The causality between the rapid rotation of a sunspot and an X3.4 flare

Abstract

Using multi-wavelength data of Hinode, a rapid rotation of a sunspot in active region NOAA 10930 is studied in detail. We found the extra-ordinary counterclockwise rotation of the sunspot with positive polarity before an X3.4 flare. From a series of vector magnetograms, it is found that the magnetic force lines highly sheared along the neutral line accompanying the sunspot rotation. Furthermore, it is also found that the sheared loops and an inverse S-shaped magnetic loop in the corona formed gradually after the sunspot rotation. The X3.4 flare can be reasonably regarded as a result of this movement. The detailed analysis provides an evidence that sunspot rotation leads to magnetic field lines twisting in the photosphere, the twist is then transported into the corona, and finally flares are triggered.