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The structure of reconnection layers

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  13 March 2009

Martin F. Heyn ,
Helfried K. Biernat ,
Richard P. Rijnbeek  and
Vladimir S. Semenov
Martin F. Heyn
Affiliation:
Institut für Weltraumforschung, Österreichische Akademie der Wissenschaften, A-8010 Graz, Austria
Helfried K. Biernat
Affiliation:
Institut für Weltraumforschung, Österreichische Akademie der Wissenschaften, A-8010 Graz, Austria
Richard P. Rijnbeek
Affiliation:
Institut für Weltraumforschung, Österreichische Akademie der Wissenschaften, A-8010 Graz, Austria
Vladimir S. Semenov
Affiliation:
Institute of Physics, State University, Leningrad, 198904, USSR
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Abstract

Using nonlinear ideal MHD equations, we analyse the structure of the convection region within a Petschek-type model for reconnection. We show how, assuming that the normal field and flow components remain small and using simple wave analysis, the structure of the reconnection layer as well as the behaviour of the tangential field and plasma parameters can be specified in terms of the external parameters in the inflow regions. Equations for the normal field and flow components and the angular width of the reconnection layer (assuming planar symmetry and a steady state) are also given in terms of the value of the electric field along the reconnection line. The model is suited to application at the earth's magnetopause and in the distant magnetotail. In particular, it lends itself to an investigation of the requirements for reconnection to occur and the general validity of MHD reconnection models in practical applications.

Type
Research Article
Information
Journal of Plasma Physics , Volume 40 , Issue 2 , October 1988 , pp. 235 - 252
Copyright
Copyright © Cambridge University Press 1988

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References

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