Statistical analysis of the X-ray flares (M≥1) during the maximum period of solar cycle 22

The data of the X-ray flare events of class M greater than or equal to 1 during the interval of 1987 to 1992 corresponding to the maximum period of the 22nd solar cycle have been investigated to study the North-South (N-S) and West-East (W-E) asymmetries. During that period it has been shown the existence of a real N-S asymmetry. That confirms recent studies done by using other indicators, such as sunspot areas (Oliver & Ballester 1994). The E-W asymmetry during that period is not significant but a non uniform flare distribution in longitude has been evidenced. That result is also in good agreement with the work made by Joshi (1995) using H alpha flares for the same time period. We have shown that the behaviour of the reverse tendency of Solar Cycle 21 to exhibit a predominance of the southern hemisphere in the N-S asymmetry compared to the previous Solar Cycles (19 and 20) is maintained for Solar Cycle 22. A long period cycle of the N-S asymmetry could be suspected.