Peculiarities of the Dynamics of Solar NOAA Active Region 12673

Abstract

Abstract The dynamics of active region (AR) 12673 is qualitatively studied using observational data obtained with the Helioseismic and Magnetic Imager of the Solar Dynamics Observatory on 2017 August 31–September 8. This AR was remarkable for its complex structure and extraordinary flare productivity. The sunspot group in this AR consisted of (1) an old, well-developed and highly stable, coherent sunspot, which had also been observed two solar rotations earlier, and (2) a rapidly developing cluster of umbral and penumbral fragments. Cluster (2) formed two elongated, arc-shaped chains of spot elements, skirting around the major sunspot (1), with two chains of magnetic elements spatially coinciding with the arcs. AR components (1) and (2) were in relative motion, cluster (2) overtaking spot (1) in westward motion, and their relative velocity agrees in order of magnitude with the velocity jump over the near-surface shear layer, or leptocline. The pattern of motion of the features about the main spot bears amazing resemblance to the pattern of a fluid flow about a roundish body. This suggests that spot (1) was dynamically coupled with the surface layers, while cluster (2) developed in deeper layers of the convection zone. The magnetic-flux emergence in cluster (2) appeared to be associated with fluid motions similar to roll convection. The mutual approach of components (1) and (2) gave rise to light bridges in the umbrae of sunspots with the magnetic field having the same sign on both sides of the bridge.