Effects of Resistivity and Radiative Losses on Magnetic Reconnection in MHD

Many magnetic reconnection studies investigate magnetic reconnection in MHD using constant or spatially varying anomalous diffusivity terms. Some have investigate the effects of temperature-varying diffusivity, and found enhanced reconnection rates. Similar studies and results have been found when radiative effects are considered. Using the non-ideal MHD code AthenaPK we investigate the effects and differences on the inclusion of different diffusion models and radiative effects on magnetic reconnection in laboratory-like environments. Performing a large parameter sweep of Spitzer conductivities and radiative loss coefficients we find enhanced reconnection rates when Spitzer conductivity and radiation are enabled when compared to the standard ohmic diffusion models.