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Asymmetric Equilibrium Structures of Superthin Current Sheets: The Asymmetry of Plasma Sources
The influence of asymmetry of plasma sources on the structure and spatial localization of a superthin
current sheet (STCS) supported by demagnetized electrons is studied using a self-consistent model. The
simulation takes into account the presence of a single plasma source in the northern hemisphere, which
makes the plasma flow asymmetric. It is demonstrated that the asymmetry of plasma sources results in a
minor reduction in the current carried by demagnetized electrons on the Speiser orbits. In the process, an
enhancement of the negative diamagnetic currents is observed at the source side. The STCS center shifts to
the side opposite the source position to preserve the balance of the total pressure. A comparison of STCS
characteristics formed by demagnetized and magnetized electron populations reveals that the sheet structure
is more sensitive to asymmetry in the case of magnetized electrons.