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Name:  Sabrina M.
Status:  student
Age:  17
Location: N/A
Country: N/A
Date: 2000-2001
Question:
How does sunspot activity affect radio reception?

Replies:
Sabrina,

The sun emits light waves of all frequencies, even as low as radio waves and as high as gamma rays. Our eyes only see the visible light, but it is all there. The sun also emits many charged particles. When sunspot activity increases, solar flares result. These are extra bursts of x-rays and electrically charged particles. When this extra activity reaches the earth, it interferes with all electromagnetic waves. It is most noticeable in the low frequency radio waves.

Dr. Ken Mellendorf


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