Radiation Belts and Trapped Particles

Abstract

This tutorial introduces students to Earth's radiation belts, also known as the Van Allen Belts after their discoverer. Topics include the structure of the radiation belts and the currents of particles trapped in Earth's magnetic fields, their properties, and where they come from. There is also a set of classroom activities for exploring radiation belts and solar storms and a set of illustrations and movies of the belts. Other materials include news items related to the radiation belts, recordings of 'space sounds' related to the influence of lightning on Earth's magnetic field, and a frequently-asked-questions feature. Educational levels: Primary elementary, Intermediate elementary, Middle school, High school