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This paper concentrates on aspects of magnetic field reconnection for a time-varying reconnection rate. There are a number of aspects of time-dependent reconnection that have no analogous behavior with the steady-state case. The localization of such time-varying features is of particular interest due to the fact that modeling is generally based on the steady-state case. In order to get optimal physical and mathematical insight, the most simple model is used: identical plasma and magnetic field behavior (except for the field orientation) on either side of the reconnection layer; furthermore the plasma is assumed to be incompressible. The primary interest is the distribution of different energy modes as a result of reconnection. Following a pulse of reconnection, propagating field reversal regions (FRRs) form. Inside these FRRs, the magnetic field energy is decreased, leading to accelerated plasma jets. As a result of the fast motion of the FRRs, there is an accumulation of magnetic energy external to their leading fronts (analogous to the snow accumulation in front of a moving snow plow), and a corresponding energy rarefaction in their wake regions.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 3242-3248 |
Number of pages | 7 |
Journal | Physics of Plasmas |
Volume | 5 |
Issue number | 9 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - 1 Jan 1998 |
ID: 53087988