Magnetism: Auroras

The video explains how Earth's magnetosphere protects it from solar wind, but some charged particles penetrate and are trapped in the Van Allen radiation belts. These particles can cause the atmosphere to glow, creating auroras, which are visible at the magnetic poles. Auroras at the North Pole are called aurora borealis, while those at the South Pole are called aurora australis.

What is the primary function of Earth's magnetosphere?

• To generate solar wind

• To protect Earth from solar wind

• To create auroras

• To trap charged particles

Where are charged particles trapped after penetrating Earth's magnetic field?

• In the Van Allen radiation belts

• In the ocean

• In the atmosphere

• In the magnetosphere

What happens when charged particles get too close to Earth's atmosphere?

• They cause the air to glow

• They create thunderstorms

• They increase Earth's temperature

• They form clouds

What is the name given to auroras seen at the North Pole?

• Southern lights

• Aurora borealis

• Equatorial lights

• Aurora australis

Where are auroras most commonly observed?

• In the desert

• At the equator

• At the magnetic poles

• In the tropics