Stochastic phenomena in astrophysics
Abstract
Stochastic differential equations with rapidly fluctuating coefficients arise frequently in astrophysical situations. In this article a self-contained development of the theory of such equations is presented, and methods for calculating both the moments and the probability distribution of the dependent variable are described. The results are illustrated by three detailed examples: tidal interactions among galaxies in rich clusters, particle acceleration by fluctuating electromagnetic fields, and turbulent diffusion of magnetic fields in stars.
- Publication:
-
Vistas in Astronomy
- Pub Date:
- 1980
- DOI:
- 10.1016/0083-6656(80)90004-5
- Bibcode:
- 1980VA.....24...39K
- Keywords:
-
- Astrophysics;
- Differential Equations;
- Stochastic Processes;
- Charged Particles;
- Galactic Clusters;
- Particle Acceleration;
- Probability Distribution Functions;
- Stellar Magnetic Fields;
- Tides;
- Turbulent Diffusion;
- Astrophysics