Gamma ray bursts are powerful and brief flashes of gamma ray radiation that can last from a few milliseconds to a few minutes. They are the most energetic explosions in the universe and are thought to be caused by the collapse of massive stars or the merging of neutron stars.
Gamma ray bursts can last anywhere from a fraction of a second to a few seconds, with the average duration being around 2 seconds. However, there have been rare cases where GRBs have lasted for several minutes.
The exact cause of the short duration of gamma ray bursts is still a matter of research and debate among scientists. However, it is believed that the central engine powering the burst runs out of fuel or collapses after a few seconds, ending the burst.
No, gamma ray bursts are not dangerous to Earth. They occur at such a great distance from our planet that the energy is spread out and poses no risk to us. In fact, GRBs may have played a role in the evolution of life on Earth by providing necessary elements for the formation of complex molecules.
Yes, scientists use specialized instruments on satellites and ground-based telescopes to detect and study gamma ray bursts. These instruments can pinpoint the location and duration of the bursts, providing valuable information about their nature and origins. However, due to their short duration, GRBs are difficult to study and require a quick response from researchers.