Solar Wind Interaction
The plasma physics interaction between the Sun's supersonic coronal plasma stream and Earth's geomagnetic field.
Governing formula
Bow Shock Formation (Supersonic Magnetosheath Plasma Flow)
SI unit
Plasma Density & Velocity
In depth
Forms a bow shock upstream of Earth where solar wind slows to subsonic speeds. Magnetic reconnection between interplanetary magnetic field (IMF) and Earth's field transfers energy into the magnetosphere.
Examples in the real world
Solar coronal mass ejections (CMEs) impacting Earth's magnetosphere and triggering geomagnetic storms.