What are cosmic radiations?

Cosmic radiations are the radiations from space. Cosmic rays travel through space and, they hit the earth and other planets. Our solar system's Sun and other stars emit these rays. These rays are made of energy and travel at lightning speed in the sky. These rays consist of protons, electrons, and neutrons with a proton in abundance. 

As cosmic radiations travel in magnetic fields, it is hard to comprehend from where they are coming. One way to learn about these radiations is to study their compositions. All the natural elements which are present in the periodic table are present in these radiations. The basic unit of measurement of the energy present in these cosmic rays is the electronvolt or eV. One eV is the amount of energy gained by every electron while passing through an electric potential of one volt. As the energy of cosmic radiations increases, the frequency of the particles present in them decreases. 

The earth's atmosphere and the magnetic sheet above us protect us from these harmful cosmic radiations. The earth's magnetic sheet is strongest at the equator and weakest around the poles.There are no other natural elements that protect us from cosmic radiations other than the magnetic sheet around the earth.

 Solar Events- These events can raise the radiation level. Solar events include solar flares and solar mass ejections, as well as other events. Solar flares are when sunspots interact with one and another and cause an explosion on sun's surface. Coronal mass ejections are the electromagnetic radiations that happen on the outer layer of the sun's surface. 

Flying vehicles- When we travel through airplanes, we are closer to outer space. With less atmosphere to protect us, we are more exposed to these radiations. The length of the flight and the height at which we travel determines the number of radiations we receive. 

Protection from the cosmic radiations- 

1. Always wear lotion or moisturizer that protects from these harmful radiations. 
2. Try to avoid going out on sunny days. That's when these radiations are high.
3. Have a black shield on your windows at home and put curtains. 
4. If you have any skin condition, try to avoid sunbathing or going out without precautions. 
5. Many times these radiations cause acute diarrhoea, vomit, nausea, and eye problems. It is vital to take care of yourself in summer from these rays. 

The cosmic rays cause more harm now because of the depletion of the ozone layer. 

By Muskan Srivastava