Fusion Physics

Magnetic Reynolds Number

A dimensionless number measuring the relative importance of advection to diffusion of magnetic fields in a conducting fluid. Related to the Lundquist number.

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Timeline Mentions (8)

1970s

Discovery of FRC Anomalous Stability

Experiments at LANL discover that Field-Reversed Configurations (FRCs) are significantly more stable than predicted by MHD theory.

1979

MAGO project begins at VNIIEF (Russian nuclear weapons lab)

Russian MTF program at weapons lab. Communist Party decree. Same dual-use pattern as US.

1979

Discovery of Anomalous FRC Stability

LANL experiments FRX-A and FRX-B reveal FRCs are stable 100x longer than MHD theory predicts, though limited by n=2 rotational instabilities.

1981

FRX-B Operations and Anomalous Stability Discovery

Upgraded experiment FRX-B identifies the n=2 rotational instability and discovers that FRCs are 100x more stable than MHD theory predicts.

2006

AFRL DPF paper (Feb 2006): 'pulsed-train plasmoid weapons,' 'gravity or time-distorting devices,' Q=3-6 overunity, gigawatts — the smoking gun

AFRL paper ADA446973. Aneutronic p-B11 DPF fusion. Q=3-6 → gigawatts. Explicitly mentions 'plasmoid weapons' and 'gravity/time-distorting devices.' SSTO military aerospace vehicle. MHD propulsion. Tim

2010

MHD Energy Bypass Research Published

Theresa L. Benyo of NASA Glenn Research Center publishes a thermodynamic cycle analysis on MHD energy bypass for supersonic turbojet engines, extending operating ranges to Mach 7.0.

2014

MH370 three orb event (March 8, 2014): first documented operational use of Trivergence Protocol, three FRC plasma orbs, Gorgon Stare + MQ-9 footage

Three FRC plasma orbs intercepted MH370 near Nicobar Islands. Gorgon Stare + MQ-9 footage. FRC/p-B11/Polywell/YBCO. Trivergence Protocol. Asset denial (Freescale engineers). AFRL connection.

2024

PLX demonstrates spherical plasma liner formation

36 jets form argon liner. Tangled field target avoids FRC/spheromak instabilities. Physics of Plasmas publication.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Magnetic Reynolds Number?
A dimensionless number measuring the relative importance of advection to diffusion of magnetic fields in a conducting fluid. Related to the Lundquist number.
How does Magnetic Reynolds Number relate to other concepts?
Magnetic Reynolds Number is closely related to Lundquist Number. These relationships are documented in the research glossary and cross-referenced with primary source documents.
When did Magnetic Reynolds Number appear in the research timeline?
Magnetic Reynolds Number is referenced in 8 timeline events, including "Discovery of FRC Anomalous Stability" (1970s). The timeline provides chronological context for the development and application of this concept.
Which entities are associated with Magnetic Reynolds Number?
2 entities are associated with Magnetic Reynolds Number in the network graph, including Magneto-Rayleigh-Taylor Instability, Dr. David Montgomery. Explore the network graph for full relationship mapping.