Päikesetsüklid

Päikesetsüklid refer to the approximately 11-year cycle of activity on the Sun. This cycle is characterized by changes in the Sun's magnetic field, which in turn influence various solar phenomena. During a solar maximum, the Sun exhibits a greater number of sunspots, solar flares, and coronal mass ejections. Conversely, during a solar minimum, these activities are significantly reduced. The magnetic field of the Sun essentially flips its polarity at the peak of each cycle, with the north and south magnetic poles switching places.

The visible manifestation of this cycle is most readily observed in sunspots, which are temporary phenomena on the photosphere of the Sun that appear darker than surrounding areas because they are cooler. The number of sunspots waxes and wanes in a predictable pattern, forming the basis for tracking the solar cycle. Beyond sunspots, the increased activity during solar maximum can have effects on Earth, such as increased auroral displays and potential disruptions to satellite communications and power grids due to geomagnetic storms. Scientists monitor these cycles to understand the Sun's behavior and its impact on our solar system.