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Published online by Cambridge University Press: 26 May 2016
In this paper we present results on the effect of the vertical stratification of magnetic diffusivity, expected in current models of protoplanetary discs, on the development of the magnetorotational instability. Specifically, on the basis of a quasi-global, linear analysis we study the operation of the magnetorotational instability across the so-called dead zone of protoplanetary discs. Our results indicate that the predicted strong vertical diffusivity gradients can damp the instability in such regions. This suggests the necessity of a revision of current models for the structure and evolution of protoplanetary discs.