Magnetic Reconnection: Classical Aspects
Abstract
Magnetic reconnection is an important mechanism in astrophysics for converting magnetic energy to both thermal energy and bulk acceleration of plasma and also for changing the global topology of the magnetic field. For over 50 years now solar theorists have investigated reconnection. This paper provides a basic review of the classical aspects of reconnection in both one, two and three dimensions, as well as, giving a potted history of reconnection theory in solar physics. Magnetic annihilation, Sweet-Parker reconnection and Petschek reconnection will all be discussed as will spine and fan reconnection in three dimensions.
- Publication:
-
Transport and Energy Conversion in the Heliosphere
- Pub Date:
- 2000
- Bibcode:
- 2000LNP...553...61P