MHD TURBULENCE IN RADIATING INTENSE Z-PINCHES

A model for the physical processes that could occur in the turbulent i nterior of an imploding, radiating, intense Z-pinch is outlined. In th is model the nonlinear evolution of the m = 0 pinch instability leads to the formation of tangled loops of magnetic flux that are jostled ab out by turbulent components of the velocity in the interior of the pin ch. The pressure generated by the turbulent components of the velocity and magnetic field resist the implosive pressure from the pinch curre nt and thus radiative collapse is prevented. A scaling law for the fin al collapse radius is obtained. Under certain conditions a ''cold turb ulent pinch'' is predicted in which the radiated power is strongly dec reased.