Solar Mean Magnetic Field

What is in the News?

• Scientists from the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA) through their latest study have given a clearer picture of how the sun’s magnetic field influences the interplanetary magnetic space which is the primary driver of space weather.
• According to the Department of Science and Technology, scientists now are one step closer to identifying the source of the Solar Mean Magnetic Field (SMMF).

 What is it? 

• The Solar Mean Magnetic Field (SMMF) refers to the average strength and direction of the magnetic field on the surface of the Sun.
• The Solar Mean Magnetic Field (SMMF) has various applications in the field of space weather. 
• For example, by studying the SMMF, scientists can better predict and understand phenomena such as solar flares and coronal mass ejections. 
• These events can have a significant impact on Earth’s magnetic field, leading to geomagnetic storms and disruptions in satellite communication and power grids.

 Major Findings

• The researchers found a strong similarity between the SMMF at chromospheric heights and the SMMF at photospheric heights, suggesting that the sun’s primordial magnetic field could be the source of the SMMF.
• Understanding the source and driving parameters of the SMMF could enhance our understanding of how it affects the IMF and space weather.

Practice Questions for Prelims

The Sun Radio Interferometer Space Experiment (SunRISE) of NASA intends to study how the Sun
1. generate gravitational waves
2. creates and releases the giant solar particle storms

a) Only 1
b) Only 2
c) All of the above
d) None of the above

Ans. b)

Chetan Bharat Learning is the best institute in Chandigarh for UPSC IAS ,PCS preparation. To know more about Chetan Bharat Learning’s Online & Classroom Courses, click on the following links: