Solar Rotation, Irradiance Changes and Climate

Abstract

Magnetic activity cycles for solar-type stars are believed to originate from non-uniform internal rotation. To determine this depthwise angular velocity distribution, helioseismology is a valuable source of information. Surface rotation, as traced by sunspot motion, is a well-observed parameter with data going back to the beginning of the telescopic era. This long sunspot series can be used in understanding the behaviour of the Sun’s surface rotation, the connection with its internal rotation, and thereby its magnetic activity. Apparent solar diameter is another important parameter. This is related to the structure of the convective envelope and how it reacts to the presence of magnetic fields. Both these parameters are related to the solar output, and can provide a surrogate for total solar irradiance, by way of a theoretical modeling of the response of the convective zone to the emergence of periodic magnetic fields. The impact of solar variability on the terrestrial climate is also addressed.