Auroras, Wildfires, Earthquakes, and Weathering

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Causes of auroras in the atmosphere

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Auroras are caused by charged particles from the solar wind interacting with Earth's magnetic field and atmosphere.

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Gases responsible for the green and red colors of the aurora

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Oxygen causes green and red colors.

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Location of auroras in Haines, Alaska

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Because Haines is near the magnetic pole where charged particles are directed.

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Effect of solar activity on aurora frequency

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Increased solar activity leads to stronger solar winds, increasing aurora frequency.

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Layer of the atmosphere where auroras occur

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Thermosphere.

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Source of ignition in most wildfires

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Lightning, human activity, or heat sources.

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Wildfires and droughts

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Dry vegetation acts as fuel for fires.

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Wind's effect on the spread of wildfires

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Wind can carry embers and increase oxygen supply, spreading fire quickly.

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Natural benefits of wildfires

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They clear dead vegetation and help certain seeds germinate.

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Wildfire risk in coastal Haines vs. interior Alaska

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Coastal areas are wetter, while interior areas are drier and hotter.