How far can minimal models explain the solar cycle?

TL;DR

This paper investigates the capability of minimal physical models to replicate the solar cycle, revealing that even simplified models can exhibit key solar magnetic properties, notably a dominant non-axisymmetric magnetic component.

Contribution

It introduces a minimal, physically consistent model of solar magnetic field generation that captures essential features of the solar cycle despite its simplicity.

Findings

Model exhibits properties similar to solar observations

Large-scale solar dynamo dominated by non-axisymmetric m=1 component

Minimal model can explain key magnetic features of the solar cycle

Abstract

A physically consistent model of magnetic field generation by convection in a rotating spherical shell with a minimum of parameters is applied to the Sun. Despite its unrealistic features the model exhibits a number of properties resembling those observed on the Sun. The model suggests that the large scale solar dynamo is dominated by a non-axisymmetric $m=1$ component of the magnetic field.