SUN’S
CHROMOSPHERE : SCIENE & TECHNOLOGY
NEWS: Astronomers
map the Differential Rotation of the Sun’s Chromosphere using 100 Years of
Kodaikanal Data
WHAT’S
IN THE NEWS ?
Astronomers have successfully mapped the
variation in the Sun’s chromosphere rotation speed using 100 years of data
from the Kodaikanal Solar Observatory.This groundbreaking research enhances
understanding of the Sun’s differential rotation and its implications for solar
dynamics and magnetic activity.
Sun’s
Differential Rotation:
- Differential Rotation: The Sun exhibits
differential rotation, meaning its equator rotates faster than the poles,
a result of its gaseous composition.
- Rotation Period:
- Equator: Completes one rotation
approximately every 25 days.
- Poles: Takes around 35 days
for a full rotation.
- At the equator, the
Sun rotates at a speed of 13.98 degrees per day.
- Near the poles, the
rotation speed decreases to about 10.5 degrees per day.
- Study Focus: Researchers analyzed
features like solar plages and networks—regions of enhanced
magnetic activity—across the Sun’s chromosphere. These features are
present throughout the solar cycle and were studied to understand rotation
patterns.
- Data Collection: Observations were based on
images taken at a specific wavelength that highlights the lower
and middle chromosphere, a key region of the Sun's atmosphere.
- Cause of Variation:
- The variation in the Sun’s
rotation speed is primarily due to its gaseous nature, allowing
different parts of the Sun to rotate independently.
- The Sun’s magnetic field
also plays a role, affecting the flow of plasma and leading to
complex interactions. This contributes to slower rotation at higher
latitudes (poles) compared to the equator.
- Significance of Findings:
- These findings enhance the
understanding of the Sun's magnetic field and overall solar
activity, which are crucial for advancing solar research and
understanding the Sun’s influence on space weather.
Source : https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2058531