Erupting Solar Magnetic Flux Ropes: Theory and Observation

Abstract
Measurements of coronograph (LASCO) and extreme-ultraviolet (EIT) images are presented for 11 coronal mass ejection (CME) events. Detailed measurements of these events, selected because they have flux-rope-like morphological features, show excellent agreement with results from a theoretical model of erupting flux-rope dynamics. Here, data are used to provide inputs and constraints on the model wherever possible. We conclude that flux rope CMEs constitute a distinct class of CMEs, characterized by specific morphological and dynamical properties.