On the quasi-three dimensional configuration of magnetic clouds

Abstract

We develop an optimization approach to model the magnetic field configuration of magnetic clouds, based on a linear-force free formulation in three dimensions. Such a solution, dubbed the Freidberg solution, is kin to the axi-symmetric Lundquist solution, but with more general "helical symmetry". The merit of our approach is demonstrated via its application to two case studies of in-situ measured magnetic clouds. Both yield results of reduced $\chi^2\approx 1$. Case 1 shows a winding flux rope configuration with one major polarity. Case 2 exhibits a double-helix configuration with two flux bundles winding around each other and rooted on regions of mixed polarities. This study demonstrates the three-dimensional complexity of the magnetic cloud structures.