SIMBAD references

We present the results of 2D and 3D magnetohydrodynamical numerical simulations of relativistic magnetic reconnection, with particular emphasis on the dynamics of the plasma in a Petschek-type configuration with high Lundquist numbers, S∼ 10⁵–10⁸. The numerical scheme adopted, allowing for unprecedented accuracy for this type of calculations, is based on high-order finite volume and discontinuous Galerkin methods as recently proposed by Dumbser & Zanotti. The possibility of producing high Lorentz factors is discussed, showing that Lorentz factors close to ∼4 can be produced for a plasma parameter σ_m= 20. Moreover, we find that the Sweet–Parker layers are unstable, generating secondary magnetic islands, but only for S > S_c∼ 10⁸, much larger than what is reported in the Newtonian regime. Finally, the effects of a mildly anisotropic Ohm's law are considered in a configuration with a guide magnetic field. Such effects produce only slightly faster reconnection rates and Lorentz factors of about 1 per cent larger with respect to the perfectly isotropic Ohm's law. Gravitational microlensing of a reverberating quasar broad-line region – I. Method and qualitative results