Electrically charged particles from space travelling at speeds of several hundred km/sec can severely harm living beings if they reach the surface of the Earth. What prevents them from reaching the surface of the Earth?

1. The Earth’s magnetic field diverts them towards its poles
2. Ozone layer around the Earth reflects them back to outer space
3. Moisture in the upper layers of atmosphere prevents them from reaching the surface of the Earth
4. None of the statements (a), (b) and (c) given above is correct

Explanation

Option (a) is correct

• Electrically charged particles coming from space—mainly from the Solar Wind emitted by the Sun—travel at very high speeds and can be harmful to living organisms. The Earth’s Magnetic Field acts as a protective shield around the planet. This magnetic field forms the Magnetosphere, which deflects most of the charged particles away from Earth and directs some of them toward the polar regions. When these particles interact with atmospheric gases near the poles, they produce phenomena such as Aurora Borealis and Aurora Australis.

Answer: (a) The Earth’s magnetic field diverts them towards its poles; Difficulty Level: Easy