A model-Z geodynamo

Abstract
This paper describes a re-investigation of the geomagnetic dynamo model proposed by Braginsky (1978). This axisymmetric nonlinear model was dominated by Lorentz and Coriolis forces, and was maintained by a specified thermal wind and by a specifiedα-effect. Of particular interest were the strong indications of non-uniform behavior in the limit of small core-mantle coupling. The solution did not seem to approach a form independent of that coupling as had been suggested by Taylor (1963), but developed a model-Z structure as had been proposed by Braginsky (1975). In view of the significance of this result to dynamo theory, his integrations were repeated at higher resolution, with the results described in this paper. Apart from a few minor differences, Braginsky's findings were confirmed. Other integrations also gave dynamos of model-Z structure.

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