Kinematic reconnection at a magnetic null point: spine-aligned current |
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Authors: | DI Pontin G Hornig ER Priest |
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Institution: | 1. School of Mathematics and Statistics , University of St. Andrews , St. Andrews, Fife, KY16 9SS, Scotland, UK davidp@mcs.st-and.ac.uk;3. Theoretische Physik IV , Ruhr-Universiteit , D-44780, Bochum, Germany;4. School of Mathematics and Statistics , University of St. Andrews , St. Andrews, Fife, KY16 9SS, Scotland, UK |
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Abstract: | Magnetic reconnection at a three-dimensional null point is the natural extension of the familiar two-dimensional X-point reconnection. A model is set up here for reconnection at a spiral null point, by solving the kinematic, steady, resistive magnetohydrodynamic equations in its vicinity. A steady magnetic field is assumed, as well as the existence of a localised diffusion region surrounding the null point. Outside the diffusion region the plasma and magnetic field move ideally. Particular attention is focussed on the way that the magnetic flux changes its connections as a result of the reconnection. The resultant plasma flows are found to be rotational in nature, as is the change in connections of the magnetic field lines. |
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Keywords: | Magnetic reconnection Magnetohydrodynamics Magnetic flux Magnetic null points |
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