Convective flows around sunspot-like objects

Abstract

Calculations of convective flows around objects in the outer layers of the sun that have characteristics similar to those of sunspots are presented. It is assumed that these objects are allowed to radiatively exchange heat with their surroundings, but convective motions and exchange are absent. The flow structure around the object, and the question of the overall balance or redistribution of the emerging heat flux as suggested by earlier empirical models are discussed. In all the cases studied, there was a significant increase in the kinetic energy flux and thus the lateral transport of the energy flux surrounding the object. This mainly occurred below the object to allow the heat to appear at the surface, with some time delay. The percentage reduction in the specific intensity agrees well with the observed deficits for pores or small sunspot-type regions. The diverted heat flow was not totally blocked by the object. Because the sunspot-like object is magnetic and the convective flow closely surrounds it, some conversion between internal, kinetic, and magnetic energy is likely.