What protects humans on Earth from solar particles?
A. Earth's atmosphere
B. Earth's distance from the Sun
C. Earth's magnetic field
D. nothing protects us -- we're doomed!
C. Earth's magnetic field
what protects us from gamma rays?
Several things protect us from gamma rays:
1. Earth's atmosphere: The Earth's atmosphere shields us from gamma radiation coming from space. The atmosphere contains molecules that absorb and scatter gamma rays, reducing the amount that reaches the Earth's surface.
2. Earth's magnetic field: The Earth's magnetic field helps to block charged particles, including some gamma rays, from reaching the surface.
3. Distance from gamma ray sources: Gamma rays emitted from distant objects in space, such as supernovas, can be reduced in intensity by the time they reach the Earth.
4. Shielding: Dense materials such as lead, concrete, and water can be used to make shields to protect us from gamma rays. These materials absorb the energy of the gamma rays and help to reduce their intensity.
The correct answer is C. Earth's magnetic field.
Explanation:
Our planet, Earth, is indeed protected from solar particles by several layers of defense mechanisms. One of the primary protective measures is Earth's magnetic field.
The Earth's magnetic field is generated by the movement of molten iron in the planet's outer core. It forms an invisible shield around the planet. This protective shield, often referred to as the magnetosphere, deflects and blocks most of the charged particles emitted by the Sun, known as solar particles or solar wind.
Solar wind consists of high-energy particles, such as protons and electrons, that are expelled from the Sun's outer atmosphere. These particles are carried by the solar wind towards Earth. As they approach our planet, they get deflected by the Earth's magnetic field, diverting them around the Earth and preventing them from directly reaching the surface.
This deflection occurs because the charged particles in the solar wind interact with Earth's magnetic field, leading to a force that bends their trajectory. As a result, these particles are redirected towards the poles, giving rise to phenomena such as the Aurora Borealis (in the northern hemisphere) and the Aurora Australis (in the southern hemisphere).
The magnetosphere is not an impenetrable barrier, and some solar particles can make it through the magnetic field and enter the Earth's upper atmosphere near the poles. However, the majority of these particles are deflected away, greatly reducing their impact on life on Earth.
In summary, Earth's magnetic field plays a crucial role in shielding us from solar particles. Without this protective shield, the solar wind would have a more direct impact on our planet, potentially creating harmful effects on both human health and the environment.