In the corona, above sunspots and areas of complex magnetic field patterns, are solar flares. These sparks of energy sometimes reach the size of the Earth and can last for up to several hours. Their temperature has been recorded at 11 million K (20 million degrees F). The extreme heat produces x rays that create light when they hit the gasses of the corona.Schematic diagram of a solar flare. Red and blue lines represent magnetic fields, carrying solar material off the surface. Flares occur when these field lines meet and "reconnect", producing huge explosions, and heating and acceleration of solar material.
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