The aurora borealis is caused by fluorescence, not Cherenkov radiation. This conclusion was established in a forum discussion where participants clarified the mechanisms behind the phenomenon. Fluorescence occurs when charged particles from the solar wind interact with the Earth's atmosphere, resulting in the colorful displays observed in polar regions. Cherenkov radiation, on the other hand, is unrelated to this atmospheric effect.
PREREQUISITESStudents of atmospheric science, physicists interested in optical phenomena, and anyone seeking to understand the science behind the aurora borealis.