The discussion revolves around the penetration of magnetic fields into plasma, exploring the dynamics of how magnetic fields interact with plasma and the time scales involved. Participants consider the behavior of plasma in response to magnetic fields, particularly in the context of experimental setups like a Fusor.
Participants express differing views on the penetration of magnetic fields into plasma and the time scales involved, indicating that multiple competing perspectives remain without consensus.
The discussion lacks specific information about the volume of plasma being considered, which may affect the responses regarding the penetration of magnetic fields.
Sven Andersson said:But, before those currents are produced, does the whole of the plasma "feel" the magnetic field?
Does not the plasma behave just like a piece of metal, where the behaviour of fields is well understood?Sven Andersson said:A magnetic field doesn't penetrate well into a plasma because it produces currents that counters the field, so to speak. But, before those currents are produced, does the whole of the plasma "feel" the magnetic field? For how long; ns, us or ms?
S.A.
Let's say we have a plasma in a Fusor, that is about the size of a golf ball, and apply a strong magnetic field; how long does it take for the currents to get running to shield the inner parts of the plasma from the field?Sven Andersson said:A magnetic field doesn't penetrate well into a plasma because it produces currents that counters the field, so to speak. But, before those currents are produced, does the whole of the plasma "feel" the magnetic field? For how long; ns, us or ms?
S.A.