| Abstract: | The stability of Hartmann flows for arbitrary magnetic Reynolds numbers is investigated in the framework of linear theory. The initial three-dimensional problem reduces to the equivalent two-dimensional problem. Perturbation theory is used to find asymptotic expressions for the eigenvalues. Distinguishing two types of disturbances — magnetic and hydrodynamic — is shown to be advantageous in a number of cases. Simple features of the stability are considered for particular cases. The well-know Lundquist result is generalized. An energy approach is applied to the problem of stability. The results of simulations involving the solution of the linear stability problem are described. A distinctive picture of stability is developed. There are several types of instability and they can develop simultaneously. The hydrodynamic and magnetic phenomena interact with each other in a very complex fashion. The magnetic field can either enhance flow stability or reduce it.Novosibirsk. Translated from Izvestiya Akademii Nauk SSSR. Mekhanika Zhidkosti i Gaza, No. 6, pp. 17–31, November–December, 1972. |
