DR. FREDERICK GENT

A system of multiple open magnetic flux tubes spanning the solar photosphere and lower corona is modelled analytically, within a realistic stratified atmosphere subject to solar gravity. Self-similar magnetic flux tubes are combined to form magnetic structures, which are consistent with high-resolution observations. Observational evidence supports the existence of strands of open flux tubes and loops persisting in a relatively steady state. We calculate the appropriate balancing forces, applying to the equations of momentum and energy conservation to preserve equilibrium. We apply magnetic field strength, plasma density, pressure and temperature distributions consistent with observational and theoretical estimates for the lower solar atmosphere. Each flux tube is identical in construction apart from the location of the radial axis, but combinations can be applied to generate a non-axisymmetric magnetic field with multiple non-uniform flux tubes. This is a considerable step forward in modelling the realistic magnetized three-dimensional equilibria of the solar atmosphere. On behalf of co-authors Viktor Fedun, Stuart Mumford, Robertus Erdelyi.