Resistive Magnetohydrodynamic Simulations of Relativistic Magnetic Reconnection

TL;DR

This paper uses resistive relativistic magnetohydrodynamic simulations to explore how different resistivity models influence the dynamics and structures of relativistic magnetic reconnection, revealing critical effects on reconnection speed and shock formation.

Contribution

It demonstrates the impact of resistivity models on relativistic magnetic reconnection behavior using advanced RRMHD simulations, highlighting the importance of resistivity choice.

Findings

Localized resistivity leads to fast, Alfvénic jets with shock structures.

Uniform resistivity results in slow Sweet-Parker reconnection.

Current-dependent resistivity causes repeated plasmoid formation.

Abstract

Resistive relativistic magnetohydrodynamic (RRMHD) simulations are applied to investigate the system evolution of relativistic magnetic reconnection. A time-split Harten--Lan--van Leer method is employed. Under a localized resistivity, the system exhibits a fast reconnection jet with an Alfv\'{e}nic Lorentz factor inside a narrow Petschek-type exhaust. Various shock structures are resolved in and around the plasmoid such as the post-plasmoid vertical shocks and the "diamond-chain" structure due to multiple shock reflections. Under a uniform resistivity, Sweet--Parker-type reconnection slowly evolves. Under a current-dependent resistivity, plasmoids are repeatedly formed in an elongated current sheet. It is concluded that the resistivity model is of critical importance for RRMHD modeling of relativistic magnetic reconnection.