Chandrasekhar number

The Chandrasekhar number is a dimensionless parameter used in fluid dynamics and magnetohydrodynamics to compare the influence of magnetic forces to viscous forces within a conducting fluid, such as liquid metal or plasma. It helps scientists understand how magnetic fields affect fluid flow, especially in systems like Earth's core or stellar interiors. A higher Chandrasekhar number indicates a dominant magnetic effect stabilizing or altering the flow, whereas a lower value suggests viscous forces are more influential. It is named after astrophysicist Subrahmanyan Chandrasekhar, who contributed to astrophysics and fluid dynamics research.