Pressure anisotropy generation in a magnetized plasma configuration with a shear flow velocity

Year: 2016

Authors: De Camillis S.; Cerri S. S.; Califano F.; Pegoraro F.

Autors Affiliation: Univ Pisa; Queens Univ Belfast; Max Planck Inst Plasmaphys Garching

Abstract: The nonlinear evolution of the Kelvin Helmholtz instability in a magnetized plasma with a perpendicular flow close to, or in, the supermagnetosonic regime can produce a significant parallel-to-perpendicular pressure anisotropy. This anisotropy, localized inside the flow shear region, can make the configuration unstable either to the mirror or to the firehose instability and, in general, can affect the development of the KHI. The interface between the solar wind and the Earth?s magnetospheric plasma at the magnetospheric equatorial flanks provides a relevant setting for the development of this complex nonlinear dynamics.

Journal/Review: PLASMA PHYSICS AND CONTROLLED FUSION

Volume: 58 (4)      Pages from:   to:

KeyWords: pressure anisotropy, shear flow, plasma instabilities
DOI: 10.1088/0741-3335/58/4/045007