Coronal loop density profile estimated by forward modelling of EUV intensity

Aims. The transverse density structuring of coronal loops was recently calculated for the first time using the general damping profile for kink oscillations. This seismological method assumes a density profile with a linear transition region. We consider to what extent this density profile accounts for the observed intensity profile of the loop, and how the transverse intensity profile may be used to complement the seismological technique. Methods. We use isothermal and optically transparent approximations for which the intensity of extreme ultraviolet (EUV) emission is proportional to the square of the plasma density integrated along the line of sight. We consider four different models for the transverse density profile; the generalised Epstein profile, the step function, the linear transition region profile, and a Gaussian profile. The effect of the point spread function is included and Bayesian analysis is used for comparison of the models. Results. The two profiles with finite transitions are found to be preferable to the step function profile, which supports the interpretation of kink mode damping as being due to mode coupling. The estimate of the transition layer width using forward modelling is consistent with the seismological estimate. Conclusions. For wide loops, that is those observed with sufficiently high spatial resolution, this method can provide an independent estimate of density profile parameters for comparison with seismological estimates. In the ill-posed case of only one of the Gaussian or exponential damping regimes being observed, it may provide additional information to allow a seismological inversion to be performed. Alternatively, it may be used to obtain structuring information for loops that do not oscillate.