What type of solar phenomena can last for short periods or many years?

Sunspots are temporary phenomena on the Sun's surface that can last for varying lengths of time, from days to several years. They are areas of reduced surface temperature caused by magnetic field fluctuations, which inhibit convection. This results in a cooler spot compared to the surrounding areas and can be seen as dark patches on the Sun's photosphere.

The lifespan of sunspots can be influenced by solar activity cycles, particularly the 11-year solar cycle, where sunspot numbers increase and decrease. During periods of high solar activity, more sunspots can appear and exist for longer durations, while during quieter phases, they might not be present at all. This characteristic of varying durations makes sunspots unique among solar phenomena.

While solar flares, solar prominences, and coronal mass ejections are indeed significant solar events, they are typically short-lived, occurring over hours to days. Thus, sunspots distinctly stand out for their ability to persist much longer relative to these other phenomena.