Numerical simulation on the multiple dipolarization fronts in the magnetotail

Abstract

Using an extended MHD model including the Hall effect and finite Larmor radius effect, we reproduce multiple dipolarization fronts (DFs) associated with the interchange instability in the braking region of bursty bulk flow in the plasma sheet. Our simulations reveal that the multiple DFs produced by the interchange instability are “growing” type DFs because the maximum plasma flow speeds are behind the fronts. Both the earthward and tailward moving DFs can be produced by interchange instability in the near-Earth region. The Hall electric field is the dominant electric field component in the dip region and the DF layer. The convective and the electron pressure gradient electric field components are smaller. The sharp Bz changes in both the dip region and DF layer correspond to the oppositely directed currents that are primarily associated with electrons. The ion diamagnetic current due to the strong ion pressure gradient causes an intense downward current in the dip region, which can produce the dip ahead of the front. The energy dissipations in the dip region and DF layer are dominated by ions through the work done by the Lorentz force. Our simulation results indicate that the magnetic energy can be converted to plasmas on the DF layer, and vice versa in the dip region.