Sunspot minima

Definition

Sunspot minima are periods of the solar cycle when the number of sunspots is at its lowest. These intervals occur roughly every 11 years, marking the end of one solar cycle and the beginning of another.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Sunspot minima are part of an approximately 11-year solar cycle.
2. During sunspot minima, solar activity is significantly reduced.
3. Sunspot minima can influence Earth's climate and space weather conditions.
4. The last recorded sunspot minimum occurred in December 2019.
5. Solar irradiance, which affects satellite operations and communication systems, is lower during sunspot minima.

Review Questions

• What is the typical duration between two sunspot minima?
• How does a sunspot minimum affect solar activity?
• What was the most recent year that a sunspot minimum was recorded?

Related terms

Solar Cycle:

A roughly 11-year cycle that includes periods of maximum and minimum solar activity characterized by changes in the number of sunspots.

Sunspots:

Dark areas on the Sun's surface caused by magnetic activity that are cooler than surrounding areas.

Solar Maximum:

The period within the solar cycle when the number of sunspots and solar activity is at its peak.