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Paper: Applications of Quasi-Separatrix Layer Maps in Understanding an XRT Sigmoid
Volume: 455, 4th Hinode Science Meeting: Unsolved Problems and Recent Insights
Page: 261
Authors: Savcheva, A.; van Ballegooijen, A.; DeLuca, E. E.
Abstract: We present our recent work on utilizing Quasi-Separatrix Layer (QSL) maps for understanding the structure, evolution, and pre-eruption behavior of the quiescent sigmoid observed with Hinode/XRT in February 2007. QSL maps are created at various heights in the corona and for 10 different observations during the evolution of the long-lasting sigmoid. This is the first QSL analysis based on a non-linear force free field of a sigmoid. We point out some major properties of the QSL topology in the sigmoid and we explore how they change spatially and temporally with the evolution of the sigmoid. We explore how QSL topology and strength relate to current distributions and torsion factors in the moments leading to the B-class flare. While the current distribution in the region is smooth and extended, the QSLs show much finer structure which may prove to be of help in pinpointing possible reconnection or heating sites.
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