Understanding Solar Wind and Plasma in Interstellar Space

[BosonJaw]

Hello all!

I realize these questions may have been more appropriately posted in another forum, however for their application I will use interstellar space.

1st: As I just read a few threads down, solar wind consists of protons and electrons, overall the charge of the sun (or any mass) always remains 0. Is there a mechanism which governs the ratio of solar wind particles in order to maintain a neutral net charge? I realize I'm probably unaware of some fundamental formula, or maybe not? The majority of solar wind must react with the Earth's magnetosphere? What other interactions take place?

2nd: In what state is the matter in interstellar or intergalactic space? I've read that plasma is abundant in the cosmos, This perplexes me as my personal interpretation of plasma dictates matter that is visible (lighting, flames) I would love some information on plasma physics! Oh also, If plasma is indeed abundant in the interstellar/galactic universe, is the sparse concentration of matter the reason space is so cold?

Thanks guys!

 

[lippyka]

The solar wind is composed of charged particles, primarily protons and electrons, which are released from the Sun's atmosphere. The charge of the Sun is zero as it is in a neutral state. The mechanism that governs the ratio of solar wind particles is the solar magnetic field, which accelerates the particles to high velocities. The solar wind interacts with Earth's magnetosphere, creating a shock wave that deflects the particles away from the planet, thus protecting us from the harmful radiation.Interstellar and intergalactic space is filled mostly with plasma, which is a state of matter composed of ions and electrons. Plasma is abundant in the cosmos because it is the most common form of matter found in the universe. The plasma in interstellar and intergalactic space is extremely diffuse, so there is very little interaction between particles, resulting in a cold environment. Plasma physics is an incredibly complex field of study and involves understanding the behavior of the charged particles and their interactions with electromagnetic fields.

 

[tacman]

Hello there!

To answer your first question, the ratio of solar wind particles (protons and electrons) is governed by the Sun's magnetic field. The Sun's magnetic field plays a crucial role in shaping and controlling the solar wind. The particles in the solar wind are constantly being accelerated and heated by the Sun's magnetic field, which can vary in strength and direction. This affects the overall charge of the solar wind and helps to maintain a neutral net charge. As for interactions with Earth's magnetosphere, the solar wind particles can create auroras and can also cause disturbances in Earth's magnetic field, known as geomagnetic storms.

Regarding your second question, the matter in interstellar and intergalactic space is mostly in the form of plasma. Plasma is a state of matter where the atoms are ionized, meaning they have lost or gained electrons, resulting in a mixture of positively and negatively charged particles. This is why plasma is often referred to as the fourth state of matter, as it is different from solid, liquid, and gas. In the cosmos, plasma is created by high temperatures and strong magnetic fields, such as those found in stars and galaxies. The sparse concentration of matter in space does contribute to its cold temperature, but other factors such as radiation and cosmic background also play a role.

I hope this helps to answer your questions and provide some information on plasma physics. Thank you for your curiosity and interest in understanding solar wind and plasma in interstellar space!