Analysis of Erupting Solar Prominences in Terms of an Underlying Flux-Rope Configuration
Abstract
Data from four solar prominence eruptions are analyzed so as to examine the flux-rope configuration at the onset of eruption and to test specific aspects of an analytic flux-rope model of solar eruptions. The model encompasses both prominence eruptions and coronal mass ejections (CMEs) as generic elements of a typical erupting flux-rope structure. The hypothesized relationship between prominence footpoint separation and prominence acceleration profile is examined, as is the hypothesized geometrical relationship between the prominence and the CME leading edge (LE). While the simple model does not account for some observed features, the prominence and ``loop'' (LE) data are shown to be consistent with both the geometrical model and the theoretical acceleration profile. This analysis further suggests that the onset of eruption is associated with a situation in which the underlying flux-rope geometry maximizes the outward magnetic ``hoop'' force.
- Publication:
-
The Astrophysical Journal
- Pub Date:
- July 2007
- DOI:
- 10.1086/518400
- Bibcode:
- 2007ApJ...663.1354K
- Keywords:
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- Sun: Coronal Mass Ejections (CMEs);
- Sun: Magnetic Fields;
- Sun: Prominences