Magnetoacoustic oscillations in a finite-beta current carrying plasma column

Abstract

Forced magnetoacoustic oscillations in a fully ionized, non-uniform, current carrying plasma column of finite beta are treated theoretically. The results of numerical calculations are given for the specific case of diffuse pinch equilibrium configurations. It is found that, for these configurations, the amplitude of the axial component of the oscillating magnetic field is enhanced and the frequency at which magnetoacoustic resonance occurs is raised. It is also found that the presence of an equilibrium axial current produces a substantial azimuthal component, in addition to the axial component, of the oscillating magnetic field.