Solar wind

Definition

Solar wind is a continuous stream of charged particles released from the upper atmosphere of the Sun, called the corona. It consists primarily of electrons, protons, and alpha particles.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Solar wind originates from the Sun's corona and extends throughout the solar system.
2. The speed of solar wind varies between 300 to 800 kilometers per second.
3. Interactions between solar wind and Earth's magnetosphere can cause geomagnetic storms.
4. Solar wind plays a crucial role in shaping planetary magnetospheres and creating auroras.
5. The boundary where solar wind pressure balances with interstellar medium pressure is called the heliopause.

Review Questions

• What are the primary components of solar wind?
• How does solar wind affect Earth's magnetosphere?
• What is the significance of the heliopause in relation to solar wind?

Related terms

Corona:

The outermost part of the Sun's atmosphere, visible during a total solar eclipse.

Geomagnetic Storm: A temporary disturbance of Earth's magnetosphere caused by solar wind shock waves.

Aurora: Natural light displays predominantly seen in high-latitude regions, caused by interactions between solar wind and Earth's magnetic field.