If a major solar storm (solar flare) reaches the Earth, which of the following are the possible effects on the Earth ? 1. GPS and navigation systems could fail. 2. Tsunamis could occur at equatorial regions. 3. Power grids could be damaged. 4. Intense auroras could occur over much of the Earth. 5. Forest fires could take place over much of the planet. 6. Orbits of the satellites could be disturbed. 7. Shortwave radio communication of the aircraft flying over polar regions could be interrupted. Select the correct answer using the code given below :

Option (c) is correct because solar storms release high-energy particles and radiation that disrupt the Earth's ionosphere and magnetosphere, directly impacting satellite electronics, GPS signals, power grids, and radio communications while causing intense auroras. Option (d) is the most tempting but incorrect because solar flares do not trigger geological events like tsunamis, nor do they provide the direct thermal intensity required to ignite global forest fires. The core concept tested is the impact of Space Weather—specifically Coronal Mass Ejections and Solar Flares—on Earth’s electromagnetic environment and technological infrastructure.