The different colors of light observed during auroras are due to:
A) solar wind particles of different energy interacting with the ozone layer.
B) solar wind particles heating atmospheric gases to different temperatures.
C) radioactive decay of solar wind particles.
D) de-excitation of different atmospheric gases excited by solar wind particles.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The different colors of light observed during auroras are due to the de-excitation of different atmospheric gases excited by solar wind particles. Each gas emits light at a specific wavelength when it returns to its original state, producing the characteristic colors of the aurora (e.g. green from oxygen, red from nitrogen).

The Different Colors of Light Observed During Auroras Are Due