which of the following descriptors indicates the greatest solar flare intensity?
The intensity of solar flares is typically classified using a system called the “solar flare classification.” This classification is based on the peak flux (Watts per square meter) of X-rays emitted by the flare, measured at a specific wavelength. The higher the peak X-ray flux, the more intense the solar flare.
The following descriptors indicate the intensity of solar flares in increasing order:
-
B-class: B-class flares are the weakest and have a peak X-ray flux of less than 10^-6 Watts per square meter.
-
C-class: C-class flares are of moderate intensity and have a peak X-ray flux ranging from 10^-6 to 10^-5 Watts per square meter.
-
M-class: M-class flares are more intense than C-class flares and have a peak X-ray flux ranging from 10^-5 to 10^-4 Watts per square meter.
-
X-class: X-class flares are the most intense and have a peak X-ray flux of 10^-4 Watts per square meter or higher. X-class flares are the most powerful and can have significant impacts on Earth’s environment, including disruptions to radio communications, satellites, and power grids.
Therefore, the descriptor that indicates the greatest solar flare intensity is the X-class flare.