Instead there are a series of turbulent, convective layers, and with each layer outwards the convection cells become smaller. The outermost layer has the smallest convection cells, which we see as granulation. Having reached the surface, radiation once more becomes the easiest way for energy to escape, and light and heat is emitted. In a way not entirely understood, the Sun stores up extra energy which it releases in violent, almost explosive events known as flares. The energy is released through the chromosphere and into the corona, whence it escapes as a ripple in the solar wind.
Most flares develop in a matter of minutes and subside over an hour or two.
Since magnetic energy is involved, it will come as no surprise to learn that flares are usually associated with sunspot groups where the strongest magnetic fields occur. There was no middle ground. 311, questions 1-5 Test Ch.