Lundquist number

In plasma physics, the Lundquist number (denoted by ) is the dimensionless ratio of an Alfvn wave crossing timescale to a resistive diffusion timescale. In SI units, it is given by

where is a typical length scale, is the permeability of free space, the Alfvn speed for a plasma with magnetic field , density , ion mass plasma resistivity.

and

is is the

High Lundquist numbers indicate highly conducting plasmas, while low Lundquist numbers indicate more resistive plasmas. Laboratory plasma e periments typically have Lund!uist numbers between , while in astrophysical situations the Lund!uist number can be greater than . "onsiderations of Lund!uist number are especially important in magnetic reconnection.