Magneto-Fluid Dynamics. Fundamentals and Case Studies of Natural Phenomena, by P. Lorrain, F. Lorrain and S. Houle
Magneto-Fluid Dynamics. Fundamentals and Case Studies of Natural Phenomena, by P. Lorrain, F. Lorrain and S. Houle, Berlin, Springer, 2006, xxx + 319 pp., £61.50 (hardback), ISBN 0387335420. Scope: introduction. Level: advanced undergraduates and postgraduates.
This text is an interesting, and clearly structured introduction to dynamo theory inspired from the study of natural dynamos, particularly within the solar environment. It provides an enticing flavour of the modelling of a wide variety of electromagnetic phenomena. The title, Magneto-Fluid Dynamics, is a bit misleading, however, as the book focuses essentially on the magneto-dynamics and omits the rather complicated associated fluid mechanics, by primarily considering moving conducting solids, e.g. the rotating disc dynamo. The text comprises two main components: (a) a practical and concise presentation of the fundamental concepts behind magneto-fluid dynamics, and (b) dynamo models that are based on research papers by the authors and their collaborators. The modelling approach is firmly grounded within physics with a strong emphasis on the importance of modelling currents (as functions of the magnetic field) rather than just focusing on magnetic field lines. Moreover, the models are thoroughly illustrated with numerical values whenever possible, thus aiding the reader to connect the theory to the physical reality. It is regrettable that the description of magneto-fluid dynamics appears a bit prescriptive at times. For example, the book would have increased its appeal to researchers if it had included recent research advances in the broader field of dynamo research, e.g. laboratory dynamos where several research groups have recently achieved self-induction in liquid sodium experiments.
The book is structured in four main parts. A brief but instructive historical perspective on magnetism and electromagnetism up to the twentieth century is given in Part I. In Part II, the fundamentals of electromagnetism are presented, with ample reference to more detailed texts. The numerous worked examples provide useful illustrations and applications to the fundamental concepts, and will be particularly appreciated by the reader who needs to assimilate the basics before advancing to the specialised material on natural dynamos. In Part III, the fundamentals of moving conductors are explored with Ohm's law for moving conductors, charges inside moving conductors and numerous examples, encompassing moving conducting solids and a case study of the azimuthal magnetic field in the Earth's core. The longest Part IV discusses natural dynamos with emphasis on the Solar environment. In this part, each topic is structured as a case study and thus they can be read in any order of interest.
The text is intended primarily for advanced undergraduates and postgraduates in physics, geophysics and astrophysics. Undergraduates will find Parts II and III a useful introduction to aspects of practical electromagnetism, but the following part is more likely to benefit postgraduates. The essentially independent case studies make this book ideal to dip in and out of and to use as a source of reference on magneto-fluid phenomena from classical dynamo models to solar phenomena such as sunspots and spicules.
© 2010, Anne Juel