Solar cycle properties described by simple convection-driven dynamos

TL;DR

This paper presents simple convection-driven dynamo models that replicate solar magnetic cycle properties, highlighting how boundary condition modifications can influence dynamo wave propagation, despite limitations of the Boussinesq approximation.

Contribution

It introduces a boundary condition change in convection-driven dynamo models that can reverse dynamo wave propagation, offering insights into solar cycle behaviors.

Findings

Models exhibit solar-like magnetic cycle properties

Boundary condition changes affect wave propagation direction

Boussinesq approximation limits realistic cycle modeling

Abstract

Simple models of magnetic field generation by convection in rotating spherical shells exhibit properties resembling those observed on the sun. The {assumption of the Boussinesq approximation made in these models} prevents a realistic description of the solar cycle, but through a physically motivated change in the boundary condition for the differential rotation the propagation of dynamo waves towards higher latitudes can be reversed at least at low latitudes.