Conservation of Circulation in Magnetohydrodynamics

Abstract

We demonstrate, both at the Newtonian and (general) relativistic levels, the existence of a generalization of Kelvin's circulation theorem (for pure fluids) which is applicable to perfect magnetohydrodynamics. The argument is based on the least action principle for magnetohydrodynamic flow. Examples of the new conservation law are furnished. The new theorem should be helpful in identifying new kinds of vortex phenomena distinct from magnetic ropes or fluid vortices.