Question

The Sun spins on its axis roughly each _____.

a) 24 hours
b) 27 days
c) 1 year
d) 11 years

Answer 1

The Sun rotates on its axis approximately every 27 days, exhibiting differential rotation which varies depending on latitude.

Step-by-step explanation:

The Sun spins on its axis roughly each 27 days. Unlike Earth, which rotates on its axis every 24 hours, the Sun exhibits differential rotation. This means that the rotation period varies according to latitude: it's about 25 days at the equator, 28 days at latitude 40°, and even longer at higher latitudes, about 36 days at latitude 80°. Through historical observations, such as those made by Galileo in 1612, we've learned that the Sun rotates in a west-to-east direction, similar to the orbital motions of the planets.