A multidimensional numerical scheme for two-fluid relativistic magnetohydrodynamics

Abstract

This paper describes an explicit multidimensional numerical scheme for special relativistic two-fluid magnetohydrodynamics of electron-positron plasma and a suit of test problems. The scheme utilizes Cartesian grid and the third-order weighted essentially non-oscillatory interpolation. Time integration is carried out using the third-order total variation diminishing method of Runge-Kutta type, thus ensuring overall third-order accuracy on smooth solutions. The magnetic field is kept near divergence-free by means of the method of generalized Lagrange multiplier. The test simulations, which include linear and non-linear continuous plasma waves, shock waves, strong explosions and the tearing instability, show that the scheme is sufficiently robust and confirm its accuracy. © 2013 The Authors Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the Royal Astronomical Society.