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Understanding the Role of Mass-Unloading in a Filament Eruption.
J M Jenkins1, D M Long1, L van Driel-Gesztelyi1,2,3
11Mullard Space Science Laboratory, University College London, Holmbury St. Mary, Dorking, Surrey RH5 6NT UK.
Solar Physics
|January 31, 2020
Summary
Investigating a 2011 solar eruption reveals mass unloading is key. Filament material restrained expansion until 70% of mass evacuated, highlighting the importance of mass in solar eruption dynamics.
Area of Science:
- Solar physics
- Astronomy
- Plasma physics
Background:
- Solar eruptions are complex phenomena driven by magnetic activity.
- Understanding the role of mass and plasma dynamics is crucial for predicting eruption behavior.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze a partial filament eruption on December 11, 2011.
- To investigate the influence of mass unloading on eruption dynamics.
- To quantify the forces involved in the eruption process.
Main Methods:
- Utilized observations from Solar Terrestrial Relations Observatory-Behind (STEREO-B) and Solar Dynamics Observatory (SDO) spacecraft.
- Removed line-of-sight projection effects to accurately track filament motion.
- Correlated plasma dynamics with filament height evolution.
Main Results:
- Flux cancellation and emergence contributed to pre-eruption filament height increase.
- Quantitative estimation of mass unloading, radial expansion, and eruption was performed.
- A lower-limit ratio of 1.8 to 4.1 between gravitational and magnetic-tension forces was determined.
Conclusions:
- Mass unloading significantly impacts solar eruption evolution.
- Filamentary material restrained radial expansion until substantial mass evacuation.
- The study emphasizes the critical role of mass in understanding solar eruptions.
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