Sunspots Revealed

The video explores the study of sunspots using advanced telescopes and supercomputers. Sunspots, cooler and darker areas on the sun, are linked to strong magnetic fields and have an 11-year activity cycle. They can cause solar flares and coronal mass ejections, impacting Earth's magnetic field and technology. Research at NCAR aims to understand sunspots' role in climate change and their broader implications for astrophysics.

What is the primary reason sunspots appear darker than their surroundings?

• They emit less light.

• They are cooler than their surroundings.

• They are made of different materials.

• They are covered by solar dust.

What is the typical cycle duration of sunspot activity?

• 5 years

• 7 years

• 15 years

• 11 years

Which of the following is a consequence of geomagnetic storms on Earth?

• Increased rainfall

• Disruption of shortwave radio communications

• Decreased wind speeds

• Higher temperatures

What role do solar telescopes like Hinode play in sunspot research?

• They capture images of distant galaxies.

• They help in perfecting sunspot models.

• They measure the temperature of the sun.

• They track the movement of planets.

How might a better understanding of sunspots contribute to climate science?

• By measuring the Earth's magnetic field

• By clarifying the role of solar cycles in climate change

• By determining the exact temperature of the sun

• By predicting volcanic eruptions