Linear and nonlinear eccentric mode evolution in unstratified MHD discs

Abstract

In this paper we develop a framework for studying unstratified, magnetised eccentric discs and compute uniformly precessing eccentric modes in a cylindrical annulus which provide convenient initial conditions for numerical simulations. The presence of a magnetic field in an eccentric disc can be described by an effective gas with a modified equation of state. At magnetic field strengths relevant to the magneto-rotational instability the magnetic field has negligible influence on the evolution of the eccentric disc, however the eccentric disc can significantly enhance the magnetic field strength over that in the a circular disc. We verify the suitability of these eccentric disc solutions by carrying out 2D simulations in RAMSES. Our simulated modes (in 2D) follow a similar evolution to the purely hydrodynamical modes, matching theoretical expectations, provided they are adequately resolved. Such solutions will provide equilibrium states for studies of the eccentric magneto-rotational instability and magnetised parametric instability in unstratified discs and are useful for exploring the response of disc turbulence on top of a fluid flow varying on the orbital timescale.

16 pages, 12 figures, accepted for publication in MNRAS

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