The NOAA Space Weather Scales describe three types of space weather storms: Geomagnetic storms, Solar Radiation storms, and Radio Blackouts. A single large solar event can result in all three types of storms being observed at Earth. Assuming a single solar event causes all three to occur, in what order would we expect to observe the three storms?
The NOAA Space Weather Scales describe three types of space weather storms: Geomagnetic storms, Solar Radiation storms, and Radio Blackouts. A single large solar event can result in all three types of storms being observed at Earth. Assuming a single solar event causes all three to occur, in what order would we expect to observe the three storms?
Choose the correct order from the options below. The storms are listed by arrival time, from first to last.
A. First Geomagnetic, then Solar Radiation, then Radio Blackout.
B. First Solar Radiation, then Radio Blackout, then Geomagnetic.
C. First Radio Blackout, then Geomagnetic, then Solar Radiation.
D. First Geomagnetic, then Radio Blackout, then Solar Radiation.
E. First Radio Blackout, then Solar Radiation, then Geomagnetic.
F. First Solar Radiation, then Geomagnetic, then Radio Blackout.
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Here is what AI said. Which answer is correct, B or E?
The correct order of the storms as they would be observed at Earth from a single large solar event would be:
E. First Radio Blackout, then Solar Radiation, then Geomagnetic.
Here's the reasoning:
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Radio Blackout: This occurs immediately after a solar flare. The increased X-ray and UV radiation from the flare reaches Earth in just over 8 minutes, causing ionization in the Earth's ionosphere and leading to disruptions in radio communications.
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Solar Radiation Storm: Following the flare, energetic protons and other charged particles are emitted, which may reach Earth within tens of minutes to a few hours. This constitutes the solar radiation storm and can affect space-based technologies and pose risks to astronauts.
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Geomagnetic Storm: If the solar flare is associated with a coronal mass ejection (CME), the particles from the CME may reach Earth within 1 to 3 days, depending on their speed. Interaction of the CME with Earth's magnetic field can cause a geomagnetic storm, leading to auroras and potential disruptions to power grids and satellite operations.
So the correct order is option E.
by Bartleby Expert