3D cartoon for typical breakout configuration (a) and a pre-eruption AIA image of our event (b). Panel (a) shows key breakout components, including the central arcade (blue), sidelobes (green), and overlying arcade (red). The purple arrow points at the magnetic null. Field lines undergoing reconnection across the null are cusp-like and in yellow. The cyan line represents energized magnetic structure underneath the central arcade. Colors on the bottom represent magnetic polarities, white (black) for positive (negative). The AIA image has been rotated by 105° counterclockwise. GOES and RHESSI X-ray curves are shown in panel (c).

(An animation of this figure is available.)

The video/animation of this figure is available in the online journal.