Researchers may soon be able to solve the mystery of why the outermost regions of the Sun are so hot. The visible surface of the Sun has a temperature of nearly 6000C. However, its corona that is far from the core, has a temperature of several million degrees. The Solar and Heliospheric Observatory satellite of NASA has shown that magnetic loops coming out from the solar surface send enough energy into the corona. Alan Title of the Standford-Lockheed Institute for Space Research, California, USA, says that each loop carries an energy equivalent to that generated by a large hydroelectric plant in a million years ( New Scientist , Vol 156, No 2108).
We are a voice to you; you have been a support to us. Together we build journalism that is independent, credible and fearless. You can further help us by making a donation. This will mean a lot for our ability to bring you news, perspectives and analysis from the ground so that we can make change together.
.png)
Comments are moderated and will be published only after the site moderator’s approval. Please use a genuine email ID and provide your name. Selected comments may also be used in the ‘Letters’ section of the Down To Earth print edition.