Exploring the Mystery of Cosmic Rays: Facts and Theories

In summary, cosmic rays are high-energy particles, mostly protons and electrons, coming from outer space. They make up a large portion of the solar wind, along with electrons. They are also known as Galactic Cosmic Radiation (GCR). Gamma and X-rays are secondary radiations caused by interactions between cosmic rays and Earth's atmosphere and magnetic field.
  • #1
cowah22
15
0
Are cosmic rays electromagnetic rays coming down from outer space? I've also read they are actually 90 percent protons, but I'm not sure what they are now. Thanks in advance.
 
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  • #2
The solar wind is largerly electrons and protons, and cosmic rays are also largely electrons and protons, but also heavier particles.

One will find references to Galactic Cosmic Radiation (GCR).

Here is a good reference - http://helios.gsfc.nasa.gov/cosmic.html
http://imagine.gsfc.nasa.gov/docs/science/know_l1/cosmic_rays.html
http://www-spof.gsfc.nasa.gov/Education/wcosray.html

http://www.oulu.fi/~spaceweb/textbook/crays.html

http://hyperphysics.phy-astr.gsu.edu/Hbase/astro/cosmic.html

http://www2.slac.stanford.edu/vvc/cosmic_rays.html


Gamma and X-rays are secondary radiations from the cosmic rays (charged particles) interacting with the atoms/nuclei in our atmosphere and the Earth's magnetic field.
 
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1. What are cosmic rays?

Cosmic rays are high-energy particles that originate from outside of our solar system. They can range in size from tiny subatomic particles to massive atomic nuclei.

2. How are cosmic rays detected?

Cosmic rays are detected through a variety of methods, including ground-based detectors, high-altitude balloons, and satellite-based instruments. These detectors measure the interactions between cosmic rays and Earth's atmosphere or magnetic field.

3. Where do cosmic rays come from?

The exact origin of cosmic rays is still a mystery, but scientists believe that they come from a variety of sources such as supernovae, black holes, and other high-energy events in our galaxy and beyond.

4. What are the potential effects of cosmic rays on Earth?

On Earth, most cosmic rays are blocked by our atmosphere and magnetic field. However, some high-energy cosmic rays can penetrate and cause damage to electronic equipment and even pose a health risk to astronauts and airline crew members.

5. What are some current theories about cosmic rays?

There are several theories about the origin and nature of cosmic rays, including the shock acceleration theory, the supernova remnant theory, and the active galactic nuclei theory. Scientists are continually studying and developing new theories to better understand the mysteries of cosmic rays.

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