Computer simulation of three dimensional magnetic loop dynamics resulting from fast reconnection

Abstract

The loop top shock structures and the associated plasma configurations around them are studied three dimensionally by computer simulations. For the spontaneous fast reconnection model, the quasi-steady and symmetric fast reconnection mechanism is set up without any significant dependence on plasma parameters. The supersonic reconnection jet between a pair of standing slow shocks collides with the loop and gives rise to a strong fast shock ahead of the loop top. These three dimensional basic features of magnetic loop development have been studied. The three dimensional shock structures, however, have not been understood because the three-dimensional shocks were difficult to three dimensionally visualize. In this paper, development of the loop top shock structures are investigated by effective visualization of them. The fast shock formed at loop top significantly depends on the separation of high-pressure region in magnetic loop and the associated vortex of plasma flow around the magnetic loop.