If a major solar storm (solar flare) reaches the Earth, which of the following are the possible effects on the Earth?
- GPS and navigation systems could fail.
- Tsunamis could occur at equatorial regions.
- Power grids could be damaged.
- Intense auroras could occur over much of the Earth.
- Forest fires could take place over much of the planet.
- Orbits of the satellites could be disturbed.
- 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.
