Stability of three-dimensional relativistic jets: Implications for jet collimation

Abstract

Context. The stable propagation of jets in FRII sources is remarkable if one takes into account that large-scale jets are subjected to potentially highly disruptive three-dimensional (3D) Kelvin-Helmholtz instabilities. Aims. Numerical simulations can address this problem and help clarify the causes of this remarkable stability. Following previous studies of the stability of relativistic flows in two dimensions (2D), it is our aim to test and extend the conclusions of such works to three dimensions. Methods. We present numerical simulations for the study of the stability properties of 3D, sheared, relativistic flows. This work uses a fully parallelized code (Ratpenat) that solves equations of relativistic hydrodynamics in 3D. Results. The results of the present simulations confirm those in 2D. We conclude that the growth of resonant modes in sheared relativistic flows could be important in explaining the long-term collimation of extragalactic jets. © 2010 ESO.