TY  - JOUR
T1  - Theory of magnetic reconnection in solar and astrophysical plasmas
A1  - Pontin,D.I.
AU  - Pontin,D.I.
PY  - 2012/7/13
Y1  - 2012/7/13
N2  - Magnetic reconnection is a fundamental process in a plasma that facilitates the release of energy stored in the magnetic field by permitting a change in the magnetic topology. In this paper, we present a review of the current state of understanding of magnetic reconnection. We discuss theoretical results regarding the formation of current sheets in complex three-dimensional magnetic fields and describe the fundamental differences between reconnection in two and three dimensions. We go on to outline recent developments in modelling of reconnection with kinetic theory, as well as in the magnetohydrodynamic framework where a number of new three-dimensional reconnection regimes have been identified. We discuss evidence from observations and simulations of Solar System plasmas that support this theory and summarize some prominent locations in which this new reconnection theory is relevant in astrophysical plasmas. This journal is © 2012 The Royal Society.
AB  - Magnetic reconnection is a fundamental process in a plasma that facilitates the release of energy stored in the magnetic field by permitting a change in the magnetic topology. In this paper, we present a review of the current state of understanding of magnetic reconnection. We discuss theoretical results regarding the formation of current sheets in complex three-dimensional magnetic fields and describe the fundamental differences between reconnection in two and three dimensions. We go on to outline recent developments in modelling of reconnection with kinetic theory, as well as in the magnetohydrodynamic framework where a number of new three-dimensional reconnection regimes have been identified. We discuss evidence from observations and simulations of Solar System plasmas that support this theory and summarize some prominent locations in which this new reconnection theory is relevant in astrophysical plasmas. This journal is © 2012 The Royal Society.
U2  - 10.1098/rsta.2011.0501
DO  - 10.1098/rsta.2011.0501
M1  - Article
JO  - Philosophical Transactions of the Royal Society A - Mathematical Physical and Engineering Sciences
JF  - Philosophical Transactions of the Royal Society A - Mathematical Physical and Engineering Sciences
SN  - 1364-503X
IS  - 1970
VL  - 370
SP  - 3169
EP  - 3192
ER  -