Supernova and Its Impact on Earth

The video explores the impact of a supernova that occurred 2.5 million years ago, which was close enough to Earth to be visible during the day. This event led to a shower of cosmic rays that may have influenced Earth's climate and plant growth. Scientists have tracked the remnants of this supernova through radioactive isotopes like Iron-60 found in ocean sediments. The video discusses the challenges of finding these isotopes and the implications of potential future supernovae. It concludes with a sponsorship message from Munk Pack.

What type of products does Munk Pack offer?

• Dairy-based products

• Low-sugar bars

• High-sugar snacks

• Meat-based snacks

How did the supernova event potentially affect Earth's climate?

• By increasing sea levels

• By causing volcanic eruptions

• By facilitating plant growth and cooling the planet

• By increasing Earth's temperature

What evidence do scientists use to track past supernova events?

• Fossil records

• Radioactive particles in the ocean

• Ancient cave paintings

• Meteorite impacts

What is Iron-60 and why is it significant?

• A stable element found in Earth's core

• A type of cosmic dust

• A common isotope of iron

• A radioactive isotope indicating past supernovae

Where was Iron-60 found that helped scientists study past supernovae?

• In desert sands

• In volcanic rocks

• In the ocean's ferromanganese crusts

• In the atmosphere

How far away was the supernova that left traces of Iron-60 on Earth?

• 1000-2000 light-years

• 500-1000 light-years

• 150-300 light-years

• 50-100 light-years

What is the likelihood of a supernova affecting Earth in the near future?

• Low, as no nearby stars are likely to go supernova soon

• Moderate, within the next century

• Impossible, as supernovae cannot affect Earth

• Very high, within the next decade

Which star is the closest supernova candidate to Earth?

• Betelgeuse

• Alpha Centauri

• Sirius

• Proxima Centauri

What would be the visible effect on Earth if a nearby supernova occurred?

• Complete darkness

• A bright light visible during the day

• A sudden increase in temperature

• Massive earthquakes

What is the main reason scientists are not worried about a nearby supernova?

• Supernovae are too far to affect Earth

• Supernovae only occur in other galaxies

• There are no stars close enough to go supernova soon

• Earth's atmosphere can block all supernova effects