Solar minimum

IN NEWS:

• According to a recent NASA report, the sun is said to have gone into a state called the 'solar minimum' and is about to enter the deepest period of 'sunshine recession'.

SOLAR MINIMUM:

• The solar cycle is the cycle that the Sun's magnetic field goes through approximately every 11 years. The solar cycle is based on the Sun's magnetic field, which flips around every 11 years, with its north and south magnetic poles switching places.
• Solar minimum is the period of least solar activity in the 11-year solar cycle of the Sun. The poles switch when the magnetic field is at its weakest.
• During this time, sunspot and solar flare activity diminishes, and often does not occur for days at a time.

• During solar minimum, solar ultraviolet radiation decreases and Sun’s magnetic field weakens. Hence, the Sun provides less shielding from cosmic rays, which can pose an increased threat to astronauts.
• It also causes Earth's atmosphere to shrink slightly, which reduces drag on satellites.

PRELIMS QUESTION:

Q. Which of the following statements are correct regarding Solar cycle:

1. It is the cycle that the Sun's magnetic field goes through approximately every 24 years
2. During each cycle, the sun’s magnetic poles switches places

Choose the correct answer from the codes given below:

1. 1 only
2. 2 only
3. Both 1 and 2
4. Neither 1 nor 2

Answer to Prelims question

Source: Times Now