TED-Ed: Why the Sun could crash your internet | Fabio Pacucci

The video discusses the Carrington Event, a massive solar storm in 1859, and its effects on Earth. It explains how solar storms are caused by magnetic fields and sunspots, leading to coronal mass ejections that can impact Earth's technology. The video highlights historical events where solar storms disrupted technology and emphasizes the importance of preparedness and mitigation strategies to protect modern electrical systems from future solar storms.

What was the primary cause of the Carrington event?

• A meteor shower

• A lunar eclipse

• A solar storm

• A volcanic eruption

What are coronal mass ejections primarily composed of?

• Neutrons and protons

• Protons and electrons

• Electrons and neutrons

• Photons and neutrons

What natural phenomenon is caused by high-energy particles exciting atmospheric atoms?

• Tornadoes

• Earthquakes

• Auroras

• Solar flares

How do solar storms affect Earth's electrical systems?

• They improve battery life

• They create rogue currents

• They enhance signal strength

• They stabilize power grids

What is one method used to protect power grids from solar storms?

• Installing solar panels

• Using wind turbines

• Shutting off power grids in advance

• Increasing power output