Are Quasi-periodic Pulsations Independent of Loop Oscillations in Solar Flare?

Abstract

We investigated oscillations in an M8.7 solar flare (SOL2014-10-22), including quasi-periodic pulsations (QPPs) in light curves and Doppler shift oscillations in the flare loops. Using Bayesian-based Markov Chain Monte Carlo, Fast Fourier Transform, and wavelet analysis method, QPPs were identified at microwave and hard X-ray wave bands during the impulsive phase, and the dominant period is 40–50 s. They should be associated with a repetitive energy release process, which accelerates nonthermal electrons periodically. On the other hand, we cannot rule out the possibility of the modulation of external waves because of the lower temporal resolution of spectroscopic observation. However, almost immediately after QPPs, a minority of flare loops display their Doppler velocity oscillations with a significant period of ∼4 minutes, which are observed by the Interface Region Imaging Spectrograph at the coronal line Fe xxi 1354.08 Å (T ∼ 107 K), while its intensity and width show no similar oscillation. Our observations suggest that flare loop oscillations are most likely the fast kink mode waves with a phase speed of ∼840 km s−1. The magnetic field strength in flare loops was estimated to be 54–69 G via the coronal seismology. The QPPs and loop oscillation could be independent of each other in this event.