Solar dynamo

Definition

The solar dynamo is the process that generates and maintains the Sun's magnetic field through the motion of conductive plasma within its interior. This mechanism is responsible for driving the solar cycle, including sunspots and solar flares.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The solar dynamo operates through the differential rotation of the Sun, where different parts of the Sun rotate at different speeds.
2. It involves both the convective zone and the tachocline, a region between the radiative and convective zones.
3. The solar dynamo is responsible for reversing the Sun's magnetic polarity approximately every 11 years, corresponding to each solar cycle.
4. Magnetic activity generated by the solar dynamo causes phenomena such as sunspots, prominences, and coronal mass ejections.
5. Understanding the solar dynamo helps predict space weather which can impact satellite communications and power grids on Earth.

Review Questions

• What role does differential rotation play in the solar dynamo?
• How often does the Sun's magnetic polarity reverse due to the solar dynamo?
• What are some phenomena driven by magnetic activity from the solar dynamo?

Related terms

Sunspot: Dark spots on the Sun's surface caused by intense magnetic activity that inhibits convection.

Tachocline: A transitional layer between the Sun's radiative zone and convective zone where differential rotation occurs.

Solar Flare: A sudden eruption of energy on the solar surface caused by magnetic field interactions.