Non-modal approach to linear theory: marginal stability and the dissipation of turbulent fluctuations

Abstract

The non-modal approach for a linearized system differs from a normal mode analysis by following the temporal evolution of some perturbed equilibria, and therefore includes transient effects. We employ a non-modal approach for studying the stability of a bi-Maxwellian magnetized plasma using the Landau fluid model, which we briefly describe. We show that bi-Maxwellian stable equilibria can support transient growth of some physical quantities, and we study how these transients behave when an equilibrium approaches its marginally stable condition. This is relevant to anisotropic plasma, that are often observed in the solar wind with a temperature anisotropy close to values that can trigger a kinetic instability. The results obtained with a non-modal approach are relevant to a re-examination of the concept of linear marginal stability. Moreover, we discuss the topic of the dissipation of turbulent fluctuations, suggesting that the non-modal approach should be included in future studies.