro, L.F.A., Diver, D.A. and Hendry, M.A. (2008) A cautionary note on cosmological magnetic fields. Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society, 383(1), L35-L39. (doi: 10.1111/j.1745-3933.2007.00406.x)

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Abstract

This note is concerned with potentially misleading concepts in the treatment of cosmological magnetic fields by magnetohydrodynamical (MHD) modelling. It is not a criticism of MHD itself but rather a cautionary comment on the validity of its use in cosmology. Now that cosmological data are greatly improved compared with a few decades ago, and even better data are imminent, it makes sense to revisit original modelling assumptions and examine critically their shortcomings in respect of modern science. Specifically this article argues that ideal MHD is a poor approximation around recombination, since it inherently restricts evolutionary timescales, and is often misapplied in the existing literature.

Item Type:Articles
Keywords:Cosmology: theory; Physical data and processes: magnetic fields
Status:Published
Refereed:Yes
Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID:Teodoro, Dr Luis and Diver, Professor Declan and Hendry, Professor Martin
Authors: Teodoro, L.F.A., Diver, D.A., and Hendry, M.A.
Subjects:Q Science > QB Astronomy
Q Science > QC Physics
College/School:College of Science and Engineering > School of Physics and Astronomy
Research Centre:College of Science and Engineering > School of Physics and Astronomy > Institute for Gravitational Research
Research Group:Astronomy and Astrophysics Group
Journal Name:Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society
Publisher:Oxford University Press
ISSN:0035-8711
ISSN (Online):1365-2966

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Project CodeAward NoProject NamePrincipal InvestigatorFunder's NameFunder RefLead Dept
465931Solar, stellar and cosmological plasmas: a synthesis of data, modelling and theory.Declan DiverScience & Technologies Facilities Council (STFC)ST/F002149/1Physics and Astronomy
459312Investigations in Gravitational Radiation.Sheila RowanScience & Technologies Facilities Council (STFC)ST/I001085/1Physics and Astronomy