The magnetic field is what protects our earth from space
radiation with its sphere like shape. Parts of the charged
particles get into the earth’s atmosphere and penetrate
our magnetic field to collide with the atmosphere’s atoms
such as oxygen and nitrogen atoms. The collision releases
atoms called photons which are atoms that make up light.
This is the process that creates the beautiful northern
lights and is concentrated in a region called the auroral
oval. The collision of the charged solar particles with
oxygen gives off yellow and green whereas collisions with
nitrogen produces red and violet. As you can see, the
northern lights are truly amazing for the fact that it starts
from an extremely violent and hot location yet it comes
out to form a magical show for us to see on Earth.
It is truly mind blowing to see how nature works and even
the most dangerous objects in our universe can come to
help create some of the most breath-taking displays on
earth. So, the next time to come across the northern
lights, take a moment to think about their formation and
enjoy their magnificent beauty.
Sanduni is a Student
Ambassador at the ASLLC. She is
originally from Sri Lanka, and is
studying English at EdUHK.
Make sure to say hello if you see
her around!
JUNE 2017
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