Magnetic fields of protoplanetary disks

Abstract

We review the current status of studies on accretion and protoplanetary disks of young stars with large-scale magnetic fields. Observational data on magnetic fields of the disks are compiled and analysed. Modern analytical and numerical MHD models of protoplanetary disks are discussed. The mechanisms of angular momentum transport via turbulence, magnetic tensions and outflows are outlined. We consider the influence of Ohmic dissipation, magnetic ambipolar diffusion, magnetic buoyancy, and the Hall effect on the evolution of the magnetic flux in disks. Modern MHD models of accretion disks show that the magnetic field can influence the structure of protoplanetary disks. We argue that the available observational data on the magnetic fields in protoplanetary disks can be interpreted within the framework of fossil magnetic field theory. We summarize the problems of the modern theory of accretion and protoplanetary disks with magnetic fields and also outline the prospects for further research. © Cambridge Scientific Publishers.