I WONDER - What Causes The Aurora Borealis Effect?

The Northern Lights are formed when charged particles from the sun, such as electrons and protons, interact with Earth's magnetic field. As these particles travel towards Earth, they collide with the magnetic field, exciting gas particles in the atmosphere. This excitation causes the gas particles to emit light, resulting in the beautiful colors of the Northern Lights.

What is the process that leads to the formation of the Northern Lights?

Which particles from the sun interact with the Earth's magnetic field?

How do the charged particles from the sun contribute to the colors of the Northern Lights?

What happens to gas particles in the Earth's atmosphere when they are excited?

Describe the dazzling array of colors that make up the Northern Lights.