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(Reference retrieved automatically from SciELO through information on FAPESP grant and its corresponding number as mentioned in the publication by the authors.)

Theoretical foundations of magnetic reconnection

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Author(s):
V.M. Souza [1] ; M.V.D. Silveira [2] ; D. Koga [3] ; P.R. Jauer [4]
Total Authors: 4
Affiliation:
[1] Instituto Nacional de Pesquisas Espaciais - Brasil
[2] NASA Goddard Space Flight Center - Estados Unidos
[3] Instituto Nacional de Pesquisas Espaciais - Brasil
[4] Instituto Nacional de Pesquisas Espaciais - Brasil
Total Affiliations: 4
Document type: Journal article
Source: Revista Brasileira de Ensino de Física; v. 38, n. 2 2016-04-19.
Abstract

In this work both the concept and historical origins of the physical process known as magnetic reconnection are presented, as well as one of the first analytical models which was used as theoretical basis for future investigations on the phenomenon. Magnetic reconnection can occur between two or more magnetized plasma regimes which are close enough to allow non-ideal magnetohydrodynamic effects to take place and consequently change the topological structure of the interacting magnetic fields. As a result, the plasma can be accelerated in a short amount of time, as has been observed in explosive physical phenomena like solar flares. In this work, it is emphasized the first mathematical efforts employed in order to understand and describe reconnection according to the point of view of magnetohydrodynamics. Magnetic reconnection has the potential of becoming a universal mechanism which can be used to help to understand a myriad of physical processes occurring in both laboratory and astrophysical plasmas. (AU)

FAPESP's process: 14/21229-9 - NUMERICAL AND OBSERVATIONAL ANALYSIS ON THE MACROSCOPIC ASPECT OF THE MAGNETIC RECONNECTION PROCESS AT EARTH'S DAYSIDE MAGNETOPAUSE
Grantee:Vitor Moura Cardoso e Silva Souza
Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Post-Doctoral