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Lagrangian methods in plasma dynamics. Part 2. Construction of Lagrangians for plasmas

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  13 March 2009

J. P. Dougherty
Affiliation:
Department of Applied Mathematics and Theoretical Physics, University of Cambridge

Abstract

Most of this paper is concerned with the construction of suitable Lagrangian functions for the dynamics of a cold plasma, in such a way as to retain the relativistically covariant formalism. In one method, this is achieved by the introduction of a set of three variables which label the world lines of the particles. A second method results in a Clebsch type of representation. Sturrock's relativistic Lagrangian and Low's hot plasma Lagrangian are also briefly discussed in the context of the present work. The behaviour of the canonical stress tensor is considered. The applicability of many of the general results of part 1 is ensured by establishing the existence of the Lagrangian function.

Type
Research Article
Copyright
Copyright © Cambridge University Press 1974

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References

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