Solar Astronomy 264-33, Caltech, Pasadena, CA 91125

Understanding where flares are likely to occur is probably the most important tool in understanding why they occur. Understanding where and why they occur then becomes critical in understanding the generation of high energy particles, shocks, and the other aspects. However, the official prediction systems have never had the quality of data or scientific interest. That we understand some of this is evident from the enormous preponderance of flare activity in delta spots, high gradients, and other features. While theorizing is generally more popular, we feel that studying adequate optical data is more fruitful, and are examining quantitative aspects of the common conditions indicating prospective flare occurrence. We have found, for example, that the popular avalanche theory is invalid, since it predicts a universal power-law distribution of flare sizes, while individual regions have quite different power laws. We find that while delta configurations remain the best predictors, the size of the flare depends on spot sizes. Other results of this ongoing program will be presented.