Exploring the origins and evolution of magnetic fields in planets, stars
and galaxies, this book gives a basic introduction to magnetohydrodynamics
and surveys the observational data, with particular focus on geomagnetism
and solar magnetism. Pioneering laboratory experiments that seek to
replicate particular aspects of fluid dynamo action are also described. The
authors provide a complete treatment of laminar dynamo theory, and of the
mean-field electrodynamics that incorporates the effects of random waves
and turbulence. Both dynamo theory and its counterpart, the theory of
magnetic relaxation, are covered. Topological constraints associated with
conservation of magnetic helicity are thoroughly explored and major
challenges are addressed in areas such as fast-dynamo theory,
accretion-disc dynamo theory and the theory of magnetostrophic
turbulence. The book is aimed at graduate-level students in mathematics,
physics, earth sciences and astrophysics, and will be a valuable resource
for researchers at all levels.
520 p, 2019, isbn: 9781107065871