Vertical Magnetic Flux Research Articles

Solar transition region response to variations in the heating rate

The response of a numerical model for the upper chromosphere, transition region, and corona to variations in the energy input has been examined. The numerical model solves the set of one-dimensional two-fluid hydrodynamic equations in a simple vertical magnetic flux tube. The atmosphere responds to both the increase and decrease in energy deposition by smoothly readjusting the temperature gradient and the amount of material in the region of peak radiating efficiency to radiate away energy being deposited. At no time during this readjustment is a departure from a thin laminar transition region structure seen. In addition, a time-dependent description of the nonequilibrium ionization of all of the ionization stages of oxygen has been included. This calculation is coupled with the self-consistent calculations of the dynamical variables. It is found that the nonequilibrium ionization balance calculations for both heating and cooling small loops in the quiet sun predict relative ionic abundances which differ substantially from those which would be predicted by an equilibrium calculation

Current Density Profile Measurements in the Proto-Cleo Torsatron

Current density profile measurements were obtained in the Proto-Cleo torsatron (R = 40 cm, a = 5 cm, I = 3, BT = 3 kG, nα ~ 1011 cm-3, Te ~ 20 eV) by using a small back-to-back flat double probe. Three different operating circuits used with this probe are presented, along with experimental results, all showing good agreement. Current is seen to flow only within the separatrix, in channels which follow the magnetic surfaces as they move radially inward with time due to changing vertical magnetic flux.