Correct Answer:
B. Solar Wind
The correct answer is Solar Wind. The solar wind is a continuous, high-speed stream of charged particles — primarily electrons and protons — that are ejected from the Sun's outermost atmosphere, the corona, and travel through interplanetary space.
Solar Wind vs. Other Solar Phenomena
- What is Solar Wind?: Composed mostly of plasma, the solar wind extends far beyond the planets, forming the heliosphere. It travels at speeds between 300 and 800 km/s and is responsible for phenomena like the auroras (Northern and Southern Lights) when it interacts with Earth's magnetic field.
- Distinction from Solar Flares: Solar flares are sudden, intense bursts of radiation and energy from the Sun's surface, not a continuous flow. They are explosive events, whereas the solar wind is a steady stream. Flares can accelerate particles but are not the same as the persistent solar wind.
- Cosmic Wind vs. Radiation: Cosmic wind is not a standard scientific term; the proper terminology is solar wind. General radiation encompasses many forms (electromagnetic, thermal, etc.), but the question specifically points to charged particles, which defines the solar wind.
- Impact on Earth and Technology: The solar wind can disturb satellite electronics, disrupt communications, and even affect power grids during geomagnetic storms. Space weather monitoring is crucial for predicting its effects.
Therefore, the charged particles coming from the sun are called solar wind.