Topology of magnetotail fieldlines and current lines

The componentsj andj of the current densityj are expressed in terms of the torsion and curvature of the magnetic lines of force and a relation between and equivalent to divj=0, is pointed out.Assuming that the magnetotail neutral line is not a straight line parallel to the (solar magnetospheric)y-coordinate and that loops of closed fieldlines may be formed in the distant magnetotail, we discuss the topological features of the corresponding current system. We find that the perpendicular current is diverted into the direction ofB and that enhancements and depletions ofj along the Sun-Earth line are generated. Arguments usual in current diversion analyses imply a possibility of disintegration of the magnetotail.It is ponted out that the simply connected surfaces containing both vectors,j andB, are unlikely to exist in the magnetotail. The concept of current sheets containing the vector lines ofB is mathematically, and consequently also physically, not feasible.