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Published on: October 5, 2018
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Heating mechanisms of the solar corona
1Professor Emeritus, National Astronomical Observatory of Japan.
Summary
The Sun's outer atmosphere, the solar corona, has a debated origin. Current models focus on wave theory versus microflare/nanoflare theory, with recent data reviving wave theory.
Area of Science:
- Solar physics
- Plasma astrophysics
- Heliophysics
Background:
- The solar corona is the Sun's outer atmosphere, characterized by extremely high temperatures (millions of degrees Celsius).
- The origin of the solar corona's high temperature has been a long-standing scientific debate since its discovery in the 1940s.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the current state of models explaining the solar corona's heating mechanism.
- To highlight the contributions of recent research, particularly the revival of wave theory.
Main Methods:
- Spectroscopic analysis for temperature determination (historical context).
- Theoretical modeling (wave theory vs. microflare/nanoflare theory).
- Observational data from solar missions, including the Hinode satellite.
Main Results:
- Two primary classes of models exist: wave theory and microflare/nanoflare theory.
- Both models present valid arguments but have limitations, indicating the core issues are well-defined.
- Recent advancements have led to a resurgence in the wave theory's prominence.
Conclusions:
- The debate on solar corona heating is nearing a resolution.
- The Japanese solar observatory Hinode has played a significant role in advancing solar physics research.
- Wave theory is experiencing a revival, contributing to a better understanding of coronal heating.
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