Blowup of force-free magnetic fields in the infinite region of space

Abstract

view Abstract Citations (54) References (28) Co-Reads Similar Papers Volume Content Graphics Metrics Export Citation NASA/ADS Blowup of Force-free Magnetic Fields in the Infinite Region of Space Low, B. C. Abstract The model for the quasi-static evolution of a magnetic field through force-free states in response to slow motions of its footpoints at the boundary is considered using an axisymmetric model for a bipolar magnetic field in the infinite space outside a unit sphere. It is shown that, as has been suggested, footpoint displacements exist which can take a magnetic field in further evolution beyond a critical point, through force-free states with a suitably modified form of the alpha scalar function. However, not all footpoint displacements have this property. By direct example, it is shown that other footpoint displacements exist, in response to which quasi-static evolution breaks down and the magnetic field undergoes a catastrophic opening of part of its flux. Publication: The Astrophysical Journal Pub Date: August 1986 DOI: 10.1086/164407 Bibcode: 1986ApJ...307..205L Keywords: Astrophysics; Force-Free Magnetic Fields; Magnetohydrodynamics; Lines Of Force; Solar Atmosphere; Solar Flares; Astrophysics; HYDROMAGNETICS full text sources ADS |