The Role of Active Regions in the Generation of Torsional Oscillations

We present a model for torsional oscillations where the inhibiting effect of active region magnetic fields on turbulence locally reduces turbulent viscous torques, leading to a cycle- and latitude-dependent modulation of the differential rotation. The observed depth dependence of torsional oscillations as well as their phase relationship with the sunspot butterfly diagram are reproduced quite naturally in this model. The resulting oscillation amplitudes are significantly smaller than observed, though they depend rather sensitively on model details. Meridional circulation is found to have only a weak effect on the oscillation pattern.