What is the solar cycle?

The solar cycle is a recurring pattern of changes in the sun's activity over a period of approximately 11 years. It is characterized by the rise and fall in the number of sunspots, solar flares, and coronal mass ejections (CMEs) that occur on the sun's surface.

Scientists have been studying the solar cycle for centuries, but it wasn't until the 20th century that they began to understand the causes of these fluctuations. It is now known that the solar cycle is driven by the sun's magnetic field, which undergoes a complete reversal during each cycle.

The solar cycle has important effects on Earth's climate and technology. The increased activity during the peak of the cycle can cause geomagnetic storms that can interfere with radio communications and power grids, while the decrease in activity during the cycle's minimum can lead to cooling of the upper atmosphere.