Description: The solar cycle is the approximately 11-year cycle in the number of sunspots, solar flares, and other forms of activity on the Sun. This activity is generated by the Sun's general magnetic field. Since that magnetic field switches between north and south polarity every eleven years, it takes a full 22-year period for the Sun's magnetic poles to return to their original configuration.

Related Terms:

• Sun
• Sunspot Cycle
• Magnetic Field
• Stellar Activity

Term and definition status: This term and its definition have been approved by a research astronomer and a teacher

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