Topology change and explosive energy release in magnetized plasma
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Physics
Magnetic reconnection occurs when oppositely directed magnetic field lines break and rejoin, converting stored magnetic energy into kinetic and thermal energy. The Sweet-Parker model gives a reconnection rate MA = √η (Lundquist number dependence). The Petschek model allows faster reconnection via slow-mode shocks. The X-point (null point) is where field lines change topology. Reconnection drives solar flares, magnetospheric substorms, and tokamak disruptions.