Why are the auroras multicolored? - Extra Education

Q. Why are the auroras multicolored?

During collisions, atmospheric atoms can lose electrons (ionize) or turn into an excited state for a short time. Photons with different wavelengths are emitted, which is what the human eye or camera sees.

Oxygen is responsible for the green or brownish-red color, as well as the greenish-yellow polar lights. Other constituents of the atmosphere also make small contributions, such as hydrogen and helium giving blue and purple colors.

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Last Updated : Nov 03, 2021