On the Reflection and Refraction of Alfven Waves.

Abstract

It is shown that plane harmonic hydromagnetic waves polarized at right angles to the plane of incidence can be reflected and refracted from a plane surface of separation of two infinitely conducting liquids. The general laws of reflection and refraction are derived, and it is shown that these depend on the orientation of the permanent uniform magnetic field with respect to the surface of separation and the plane of incidence. The propagation of hydromagnetic waves in a horizontally stratified isothermal atmosphere lying over an infinitely conducting liquid is briefly discussed. It is shown that eventually the magnetic field associated with waves decreases with height proportionately to the density of the atmosphere.