On the relative roles of unipolar and mixed-polarity fields

Away from plages, solar magnetic fields may be classified as unipolar or as of mixed polarity, though the distinction is strictly arbitrary. The dividing line used here is 0.4 <= [Bsub(minor)/Bsub(major)] <= 1, where average fields of major and minor polarities are measured over large areas. Some of their statistical properties and cyclical variations are detailed. In unipolar regions, 3 <= Bsub(major) <= 50 G, Bsub(major), and [B] approx. equal to 1.1 Bsub(major). In regions of mixed polarity, 3.5 <= [B] <= 10 G. (orig./WL)