Quasi-separatrix layers and three-dimensional reconnection diagnostics for line-tied tearing modes (Q426148)

A finite long pinch with line-tied boundary conditions, in which all magnetic field lines start at one end of the system and proceed to the opposite end, is an example of a three-dimensional magnetic configuration for a plasma, in which no closed field line or magnetic null exists, no magnetic reconnection can occur. Nevertheless, a long system of this type in resistive magnetohydrodynamics essentially involves reconnection. This has been explained in terms of comparing geometric and tearing widths, and the quasi-separatrix layer was developed. Now, the model of a line-tied system is studied in which the corresponding periodic system has an unstable tearing mode. The concept of the squashing-factor is analysed for this system, and the electrostatic potential is involved to study the case. The physical and geometric character of these concepts are used in the context of discerning the (reconnection) tearing-like behaviour in line-tied modes.