Relation of Microstreams in the Polar Solar Wind to Switchbacks and Coronal X-ray Jets

TL;DR

This paper investigates the relationship between microstreams, switchbacks, and coronal X-ray jets in the solar wind, revealing a high correlation and proposing a new origin for microstreams linked to magnetic field structures and solar eruptions.

Contribution

It demonstrates a strong correlation between microstreams and switchbacks in the solar wind and suggests microstreams originate from magnetic field structures caused by solar eruptions.

Findings

High correlation between microstreams and switchbacks.

Microstreams likely result from magnetic field patches associated with solar eruptions.

Proposes a new origin for microstreams linked to coronal jets.

Abstract

Ulysses data obtained at high solar latitudes during periods of minimum solar activity in 1994 and 2007 are examined to determine the relation between velocity structures called microstreams and folds in the magnetic field called switchbacks. A high correlation is found. The possibility of velocity peaks in microstreams originating from coronal X-ray jets is re-examined; we now suggest that microstreams are the consequence of the alternation of patches of switchbacks and quiet periods, where the switchbacks could be generated by minifilament/flux rope eruptions that cause coronal jets.