The Sun has many different layers some of which dramatically impact the Earth both positively and negatively.
SunspotsSunspots appear as dark spots on the Sun's photosphere. They are actually moving areas of magnetic activity with temperatures that are relatively cooler than the area in which they are located. Astronomers study solar cycles to learn how changes in solar activity affect Earth.
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Impacts of Sunspots on Earth
Astronomers study sunspot cycles to make predictions about solar activity. Giant eruptions on the Sun, such as solar flares and coronal mass ejections, appear to also increase during the solar cycle. These eruptions send powerful bursts of energy and material into space that can have effects on Earth. For example, eruptions can cause lights in the sky, called auroras, or impact radio communications. Extreme eruptions can even affect electricity grids on Earth.
Solar CycleThe solar cycle is the cycle that the Sun’s magnetic field goes through approximately every 11 years.
Solar Maximum & Solar MinimumDuring any given solar cycle, the number of sunspots rises to a maximum (Solar Maximum) and falls to a minimum (Solar Minimum) as you can see in the graph below:
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Is the Solar Cycle Predictable?
Real-Time Sunspot Data
Video Guide:
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Topic Tips
- Sunspots are slightly darker and cooler areas on the surface of the Sun.
- Increases in the number of sunspots appear to occur in approximately 11 year long cycles.
- Sunspots appear to be a good predictor of increased solar activity that affects Earth.