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Chapter 16: Problem 26

Explain how the magnetic-dynamo model accounts for the solar cycle.

Short Answer

Expert verified
The magnetic-dynamo model explains the solar cycle through the concept of induction, where plasma currents in the Sun induce electrical currents that generate magnetic fields (the 'dynamo effect'). The build-up of these magnetic fields over approximately 11 years leads to an increase and then decrease in solar activity, marking a solar cycle. The breaking and reformation of these field lines lead to the Sun's magnetic field reversing its polarity, thus explaining the periodic nature of the solar cycles.

Step by step solution

01

Understanding the Magnetic Dynamo Model

The magnetic-dynamo model is based on the concept of induction, in which a moving conductor (plasma in the Sun) in a magnetic field can induce electrical currents. These induced electrical currents generate their own magnetic field, enhancing the original magnetic field, creating a 'dynamo effect'.
02

Overview of Solar Cycle

The solar cycle is a regular, approximately 11-year cycle of variations in solar activity. During each cycle, the Sun's magnetic field goes through a periodic change, reversing polarity and then returning to its original state. This is indicated by an increase and then decrease in the number of solar phenomena such as sunspots, solar flares, and coronal mass ejections.
03

Linking the Magnetic Dynamo Model with the Solar Cycle

In the Sun’s convective zone, plasma currents create 'tubes' of magnetic fields. As the plasma rises and falls, the tubes get twisted and stretched, generating a stronger magnetic field (Dynamo effect). Over a period of 11 years, the build-up of twisted magnetic field lines causes an increase in solar activity (seen as more sunspots). Eventually, the magnetic field lines become too tangled and break, reversing the Sun's magnetic field polarity. This marks the peak of the solar cycle. The field lines then start to untangle and solar activity decreases, indicating the second half of the cycle. This continues in a periodic manner, explaining the occurrence of regular solar cycles.

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