Sunspots

Sunspots are temporary phenomena on the Sun's photosphere that appear as dark spots compared to surrounding areas. They are caused by intense magnetic activity, which inhibits convection and leads to lower surface temperatures in those areas. Sunspots can vary in size and can last from a few days to several weeks.

Causes of Sunspots

Sunspots are caused by the Sun's magnetic field becoming twisted due to its differential rotation. This twisting of the magnetic field lines can lead to the formation of sunspots on the surface of the Sun. The number of sunspots on the Sun goes through a regular cycle, known as the solar cycle, which lasts approximately 11 years.

Effects of Sunspots

Sunspots can have several effects on the Sun, including influencing the solar wind and causing solar flares and coronal mass ejections. These phenomena can impact space weather and affect the Earth's magnetosphere, leading to geomagnetic storms and auroras.

Study Guide: Sunspots

1. What are sunspots?
2. What causes sunspots to form on the Sun's surface?
3. How do sunspots influence the solar cycle?
4. What effects can sunspots have on space weather and the Earth?
5. How are sunspots related to solar flares and coronal mass ejections?

Additional Resources:

• NASA - Sunspots
• NASA - Solar Cycle
• UCAR - Sunspots