How astrophysical mean field dynamos can circumvent existing quenching constraints

Mean field dynamo theory is a leading candidate to explain the large scale magnetic fields of galaxies and stars. However, controversy arises over the extent of quenching by the backreaction of the growing field. Here boundary conditions and magnetic helicity flow are shown to play a role in determining whether the mean field dynamo action is fast, as required by astrophysical systems, or resistively limited (slow). Existing work suggesting that mean field dynamos are resistively limited include restrictive approximations such as stationarity and periodic boundary conditions that suppress magnetic helicity flow. Thus even though the backreaction is present, such studies cannot unambiguously reveal whether real astrophysical mean field dynamos are dynamically suppressed when the helicity flow is allowed. If the dynamo is sustained by an outflow of helicity from the system, then a magnetically active corona is expected. Open boundaries alone may not be sufficient for rapid dynamo action and the additional physics of buoyancy and outflows may be required. Possible simulation approaches to test some of the principles are briefly discussed. Some limitations of the "Zeldovich relation" are also addressed. (C) 2001 American Institute of Physics.