Astronomy and Astrophysics – Astrophysics
Scientific paper
2007-08-27
Astronomy and Astrophysics
Astrophysics
10 pages, 1 figure, accepted for publication in ApJL
Scientific paper
10.1086/522426
Solar active regions, produced by the emergence of tubes of strong magnetic field in the photosphere, are restricted to within 35 degrees of the solar equator. The nature of the dynamo processes that create and renew these fields, and are therefore responsible for solar magnetic phenomena, are not well understood. We analyze the magneto-rotational stability of the solar tachocline for general field geometry. This thin region of strong radial and latitudinal differential rotation, between the radiative and convective zones, is unstable at latitudes above 37 degrees, yet is stable closer to the equator. We propose that small-scale magneto-rotational turbulence prevents coherent magnetic dynamo action in the tachocline except in the vicinity of the equator, thus explaining the latitudinal restriction of active regions. Tying the magnetic dynamo to the tachocline elucidates the physical conditions and processes relevant to solar magnetism.
Menou Kristen
Parfrey Kyle P.
No associations
LandOfFree
The Origin of Solar Activity in the Tachocline 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 Origin of Solar Activity in the Tachocline, we encourage you to share that experience with our LandOfFree.com community. Your opinion is very important and The Origin of Solar Activity in the Tachocline will most certainly appreciate the feedback.
Profile ID: LFWR-SCP-O-362447