Three-dimensional numerical study of converging flux events.

The first self-consistent three-dimensional magnetohydrodynamical simulations of converging magnetic flux events associated with the formation of coronal X-ray bright points are presented. The initial magnetic field results from two magnetic dipoles located below the photosphere at positions r(1) and r(2), respectively, and an additional horizontal magnetic field parallel to the line <(r(1)r(2))over bar>. Both dipole moments are vertical and have equal magnitude but opposite orientation. During the dynamical evolution, a prescribed photospheric convection pattern causes the magnetic dipole-like structures to approach one another. In the early phase of the evolution a current sheet forms in the central region above the polarity inversion line. When the current density exceeds a critical value, anomalous resistivity due to microturbulence is assumed to break the ideal Ohm's law. As a consequence, magnetic reconnection sets in and results in a jet-like plasma flow. The localized plasma heating associated with the reconnection process might account for the flaring of tiny filaments within bright point structures.