How the Sun Works

Scientists use models of the Sun to better understand how it works. The currently accepted model of the Sun indicates that it has a dense core surrounded by different layers. How is energy transferred from the core of the Sun to its outer layers?

Scientists have modeled the behavior of the Sun for many years. Some models show how the Sun's magnetic field gets tangled up as the Sun rotates. These tangled magnetic fields can lift extra energy to the surface in an explosive event that releases solar material into space. Which solar event is explained by this model?

Scientists understand the nuclear reactions that occur in the Sun’s core, but want to predict how the Sun will change with time as it consumes more of its hydrogen fuel. Which of the following would be the best method to study how the Sun will change over the next few billion years?

Patrick wants to create a computer model of the Sun's rotation. Which of the following designs would be the most accurate?

What is the significance of the Sun's spectra in understanding solar energy production?

What is the importance of the Sun's spectrum in understanding solar energy production?

Which statement describes sunspots?

Although scientists are unable to explore the Sun’s layers directly with instruments, they can measure the change in the speeds of the surface layers and the temperature of those layers from Earth. Using this data, scientists have created models of the Sun and we now know that the sunspots that form on the surface are the areas of coolest temperature for this star. At the sunspots, temperatures are merely 3700 Kelvin (K). What does this indirect information about the Sun confirm?

An astronomer sets up her telescope to photograph the Sun during a total solar eclipse. This type of eclipse occurs when the Moon passes between the Sun and Earth. Which layer of the Sun can be viewed during a total solar eclipse?

Which is the hottest part of the sun?