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Solar Physics

, Volume 121, Issue 1–2, pp 75–94 | Cite as

Solar flares: The impulsive phase

  • Brian R. Dennis
  • Richard A. Schwartz
Solar and Stellar Flares

Abstract

Only during the previous solar cycle have systematic observations begun to be made with the sensitivity and time resolution, and the continuous coverage required to catch the impulsive phase and measure the rapid variations present in many wavelength ranges. Observations in X-rays, gamma-rays, UV, Hα, and radio wavelengths all reveal rapid variations during the impulsive phase and have contributed to our understanding of the different phenomena involved. Results have been obtained from several spacecraft, from rocket and balloon flights, and from ground-based observations. These are reviewed in the context of a simple single loop flare model with a view to showing what results are consistent with this model and what the major problems are in our understanding of the impulsive phase. New instrumentation planned for observations during the present Cycle 22 will provide a concerted attack on the impulsive phase as part of the Max '91 program.

Keywords

Flare Wavelength Range Solar Cycle Time Resolution Solar Flare 
These keywords were added by machine and not by the authors. This process is experimental and the keywords may be updated as the learning algorithm improves.
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Copyright information

© Kluwer Academic Publishers 1989

Authors and Affiliations

  • Brian R. Dennis
    • 1
  • Richard A. Schwartz
    • 2
  1. 1.Solar Physics Branch, Laboratory for Astronomy and Solar PhysicsGoddard Space Flight CenterGreenbeltU.S.A.
  2. 2.STX CorporationLanhamU.S.A.

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