Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: We demonstrate that a symmetry of the local gyrokinetic model is broken when the safety factor q is almost (but not exactly) a rational number and magnetic shear is s ^ ≈ 0 . Tokamaks with such a q profile will spontaneously rotate due to turbulent momentum transport. Nonlinear gyrokinetic simulations indicate this mechanism is significantly stronger than all other drives of intrinsic rotation. It also intrinsically transports electric current, pulling q towards rational values and potentially aiding non-inductive current drive. This is likely important in the triggering of internal transport barriers.
Authors: Justin Ball, Arnas Volčokas, Stephan Brunner
Institution: École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne
Language: English
Subfield: Nuclear and High Energy Physics
Field: Physics and Astronomy
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
Estimated APC paid: $3,325
OpenAlex ID: W4415100928