Equation of State in Relativistic Magnetohydrodynamics: variable versus constant adiabatic index

Understand

The role of the equation of state for a perfectly conducting, relativistic magnetized fluid is the main subject of this work.

• The ideal constant $\Gamma$-law equation of state, commonly adopted in a wide range of astrophysical applications, is compared with a more realistic equation of state that better approximates the single-specie relativistic gas.
• The paper focus on three different topics.
• First, the influence of a more realistic equation of state on the propagation of fast magneto-sonic shocks is investigated.