Description:

The correct answer is: Solar wind particles.

🌌 What Causes Auroras?

Auroras (Aurora Borealis in the north and Aurora Australis in the south) are caused by:

Solar wind particles—high-energy, charged particles emitted by the Sun.

When these particles reach Earth, they're guided by the planet’s magnetic field toward the polar regions.

They collide with atoms and molecules in the upper atmosphere (mostly oxygen and nitrogen), exciting them.

As these excited particles return to their normal state, they release light—creating the shimmering, colorful displays we call auroras.

🌈 Colors of Auroras:

Green – Most common; caused by oxygen at lower altitudes.

Red – Caused by oxygen at higher altitudes.

Purple/Blue – Caused by nitrogen.