Open AccessA solution method for the radial and vertical structure of accretion discs with quadrupolar magnetic fields
Author(s) -
Campbell C. G.
Publication year - 2003
Publication title -
monthly notices of the royal astronomical society
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 2.058
H-Index - 383
eISSN - 1365-2966
pISSN - 0035-8711
DOI - 10.1046/j.1365-2966.2003.07011.x
Subject(s) - physics , turbulence , inflow , accretion (finance) , magnetic field , mach number , mechanics , astrophysics , magnetohydrodynamics , dynamo , accretion disc , plane (geometry) , classical mechanics , geometry , quantum mechanics , mathematics
A semi‐analytical method is presented for solving for the radial and vertical structure of accretion discs containing a large‐scale quadrupolar magnetic field. Turbulent viscosity is also accounted for, with the range of rms turbulent Mach numbers used being consistent with those found in simulations of turbulence generated by magneto‐rotational instabilities. Magnetic stresses play a major part in driving the disc inflow, and in the vertical equilibrium. The magnetic torque causes a significant decrease in the inflow speed from the mid‐plane to the disc surface.