Dynamics of the structure of electric currents and electrodynamic forces in current sheets

Abstract

Specific features of the spatial distributions of the electric current and electrodynamic forces in current sheets are examined by studying the magnetic fields in them. It is shown that the j × B forces should lead to a gradual increase in the kinetic energy of the plasma accelerated along the current sheet surface. Excitation of currents directed oppositely to the main current in the central part of the sheet is observed for the first time, and the time evolution of the forward and reverse currents is investigated. Generation of reversed currents is a manifestation of the dynamic effects caused by the motion of plasma flows in the magnetic field and leading to a change in the magnetic structure of the current sheet.