What Is the Solar Neutrino Problem?

In summary, the solar neutrino problem refers to the discrepancy between the predicted number of neutrinos produced by the sun and the actual number measured on Earth. This was first observed by Ray Davis and has since been confirmed by other detectors. The current explanation is that some of the neutrinos change into other types that are not measured. For more information, you can refer to John Bahcall's webpage or other credible sources.
  • #1
michealsmith
124
0
hello everyone,

what is the solar neutrino problem ?
 
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  • #2
The SNP was the fact that fewer neutrinos were measured coming from the sun than were predicted to be produced in the sun using models of the sun's interior. The original expt was done by Ray Davis using cleaning fluid as a detector. It has now been confirmed by several more elaborate (and expensive) detectors. Davis received the Nobel prize for his measurement.
The current explanation of the lack of neutrinos reaching the Earth is that some of the electron neutrinos produced in the sun change into other types of neutrinos that don't get measured.
 
  • #3
ah ok ...quick response btw.
do u know of any websites i can look this up on , apart from the few that pop up on the 1st page of google searchs if any .
 
  • #6
It's not a problem - it's an opportunity!
 

Related to What Is the Solar Neutrino Problem?

1. What is the Solar Neutrino Problem?

The Solar Neutrino Problem refers to the discrepancy between the predicted and observed number of neutrinos coming from the Sun. It was first observed in the 1960s when the number of detected solar neutrinos was significantly lower than what was predicted by theoretical models.

2. Why is the Solar Neutrino Problem important?

The Solar Neutrino Problem is important because it challenges our understanding of the fundamental processes happening in the Sun. Neutrinos are a key component of nuclear fusion reactions in the Sun, and if the predicted number of neutrinos is not observed, it could indicate a flaw in our current understanding of the Sun's energy production.

3. What causes the Solar Neutrino Problem?

The Solar Neutrino Problem is caused by the fact that neutrinos have the ability to change or "oscillate" between different types or "flavors" as they travel through space. This means that the neutrinos detected on Earth may not necessarily be the same type that was produced in the Sun, leading to a discrepancy in the number of observed neutrinos.

4. How has the Solar Neutrino Problem been addressed?

The Solar Neutrino Problem has been addressed through various experiments, including the Sudbury Neutrino Observatory and the Super-Kamiokande detectors, which have confirmed the existence of neutrino oscillations. This discovery has helped to resolve the discrepancy between predicted and observed solar neutrinos.

5. What is the current status of the Solar Neutrino Problem?

The Solar Neutrino Problem is considered to be largely resolved, with the discovery of neutrino oscillations providing a satisfactory explanation for the discrepancy in the number of observed solar neutrinos. However, ongoing research and experiments continue to refine our understanding of the Sun and its neutrino production processes.

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