Magnetohydrodynamics of atmospheric transients. IV. Nonplane two-dimensional analyses of energy conversion and magnetic field evolution
The evolution of the magnetic field and the manner of conversion of thermal energy into different forms in the corona following a solar flare are examined by a nonplane magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) analysis. In the analysis all three components of magnetic field and velocity are treated in a physically self-consistent manner, with all physical variables as functions of time (t) and two spatial coordinates (r,theta). The difference due to the initial magnetic field, either twisted (force-free) or nontwisted (potential), is demonstrated. In both cases, of course, the field becomes non-force-free after the energy release, i.e., a flare. As in Papers I and II of this series, two initial field topologies (open vs. closed) are considered. The results show that the conversion of magnetic energy is faster for the case of the initially twisted (force-free) field in comparison with the initially untwisted (potential) field. Also, the twisted field produces a complex structure of the density enhancements. Comparison of the asymmetric topological evolution of the initially twisted magnetic fields with several white-light coronal transients (observed recently during the Solar Maximum year suggests that some preflare, magnetic topologies above the site of the energy release are nonpotential. This suggestion is based on the asymmetrial, somewhat concentric (''tennis racket'' shape), electron density enhancement obtained together with the twisted magnetic field lines in this study.
- Research Organization:
- Univ. of Alabama, Huntsville, AL (United States)
- OSTI ID:
- 6426891
- Journal Information:
- Astrophys. J.; (United States), Vol. 262:1
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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