Parallel electric field amplification by phase mixing of Alfven waves

Bian, N.H. and Kontar, E.P. (2011) Parallel electric field amplification by phase mixing of Alfven waves. Astronomy and Astrophysics, 527, (doi: 10.1051/0004-6361/201015385)

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Abstract

Context: Several numerical studies have identified phase mixing of low-frequency Alfven waves as a means of parallel electric field amplification and acceleration of electrons in a collisionless plasma. Aims: Theoretical explanations are given of how phase mixing amplifies the parallel electric field and, as a consequence, also leads to enhanced collisionless damping of the wave by energy transfer to the electrons. Methods: Our results are based on the properties of the Alfven waves in a warm plasma. These results are obtained within the framework of drift-kinetic theory. Results: Phase mixing in a collisionless low-β plasma proceeds in a manner very similar to the resistive case, except that electron Landau damping is the primary energy dissipation channel. The time and length scales involved are evaluated. We also focus on the evolution of the parallel electric field and calculate its maximum value in the course of its amplification

Item Type:Articles
Additional Information:A130
Status:Published
Refereed:Yes
Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID:Kontar, Professor Eduard and Bian, Dr Nicolas Horace
Authors: Bian, N.H., and Kontar, E.P.
College/School:College of Science and Engineering > School of Physics and Astronomy
Journal Name:Astronomy and Astrophysics
Publisher:EDP Sciences
ISSN:0004-6361
Published Online:10 February 2011
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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