Effect of nonuniform resistivity in Petschek reconnection

Journal Article · Wed Feb 15 04:00:00 EST 2006 · Physics of Plasmas

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1063/1.2172543· OSTI ID:20782504

Baty, H; Priest, E R; Forbes, T G ^[1]

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1. Observatoire Astronomique, 11 Rue de l'Universite, 67000 Strasbourg (France)

The controversial topic of the existence of a Petschek solution in steady-state magnetic reconnection for a uniform resistivity is investigated, by using two-dimensional time-dependent magnetohydrodynamic simulations. A classical localized nonuniform resistivity with a profile that is exponentially decreasing from the X point is helpful to set up the Petschek solution as a first step, using a procedure with overspecified boundary conditions. The response to changing the resistivity profile in various ways is then studied. It is found that a Petschek configuration is obtained when a quasiuniform resistivity is adopted. This is the case if the resistivity profile exhibits a weak negative gradient close to the X point, which dominates an inherent numerical contribution; otherwise an instability develops which disrupts the configuration. A truly uniform resistivity is probably only marginally stable. Finally, the validity of the arguments given by Kulsrud [Earth Planets Space 53, 417 (2001)] about the 'incorrectness' of Petschek's original model is discussed.

• OSTI ID: 20782504
• Journal Information: Physics of Plasmas, Journal Name: Physics of Plasmas Journal Issue: 2 Vol. 13; ISSN PHPAEN; ISSN 1070-664X
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

70 PLASMA PHYSICS AND FUSION TECHNOLOGY
BOUNDARY CONDITIONS
CHARGED-PARTICLE TRANSPORT
MAGNETIC RECONNECTION
MAGNETOHYDRODYNAMICS
MATHEMATICAL SOLUTIONS
NUMERICAL ANALYSIS
PLASMA
PLASMA INSTABILITY
PLASMA SIMULATION
STEADY-STATE CONDITIONS
TIME DEPENDENCE
TWO-DIMENSIONAL CALCULATIONS