Scientists all around the world are worried about sun flares, especially since the scientific community predicted an increase in solar activity by 2022. Solar flares emit radiation that could affect technology on Earth and cause serious health problems to humans if they reach a direct hit.
Solar flares occur when two magnetic forces collide with each other in the Sun’s atmosphere. The energy released in this collision is extremely powerful, causing the release of charged particles.
These charged particles are released in Earth’s direction following an electromagnetic force pushing them towards our planet at high speeds. Once they reach the Earth’s atmosphere, these particles collide with atoms and molecules producing light. This process can create a spectacular phenomenon known as Aurora Borealis or Northern Lights.
The problem with solar flares is that their collision with atoms and molecules in our atmosphere can cause disruptions in technology. The electric grid, telecommunications and navigation systems could be severely affected by the arrival of a large amount of charged particles and therefore cause problems to users.
Experts also estimate that a direct hit from a solar flare would expose people to dangerous doses of radiation, which could affect pregnant women and children. Solar flares can also cause problems with the weather on Earth by modifying its composition, especially in terms of cloud coverage.
The scientific community is particularly worried about the next solar cycle occurring between 2022 and 2024. This increase in solar activity will create an unprecedented number of sun spots that will emit dangerous levels of radiation. Scientists are therefore advising people to prepare for the upcoming eclipse that will take place between July 2019 and August 2021, but they find it difficult to warn the general population about what could happen because their scientific expertise is questioned by many people.
