The nature of separator current layers in MHS equilibria I. Current parallel to the separator

摘要: Separators, which are in many ways the three-dimensional equivalent to two-dimensional nulls, important sites for magnetic reconnection. Magnetic reconnection occurs strong current layers have very short length scales. The aim of this work is explore nature around separators. A separator a special field line lies along intersection two separatrix surfaces and forms boundary between four topologically distinct flux domains. In particular, here layer about that joins 3D nulls their investigated. configuration containing single embedded uniform plasma with electric parallel considered. This initial setup, not equilibrium, relaxes non-resistive manner form an equilibrium. relaxation achieved using MHD code, Lare3d, resistivity set zero. series experiments varying run investigate characteristics resulting present final (quasi-) equilibrium states. each experiment, collapses it. dimensions strength increase current. It found formed from twisted. Also collapse process evolves like infinite-time singularity where length, width peak grow slowly whilst depth decreases.