Reconnection X-winds: spin-down of low-mass protostars
Abstract
We investigate the interaction of a protostellar magnetosphere with a large-scale magnetic field threading the surrounding accretion disc. It is assumed that a stellar dynamo generates a dipolar-type field with its magnetic moment aligned with the disc magnetic field. This leads to a magnetic neutral line at the disc mid-plane and gives rise to magnetic reconnection, converting closed protostellar magnetic flux into open field lines. These are simultaneously loaded with disc material, which is then ejected in a powerful wind. This process efficiently brakes down the protostar to 10-20per cent of the break-up velocity during the embedded phase.
- Publication:
-
Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society
- Pub Date:
- February 2000
- DOI:
- 10.1046/j.1365-8711.2000.03215.x
- Bibcode:
- 2000MNRAS.312..387F
- Keywords:
-
- ACCRETION;
- ACCRETION DISCS;
- MHD;
- STARS: FORMATION;
- STARS: PRE-MAIN-SEQUENCE;
- STARS: ROTATION;
- ISM: JETS AND OUTFLOWS