The Sun
The Sun
• 99% of the matter of the solar system is in the Sun.
• The Sun is an Average Star (main sequence star)
• The sun is not a Binary Star. (most stars have a “Companion”)
The Sun’s Energy
• The Sun is a ball of gas Fusing Hydrogen into Helium at its Core.
Nuclear Fusion
Parts of the Sun
• Photosphere: Lowest layer of the Sun’s Atmosphere.
Gives off light
10,000 degrees Fahrenheit
Parts of the Sun
• Chromosphere: Reddish layer above the Photosphere
Parts of the Sun
• Corona: Above the Chromosphere
Largest layer of the Sun
Solar Wind: Charged particles come off the
Corona
Corona during
A Solar Eclipse
Parts of the Sun
• Sunspots: Dark spots.
• Cooler than the surrounding area• Magnetic• They may cause Flares and Prominences• Occur in a 11 year cycle
Parts of the Sun
• Prominences: Huge arching columns of Gas
Parts of the Sun
• Solar Flares: Largest explosions on the Sun.
• They can cause the Northern Lights
Northern Lights