Electromagnetic Shocks in Strong Magnetic Fields

Abstract

We examine the propagation of electromagnetic radiation through a strong magnetic field using the method of characteristics. Owing to nonlinear effects associated with vacuum polarization, such waves can develop discontinuities analogous to hydrodynamical shocks. We derive shock jump conditions and discuss the physical nature of these non-linear waves

Comments: 15 pages, 5 figures, accepted for publication in Phys. Rev. D, bibliography revised no other changes