The cellular pattern visible on the Sun's photosphere, created by convection cells of hot gas rising from the interior and cooler gas sinking back down. These granules are typically 1,000 kilometers across and last about 10 minutes.
From Latin 'granulum' meaning 'small grain,' referring to the grain-like appearance of the convection cells on the Sun's surface. The term was first used in solar astronomy in the 19th century when improved telescopes revealed this textured pattern on the Sun's surface.
Try Another Word