Sun internal structure
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Science Photo Library
Sun internal structure
Sun internal structure, computer artwork. The central region of the Sun is the core (yellow/white), where hydrogen nuclei are fused together to form helium, with the release of enormous amounts of energy. It is this nuclear fission that powers the Sun. Surrounding the core is the radiative zone (orange/yellow tangles), where energy in the form of photons is emitted by nuclei and then reabsorbed almost immediately by nearby nuclei. The density of this layer decreases as it cools further from the core, until it is cool and rarefied enough for convection to take effect, in the convective zone (dark orange). Here hot plasma rises to the visible surface (photosphere, bright yellow) and cools (dark dots) before sinking back to the inner layers. The Sun is around 1.39 million kilometres in diameter
Science Photo Library features Science and Medical images including photos and illustrations
Media ID 6445367
© CHRISTIAN DARKIN/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
Astrophysical Astrophysics Atmosphere Circle Circular Core Globe Inside Interior Internal Layer Layers Photosphere Plasma Round Solar Sphere Spherical Star Computer Artwork
EDITORS COMMENTS
This computer artwork showcases the intricate internal structure of our magnificent Sun. At its core, a vibrant yellow and white region, hydrogen nuclei fuse together to form helium, unleashing an astonishing amount of energy through nuclear fission. This incredible process is what powers our beloved star. Surrounding the core lies the radiative zone, depicted by mesmerizing orange and yellow tangles. In this layer, photons are emitted by nuclei only to be swiftly reabsorbed by neighboring ones. As we move further away from the core, this layer gradually cools down and becomes less dense until it reaches a point where convection takes over. The convective zone is represented in dark orange hues and reveals how hot plasma rises towards the visible surface known as the photosphere – portrayed here in bright yellow brilliance. As it reaches this outermost layer, the plasma cools down forming dark dots before descending back into the inner layers once again. With a diameter spanning an astounding 1.39 million kilometers, this spherical marvel encompasses various layers that contribute to its awe-inspiring nature. From its radiant photosphere to its energetic core, every aspect of our Sun's internal structure plays a vital role in sustaining life on Earth. This stunning illustration serves as a testament to humanity's relentless pursuit of knowledge about our universe and reminds us of just how remarkable our celestial companion truly is.
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