TRACE and ground-based observations of microflares

We present high temporal and spatial resolution, multiwavelength observations of small-scale activity phenomena. The data were obtained during a coordinated campaign between ground-based and space observatories. Our analysis supports the concept that small flares are just miniature flares, i.e. that the same physical processes are at work, but that it is mandatory to have an excellent resolution in order to clearly identify them. In particular, we find that chromospheric downward motions are a very distinctive characteristic of the flare phenomenon even in tiny events