Magnetic field amplification by cosmic-ray-driven turbulence: I. isotropic CR diffusion

Understand

We have performed magnetohydrodynamical simulations to study the amplification of magnetic fields in the precursors of shock waves.

• Strong magnetic fields are required in the precursors of the strong shocks that occur in supernova remnants.
• Observations also suggest that magnetic field amplification takes place in the weak shocks that occur in galaxy clusters and that produce so-called radio relics.
• Here, we extend the study of magnetic field amplification by cosmic-ray driven turbulence to weak shocks.