Abstract
Recent developments regarding collisionless reconnection in current sheets with a finite normal magnetic field component ( B z ) are reviewed. In 2-D x, z configurations the ion tearing mode is stabilized by the electron compressibility. When the y dependence is included, cross-field current instabilities can be excited. Of these, the drift kink mode appears to be particularly important. 3-D electromagnetic particle simulations indicate that this mode can act as the precursor to the growth of tearing modes and subsequent reconnection.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have