Stratospheric Temperatures Related with Solar Activity

A study is reported of the relationship between stratospheric temperatures and variations in solar activity. Monthly mean 50 mb. temperatures and departures from the mean were determined for selected stations and statistically compared against sunspot and geomagnetic disturbance departures from the mean. Data were divided into summer and winter periods and into three latitudinal regions to determine seasonal and latitudinal variations. One hundred, 50, and 30 mb. temperatures and 1000 and 30 mb heights over San Juan were compared against the numbers of sunspots. Results indicate that stratospheric temperatures are better related with sunspot numbers than with geomagnetic indicator Ci. Results also indicate a better relationship in low latitudes, a better relationship in summer, with increasing height. It is concluded that increased electromagnetic radiation associated with sunspots increases stratospheric temperatures and high atmospheric densities.