The Role of Magnetic Fields in the Formation of Stars

Abstract

We review the role of the interstellar magnetic field: (i) in the formation of interstellar clouds; (ii) in determining critical states for gravitational collapse; (iii) in affecting the collapse and fragmentation of interstellar clouds; and (iv) in resolving the “angular momentum problem” during star formation. Finally, we review the manner in which the field decouples from the matter via ambipolar diffusion; new time-dependent solutions are discussed.