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arXiv · 2103.01213

Generating neutron-star magnetic fields: three dynamo phases

S. K. Lander
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Abstract

Young neutron stars (NSs) have magnetic fields $B$ in the range $10^{12}-10^{15}$ G, believed to be generated by dynamo action at birth. We argue that such a dynamo is actually too inefficient to explain the strongest of these fields. Dynamo action in the mature star is also unlikely. Instead we propose a promising new precession-driven dynamo and examine its basic properties, as well as arguing for a revised mean-field approach to NS dynamos. The precession-driven dynamo could also play a role in field generation in main-sequence stars.

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S. K. Lander. 2021-03-01. Generating neutron-star magnetic fields: three dynamo phases. https://doi.org/10.1093/mnrasl%2Fslab086

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