Magnetic Reconnection in Plasmas (Cambridge Monographs on Plasma Physics, Series Number 3) - Hardcover

Biskamp, Dieter

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 0521582881 ISBN 13: 9780521582889

Publisher: Cambridge University Press, 2000

Synopsis

This book provides a comprehensive introduction to the theory of magnetic field line reconnection, now a major subject in plasma physics. Biskamp focuses on the various reconnection mechanisms dominating magnetic processes under the different plasma conditions encountered in astrophysical systems and in laboratory fusion devices. The book consists of two major parts: the first deals with the classical resistive approach, while the second presents an overview of weakly collisional or collisionless plasmas. Applications primarily concern astrophysical phenomena and dynamo theory, with emphasis on the solar and geodynamo, as well as magnetospheric substorms--the most spectacular reconnection events in the magnetospheric plasma. The theoretical procedures and results also apply directly to reconnection processes in laboratory plasmas, in particular the sawtooth phenomenon in tokamaks. The book will be of value to graduate students and researchers interested in magnetic processes both in astrophysical and laboratory plasma physics.

About this title

Book Description:

This book provides a comprehensive introduction to the theory of magnetic field line reconnection, now a major subject in plasma physics. The book covers the classical resistive approach as well as presenting an overview of collisionless plasmas. The book includes applications to magnetic field generation in stars and planets, magnetospheric processes and to the sawtooth phenomenon in fusion plasmas. The book will be of value to researchers and graduate students interested in magnetic processes, both in astrophysical and laboratory plasma physics.

Review:

'Magnetic reconnection is one of the most fascinating subjects in plasma physics. It is basically a process by which the close tie between plasma motions and magnetic fields is broken. I recommend Magnetic Reconnection in Plasmas very highly to all researchers who are active in the field.' EOS

About this edition

• Publisher: Cambridge University Press
• Publication date: 2000
• ISBN 10: 0521582881
• ISBN 13: 9780521582889
• Binding: Hardcover
• Edition number: 1
• Number of pages: 404