Sunspots are cooler than the surrounding gas in the photosphere because
A) they are regions where convection carries cooler material downward.
B) strong magnetic fields slow convection and prevent hot plasma from entering the region.
C) magnetic fields trap ionized gases that absorb light.
D) there is less fusion occurring there.
E) magnetic fields lift material from the sunspot and quickly cool the material.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Sunspots are regions of strong magnetic fields. These magnetic fields slow down convection and prevent hot plasma from entering the region, which results in sunspots being cooler than the surrounding gas in the photosphere.

Answer A is incorrect because convection carries warmer material upward, not downward. Answer C is incorrect because ionized gases that absorb light would make the region appear darker, but they would not necessarily cool the region. Answer D is incorrect because the temperature of the photosphere is not determined by fusion, which occurs deeper in the Sun. Answer E is incorrect because lifting material from the sunspot would result in the material being heated, not cooled.

Sunspots Are Cooler Than the Surrounding Gas in the Photosphere