A Three-dimensional Flux Rope Model for Coronal Mass Ejections Based on a Loss of Equilibrium

Abstract

A series of simulation runs are carried out to investigate the loss of equilibrium of the three-dimensional flux rope configuration of Titov & Démoulin as a suitable mechanism for the initiation of coronal mass ejections. By means of these simulations, we are able to determine the conditions for which stable equilibria no longer exist. Our results imply that it is possible to achieve a loss of equilibrium even though the ends of the flux rope are anchored to the solar surface. However, in order to have the flux rope escape, it is necessary to modify the configuration by eliminating the arcade field.