UPSC PRELIMS · GEOGRAPHY · SOLAR STORMS AND SPACE WEATHER

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:

Take a breath. Choose one. Press A–D on your keyboard if you like.

EXPLANATION

Geomagnetic storms can disrupt GPS, power grids, satellites and radio communication and can intensify auroras; they do not cause ordinary tsunamis or worldwide forest fires.

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