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Understanding Earth's Magnetic Field

Posted by michael on from the hot-and-wet dept.

neutron_p writes "Researchers from the University of Maryland's nonlinear dynamics and chaos research group are seeking to solve a major scientific mystery: How is the Earth's magnetic field formed and what causes changes in the field? To find answers, they are recreating on a small scale the forces that produce Earth's own magnetic field. Scientists have constructed a series of "geodynamos" - metal spheres filled with liquid sodium that emulate conditions of the Earth's spinning, churning molten iron core. This project involves more than 14 tons of sodium metal and a 10-foot stainless steel sphere."

4 of 58 comments (clear)

  1. Fire in the hole! by addaon · · Score: 5, Funny

    I hope the sprinkler system doesn't go off.

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    I've had this sig for three days.
  2. Magneto, for sure. by AtariAmarok · · Score: 3, Funny
    "This project involves more than 14 tons of sodium metal and a 10-foot stainless steel sphere."

    I sure don't want to be around when lightning strikes one of the scientists during one of the experiments. The reign of Magneto is coming, only he won't be a mutant like we expected.

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    Don't blame Durga. I voted for Centauri.
  3. Potential of untold riches by failedlogic · · Score: 3, Funny

    I can think of one way to get really rich of this idea.....

    Sell air plane fuel? Install one of these puppies near an airport. Ideally a faily busy one like LAX or O'Hare. Turn on the machine. As it takes more fuel for the planes to take off .... profit!!!

  4. Cool party chat-up line... by jpop32 · · Score: 3, Funny

    You see, I'm with the nonlinear dynamics and chaos research group.