If a major solar storm (solar-flare) reaches the Earth, which of the following are the possible effects on the Earth?
1. GPS and navigation systems could fail.
2. Tsunamis could occur at equatorial regions.
3. Power grids could be damaged.
4. Intense auroras could occur over much of the Earth.
5. Forest fires could take place over much of the planet.
6. Orbits of the satellites could be disturbed.
7. Shortwave radio communication of the aircraft flying over polar regions could be interrupted.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
Out of the listed effects of a major solar storm, the most likely ones are Statement 1 is correct. A solar storm can disrupt the Earth's ionosphere, which can affect the signal transmission of GPS and other radio-based navigation systems. Statement 3 is correct. Strong currents induced by the solar storm in power grids can damage transformers and cause widespread blackouts. Statement 4 is correct. Solar storms can energize particles in the Earth's magnetosphere, leading to spectacular auroras at lower latitudes than usual. Statement 6 is correct. The drag from a solar storm can alter the orbits of satellites, especially those in lower Earth orbit. Statement 7 is correct. Similar to GPS, radio communication can be affected by disturbances in the ionosphere. Statement 2 is incorrect. Tsunamis are caused by underwater earthquakes or volcanic eruptions, not solar storms. Statement 5 is incorrect. While a solar storm could potentially ignite some fires through electrical sparks, this is not a widespread effect. Therefore, codes 2 and 5 should not form the part of answer.