Abstract

The intent of this thesis is to simulate the effect of a background magnetic field on Rayleigh-Taylor (RT) instability morphology and evolution in support of a Discovery Science campaign at the National Ignition Facility. The RT instability is relevant in High Energy Density (HED) systems including supernova remnants such as the Crab Nebula and inertial fusion confinement (ICF). Magnetic fields affect RT evolution and can suppress small-scale fluid motion. Thus far no experimental work has quantified the effect of a B-field on RT evolution morphology. RT evolution under a B-field was examined in three-dimensional magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) simulations using the hydrocode ARES, developed by Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory. The parameter space of the experiment is explored to determine the parameters that yield a visible effect on RT evolution. The effect of resistive MHD and conductivity is examined to further establish the desired parameter space to observe the suppression of RT morphology.

Thesis Completion

2020

Semester

Spring

Thesis Chair/Advisor

Shivamoggi, Bhimsen

Degree

Bachelor of Science (B.S.)

College

College of Sciences

Department

Mathematics

Language

English

Access Status

Campus Access

Length of Campus-only Access

3 years

Release Date

11-1-2023

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