A solar flare is a sudden and intense burst of radiation from the surface of the Sun. These flares occur when magnetic energy that has built up in the Sun's atmosphere is released. This release can produce a wide range of electromagnetic radiation, including X-rays and ultraviolet light, which can impact space weather and affect satellites and communication systems on Earth. Solar flares are classified into different categories based on their intensity, with the strongest being classified as X-class flares. They can last from minutes to hours and are often associated with sunspots and coronal mass ejections, which can also influence the Earth's magnetosphere and lead to phenomena like the Northern Lights.