- The article describes an astrophotographer called Andrew McCarthy who captured an image of the sun’s plasma cascade. Polar Crown Prominence (PCP) is the name given to this phenomena.
- PCP is a solar phenomenon that occurs in the Polar Regions of the Sun.
- It is a form of solar prominence, which is a big, luminous, gaseous phenomenon that extends from the surface of the sun.
- A solar prominence is a huge, brilliant, gaseous structure that protrudes from the surface of the sun.
- It is composed of ionised gas (plasma) maintained in place by magnetic fields.
- During total solar eclipses, prominences are visible and can also be seen with specialised telescopes.
- Sunspots, which are dark patches on the sun’s surface caused by magnetic activity, are frequently related with PCPs.
How are PCPs Formed?
- The interaction of magnetic fields on the sun’s surface produces PCPs.
- The flow of charged particles (plasma) in the sun’s interior produces magnetic fields.
- When these magnetic fields interact, they can produce areas of high magnetic activity, such as sunspots.
- PCPs are frequently connected with these magnetic activity zones.
What is the significance of PCPs?
- PCPs are significant because they provide information about the sun’s magnetic activity and its impact on the Earth’s environment.
- Solar activity, particularly PCPs, can affect the Earth’s magnetic field, resulting in auroras and communication system outages.
Source: https://www.livemint.com/science/news/watch-magnificient-plasma-waterfall-on-the-sun-11681569500140.html