MHD Turbulence: Properties of Alfven, Slow and Fast Modes

Abstract

We summarise basic properties of MHD turbulence. First, MHD turbulence is not so messy as it is believed. In fact, the notion of strong non-linear coupling of compressible and incompressible motions along MHD cascade is not tenable. Alfven, slow and fast modes of MHD turbulence follow their own cascades and exhibit degrees of anisotropy consistent with theoretical expectations. Second, the fast decay of turbulence is not related to the compressibility of fluid. Rates of decay of compressible and incompressible motions are very similar. Third, the properties of Alfven and slow modes are similar to their counterparts in the incompressible MHD. The properties of fast modes are similar to accoustic turbulence, which does require more studies. Fourth, the density at low Mach numbers and logarithm of density at higher Mach numbers exhibit Kolmogorov-type spectrum.