Consistency of theα-Effect Turbulent Dynamo

Abstract

The paradox of the infinite-conductivity $\alpha$-effect dynamo is resolved by properly treating the boundary layer. If the turbulence is not too intermittent the expansion of the mean electromotive force in powers of the wave number of the mean magnetic field $\overrightarrow{\mathrm{B}}$ is found to converge, and the usual truncation gives little error. The $\alpha$ effect is demonstrated in the strong-field limit where the turbulence consists of Alfvén waves propagating along $\overrightarrow{\mathrm{B}}$.