Demonstration of helicity conservation during magnetic reconnection using Christmas ribbons

Abstract

This article shows how a simple Christmas ribbon can be used to demonstrate a relatively complex physical phenomenon: the conservation of helicity during magnetic reconnection. The physical term, helicity, and the process of magnetic reconnection will be introduced and explained in detail. The ‘‘helicity meter,’’ a very simple device that will help in the determination of the helicity of certain topological configurations, will also be introduced.