Fusion Physics
Fusion Physics glossary term

Reversed Field

A magnetic field configuration in which the field direction reverses within the plasma volume, as in an FRC where the internal poloidal field opposes the external field.

Fusion Physics Also: Reversed Field, reversed-field Has Dossier → 9 sources

01 Definition

A magnetic field configuration in which the field direction reverses within the plasma volume, as in an FRC where the internal poloidal field opposes the external field.

02 Detailed_Analysis

A magnetic field configuration in which the field direction reverses within the plasma volume, as in an FRC where the internal poloidal field opposes the external field. A magnetic field configuration in which the field direction reverses within the plasma volume, as in an FRC where the internal poloidal field opposes the external field.

03 Key_Facts

  • A magnetic field configuration in which the field direction reverses within the plasma volume, as in an FRC where the internal poloidal field opposes the external field

04 Deep_Dive_Intelligence

Overview

A magnetic field configuration in which the field direction reverses within the plasma volume, as in an FRC where the internal poloidal field opposes the external field.

Role: Glossary term: Reversed Field

Entity Type: Concept — Reversed Field is a technical concept or theoretical framework.


Technical Definition

A magnetic field configuration in which the field direction reverses within the plasma volume, as in an FRC where the internal poloidal field opposes the external field.


Related Concepts: FRC, Theta Pinch

06 Related_Terms (1)

07 Related_Entities (12)

08 Timeline_Mentions (10)

1952

Project Sherwood established

The U.S. AEC's classified controlled-fusion program begins at LANL and partner labs.

historical-context
1956

Christofilos begins Astron experiment at LLNL

Greek engineer starts E-layer field reversal concept. Earliest compact torus conception. Presented at 1958 Geneva.

historical-context
1960

Christofilos Astron experiment at LLNL

The Astron experiment established the field-reversed configuration geometry that prefigured modern FRC research.

historical-context
1963

First Formal Documentation of FRC Topology

H.A.B. Bodin publishes a paper in Nuclear Fusion describing 'reversed field loops' within a theta-pinch, providing physical evidence of the FRC state.

fusion-physics
1966

Inertial-Confinement Flux-Trapping Model Proposed

T.S. Green and A.A. Newton propose that magnetic flux is lost via rapid convection at the radial Alfvén speed, a foundational theory for FRC formation.

fusion-physics
1970s

Discovery of FRC Anomalous Stability

Experiments at LANL discover that Field-Reversed Configurations (FRCs) are significantly more stable than predicted by MHD theory.

fusion-physics
1972

Astron experiment funding cancelled at LLNL

16-year project ends without achieving field reversal. Compact torus concept disperses to spheromak and FRC research.

historical-context
1973

Christofilos Astron experiment cancelled at LLNL

17-year Astron project ends. Field reversal concept disperses to LANL (FRC) and LLNL/PPPL (spheromak).

historical-context
1975

Foundational FRC Research at LANL

Los Alamos National Laboratory establishes the scientific bedrock for Field-Reversed Configuration (FRC) physics through the FRX experiment series.

fusion-physics
1975

LANL Field-Reversed Experiment (FRX) Series

Foundational research at Los Alamos National Laboratory (FRX-A, B, C) masters the control of the n=2 rotational instability in FRCs using quadrupole magnetic fields.

fusion-physics
View Full Timeline →

09 FAQ

What is Reversed Field?
A magnetic field configuration in which the field direction reverses within the plasma volume, as in an FRC where the internal poloidal field opposes the external field.
Why does Reversed Field matter?
A magnetic field configuration in which the field direction reverses within the plasma volume, as in an FRC where the internal poloidal field opposes the external field.
How does Reversed Field relate to other concepts?
Reversed Field is closely related to Theta Pinch. These relationships are documented in the research glossary and cross-referenced with primary source documents.
When did Reversed Field appear in the research timeline?
Reversed Field is referenced in 10 timeline events, including "Project Sherwood established" (1952). The timeline provides chronological context for the development and application of this concept.
Which entities are associated with Reversed Field?
12 entities are associated with Reversed Field in the network graph, including Los Alamos National Laboratory, Helion Energy, TAE Technologies. Explore the network graph for full relationship mapping.
Is there a detailed dossier for Reversed Field?
Yes, Reversed Field has a comprehensive intelligence dossier with deep dive analysis, source documents, and network connections. View the full dossier for complete intelligence assessment.