Solar Gamma-Ray Line Spectroscopy – Physics of a Flaring Star

Abstract

Abstract. We discuss how gamma-ray spectroscopy provides information about the acceleration and transport of electrons and ions in solar flares, and their interaction with the solar atmosphere. Temporal studies illuminate differences in the acceleration and transport of electrons and ions. Nuclear line studies reveal the elemental abundance, density, and temperature of the ambient solar atmosphere; and the spectrum, composition, and directionality of the accelerated ions.

Gamma Radiation from Flare-Accelerated Particles Impacting the Sun

“…Important information about the acceleration and transport of electrons and ions can be obtained by a comparison of the time histories observed in different energy bands of the hard X-ray and y-ray spectra. Chupp (1990) discussed an early study of SMM data indicating that the peaks in individual bursts observed in the 4.1 -6.4 MeV energy band (mostly due to ion interactions) were delayed between 2 sand 45 s from the corresponding maxima observed in the electron bremsstrahlung continuum near 300 keY (see also Share and Murphy, 2004c). This delay appears to be proportional to the rise time of the pulse.…”

Gamma Radiation From Flare-Accelerated Particles Impacting the Sun

“…Chupp (1990) discussed an early study of SMM data indicating that the peaks in individual bursts observed in the 4.1 -6.4 MeV energy band (mostly due to ion interactions) were delayed between 2 sand 45 s from the corresponding maxima observed in the electron bremsstrahlung continuum near 300 keY (see also Share and Murphy, 2004c). This delay appears to be proportional to the rise time of the pulse.…”