Energy Flux Densities in Electron-only Magnetic Reconnection in Space Plasma
Year: 2025
Type: article
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.
Authors: Z. Z. Chen, T. Y. Wang, J. Yu, J. Wang, Y. D. Ye, H. S. Fu, J. B. Cao, J. Cui, H. Y. Man, Y. C. Jiang
Language: English
Subfield: Astronomy and Astrophysics
Field: Physics and Astronomy
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $4,499
Awards: G1924003073, G3777395067
OpenAlex ID: W4416675477