Physics
Scientific paper
Mar 2011
adsabs.harvard.edu/cgi-bin/nph-data_query?bibcode=2011natur.471...80n&link_type=abstract
Nature, Vol. 471, Issue 7336, p. 80-82
Physics
21
Scientific paper
Direct observations over the past four centuries show that the number of sunspots observed on the Sun's surface varies periodically, going through successive maxima and minima. Following sunspot cycle 23, the Sun went into a prolonged minimum characterized by a very weak polar magnetic field and an unusually large number of days without sunspots. Sunspots are strongly magnetized regions generated by a dynamo mechanism that recreates the solar polar field mediated through plasma flows. Here we report results from kinematic dynamo simulations which demonstrate that a fast meridional flow in the first half of a cycle, followed by a slower flow in the second half, reproduces both characteristics of the minimum of sunspot cycle 23. Our model predicts that, in general, very deep minima are associated with weak polar fields. Sunspots govern the solar radiative energy and radio flux, and, in conjunction with the polar field, modulate the solar wind, the heliospheric open flux and, consequently, the cosmic ray flux at Earth.
Martens Petrus C. H.
Muñoz-Jaramillo Andrés
Nandy Dibyendu
No associations
LandOfFree
The Unusual Minimum of sunspot cycle 23 caused by meridional plasma flow variations does not yet have a rating. At this time, there are no reviews or comments for this scientific paper.
If you have personal experience with The Unusual Minimum of sunspot cycle 23 caused by meridional plasma flow variations, we encourage you to share that experience with our LandOfFree.com community. Your opinion is very important and The Unusual Minimum of sunspot cycle 23 caused by meridional plasma flow variations will most certainly appreciate the feedback.
Profile ID: LFWR-SCP-O-1401362