Theory for resonant ion acceleration by nonlinear magnetosonic fast and slow waves in finite beta plasmas

A Korteweg--de Vries equation that is applicable to both the nonlinear magnetosonic fast and slow waves is derived from a two-fluid model with finite ion and electron pressures. As in the cold plasma theory, the fast wave has a critical angle theta/sub c/. For propagation angles greater than theta/sub c/ (quasiperpendicular propagation), the fast wave has a positive soliton, whereas for angles smaller than theta/sub c/, it has a negative soliton. Finite β effects decrease the value of theta/sub c/. The slow wave has a positive soliton for all angles of propagation. The magnitude of resonant ion acceleration (the v/sub p/ x B acceleration) by the nonlinear fast and slow waves is evaluated. In the fast wave, the electron pressure makes the acceleration stronger for all propagation angles. The decrease in theta/sub c/ resulting from finite β effects results in broadening of the region of strong acceleration. It is also found that fairly strong ion acceleration can occur in the nonlinear slow wave in high β plasmas. The possibility of unlimited acceleration of ions by quasiperpendicular magnetosonic fast waves is discussed