Solar magnetic fields and large-scale electric currents in the active regions

Abstract

The results of investigations of the magnetic fields and electric currents (on the photospheric level, mainly) in active regions on the Sun, are presented. The analysis overlaps the whole evolution of the active region. The role of proper sunspots' motion and rotation in the change of field structure, is demonstrated. On the basis of the observational data the relation of the magnetic field with the electric currents has been determined and analyzed. Two current systems: a system of local currents and the global current - have been distinguished in the active region. The synchronous evolution of a sunspot group with the electric currents density is revealed. The influence of the magnetic field structure and of the electric currents on the appearance and development of flares is briefly discussed.