Scientists find the trigger of the Northern Lights

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In summary, the article discusses the surprising discovery that the snapping of magnetic fields occurs before the burst of auroras. This contradicts previous beliefs that the auroras were caused by the disruption in the charged particle current. The article also mentions the concept of magnetic reconnection and how it may be the initiating phenomenon for auroral substorms.
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http://www.nytimes.com/2008/07/25/science/space/25aurora.html?hp"


The snapping of magnetic fields occurred first, followed by a burst of auroras. Surprisingly, the disruption in the charged particle current occurred after the aurora. Proponents of that hypothesis had thought that the magnetic snapping caused the change in electric current and that, in turn, led to the auroras.

This is pretty suprising to me and I don't quite understand how the sequence could play out in this way. Regardless, it is a pretty interesting piece.



Medline
 
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I found that very interesting, it makes sense, thanks for posting it.
 
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The snapping of magnetic fields is known as magnetic reconnection.

It appears that the observations support magnetic reconnection as the initiating phenomenon for auroral substorms.

Tail Reconnection Triggering Substorm Onset - Science Magazine
http://www.sciencemag.org/cgi/content/abstract/1160495
 

1. What is the trigger of the Northern Lights?

The trigger of the Northern Lights, also known as the Aurora Borealis, is the interaction of charged particles from the sun with the Earth's magnetic field and atmosphere.

2. How do scientists study the trigger of the Northern Lights?

Scientists use a variety of tools and techniques to study the trigger of the Northern Lights, including satellites, ground-based instruments, and computer models.

3. Why is understanding the trigger of the Northern Lights important?

Understanding the trigger of the Northern Lights is important because it helps us understand the Earth's magnetic field and how it protects us from harmful solar activity. It also allows us to make predictions about when and where the Northern Lights will occur.

4. Can the trigger of the Northern Lights be predicted?

While scientists have a good understanding of the trigger of the Northern Lights, predicting the exact occurrence of the Northern Lights is still a challenge. However, advancements in technology and research have led to more accurate predictions.

5. Are there other natural phenomena similar to the Northern Lights?

Yes, there are other natural phenomena similar to the Northern Lights, such as the Southern Lights (Aurora Australis) and the polar lights on other planets in our solar system. These phenomena are all caused by interactions between solar particles and magnetic fields.

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