Surface flux transport simulations. Inflows towards active regions and the modulation of the solar cycle.
Abstract
Aims. We investigate the way near-surface converging flows towards active regions affect the build-up of magnetic field at the Sun's polar caps. In the Babcock-Leighton dynamo framework, this modulation of the polar fields could explain the variability of the solar cycle. Methods. We develop a surface flux transport code incorporating a parametrized model of the inflows and run simulations spanning several cycles. We carry out a parameter study to test how the strength and extension of the inflows affect the amplitude of the polar fields. Results. Inflows are seen to play an important role in the build-up of the polar fields, and can act as the non-linearity feedback mechanism required to limit the strength of the solar cycles in the Babcock-Leighton dynamo framework.
- Publication:
-
41st COSPAR Scientific Assembly
- Pub Date:
- July 2016
- Bibcode:
- 2016cosp...41E1255M