How good are one-dimensional Josephson junction models?

A two-dimensional model of Josephson junctions of overlap type is presented and shown to reduce to the usual one-dimensional (1D) model in the limit of a very narrow junction. Comparisons between the stability limits for fluxon reflection obtained from the two models suggest that the many results obtained from the one-dimensional model can be used for large-area junctions, thus explaining the remarkable agreement between 1D theory and experiments. Journal of Applied Physics is copyrighted by The American Institute of Physics.