In the upper part of the atmosphere is the ionosphere, so named because it contains many ions-electrically charged atoms that are the result of ultraviolet light and intense cosmic ray bombardment. Tidal effects in the ionosphere produce electric currents that alter the magnetic field that surrounds the Earth. These are magnetic tides. They, in turn, regulate the degree to which cosmic rays penetrate into the lower atmosphere. The cosmic-ray penetration is evident in subtle changes in the behaviors of living things. The highs and lows of magnetic tides are greatest when the atmosphere is having spring tides--again, near the full and new Moon.
The gravitational influence of every material object, however small or however far, is exerted through all of space.
--Paul Hewitt. Conceptual Physics 10.
Funny how science comes running back around and smacks right into personal mythology sometimes. I'm pulling on everyone and everyone is pulling back on me. The farthest comet. The closest houseplant. Cosmic ray bombardment.
Posted by Sonya at February 12, 2006 02:34 PMYeah.
Posted by: Joshua at February 12, 2006 03:28 PMYou got it.
Posted by: nathaniel at February 12, 2006 06:40 PMyour ionic field deflector might need a little adjustment
Posted by: captainwow at February 14, 2006 07:09 AMapparently, this has been my problem for the past few weeks. and I was blaming it on the doldrums of winter. hm.
Posted by: jwilliam at February 14, 2006 07:24 PM