The Physics of Fluids and Plasmas: An Introduction for Astrophysicists

ISBN-13: 9780521555432 / Angielski / Miękka / 1998 / 448 str.

Arnab Rai Choudhuri

Opis

A good working knowledge of fluid mechanics and plasma physics is essential for the modern astrophysicist. This graduate textbook provides a clear, pedagogical introduction to these core subjects. Assuming an undergraduate background in physics, this book develops fluid mechanics and plasma physics from first principles. This book is unique because it presents neutral fluids and plasmas in a unified scheme, clearly indicating both their similarities and their differences. Also, both the macroscopic (continuum) and microscopic (particles) theories are developed, establishing the connections between them. Throughout, key examples from astrophysics are used, though no previous knowledge of astronomy is assumed. Exercises are included at the end of chapters to test the reader's understanding. This textbook is aimed primarily at astrophysics graduate students. It will also be of interest to advanced students in physics and applied mathematics seeking a unified view of fluid mechanics and plasma physics, encompassing both the microscopic and macroscopic theories.

Recenzje

'The book is well written, covering quite a large number of topics in a clear and pleasant style which makes enjoyable reading … The student who reads this book will successfully gain a very good understanding of many, often referred to, astrophysical topics.' R. M. Kulsrud, Nuclear Fusion

Spis treści

Introduction; Part I. Neutral Fluids: 2. Boltzmann equation; 3. March towards hydrodynamics; 4. Properties of ideal fluids; 5. Viscous flows; 6. Gas dynamics; 7. Linear theory of waves and instabilities; 8. Turbulence; 9. Rotation and hydrodynamics; Part II. Plasmas: 10. Plasma orbit theory; 11. Dynamics of many charged particles; 12. Collisionless processes in plasmas; 13. Collisional processes and the one-fluid model; 14. Basic magnetohydrodynamics; 15. Theory of magnetic topologies; 16. Dynamo theory; Appendices: A. Useful vector relations; B. Integrals in kinetic theory; C. Formulae and equations in cylindrical and spherical coordinates; D. Values of various quantities; E. Basic parameters pertaining to plasmas; Suggestions for further reading; References.