Magnetic acceleration of relativistic jets

S. S. Komissarov

Published 2010-06-11Version 1

This is a brief review of the recent developments in the theory of magnetic acceleration of relativistic jets. We attempt to explain the key results of this complex theory using basic physical arguments and simple calculations. The main focus is on the standard model, which describes steady-state axisymmetric ideal MHD flows. We argue that this model is over-restrictive and discuss various alternatives.