The Properties of Non-Potential Magnetic Field Parameters in a Super-Active Region with Complex Structures and Strong Solar Flares

Abstract

Solar active regions (ARs), characterized by intense magnetic fields, are prime locations for solar flares. Understanding the properties of these magnetic fields is crucial for predicting and mitigating space weather events. In this study, the non-potential magnetic field parameters of active region (AR) NOAA 9077 are investigated; this AR experienced a super-strong X5.7 solar flare. Using advanced extrapolation techniques, the 3D magnetic field structure from vector magnetograms is obtained using the Solar Magnetic Field Telescope (SMFT) at Huairou Solar Observing Station (HSOS). Then, various non-potential parameters are calculated, including current density, shear angle, quasi-separatrix layers (QSLs), twist, and field line helicity. By analyzing the spatial and temporal distributions of these parameters, we aim to shed light on the relationship between magnetic field properties and solar flare occurrence. Our findings reveal that high twist and complex magnetic field configurations are prevalent before flares, while these features tend to weaken after the eruption. Additionally, we observe decreases in helicity and free energy after the flare, while the free energy peaks approximately 1.5 days prior to the onset of the flare. Furthermore, we investigate the distribution of quasi-separatrix layers and twist, finding high degrees of complexity before flares. Multiple patterns of high current density regions suggest unstable magnetic structures prone to flaring, coinciding with the shear angle distribution. Relative field line helicity patterns exhibit distinct characteristics compared to current density, concentrating before flares and diverging afterward. Overall, our results highlight the contrasting nature of current density and relative field line helicity patterns in relation to solar flares, in addition to the aforementioned features in the set of commonly derived non-potential parameters for this particular event.