Proton energy deposition in converging magnetic fields

Abstract

We study the depth-dependence of energy deposition rate by gamma-ray producing protons in solar flares. We take account of the likely pitch-angle distribution of the protons as they leave the corona, and the converging magnetic field in the deep atmosphere. The results are significantly different from those obtained by assuming vertical field lines and homogeneous magnetic field, and may bear on interpretation of chromospheric flare emissions. © 1991.