On the Rapid Variations of Solar Magnetic Fields

Abstract

We report on the rapid variations of solar magnetic fields that appear to be enhanced significantly above the background variability, at a few locations within the solar active regions, as observed with the Michelson Doppler Imager (MDI) on board the SOHO spacecraft. The pressure fluctuations estimated to arise from this variability far exceed the general level of acoustic pressure fluctuations. The equivalent mechanical flux that could be generated from these rapid magnetic variations is more than adequate for the heating of the active region chromosphere and corona.