THE 3D TOPOLOGY AND INTERACTION OF COMPLEX MAGNETIC-FLUX SYSTEMS

In order to understand the topology of complex flux systems we analyse in detail the rich structural properties of the magnetic field create d in turn by two or three balanced or unbalanced flux sources. Passing through each three-dimensional magnetic null point (where the field v anishes) is an isolated spine field line and a flux surface known as a Fan. The fans form separatrix surfaces which separate the volume into topologically distinct regions and generally intersect each other in separator field lines linking pairs of null points. Furthermore, the f an of one null can terminate at the spine of another null, whilst the spine terminates either at a source or at infinity. The skeleton of co mplex three-dimensional magnetic fields therefore comprises the magnet ic null points and a network of spine curves and separatrix fan surfac es. The skeletons due to three sources are classified and found to be surprisingly complex. For example, a new discovery is that a configura tion with a separator map be produced by only three sources.