Magnetohydrodynamics

Magnetohydrodynamics studies the coupled behavior of magnetic fields and electrically conducting fluids, including plasmas, liquid metals, and salt water.

Magnetic induction equation: A continuum equation describing the evolution of a magnetic field in a moving electrical conductor. It captures how fluid motion and electrical resistance together change the magnetic field.
Solar dynamo: The process by which motions inside the Sun generate and sustain its magnetic field. It applies conducting-fluid theory to the origin and cycles of solar magnetism.
Plasma: A state of matter containing mobile charged particles that respond collectively to electromagnetic fields. Plasmas are the most common conducting fluids studied in astrophysical and laboratory settings.
Ideal magnetohydrodynamics: The approximation in which a conducting fluid has zero electrical resistance and magnetic flux moves with the fluid. It is the limiting model that omits resistive diffusion from the general framework.
Magnetohydrodynamic equations: The coupled fluid and electromagnetic equations used to model conducting-fluid motion and magnetic fields. These equations express the core feedback between magnetic forces and fluid dynamics.
Geodynamo: The generation of Earth's magnetic field by convection in its electrically conducting outer core. It is a planetary-scale application involving liquid metal rather than plasma.
Electrical conductivity: A material property measuring how readily electric current flows through a substance. Conductivity sets the strength of currents and the rate of magnetic diffusion.
Resistive magnetohydrodynamics: A magnetohydrodynamic model that includes finite electrical resistance and magnetic diffusion. It contrasts with the ideal limit when reconnection or diffusion matters.
Lorentz force: The force exerted by electromagnetic fields on electric charges and currents. Magnetic fields alter fluid motion by exerting force on currents within the fluid.
Magnetic confinement fusion: A fusion approach that uses magnetic fields to confine hot plasma. Plasma stability and motion in confinement devices are governed by magnetohydrodynamic effects.

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