Implicit simulation of the extended MHD model

What is it about?

The method described in the paper allows simulation of the extended magnetohydrodynamic (XMHD) equations, which include the Hall effect and electron inertia, on time scales associated with the standard MHD model. The method is relatively simple compared to other implicit methods and very efficient. The method allows for simulation of plasma in which the important physics extends well below the spatial scales that are justified in standard MHD and can be computed with minimal extra cost.

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Why is it important?

A specific formulation of the extended MHD equations allows for a highly efficient algorithm, called a relaxation method. This method will enable plasma simulation of fluid plasma having much more physical content and thereby significantly advance the computational feasibility of challenging problems, such as magnetic fusion energy, high energy density physics, and astrophysical plasma phenomena.