Are Cosmic Rays Just Electromagnetic Rays from Space?

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SUMMARY

Cosmic rays are primarily composed of protons, accounting for approximately 90% of their composition, along with electrons and heavier particles. They differ from electromagnetic rays, as cosmic rays consist of charged particles rather than electromagnetic radiation. Galactic Cosmic Radiation (GCR) is a significant aspect of cosmic rays, which interact with Earth's atmosphere, producing secondary radiations such as gamma and X-rays. For further information, resources from NASA and various educational institutions provide in-depth insights into cosmic rays and their properties.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of particle physics and cosmic radiation
  • Familiarity with the concepts of protons and electrons
  • Knowledge of atmospheric interactions with cosmic rays
  • Basic comprehension of electromagnetic radiation versus particle radiation
NEXT STEPS
  • Research Galactic Cosmic Radiation (GCR) and its implications
  • Explore the interaction of cosmic rays with Earth's atmosphere
  • Learn about secondary radiation produced by cosmic rays, such as gamma and X-rays
  • Investigate the sources and types of cosmic rays, including solar and galactic origins
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Astrophysicists, educators in physics, students studying particle physics, and anyone interested in the nature and effects of cosmic rays.

cowah22
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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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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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