Use your knowledge of solar flares, coronal mass ejections, and sunspots, as well as why this year is special for the sun's magnetic field. Explain the causes and effects that we see on Earth.
Response to this should be about 5 sentences. (6 pts) (6 points)
This year is special for the sun's magnetic field because it is currently nearing the peak of its 11-year solar cycle, known as Solar Cycle 25. During this cycle, we can expect to see an increase in solar flares, coronal mass ejections, and sunspots. Solar flares are sudden bursts of energy on the sun's surface, while coronal mass ejections are massive releases of plasma and magnetic field from the sun. These events can impact Earth by causing geomagnetic storms, disrupting satellite communications, and potentially damaging power grids. Sunspots are cooler regions on the sun's surface that are associated with intense magnetic activity and can also contribute to solar flares and other solar phenomena.
