Differential Rotation in the Sun
The Equator of the Sun rotates FASTER than the Poles of the Sun. Because the Sun has magnetic fields running along its surface, this differential rotation causes the magnetic fields lines to be stretched around like taffy. This is called the 'Babcock Magnetic Dynamo" model for the magnetic cycle. It explains Butterfly Diagrams.
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Where ever the magnetic field has broken free, it forms a pair of
sunspots and a solar Prominence (material dragged along the field
lines). Note: One side of Mag Field is N the other S. See a movie of a sunspot here
A Sun Spot occurs where ever the surface gas is cooler (and hence darker via Stefan-Boltzmann law). Flares are created when the magnetic field lines become re-attached, releasing tremendous amounts of energy and electrons.Coronal Holes are regions where the magentic field does not loop back, and the hot gas streams away from the sun as a solar wind. |
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An aurora takes place when the solar wind collides with the Earth's ionosphere. Atmospheric particles become excited during the collision. They need to release energy in order to return to their normal ground state. This energy is seen by us as bursts of colored lights in the sky. |