The Parker problem revisited: Response to the interpretation of Low (2010)

Abstract

This paper responds to points made by Low (Solar Phys. 2010. doi: 10.1007/s11207-010-9619-z ) with regard to the Parker problem as formulated in Craig and Sneyd (Solar Phys. 232, 41, 2005). We first point out that, since Low focuses mainly on interpreting approximate linearized solutions to the Parker problem, his approach cannot address key issues relating to the finite amplitude stability and dynamic accessibility of potential equilibria. Further difficulties are shown to surround Low’s assertion that non-linear equilibria derived by magneto-frictional relaxation of the Parker problem should be discounted. We conclude that both linear and non-linear approaches to the Parker problem appear remarkably consistent: they demonstrate the development of smooth 3D equilibria as opposed to the routine collapse to singular current sheets. The online version of the article of B.C. Low “The Craig–Sneyd Analytic Solutions to the Parker Problem” can be found under doi: 10.1007/s11207-010-9619-z .