5 Amplitude Fluctuations, Multiperiodicity, and Grand Minima
Given that the basic physical mechanism(s) underlying the operation of the solar cycle are not yet
agreed upon, attempting to understand the origin of the observed fluctuations of the solar cycle may appear
to be a futile undertaking. Nonetheless, work along these lines continues at full steam in part
because of the high odds involved; it is becoming increasingly accepted that varying levels of solar
activity may contribute significantly to climate change (see Beer et al., 2000; Reid, 2000,
and references therein). Moreover, the frequencies of all eruptive phenomena relevant to space
weather are strongly modulated by the amplitude of the solar cycle. Finally, certain aspects of the
observed fluctuations may actually hold important clues as to the physical nature of the dynamo
process.
-quenching
