Open AccessThreshold condition for nonlinear tearing modes in tokamaks
Author(s) -
M. Zabiégo,
J.D. Callen
Publication year - 1996
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Reports
DOI - 10.2172/226089
Subject(s) - tearing , nonlinear system , tokamak , bifurcation , mode (computer interface) , instability , parameter space , scaling , physics , stability (learning theory) , control theory (sociology) , statistical physics , bifurcation theory , mechanics , mathematics , computer science , control (management) , geometry , artificial intelligence , nuclear physics , quantum mechanics , thermodynamics , plasma , machine learning , operating system
Low-mode-number tearing, mode nonlinear evolution is analyzed emphasizing the need for a threshold condition, to account for observations in tokamaks. The discussion is illustrated by two models recently introduced in the literature. The models can be compared with the available data and/or serve as a basis for planning some experiments in order to either test theory (by means of beta-limit scaling laws, as proposed in this paper) or attempt to control undesirable tearing modes. Introducing a threshold condition in the tearing mode stability analysis is found to reveal some bifurcation points and thus domains of intrinsic stability in the island dynamics operational space