Information in Radio Waves
Radio Observations of Space Weather: Summative Assessment Competencies being Assessed: Develop a model based on evidence to illustrate the life span of the sun and the role of nuclear HS-­‐ESS1-­‐1 fusion in the sun’s core to release energy in the form of radiation. Use a model to describe how variations in the flow of energy into and out of Earth’s systems HS-­‐ESS2-­‐4 result in changes in climate. Scoring Rubric: 4 All criteria from 1-­‐3 plus: 3 All criteria from 1-­‐2 plus: 2 1 All criteria from 1 plus: Part 1 completed accurately Part1: Foundations Diagram and label the correct parts of the Atmosphere including elevations above sea level, and show the general trend in temperature with increasing elevation. sea level Temperature à RET 2013 Atmospheric Structure Stratosphere Ionosphere Troposphere Exosphere Thermosphere 1 Information in Radio Waves
Label the correct parts of the solar interior and atmosphere photosphere Sun’s structure Convective zone Flare Chromosphere Coronal Hole Core Radiative zone Sunspots Prominence Part 2: Applications 1. Describe the effect of the night and day differences in AM radio transmission and what does this tell us about the ionosphere? Answers may vary, during the day time AM transmissions are limited in distance due to attenuation in the ionosphere and other sources of interference. At Night, the total ion concentration drops and the ionosphere reflects the AM waves allowing for longer distance transmissions. 2. What is the primary evidence for fusion in the core of the sun being the primary source of energy for the sun and consequently us. The detection of neutrinos with a trajectory emanating from the sun. RET 2013 2 Information in Radio Waves
3. What are some surface features of the sun that are associated with : a. Convection beneath the photosphere -­‐ granulation b. Lower surface temperature-­‐sunspots c. Broad regional loops in magnetic field lines -­‐Promenance d. The projection of material out of the solar atmosphere into the interplanetary solar wind.-­‐ Coronal Mass Ejection (CME) e. When magnetic field lines break and reform again Part 3: Extensions Using a model of the energy budget for solar radiation and using the temperature profile of the atmosphere. Make an argument for the cause and effect relationship between atmospheric composition and the temperature profile of the atmosphere. Answers may vary but students should cite the two resources in making their claim. They should connect absorption of sunlight and earth’s IR radiation as increasing thermal energy by the atmosphere. Shapley, 2012 RET 2013 3 Information in Radio Waves
RET 2013 4