The auroral display of northern and southern lights high in Earth's atmosphere is caused by
A) solar wind electrons hitting the high atmosphere after being accelerated in the magnetic fields of the magnetosphere.
B) fluorescence caused by absorption of solar ultraviolet light by ozone molecules.
C) reflection of sunlight from the ice in the polar regions.
D) sunlight scattered by very high atmospheric clouds.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The auroral displays, known as the Northern and Southern Lights, are primarily caused by solar wind electrons colliding with the Earth's atmosphere. These electrons are accelerated by the Earth's magnetosphere, a region around the planet dominated by its magnetic field, leading to the beautiful light displays when they interact with gases in the high atmosphere.

The Auroral Display of Northern and Southern Lights High in Earth's