Formation of the bow shock indentation: MHD simulation results

Simulation results from a global magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) model are used to examine whether the bow shock has an indentation and characterize its formation conditions, as well physical mechanism. The is identified by increase in plasma density of solar wind, determined flaring angle. It shown that when interplanetary magnetic field (IMF) southward Alfvén Mach number (Mα) wind high (> 5), can be clearly determined. reason outflow region reconnection (MR) occurs low latitude area under IMF blocks original flow magnetosheath around magnetopause, forming high-speed zone low-speed upstream downstream each other. This structure hinders surrounding magnetosheath, behind widens forms indentation. When Mα low, thicker disturbing effect MR less obvious. Under northward IMF, at latitudes, formed does not block inside thus harder form. study conditions process will help improve accuracy models.