Dynamical evolution and structure of solar coronal magnetic fields

• Published in: Physics of fluids. B, Plasma physics Vol. 4; no. 7; pp. 2277 - 2285
• Main Authors: Longcope, D. W., Sudan, R. N.
• Format: Journal Article Conference Proceeding
• Language: English
• Published: New York, NY American Institute of Physics 01.07.1992
• Subjects: Astronomy; Corona. Coronal loops, streamers, and holes; Earth, ocean, space; Exact sciences and technology; Solar physics; Solar system; ALFVEN WAVES; SOLAR FLARES; PHOTOSPHERE; EQUILIBRIUM; RELAXATION; MAGNETOHYDRODYNAMICS; DYNAMICAL SYSTEMS; SOLAR CORONA; LOW−BETA PLASMA; Solar corona; Relaxation; MHD model; Coronal loop; Dynamical evolution; Dynamical system; Non linear system; Solar magnetic field; Sun

A simple dynamical system is presented which is analogous in many ways to a solar coronal loop. When this system is subject to slow, external driving, representing photospheric motion, it undergoes occasional impulsive relaxations. These relaxations release some fraction of the magnetic energy as Al...