An Isaac Newton Institute Workshop

Supported by the European Commission, Sixth Framework Programme - Marie Curie Conferences and Training Courses - MSCF-CT-2003-503674 <br><br> Large-Scale Computation in Astrophysics

Simulations of Convective and Coronal Coupling on the Sun

Authors: DeRosa, M.L. (LMSAL), Hurlburt, N.E. (LMSAL)

Abstract

We present recent results from numerical simulations of a magnetized, compressible fluid confined to a spherical segment, spanning the solar convection zone, chromosphere, and corona. In this model, the bottom half of the simulation domain is a convectively unstable, stratified MHD fluid, driven by an imposed heat flux at the bottom. The upper part of the layer corresponds to a simplified chromosphere and corona, which are cooled and heated (respectively) to match a solar-like temperature profile. We are thus able to self-consistently model the dynamics associated with magnetic structures in the solar atmosphere as they evolve in response to sub-photospheric, turbulent convection. We present simulations of arcade-like reconnection in the presence of supergranular-scale flows and discuss possible observational consequences.