Three-dimensional MHD simulations of X-ray emitting subcluster plasmas in cluster of galaxies

Recent high resolution observations by Chandra X-ray satellite revealed various substructures in hot X-ray emitting plasmas in cluster of galaxies. For example, Chandra revealed the existence of sharp discontinuities in the surface brightness at the leading edge of subclusters in merging clusters (e.g., A3667), where the temperature drops sharply across the fronts. These sharp edges are called the cold fronts. We present results of three-dimensional magnetohydrodynamic simulations of the time evolution of a dense subcluster plasma moving in cluster of galaxies. Resistivity and anisotropic heat conduction along magnetic field lines are included. When magnetic fields exist, cold fronts can be maintained because the heat conduction across the magnetic field lines is suppressed. We discuss the efficiency of conversion of kinetic energies of moving subcluster to heats through magnetic interaction and the effects of magnetic reconnection on heating of cluster plasmas.