Electricity in Nature – Auroras

Auroras occur when electrically charged particles from the sun’s atmosphere reach the earth’s atmosphere. When they react with the gases in the earth’s atmosphere, particles of light are created. The color of the light is dependent on the type of gas and the location of the gas in the atmosphere. Auroras can be used to discuss several topics including:

• • Electricity
  • Electromagnetism
  • Space and our place in the universe
  • Environment and ecosystems

For more information on auroras, here are some links:

EarthSky: What causes the aurora? Age range: 12 and up.

How Stuff Works: How does the aurora work? Age range: 12 and up.

Video: What causes the northern lights?Age range: 12 and up.

Video: How are the northern lights created? Age range: 12 an up.