Loops, fields and all that
Abstract
A greater understanding of solar coronal loops may explain the more elusive processes that heat the solar corona. Loops are strong emitters in the EUV, XUV, and X-ray ranges and have been recognized as the seat of coronal flares. They connect regions of opposite magnetic polarity and therefore delineate the gross topology of the coronal magnetic field. Since they result from the interplay of pressure, gravitational and magnetic forces, a quantitative model of the loops must be devised which will properly account for these forces. The mathematical problem to be solved is summarized, and the basic equations are presented. The solutions are simplified, however, since information is missing for some terms in the equations. It is concluded that high resolution instruments are needed to probe the solar atmosphere above the chromosphere for more information if these models are to be completed.
- Publication:
-
Space Science Reviews
- Pub Date:
- December 1981
- DOI:
- 10.1007/BF00239474
- Bibcode:
- 1981SSRv...29..349C
- Keywords:
-
- Atmospheric Heating;
- Coronal Loops;
- Solar Atmosphere;
- Solar Corona;
- Solar Gravitation;
- Solar Magnetic Field;
- Chromosphere;
- High Resolution;
- Numerical Analysis;
- Solar Flares;
- Solar Instruments;
- Ultraviolet Radiation;
- X Ray Sources;
- Solar Physics