Collisionless effects on beam-return current systems in solar flaresA theoretical study of the beam-return current system (BRCS) in solar flares shows that the precipitating electrons modify the way in which the return current (RC) is carried by the background plasma. In particular it is found that the RC is not carried by the bulk of the electrons but by a small number of high-velocity electrons. For beam/plasma densities exceeding approximately 0.001, this can reduce the effects of collisions and heating by the RC. For higher-density beams, where the RC could be unstable to current-driven instabilities, the effects of strong turbulence anomalous resistivity prevent the appearance of such instabilities. The main conclusion is that the BRCS is interconnected, and that the beam-generated strong turbulence determines how the RC is carried.
Document ID
19850066696
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Conference Paper
Authors
Vlahos, L. (Maryland Univ. College Park, MD, United States)
Rowland, H. L. (Maryland, University College Park, United States)
Date Acquired
August 12, 2013
Publication Date
January 1, 1985
Subject Category
Solar Physics
Meeting Information
Meeting: Unstable current systems and plasma instabilities in astrophysics