Cosmic Rays
Cosmic rays are high-energy particles, primarily protons, that travel through space and occasionally collide with Earth's atmosphere. They originate from various sources, including supernovae, black holes, and active galactic nuclei, indicating energetic processes in the universe. When cosmic rays enter our atmosphere, they interact with air molecules, creating secondary particles that can be detected on the ground. Studying these particles helps scientists understand fundamental physics, the composition of the universe, and the processes occurring in distant galaxies, bridging observations in astrophysics with high-energy physics research.
Additional Insights
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Cosmic rays are high-energy particles that originate from space and travel through the universe at nearly the speed of light. They mainly consist of protons, but can also include heavier atomic nuclei and other particles. When these cosmic rays enter Earth's atmosphere, they collide with air molecules, creating a shower of secondary particles. Although they constantly bombard Earth, the atmosphere and magnetic field protect us from most of their effects. Scientists study cosmic rays to learn more about the universe, including the processes occurring in stars and other celestial phenomena.
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Cosmic rays are high-energy particles that originate from outer space and travel through the universe. Primarily composed of protons, they can also include heavier atomic nuclei and electrons. When these particles enter Earth's atmosphere, they collide with air molecules, creating secondary particles and radiation. Although they are mostly harmless, some cosmic rays can pose risks to astronauts in space and can even affect technology and electronics on Earth. Researchers study cosmic rays to learn more about the universe's origins, high-energy processes, and the fundamental nature of matter.