Our Source of Energy
Jehanne Pilgrim
Allow me to introduce you to the Sun
The Sun is the largest object in our solar system. It is composed mainly of hydrogen and helium. Our Sun has several layers which allow it to provide our solar system with light.
Layers of the Sun
Inner Layers
- Core: This is the innermost part of the Sun. This is where the Sun's energy originates by means of nuclear fusion. The core's temperature is 28 million degrees Fahrenheit.
- Radiative Zone: In this layer, the light of the core travels towards the outer layer.
- Convective Zone: This layer converts light from the core into heat.
Outer Layers
- Photoshpere: The Sun's surface which is almost covered by granulation.
- Chromosphere: This layers appears as a red glow around the Sun and is almost transparent.
- Corona: This is outermost layer of gases. It cannot be seen by the naked, except during a solar eclipse.
Sunspots
Dark spots, which are cooler than surrounding areas, that occur on the surface.
Prominence
A huge arch of glowing gas that extend outward from the Sun's surface.
Flare
An explosion that occurs on the Sun.
Aurora
A natural electrical phenomenon of fluorescent lights in the sky. They happen as a result of Earth's electrical connection to the sun.