The Dynamics of Fibril Magnetic Fields - Part Two - the Mean Field Equations
Abstract
A variety of scenarios for the origin and activity of magnetic fields in the convective zone of the Sun have been put forth in recent years. In particular, a number of authors have urged that the magnetic field is in a generally fibril state, much as observed at the surface, with a variety of suggestions as to the consequences. The present paper works out the mean field equations for intense thin fibrils of fixed cross section under the assumption of some significant local ordering. The aim is to establish to what degree new effects may arise as a result of the fibril state. It is shown that the fibril state of a mean field B enhances the tension in the field and the buoyancy of the field by the compression factor m of the field in the individual fibrils. New qualitative effects appear in the slip velocity u of the fibrils through the ambient fluid and in the neutral point reconnection of neighboring fibrils. Some of the novel features are illustrated in later papers in this series. One of the most important consequences is the simplification of the theory of turbulent diffusion by eliminating the looping and tangling that arises when a continuum field is carried in a chaotic turbulent flow. We have been unable to find any effects that would admit of a new concept for the origin of the solar magnetic fields.
- Publication:
-
The Astrophysical Journal
- Pub Date:
- May 1982
- DOI:
- 10.1086/159908
- Bibcode:
- 1982ApJ...256..302P