The decay of magneto-turbulence in the presence of a magnetic field and Coriolis force

The final period of decay of magneto-turbulence in an external, homogeneous magnetic field is considered and it is shown that it develops pronounced axisymmetric properties, turbulence elements with finite wave numbers in the direction of the field being damped strongly under normal physical conditions. The turbulence consists of aperiodic motions as well as wave motions. An introduction of an angular velocity, inclined to the field, destroys the axisymmetry and modifies the damping effects and periodicity. The influence of the magnetic field on the damping is counteracted by the Coriolis force. A linear stationary theory on the action of the field gives results consistent with those of the theory of decay. From the results of both theories an explanation is given of the observed inhibition of turbulence in mercury by a magnetic field.