Maasähkövirrat

Mäksähkövirrat, also known as telluric currents, are natural electric currents that flow through the Earth's crust and oceans. These currents are generated by the interaction of the Earth's magnetic field with charged particles from the sun, particularly during geomagnetic storms. The continuous movement of solar wind, a stream of plasma from the Sun, induces electric fields within the Earth's conductive layers.

The intensity of mäksähkövirrat can vary significantly depending on solar activity. During periods of high solar activity, such as solar flares or coronal mass ejections, these currents can become much stronger and more widespread. The Earth's magnetic field acts as a conductor, and the fluctuations in the magnetic field caused by solar activity induce these telluric currents.

Mäksähkövirrat can have several effects. They can induce currents in long metallic structures like pipelines and power lines, potentially causing corrosion or disrupting electrical systems. They are also responsible for aurora borealis and aurora australis, the visible light displays seen in the polar regions. Scientists study mäksähkövirrat to understand the Earth's electromagnetic environment, predict space weather, and assess potential impacts on technological infrastructure. The conductivity of the Earth's crust and mantle plays a crucial role in how these currents propagate.