Nonlinear Force-free Field Modeling of Solar Coronal Jets in Theoretical Configurations

Abstract

Abstract Coronal jets occur frequently on the Sun, and may contribute significantly to the solar wind. With the suite of instruments available now, we can observe these phenomena in greater detail than ever before. Modeling and simulations can assist further with understanding the dynamic processes involved, but previous studies tended to consider only one mechanism (e.g., emergence or rotation) for the origin of the jet. In this study we model a series of idealized archetypal jet configurations and follow the evolution of the coronal magnetic field. This is a step toward understanding these idealized situations before considering their observational counterparts. Several simple situations are set up for the evolution of the photospheric magnetic field: a single parasitic polarity rotating or moving in a circular path; as well as opposite polarity pairs involved in flyby (shearing), cancellation or emergence; all in the presence of a uniform, open background magnetic field. The coronal magnetic field is evolved in time using a magnetofrictional relaxation method. While magnetofriction cannot accurately reproduce the dynamics of an eruptive phase, the structure of the coronal magnetic field, as well as the buildup of electric currents and free magnetic energy are instructive. Certain configurations and motions produce a flux rope and allow the significant buildup of free energy, reminiscent of the progenitors of so-called blowout jets, whereas other, simpler configurations are more comparable to the standard jet model. The next stage is a comparison with observed coronal jet structures and their corresponding photospheric evolution.