Momentum distribution in solar flare processes

Hudson, H.S., Fletcher, L. , Fisher, G.H., Abbett, W.P. and Russell, A. (2012) Momentum distribution in solar flare processes. Solar Physics, 277(1), pp. 77-88. (doi: 10.1007/s11207-011-9836-0)

Abstract

We discuss the consequences of momentum conservation in processes related to solar flares and coronal mass ejections (CMEs), in particular describing the relative importance of vertical impulses that could contribute to the excitation of seismic waves (“sunquakes”). The initial impulse associated with the primary flare energy transport in the impulsive phase contains sufficient momentum, as do the impulses associated with the acceleration of the evaporation flow (the chromospheric shock) or the CME itself. We note that the deceleration of the evaporative flow, as coronal closed fields arrest it, will tend to produce an opposite impulse, reducing the energy coupling into the interior. The actual mechanism of the coupling remains unclear at present.

• Item Type: Articles
• Status: Published
• Refereed: Yes
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: Fletcher, Professor Lyndsay and Russell, Dr Alexander
• Authors: Hudson, H.S., Fletcher, L., Fisher, G.H., Abbett, W.P., and Russell, A.
• College/School: College of Science and Engineering > School of Physics and Astronomy
• Journal Name: Solar Physics
• Publisher: Springer Verlag
• ISSN: 0038-0938
• ISSN (Online): 1573-093X