Magnetic helicity fluxes in αΩ dynamos

Abstract

In turbulent dynamos the production of large-scale magnetic fields is accompanied by a separation of magnetic helicity in scale. The large- and small-scale parts increase in magnitude. The small-scale part can eventually work against the dynamo and quench it, especially at high magnetic Reynolds numbers. A one-dimensional mean-field model of a dynamo is presented where diffusive magnetic helicity fluxes within the domain are important. It turns out that this effect helps to alleviate the quenching. Here we show that internal magnetic helicity fluxes, even within one hemisphere, can be important for alleviating catastrophic quenching. © 2011 International Astronomical Union.