UPSC CSE Prelims
Question 69
Electrically charged particles from space travelling at speeds of several hundred km/sec can severely harm living beings if they reach the surface of the Earth. What prevents them from reaching the surface of the Earth?
View correct answer and explanation
Correct answer: A
Correct Option: A
Explanation: Earth’s magnetosphere deflects many incoming charged solar/cosmic particles and guides some into polar regions, where auroras can occur.
Option-wise Analysis:
A: Correct - Correct: the geomagnetic field alters the motion of charged particles.
B: Incorrect - Ozone absorbs certain ultraviolet photons; it does not reflect charged space particles.
C: Incorrect - Atmospheric moisture is not the primary deflection mechanism for energetic charged particles.
D: Incorrect - The magnetic-field mechanism described in A is valid.