The solar wind carries mass away from the Sun at a rate of about 2 million ton/s (where 1 = 1000 kg). Compare this rate with the rate at which the Sun loses mass in the form of radiation.
The solar wind carries mass away from the Sun at a rate of about 2 million ton/s (where 1 = 1000 kg). Compare this rate with the rate at which the Sun loses mass in the form of radiation.
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Transcribed Image Text:### Solar Wind and Mass Loss from the Sun
**Text:**
The solar wind carries mass away from the Sun at a rate of about 2 million tons per second (where 1 ton = 1000 kg). Compare this rate with the rate at which the Sun loses mass in the form of radiation.
**Explanation:**
In astrophysics, the concept of solar wind refers to the stream of charged particles released from the upper atmosphere of the Sun. This stream can carry a significant amount of mass away from the Sun over time. Specifically, it has been measured that roughly 2 million tons (2 x 10^6 tons) of material are expelled every second via solar wind. For conversion purposes, it's important to note that 1 ton is equivalent to 1000 kilograms (kg).
**Comparison with Radiation:**
In addition to mass loss through the solar wind, the Sun also loses mass via radiation. This form of mass loss occurs as the Sun emits energy in the form of light and other types of electromagnetic radiation. The rate of mass loss through radiation can be compared to the rate of mass loss through the solar wind to understand the relative significance of these two processes on the Sun's overall mass loss.
This exercise provides insight into the dynamic processes at play in our Sun and helps us appreciate the continuous changes occurring in our solar system's primary star.
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