Astronomy and Astrophysics – Astrophysics
Scientific paper
2008-11-05
Astronomy and Astrophysics
Astrophysics
in press for Advances in Space Research
Scientific paper
10.1016/j.asr.2008.11.004
This review focuses on the processes that energize and trigger major solar flares and flux-rope destabilizations. Numerical modeling of specific solar regions is hampered by uncertain coronal-field reconstructions and by poorly understood magnetic re- connection; these limitations result in uncertain estimates of field topology, energy, and helicity. The primary advances in understanding field destabilizations therefore come from the combination of generic numerical experiments with interpretation of sets of observations. These suggest a critical role for the emergence of twisted flux ropes into pre-existing strong field for many, if not all, of the active regions that pro- duce M- or X-class flares. The flux and internal twist of the emerging ropes appear to play as important a role in determining whether an eruption will develop predom- inantly as flare, confined eruption, or CME, as do the properties of the embedding field. Based on reviewed literature, I outline a scenario for major flares and erup- tions that combines flux-rope emergence, mass draining, near-surface reconnection, and the interaction with the surrounding field. Whether deterministic forecasting is in principle possible remains to be seen: to date no reliable such forecasts can be made. Large-sample studies based on long-duration, comprehensive observations of active regions from their emergence through their flaring phase are needed to help us better understand these complex phenomena.
No associations
LandOfFree
Driving major solar flares and eruptions: a review does not yet have a rating. At this time, there are no reviews or comments for this scientific paper.
If you have personal experience with Driving major solar flares and eruptions: a review, we encourage you to share that experience with our LandOfFree.com community. Your opinion is very important and Driving major solar flares and eruptions: a review will most certainly appreciate the feedback.
Profile ID: LFWR-SCP-O-374188