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Switch-on shocksIt is argued that parallel propagating Alfven waves steepen to second order in the wave amplitude, rather than first order, as is the case for oblique MHD waves. An analytical solution for the structure of weak switch-on shocks is derived. The Rankine-Hugoniot relations for finite amplitude switch-on shocks are obtained in a compact form. The differential equation for resistive switch-on shocks is solved, and the resistive critical Mach number is obtained. The differential equation for resistive switch-on shocks with finite ion inertia is identical to the one obtained in the pure resistive case. It is argued that efficient electron heat conduction can significantly extend the range of upstream parameters for which switch-on shocks are expected.
Document ID
19890024140
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Reprint (Version printed in journal)
Authors
Kennel, C. F.
(California Univ. Los Angeles, CA, United States)
Edmiston, J. P.
(California, University Los Angeles, United States)
Date Acquired
August 13, 2013
Publication Date
October 1, 1988
Publication Information
Publication: Journal of Geophysical Research
Volume: 93
ISSN: 0148-0227
Subject Category
Plasma Physics
Accession Number
89A11511
Funding Number(s)
CONTRACT_GRANT: NSF ATM-82-21125
CONTRACT_GRANT: NSF ATM-85-03434
CONTRACT_GRANT: NGL-05-007-190
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Other

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