The Atmosphere of the Sun

This book provides an introduction to solar physics, approaching the subject from the physicist's viewpoint, seeking to understand and interpret solar observations in the framework of theoretical physics. It deals with the physics of the Sun relevant to its atmosphere, and traces the flow of energy outwards fron the interior of the Sun through each of its various manifestations as far as the outer corona. As far as possible a unified treatment is given to the different levels of the atmosphere - the photosphere, chromosphere and corona - as well as to the many aspects of solar activity. The author describes the physical principals governing the structure of the solar atmosphere and the mathematical principals of the models used to describe it. The book attempts to construct a working model of our own star, the Sun. Much is still unknown and the picture is far from complete but it is hoped that the reader will be inspired to take up the challenge where this book leaves off. Designed to appeal to all those interested in the Sun, it will be of particular interest to students and professional astronomers who require an overview of the physics of the Sun.