Correct Answer:
Option D —
i, ii and iv only
Solar storms are fascinating (and slightly terrifying) bursts of energy from the sun, but they don't affect everything on Earth equally. Here is the breakdown of why those specific options are correct:
1. GPS and Satellite Communications (i)
Solar flares and Coronal Mass Ejections (CMEs) release massive amounts of radiation and charged particles. When these hit our ionosphere, they cause turbulence that scatters radio signals. This leads to "GPS drift" or total signal loss, which is a major headache for aviation and maritime navigation.
2. Destruction of Power Grids (ii)
As the solar wind rattles the Earth’s magnetic field, it creates Geomagnetically Induced Currents (GICs). These currents can flow into high-voltage power lines and overwhelm transformers, literally melting their internals and causing widespread blackouts.
3. Intense Auroras (iv)
The "Northern" and "Southern" Lights are usually confined to the poles. However, during an intense solar storm, the surge of particles is so strong that the auroral ovals expand. Historically, during events like the Carrington Event of 1859, auroras were visible as far south as the Caribbean and Hawaii.
Why "Tsunamis" (iii) is incorrect
This is a common "trick" in science quizzes.
Tsunamis are geological events caused by the displacement of water, usually due to underwater earthquakes, landslides, or volcanic eruptions.
Solar Storms are electromagnetic and atmospheric events. While they can slightly affect the atmosphere's density, they do not have the physical force to move the ocean's tectonic plates or displace massive volumes of water to create a tsunami.
Note: While solar storms don't cause tsunamis, they can interfere with the sensors used to detect them, which is a different kind of danger!
Answer verified by Quintessence Classes faculty — Karan Nagar, Srinagar.
