Multiwavelength Signatures of Episodic Nullpoint Reconnection in a Quadrupolar Magnetic Configuration and the Cause of Failed Flux Rope Eruption

Abstract

In this paper, we present multiwavelength observations of the triggering of a failed-eruptive M-class flare from active region NOAA 11302 and investigate the possible reasons for the associated failed eruption. Photospheric observations and nonlinear force-free field extrapolated coronal magnetic field revealed that the flaring region had a complex quadrupolar configuration with a preexisting coronal nullpoint situated above the core field. Prior to the onset of the M-class flare, we observed multiple periods of small-scale flux enhancements in GOES and RHESSI soft X-ray observations from the location of the nullpoint. The preflare configuration and evolution reported here are similar to the configurations presented in the breakout model, but at much lower coronal heights. The core of the flaring region was characterized by the presence of two flux ropes in a double-decker configuration. During the impulsive phase of the flare, one of the two flux ropes initially started erupting, but resulted in a failed eruption. Calculation of the magnetic decay index revealed a saddle-like profile where the decay index initially increased to the torus-unstable limits within the heights of the flux ropes, but then decreased rapidly and reached negative values, which was most likely responsible for the failed eruption of the initially torus-unstable flux rope.