Differential rotation of solar features and its variation as deduced from the "shock-transition model" of the solar cycle

Abstract

From the topology of the two families of flux tubes in the shock-transition model of the solar cycle we predict the general nature of the differential rotation of: (i) sunspots and the small scale emission features in active regions and (ii) the large scale magnetic and emission features which have major contributions from the quiet regions. From the expected variation of the proportion in which the two flux tube families would contribute to the relevant date we also predict the manner in which the differential rotation of features in these categories will vary with the solar cycle. These predictions are found to be in good agreement with the so for observed rotation characteristics of various features in each category. The significance of these agreements is discussed. Directions for further theoretical and observational studies are suggested.