The Sun · Physics
Helioseismology
Say it: hee-lee-oh-size-MOL-uh-jee IPA: /ˌhiːlioʊsaɪzˈmɑlədʒi/ noun
Helioseismology: The study of the Sun's oscillations to investigate its interior.
Waves moving through the Sun create measurable motions at its surface. Their patterns let scientists infer conditions and flows beneath layers they cannot directly see through.
- Example
- Helioseismology revealed that different parts of the Sun rotate at different rates.
- Why astronomers use it
- It tests models of the Sun's internal structure and motion.
- Tiny cosmic connection
- This is the solar branch of asteroseismology, not a claim that sound travels from the Sun to our ears.
Deep Space The Sun Physics
Where to check it
Written for Cool Moon Facts in its own words; the sources cover the same idea in more depth.