Fast magnetic reconnection induced by resistivity gradients in 2D magnetohydrodynamics

Using two-dimensional (2D) magnetohydrodynamics simulations, we show that Petschek-type magnetic reconnection can be induced using a simple resistivity gradient in the outflow direction, revealing key ingredient of steady fast collisional limit. We find diffusion region self-adjusts its half-length to fit given scale resistivity. The x-line and flow stagnation point always reside within transition closer higher end. opening one exhaust by this will lead other located on side x-line, uniform Potential applications setup reconnection-based thrusters solar spicules are discussed. In separate set numerical experiments, explore maximum plausible rate large spatially localized right at x-line. Interestingly, resulting current density drops significantly so normalized remains bounded value ≃0.2, consistent with theoretical prediction.