DISCRETE VORTEX REPRESENTATION OF MAGNETOHYDRODYNAMICS

We present an alternative approach to statistical analysis of an inter mittent ideal magnetohydrodynamics fluid in two dimensions, based on t he hydrodynamic discrete vortex model applied to the Elsasser variable s. The model contains negative temperature states which predict the fo rmation of magnetic islands, but also includes a natural limit under w hich the equilibrium states revert to the familiar twin-vortex states predicted by hydrodynamic turbulence theories. Numerical dynamical cal culations yield equilibrium spectra in agreement with the theoretical predictions.