If a major solar storm (solar flare) reaches the Earth, which of the following are the possible effects on the Earth?

  1. GPS and navigation systems could fail.
  2. Tsunamis could occur at equatorial regions.
  3. Power grids could be damaged.
  4. Intense auroras could occur over much of the Earth.
  5. Forest fires could take place over much of the planet.
  6. Orbits of the satellites could be disturbed.
  7. Shortwave radio communication of the aircraft flying over polar regions could be interrupted.

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

[UPSC Civil Services Exam – 2022 Prelims]

(a) 1, 2, 4 and 5 only

(b) 2, 3, 5, 6 and 7 only

(c) 1, 3, 4, 6 and 7 only

(d) 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 and 7


Answer: (c)

Explanation:

A solar flare is an intense localized eruption of electromagnetic radiation in the Sun’s atmosphere.

  • Solar flares can temporarily alter the upper atmosphere creating disruptions. But it does not cause Tsunamis. It only affects the upper atmosphere. Statement 2 is incorrect.
  • There is no causal link between the coronal mass ejections (CMEs) and the deadly forest fires. Statement 5 is incorrect.

If a major solar storm (solar flare) reaches the Earth, the possible effects on the Earth could include:

  • Power grids could be damaged due to the induced electric currents in power lines, transformers, and other electrical equipment.
  • Intense auroras could occur over much of the Earth as charged particles from the solar storm collide with the Earth’s atmosphere.
  • Orbits of the satellites could be disturbed due to the increased drag caused by the Earth’s expanded atmosphere.
  • Shortwave radio communication of the aircraft flying over Polar Regions could be interrupted due to the ionization of the atmosphere.
  • GPS and navigation systems could fail.

Consider the following statements:                                                                   The Parliament of India can place a particular law in the Ninth Schedule of the Constitution of India. The validity of a law placed in the Ninth Schedule cannot be examined by any court and no judgement can be made on it. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

Consider the following statements:                                               

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Consider the following statements:                                                         The Parliament of India can place a particular law in the Ninth Schedule of the Constitution of India. The validity of a law placed in the Ninth Schedule cannot be examined by any court and no judgement can be made on it. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

Consider the following statements:                                               

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