On coupled fields in stratified plasmas with tensor pressure perturbations

This paper deals with small-amplitude waves, described by Maxwell's equations and single-fluid hydrodynamics, in horizontally stratified, continuously varying plasmas with anisotropic electron pressure perturbations. First, two pairs of coupled wave equations in second-order form are obtained. Then, sets of equations in first-order matrix form are derived. One such set, which describes two kinds of vertically propagating transverse waves, is treated by the method of Clemmow and Heading. It is then transformed by Heading's method into a form which is valid throughout reflection regions, and from which a pair of second-order coupled wave equations in Försterling's form is obtained.