Energy Flux Densities in Electron-only Magnetic Reconnection in Space Plasma

Read full text
Authors: Z. Z. Chen, Tieyan Wang, Jiang Yu, Jing Wang, Yudong Ye, H. S. Fu, Jinbin Cao, Jun Cui, Hengyan Man, Yuchen Jiang
Cited by: 0

Abstract

Electron-only magnetic reconnection, a novel form of magnetic reconnection recently discovered in plasma turbulence, exhibits distinct features from the well-studied standard magnetic reconnection with ion coupling. Our study investigates its energy partition features by utilizing in situ measurements from the Magnetospheric Multiscale mission. Electron enthalpy flux exhibits a strong linear relationship with electron velocity. The spatial distributions of electron kinetic energy and enthalpy fluxes are influenced by the asymmetric effects and guide fields in a similar manner to how the spatial distributions of electron velocity are affected. The guide field enhances Poynting flux to a magnitude that rivals, or even surpasses, electron enthalpy flux, while also deflects it toward the outflow direction. These findings impact the understanding of energy partition in magnetic reconnection.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Ionosphere and magnetosphere dynamics Solar and Space Plasma Dynamics Low-Pressure Plasma Processing and Diagnostics

Publication details

Journal / source
EGU General Assembly Conference Abstracts
Publication date
13 March 2026
Language
EN