This diagram shows how the differential rate of the Sun's rotation between its equator and poles causes the Sun's magnetic field to become twisted. Over the course of the solar cycle, the twisted field lines wrap around the Sun, generating areas of intense magnetic fields that are visible as sunspots.
Windows to the Universe original artwork.

This diagram shows how the differential rate of the Sun's rotation between its equator and poles causes the Sun's magnetic field to become twisted. Over the course of the solar cycle, the twisted field lines wrap around the Sun, generating areas of intense magnetic fields that are visible as sunspots.
Windows to the Universe original artwork.

This diagram shows how the differential rate of the Sun's rotation between its equator and poles causes the Sun's magnetic field to become twisted. Over the course of the solar cycle, the twisted field lines wrap around the Sun, generating areas of intense magnetic fields that are visible as sunspots.
Windows to the Universe original artwork.

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