Solar Week - Ask a Question

During solar week you can post questions here for our scientists to answer.
   You do not need to register or sign in to post questions,
   just click on one of the forums below and click "Write a New Post".

   You may want to Meet the scientists who will be answering your questions.
   Check out our new blog and FAQs.
in

sunspots

Last post 10-04-2006 1:33 PM by Holly Gilbert. 1 replies.
Page 1 of 1 (2 items)
Sort Posts: Previous Next
  • 10-04-2006 1:12 PM

    sunspots

    Brenda M


    Why does a sunspot look black? How could they appear so black on such a hot surface?

  • 10-04-2006 1:33 PM In reply to

    Re: sunspots

    Hi Brenda,

    Sunspots are regions of very intense magnetic fields and look black because they are relatively cooler than the rest of the surface of the Sun.  The surface of the Sun is in constant motion, allowing heat to move from the inner regions of the Sun to the upper regions on the surface, making it very hot.  A strong magnetic field slows down this motion and prevents heat from moving up to the surface.  So, although sunspots are still somewhat hot, they are not nearly as hot as the surrounding area which makes them appear darker.

    Holly

Page 1 of 1 (2 items)

Theme design is SolarWeek by Igor Ruderman based on
Theme Mira 2007 by Chris Lotter.

Powered by Community Server (Commercial Edition), by Telligent Systems