Author Question: Briefly explain how astronomers use the Zeeman effect to measure magnetic fields on the Sun. What ... (Read 62 times)

tiffannnnyyyyyy

  • Hero Member
  • *****
  • Posts: 512
Briefly explain how astronomers use the Zeeman effect to measure magnetic fields on the Sun.
 
  What will be an ideal response?

Question 2

In the context of the Babcock model, briefly explain the reversal of the Sun's magnetic field from cycle to cycle.
 
  What will be an ideal response?



1_Step_At_ATime

  • Sr. Member
  • ****
  • Posts: 342
Answer to Question 1

Astronomers can measure magnetic fields on the Sun using the Zeeman effect. When an atom is in a magnetic field, the electron energy levels are altered, and the atom is able to absorb photons with a greater variety of wavelengths than the same atom not in a magnetic field.

Answer to Question 2

The Babcock model explains the reversal of the Sun's magnetic field from cycle to cycle. As the magnetic field becomes tangled, adjacent regions of the Sun's surface are dominated by magnetic fields that point in different directions. After about 11 years of tangling, the field becomes so complex that adjacent regions of the surface are forced to change their magnetic field directions to align with neighboring regions. The entire field quickly rearranges itself into a simpler pattern, and differential rotation begins winding it up to start a new cycle. The newly organized field is reversed, and the next sunspot cycle begins with magnetic north replaced by magnetic south. Consequently, the complete magnetic cycle is 22 years long, whereas the sunspot cycle is 11 years long.



Related Topics

Need homework help now?

Ask unlimited questions for free

Ask a Question


 

Did you know?

When intravenous medications are involved in adverse drug events, their harmful effects may occur more rapidly, and be more severe than errors with oral medications. This is due to the direct administration into the bloodstream.

Did you know?

There are actually 60 minerals, 16 vitamins, 12 essential amino acids, and three essential fatty acids that your body needs every day.

Did you know?

The average office desk has 400 times more bacteria on it than a toilet.

Did you know?

Essential fatty acids have been shown to be effective against ulcers, asthma, dental cavities, and skin disorders such as acne.

Did you know?

Anesthesia awareness is a potentially disturbing adverse effect wherein patients who have been paralyzed with muscle relaxants may awaken. They may be aware of their surroundings but unable to communicate or move. Neurologic monitoring equipment that helps to more closely check the patient's anesthesia stages is now available to avoid the occurrence of anesthesia awareness.

For a complete list of videos, visit our video library