engleski

MHD Waves and Shocks Generated during Magnetic Field Reconnection

We use a 2D MHD model of magnetic field reconnection to investigate if and how bursts of reconnection activity, changes of the magnetic field and shock wave generation are related. We found that major bursts of power dissipated into Joule heat occur during topological transitions of the magnetic field structure. These bursts are followed by shocks and waves. Along the plasma outflow jet not only MHD waves, but also ion-sound shocks are formed. After the phase of more or less quiet reconnection (Petschek-type) the tearing mode produces plasmoids. The interactions of these plasmoids are associated with further bursts of the reconnection activity and a complex structure of shock waves. Finally, all these processes are discussed as possible sources of various radio bursts.

solar flares; magnetic reconnection; MHD waves

Vol 31 (2007): Proceedings of 8th Hvar Astrophysical Colloquium: "Dynamical Processes in the Solar Atmosphere"