Abstract
We calculate the total and the free magnetic energy for solar NOAA active region 10486 on 2003 October 29 using chromospheric vector magnetograms observed with the Imaging Vector Magnetograph at Mees Solar Observatory in the Na I λ5896 spectral line. The magnetic energy is derived from the magnetic virial theorem using observations spanning the X10 flare that occurred at 20:39 UT. Although poor atmospheric seeing prevented us from discerning changes in the free energy associated with the flare, there was an unusually large amount of free magnetic energy in NOAA AR 10486: (5.7 ± 1.9) × 1033 ergs, which is consistent with the very high level of activity observed in this active region. It is thus plausible that the extreme activity was powered by the magnetic free energy.
Published Version (Free)
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.