Particles from Space

Question 1

Explain why charged particles follow a helical path in a magnetic field?

Answer 1

The charged particles have a component (of velocity) parallel to the magnetic field which moves then forwards in that direction at a constant speed.
The component of velocity perpendicular to the field causes a central force on the charged particle moving it in a circle.

Question 2

What is the symbol and units for magnetic field strength?

Answer 2

B
(Tesla)

Question 3

What are Van Allen Belts?

Answer 3

Where charged particles from the sun are trapped in the Earths magnetic field.

Question 4

What is solar wind?

Answer 4

Solar wind is made up from a stream of plasma released from the upper layers of the sun’s atmosphere.

Question 5

What is solar flare?

Answer 5

Intense variations in brightness occurring when the magnetic energy that has built up in the solar atmosphere is suddenly released throwing radioactive material into space and releasing radiation across the full range of frequencies contained in the electromagnetic spectrum.

Question 6

What are cosmic rays?

Answer 6

Cosmic rays are made up of subatomic particles and ions (such as protons as electrons). These particles travel through space at speeds close to the speed of light in all directions.

Question 7

How are the effects of cosmic rays seen on earth?

Answer 7

At the earths surface the effects are seen as cascades of secondary particles.