What are cosmic rays and what are their effects on Earth?

Cosmic rays are high-speed particles, such as atoms or electrons, that travel through space. Many of these particles come from sources within our galaxy. When they reach Earth's atmosphere, they collide with air molecules, creating a cascade of subatomic particles. These collisions can cause electronic devices to malfunction or even damage DNA in living organisms.

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Charged cosmic rays have been known since 1912 when physicist Victor Hess first described them. Their energy levels can vary, with some reaching levels millions of times greater than that produced by particle accelerators. Scientists continuously study cosmic rays to better understand their origins and effects. Despite their potential dangers, cosmic rays also play a crucial role in the formation of elements in the universe and may have contributed to the evolution of life on Earth.

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