The Skew of High-Latitude X-ray Arcades in the Declining Phase of Cycle 22

The chirality of high-latitude coronal arcades in the declining phase of cycle 22 has been studied. It is found that the observed skew of the high-latitude arcades is opposite to the dominant arcade skew at lower latitudes. This new result which applies only to the declining phase of the solar cycle is consistent with differential rotation and the simulations of Mackay and van Ballegooijen (2001). Limitations of the present study are discussed along with its consequences for the global pattern of filaments in each hemisphere. The results suggest that, for the declining phase, the previously observed global pattern may be more complex with latitudinal variations. Future observing programs required to clarify the issue are discussed.