Seismic probing of the solar core

Abstract

Only a small fraction of the solar p-modes have frequencies with any measurable sensitivity to the core structure. Nevertheless an accurate seismic sounding with such modes alone is possible. This requires a high-precision measurement of mode frequencies and a proper method of inversion. The important aspects here are elimination of the uncertainties concerning the outermost layers and making best use of a priori information about structural variables. Current data allow us to achieve an accuracy in pressure and density determination at the level of 1 percent in the bulk of the core. Results of helioseismic inversions support the standard picture of solar evolution.