Solar dynamo models

Abstract

Mean-field dynamo models and 3D magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) simulations of global-scale solar convection provide complementary insights into the origins of cyclic magnetic activity in the Sun. One particular class of mean-field dynamo models, known as the Babcock-Leighton Flux-Transport (BL-FT) modeling approach, has enjoyed much success recently in reproducing many aspects of the solar activity cycle. We review the essential ingredients of BL-FT models and we address whether these ingredients are consistent with convection simulations. Although BL-FT models appear to be robust enough to tolerate the variability of the meridional circulation found in convection simulations, they often neglect turbulent transport and dynamo processes within the bulk of the convective envelope. Current estimates of the efficiency of such processes from convection simulations suggest that this neglect is not justified. © 2008 IOP Publishing Ltd.