Definition

1. Noun:
   • Radiation from space: "Cosmic radiation" refers to high-energy particles and electromagnetic waves that originate from outside Earth's solar system. This radiation constantly bombards Earth from various sources in the universe.

Usage

• "Cosmic radiation" is an uncountable noun. It is used to describe the phenomenon as a whole, not individual particles.
• It is often discussed in the contexts of astrophysics, space travel, and atmospheric science.
• Example:
• Example:

Examples

• Noun:
  • The Earth's magnetic field provides some protection from cosmic radiation.
  • Measurements of cosmic radiation can help map the structure of our galaxy.

Advanced Usage

• "Galactic cosmic radiation (GCR)": A specific term for the high-energy radiation originating from outside our solar system, primarily from supernova explosions.
  • Galactic cosmic radiation poses a significant challenge for long-duration human spaceflight.
• "Anomalous cosmic radiation": Refers to a particular component of cosmic radiation with unusual properties.
  • The probe's mission was to investigate the source of anomalous cosmic radiation.

Variants and Related Words

• Cosmic ray (n): Often used interchangeably with "cosmic radiation," though "cosmic ray" can specifically refer to the high-energy particles themselves.
  • A cosmic ray struck the detector.
• Cosmic background radiation (n): The faint remnant glow of radiation from the Big Bang, a specific type of cosmic radiation.
  • The cosmic background radiation is a key piece of evidence for the Big Bang theory.

Synonyms

• Space radiation: A more general term that can include radiation from the sun (solar radiation) as well as from deeper space.
• Galactic radiation: Radiation originating from within our galaxy, the Milky Way.

Related Phrases

• Shield from cosmic radiation: To protect against it.
  • The spacecraft's hull is designed to shield the crew from cosmic radiation.
• Exposure to cosmic radiation: The state of being subjected to it.
  • Pilots on long-haul flights have a slightly higher exposure to cosmic radiation.

Related Concepts

• Solar radiation: Radiation emitted by the Sun, which is distinct from cosmic radiation coming from outside the solar system.
• Radiation belt: Regions around a planet, like Earth's Van Allen belts, that trap charged particles, some of which come from cosmic radiation.

Noun

1. radiation coming from outside the solar system