Azimuthal Magnetic Field in the Conical Theta Pinch

Abstract

A simple current‐sheet model of a hydromagnetic shock is employed in an attempt to explain the origin of the B_θ and v_poloidal observed previously in the hydromagnetic vortex rings produced in the conical θ pinch. Although this simple model has its limitations, it nevertheless shows clearly that the B_θ and the vortex structure are due to Hall currents which are driven by shear in acceleration, and that the existence of any right handedness and left handedness and of the plasma vortex structure itself depends upon the fact that negative electricity (electrons) are light and positive electricity (protons) are heavy. The model also gives a plausible explanation and description of the origin of θ rotation, i.e., v_θ in the θ pinch.