UPSC Prelims 2022 · Question 40 of 98

UPSC Prelims 2022 question on Solar Storm Effects

If a major solar storm (solar-flare) reaches the Earth, which of the following are the possible effects on the Earth?

1. GPS and navigation systems could fail.

2. Tsunamis could occur at equatorial regions.

3. Power grids could be damaged.

4. Intense auroras could occur over much of the Earth.

5. Forest fires could take place over much of the planet.

6. Orbits of the satellites could be disturbed.

7. Shortwave radio communication of the aircraft flying over polar regions could be interrupted.

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

  1. 1, 2, 4 and 5 only
  2. 2, 3, 5, 6 and 7 only
  3. 1, 3, 4, 6 and 7 only
  4. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 and 7
Show answer

Answer: C. 1, 3, 4, 6 and 7 only

Analysis

Correct effects: 1, 3, 4, 6 and 7 → Option (c).

Statement by statement

Statement 1 – CORRECT: Solar flares and associated CMEs can disrupt GPS and navigation systems by causing geomagnetic storms.

Statement 2 – INCORRECT: Tsunami is a purely seismic phenomenon caused by earthquakes, volcanic eruptions and other underwater explosions. Solar flares will not cause tsunamis.

Statement 3 – CORRECT: CME particles can induce electric fluctuations at ground level that could blow out transformers in power grids.

Statement 4 – CORRECT: Strong geomagnetic storms can lead to auroras closer to the equator than is possible during calm conditions.

Statement 5 – INCORRECT: Solar flares are not fires but outbursts of electromagnetic radiation. They will not cause forest fires on Earth.

Statement 6 – CORRECT: CME particles can collide with crucial electronics onboard a satellite and disrupt its systems, including disturbing orbital paths.

Statement 7 – CORRECT: Expected high-frequency communication blackouts, satellite anomalies, GPS scintillations, airline communication impacts — shortwave radio communication over polar regions can be interrupted.

More questions on Space Technology

All 22 questions on Space Technology →

← Full 2022 question paper · All Science and Technology questions