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C.M. Orban, P.M. Ricker (University of Illinois)
An important outstanding question regarding magnetic fields in spiral galaxies within the framework of the alpha-omega dynamo model is the origin of the initial seed field needed. Several seed field mechanisms have been proposed. The Biermann battery, which generates fields from electron-ion separation effects in protogalactic shocks, is a promising mechanism since it arises naturally during the process of galaxy formation. We present simulations of the Biermann battery in a simple model of protogalactic collapse performed using the adaptive mesh refinement code FLASH to estimate the magnitude of the Biermann battery effect and assess its viability as a seed field generation mechanism.
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Bulletin of the American Astronomical Society, 36 5
© 2004. The American Astronomical Society.