Abstract

As in the history of photospheric granular convection, the judicious combination of high resolution multi-wavelength imaging and polarimetry with detailed numerical simulations offers the promise to elucidate the profound interactions of plasma and magnetic fields that give rise to the enigmatic,... Show moreAs in the history of photospheric granular convection, the judicious combination of high resolution multi-wavelength imaging and polarimetry with detailed numerical simulations offers the promise to elucidate the profound interactions of plasma and magnetic fields that give rise to the enigmatic, dynamic, phenomena-rich chromosphere. The Sun allows a sharp focus on principal physical effects, and not in some averaged fashion as is the reality for most other astronomical objects. Understanding the solar chromosphere will pave a path to more remote cosmic environments, also shaped by the forces of "magnetic complexity." New instrumental and facility developments, however, are needed to fully exploit the truly four-dimensional observations possible on our cosmic neighbor. Luckily, several pivotal groundbased initiatives (ATST, ALMA, EVLA) are expected to be operating in the next decade, to help shed light on this fundamental solar-stellar enigma. Show less