Dynamics Of Post-reconnected Thin Flux Tubes
Abstract
Reconnection is a process that modifies magnetic field topologies, releasing a large amount of magnetic energy that is converted to particle kinetic energy. The accelerated particles are directed outward from the reconnection region, which gives origin to Flares or Coronal Mass Ejections.
A new model, called patchy reconnection, describing reconnection occurring within a small region of a pre-existing current sheet of uniform strength, has been recently proposed by Linton and Longcope (2006). We generalize this approach using current sheets of spatially varying surface current densities (among others, Y-type and double-Y-type current sheets are studied). We present modified equations modeling the dynamics of thin flux tubes after being reconnected across these different geometries. Analytical equilibrium solutions are found, and compared to numerical simulations of the time-dependent equations. New interesting features appear, only observable in pure 3D geometries, like super-alfvenic motion, and density enhancement.- Publication:
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American Astronomical Society Meeting Abstracts #210
- Pub Date:
- May 2007
- Bibcode:
- 2007AAS...210.9327G