Iranian Journal of Geophysics

Iranian Journal of Geophysics

Analyzing the relationship between solar magnetic polarity, solar wind velocity, and vertical magnetic field (Bz)

Document Type : Research Article

Authors
NISHA R 1
G. SHANTHI 2
1 Ph.D. Student, Research Scholar, Department of Physics, Women’s Christian College, Nagercoil, India
2 Associate Professor, Department of Physics and Research Centre, Women’s Christian College, Nagercoil, India
10.30499/ijg.2024.454783.1597
Abstract
This study examines the influence of solar magnetic polarity and solar wind velocity on the
Bz-component of the interplanetary magnetic field (IMF Bz) during the solar cycles 22, 23, 24, and 25, characterized by the minimum of solar activity. The analysis reveals a distinctive pattern in the behavior of the solar magnetic field. Specifically, during even solar cycles (22 and 24), the solar magnetic field exhibits an opposite polarity, while in odd solar cycles (23 and 25), it demonstrates a positive polarity. This finding supports the formulation of an odd-even hypothesis, which is further corroborated by the qualitative analysis of IMF Bz to other factors such as IMF Bx, solar wind velocity, and the polarity of the Sun's magnetic field. Our investigation reveals that IMF Bz is significantly influenced by the polarity of the Sun's magnetic field, solar wind velocity, and the magnitude of the IMF horizontal component (Bx). Moreover, we find a positive correlation between IMF Bz and both Bx and solar wind velocity, regardless of the magnetic field polarity being positive or negative. These findings contribute to our understanding of the interplay between solar magnetic activity, solar wind dynamics, and the behavior of the interplanetary magnetic field during periods of minimum solar activity. The dependencies observed in this study offer valuable insights into the complex nature of solar-terrestrial interactions. Furthermore, they hold implications for studying the effects of solar variability on Earth's magnetosphere. By comprehending the relationships between solar magnetic activity, solar wind properties, and the behavior of the interplanetary magnetic field, scientists can gain a deeper understanding of the dynamics involved in the interaction between the Sun and the Earth's magnetic field. This research sheds light on the factors influencing the IMF Bz and provides a foundation for further investigations in this field. With the continuously advancing knowledge in solar physics and space weather, these findings contribute to the broader scientific understanding of our solar system and its effects on our planet. Further studies building upon these insights may aid in predicting and mitigating the potential impacts of solar variability on various technological systems and the Earth's space environment. This study contributes to the scientific understanding of the influence of solar magnetic polarity and solar wind velocity on the interplanetary magnetic field. The observed patterns and correlations provide valuable insights into the dynamics of solar-terrestrial interactions, paving the way for further research in the field of space weather and its impacts on Earth.
Keywords
Solar wind velocity
interplanetary magnetic field
magnetic polarity
solar cycle

Subjects

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Iranian Journal of Geophysics
Volume 19, Issue 3
July and August 2025
Pages 77-86