What must Proxima b possess to deflect the high-energy particles from Proxima Centauri's flares?
Answer
A sufficiently strong magnetic field
To survive the barrage of charged particles associated with the frequent, powerful flares emitted by Proxima Centauri, Proxima b critically needs a sufficiently strong magnetic field. This magnetic field acts as a shield, deflecting the incoming high-energy particles away from the planet’s surface and atmosphere. Without this magnetic protection, the atmosphere, even if present, could be eroded away, and any potential life would be sterilized by direct radiation exposure, making the magnetic field a key component of long-term habitability.
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