Hinode observations reveal boundary layers of magnetic elements in the solar photosphere

Aims.We study the structure of the magnetic elements in network-cell interiors. Methods.A quiet Sun area close to the disc centre was observed with the spectro-polarimeter of the Solar Optical Telescope on board the Hinode space mission, which yielded the best spatial resolution ever achieved in polarimetric data of the Fe I 630 nm line pair. For comparison and interpretation, we synthesize a similar data set from a three-dimensional magneto-hydrodynamic simulation. Results.We find several examples of magnetic elements, either roundish (tube) or elongated (sheet), which show a central area of negative Stokes-V area asymmetry framed or surrounded by a peripheral area with larger positive asymmetry. This pattern was predicted some eight years ago on the basis of numerical simulations. Here, we observationally confirm its existence for the first time. Conclusions.We gather convincing evidence that this pattern of Stokes-V area asymmetry is caused by the funnel-shaped boundary of magnetic elements that separates the flux concentration from the weak-field environment. On this basis, we conclude that electric current sheets induced by such magnetic boundary layers are common in the photosphere.

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Copyright 2007 European Southern Observatory.


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Author Rezaei, R.
Steiner, O.
Wedemeyer-Böhm, S.
Schlichenmaier, R.
Schmidt, W.
Lites, Bruce W.
Publisher UCAR/NCAR - Library
Publication Date 2007-12-04T00:00:00
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Topic Category geoscientificInformation
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Metadata Date 2025-07-17T16:00:34.699581
Metadata Record Identifier edu.ucar.opensky::articles:6847
Metadata Language eng; USA
Suggested Citation Rezaei, R., Steiner, O., Wedemeyer-Böhm, S., Schlichenmaier, R., Schmidt, W., Lites, Bruce W.. (2007). Hinode observations reveal boundary layers of magnetic elements in the solar photosphere. UCAR/NCAR - Library. https://n2t.org/ark:/85065/d7q52pw2. Accessed 12 August 2025.

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