Why are space travelers exposed to more radiation? Use evidence from the text to support your answer.
Space travelers are exposed to more radiation due to a lack of protective atmosphere and magnetic field in space. The text explains that Earth's atmosphere and magnetic field shield the planet and its inhabitants from harmful radiation. The atmosphere absorbs and scatters most of the high-energy radiation from the Sun and space. Additionally, the Earth's magnetic field deflects charged particles, known as solar winds, away from the planet. However, in space, there is no atmosphere or magnetic field to provide this protection. As a result, space travelers are directly exposed to higher levels of radiation. This is supported by the following evidence from the text:
- "The Earth's atmosphere helps shield the planet from most of the high-energy radiation." This statement highlights how the atmosphere acts as a barrier against radiation and reduces its impact on Earth.
- "The Earth's magnetic field extends out into space" suggests that the magnetic field plays a crucial role in deflecting radiation away from Earth and protecting its inhabitants.
- "Without the protective shield of the atmosphere and magnetic field, space travelers on long-duration missions would be exposed to an increased risk of radiation-related health issues." This statement explicitly states that the absence of atmospheric and magnetic protection leads to higher radiation exposure for space travelers.