Asymmetric Equilibrium Structures of Superthin Current Sheets: The Asymmetry of Plasma Sources
摘要
The influence of asymmetry of plasma sources on the structure and spatial localization of a superthin current sheet (STCS) supported by demagnetized electrons is studied using a self-consistent model. The simulation takes into account the presence of a single plasma source in the northern hemisphere, which makes the plasma flow asymmetric. It is demonstrated that the asymmetry of plasma sources results in a minor reduction in the current carried by demagnetized electrons on the Speiser orbits. In the process, an enhancement of the negative diamagnetic currents is observed at the source side. The STCS center shifts to the side opposite the source position to preserve the balance of the total pressure. A comparison of STCS characteristics formed by demagnetized and magnetized electron populations reveals that the sheet structure is more sensitive to asymmetry in the case of magnetized electrons.