Description of solar structure and processes

A general introduction to solar structure and processes is presented. The sun is first viewed as a spherically symmetric steady‐state system, and the energy generated in the core is traced as it flows outward. The various forms and manifestations of this energy flow and the resulting uniquely defined characteristics of different atmospheric layers are described. The sources of solar activity are assumed to be differential rotation and solar magnetic fields. The interaction of these sources to produce the observed solar cycle, active regions, the active‐sun corona, and solar flares is discussed. In describing solar structure and processes, only elementary physical concepts are utilized. This allows people without advanced scientific training to appreciate the subject and provides a rapid orientation for those with more advanced backgrounds who are unfamiliar with solar phenomena.