Angular-momentum coupling through the tachocline

TL;DR

This paper reviews the problem of angular momentum transport in the Sun, focusing on the role of the tachocline, and discusses various proposed mechanisms without reaching a consensus.

Contribution

It provides a critical review of existing theories and hypotheses regarding angular momentum coupling through the solar tachocline.

Findings

Helioseismology shows uniform rotation in the radiative interior.

Angular momentum appears to be transported through the tachocline.

The exact mechanism of angular momentum transfer remains uncertain.

Abstract

Astronomical observation of stellar rotation suggests that at least the surface layers of the Sun have lost a substantial amount of the angular momentum that they possessed at the beginning of the main-sequence phase of evolution; and solar-wind observations indicate that magnetic coupling is still draining angular momentum from the Sun today. In addition, helioseismological analysis has shown that the specific angular momentum at the top of the almost uniformly rotating radiative interior is approximately (although not exactly) the same as the spherically averaged value at the base of the (differentially rotating) convection zone, suggesting that angular momentum is being transported through the tachocline. The mechanism by which that transport is taking place is not understood. Nor is there a consensus of opinion. I review some of the suggestions that have been put forward, biassing my discussion, no doubt, according to my own opinions.