Field strengths in oblique shock waves

Large-amplitude oblique shock waves are studied with theory and particle simulations, with particular attention paid to electric and magnetic field strengths. First, by use of a two-fluid model, field strengths in a shock wave propagating obliquely to an external magnetic field are analytically obtained as functions of the Alfvén speed, shock speed, and propagation angle. Then, one-dimensional, relativistic, electromagnetic particle simulations are performed to test the theoretical prediction. The theory and simulation are found to be in good agreement for a wide range of angles.