photosphere

Everyday

1. The photosphere is the bright outer surface of the Sun (or another star) that we see, from which most of its light shines out. tree →
2. It is a layer of very hot gas, about 5,500 degrees Celsius, not a solid surface. tree →

In the lessons

In science and space lessons it names the visible layer of the Sun, where sunspots appear; above it lie the chromosphere and the corona, seen during a total eclipse. Phrases: the Sun's photosphere, sunspots on the photosphere.

Examples

• The photosphere is the part of the Sun we can see. tree →
• Sunspots are darker patches on the photosphere. tree →
• The photosphere is about 5,500 degrees Celsius. tree →
• Never look at the photosphere without special glasses. tree →
• Light from the photosphere takes about eight minutes to reach Earth. tree →
• Above the photosphere is the corona. tree →

Note

Usually «the photosphere», no plural in school use. «Photo» means light, «sphere» means ball. The Sun has no solid ground; the photosphere is gas. Safety: never look straight at the Sun.