From Braids to Knots; Topological features in Solar Magnetic Fields – and beyond…

Abstract: The generally accepted structure of magnetic fields depicts them as field lines in $R^3$ with curvature, rotation and wiggles, satisfying $\nabla\cdot B=0$. Their observed configuration allows us to implement the powerful topological methods, opening a new venue for an interpretation of various solar, interplanetary and astrophysical phenomena. Direct imaging of the coronal fields pinpoints to their braiding structure, large solar wind field reversal (switchback) and intermittent fading of energetic flare ions suggest that coronal braided field may have been carried by the solar wind. The interconnection between the mathematical braids and knots is applied to the topologically non-trivial magnetized structures and their dynamics, from solar corona and the interplanetary medium to the astrophysical Herbig – Haro jets. The topological invariants attached to a given knot/braid become the crucial factor in the evolution and interpretation of the phenomena in space. The methods involved cover classical as well as analogues of quantum procedures. The analysis results in conjectures regarding (i) stability of coronal magnetic loops under large oscillations, (ii) their evolution through successive emergence/decay of heated magnetic braids, (iii) their morphism into the solar wind knotty structures and (iv) large scale narrow jets emitted in star-forming regions. These conjectures may contribute significantly to the understanding of physical processes in the lab and in solar/astrophysical medium, particularly in the dynamo produced magnetic structures as observed by Parker Solar Probe.

mathematical physicsgeneral physicsquantum physics

Audience: general audience

QM Foundations & Nature of Time seminar

Series comments: Description: Physics foundations discussion seminar

Current access link in th.if.uj.edu.pl/~dudaj/QMFNoT