Numerical models of the galactic dynamo

Publisher Website
Google Scholar
Abstract
Axisymmetric αω‐dynamo models are investigated numerically for the galactic dynamo. Contrasting to the eigenvalue formulation of the problem by STIX (1976), an initial‐value formulation is developed in a manner which is a generalization of the approach to the solar dynamo by JEPPS (1975). It is found, for STIX's model, that the critical dynamo numbers, Pc, obtained by this approach do not agree with those obtained by STIX. In order to resolve this disagreement SOWARD (1977) has evaluated an asymptotic formula for Pc which confirm the results presented here. Having established this approach, the dependence of the models upon boundary conditions and the relevant astrophysical parameters is investigated, and an attempt is made to simulate nonlinear effects.Finally a comparison is made between predictions of the dynamo models and the observed radiation of certain external galaxies which provides insight into the nature of the intergalactic medium.

This publication has 11 references indexed in Scilit: