Astronomy and Astrophysics – Astrophysics
Scientific paper
1999-12-21
Phys. Plasmas, 7 (2000) 108
Astronomy and Astrophysics
Astrophysics
22 pages, 14 figures (Figs. 3,9,10, and 14 as external GIF-Files)
Scientific paper
10.1063/1.873786
Magnetic reconnection in an antiparallel uniform Harris current sheet equilibrium, which is initially perturbed by a region of enhanced resistivity limited in all three dimensions, is investigated through compressible magnetohydrodynamic simulations. Variable resistivity, coupled to the dynamics of the plasma by an electron-ion drift velocity criterion, is used during the evolution. A phase of magnetic reconnection amplifying with time and leading to eruptive energy release is triggered only if the initial perturbation is strongly elongated in the direction of current flow or if the threshold for the onset of anomalous resistivity is significantly lower than in the corresponding two-dimensional case. A Petschek-like configuration is then built up for \sim 100 Alfven times, but remains localized in the third dimension. Subsequently, a change of topology to an O-line at the center of the system (``secondary tearing'') occurs. This leads to enhanced and time-variable reconnection, to a second pair of outflow jets directed along the O-line, and to expansion of the reconnection process into the third dimension. High parallel current density components are created mainly near the region of enhanced resistivity.
Kliem Bernhard
Schumacher Joerg
Seehafer Norbert
No associations
LandOfFree
Three-dimensional spontaneous magnetic reconnection in neutral current sheets does not yet have a rating. At this time, there are no reviews or comments for this scientific paper.
If you have personal experience with Three-dimensional spontaneous magnetic reconnection in neutral current sheets, we encourage you to share that experience with our LandOfFree.com community. Your opinion is very important and Three-dimensional spontaneous magnetic reconnection in neutral current sheets will most certainly appreciate the feedback.
Profile ID: LFWR-SCP-O-43813