Photospheric Magnetic Field Patterns and Their Coronal and Interplanetary Consequences

Abstract

The purpose of this presentation is to discuss the basic observational knowledge of the photospheric and interplanetary magnetic fields, and to point out the minimal theoretical considerations which are necessary to understanding the connection between the photospheric and interplanetary fields. In particular, I wish to point out that for most of the solar cycle a consideration of only the dipolar component of the photospheric field (including a “tilted dipole”) does not lead to an adequate explanation of even the most basic interplanetary observations. In addition, I will emphasize the complementary relationship between models of the coronal and interplanetary magnetic field which are extrapolations of actual photospheric data and models which are full MHD solutions for idealized cases. Finally, an interesting complication to the interplanetary sector pattern, in the form of a second pattern that exists primarily near solar maximum and at higher latitudes, will be described.