The Magnetic Universe

Magnetism is one of the most pervasive features of the Universe, with planets, stars and entire galaxies all having associated magnetic fields. All of these fields are generated by the motion of electrically conducting fluids, the so-called dynamo effect. The precise details of what drives the motion, and indeed what the fluid consists of, differ widely though. In this work the authors draw upon their expertise in geophysical and astrophysical MHD to explore some of these phenomena, and describe the similarities and differences between different magnetized objects. They also explain why magnetic fields are crucial in the formation of the stars, and discuss promising experiments currently being designed to study some of the relevant physics in the laboratory. This interdisciplinary approach makes the book appealing to a wide audience in physics, astrophysics and geophysics.

Ausgehend von den Begriffen der Magnetohydrodynamik entwickeln die Autoren Konzepte, Experimente und Berechnungen zur Sternen- und Planetenentstehung, dem galaktischen Dynamo und zu starken kosmischen Magnetfeldern. Die Gültigkeit dieser Simulationen und Algorithmen für die moderne Astrophysik kann durch aktuelle experimentelle Ergebnisse gezeigt werden. Eine umfassende Darstellung des Fachgebiets, dass sich an Astro- und Geophysiker, Wissenschaftler und Studenten gleichermaßen richtet.

IntroductionEarth and PlanetsDifferential Rotation TheoryThe Stellar DynamoThe Magnetorotational InstabilityThe Galactic DynamoNeutron Star MagnetismThe Magnetic Taylor-Couette Flow