The aurora borealis:
A)is a different type of physical phenomenon than the aurora australis.
B)gains its energy from sunlight reflected from Earth.
C)is typically strongest near the equator.
D)emits light as electrons move from higher orbits around the nucleus to lower ones.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The aurora borealis (northern lights) and aurora australis (southern lights) are caused by charged particles from the sun interacting with the Earth's magnetic field and atmosphere. These particles excite atoms in the atmosphere, and when these atoms return to their normal state, they emit light. This process involves electrons moving to higher energy states and then releasing energy as light when they fall back to their original states, not from sunlight reflection or being stronger near the equator.

The Aurora Borealis