On the statistics of maximum sunspot numbers

On the basis of the 'statistics of extremes' (i.e. Gumbel's first asymptoti c distribution) and the characteristics of cycles 9-22 (the most reliable s unspot cycles) the magnitude of the cycle peaks is studied. The analysis is based on the quasiperiodic solar activity which has a main period of appro ximately 22 years. According to this, we conclude that the odd and even cyc les show different behaviors. This statistical evidence can be considered a vehicle for the better understanding of the physical processes related to the Sun. Thus, the results of this analysis support previous findings that cycle 23 should be very active, causing important phenomena in the Earth's environment. (C) 1999 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.