Angular Momentum Transport in Protoplanetary Disks

Abstract

We review our current understanding on the physical processes that govern angular momentum transport and evolution of protoplanetary disks. Extremely rich in physics, these processes are intimately connected to disk gas dynamics, with profound implications for planet formation. We organize them into a three-level hierarchical framework: ▪ The coupling of gas with magnetic fields and radiation sets the microphysical foundation for understanding protoplanetary disk dynamics. Key ingredients include nonideal magnetohydrodynamics effects (requiring ionization chemistry), along with heating and cooling processes. The disk can be divided into three radial sectors governed by distinct microphysics. ▪ Protoplanetary disks host diverse gas dynamical processes, including hydrodynamic, magnetic, and gravitational instabilities, along with thermally and magnetically driven disk winds. Many of these individual processes are reasonably well understood, whereas others still require detailed investigation. ▪ Protoplanetary disks are highly complex ecosystems in which multiple processes interact. It is recognized that the bulk disk exhibits weak turbulence, with magnetically driven wind likely serving as the primary transport mechanism. However, our knowledge remains highly limited regarding the disk's innermost region, early stages, long-term evolution, and environmental effects.