Physicists Determine Source of 'Killer' Electrons in Earth's Radiation Belt

Electrons trapped in the outer Van Allen radiation belt, a doughnut-shaped region of high-energy particles that surrounds Earth, kept in place by our planet's magnetic field, can have velocities approaching the speed of light. But the number of these “killer” electrons varies wildly: a few one day, many more the next. The cause has puzzled scientists – until now.

If you want to include this story in your blog, copy and paste this formatted text:

<p><a href="http://www.physorg.com/news111752449.html">Physicists Determine Source of 'Killer' Electrons in Earth's Radiation Belt</a></p> <p>Electrons trapped in the outer Van Allen radiation belt, a doughnut-shaped region of high-energy particles that surrounds Earth, kept in place by our planet's magnetic field, can have velocities approaching the speed of light. But the number of these “killer” electrons varies wildly: a few one day, many more the next. The cause has puzzled scientists – until now.</p>