Would non magnetic matters be affected by magnetism?

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    Magnetic Magnetism
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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the effects of magnetism on non-magnetic materials and the origins of Earth's magnetic field. Participants explore theoretical and conceptual aspects, as well as implications of electromagnetism in various contexts.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants question whether non-magnetic materials can be affected by magnetism and seek explanations for this phenomenon.
  • One participant suggests that Earth's magnetic field is generated by its rotation around its axis.
  • Another participant elaborates that the magnetic field is caused by the churning of the Earth's molten iron core, which induces currents that lead to electromagnetism.
  • It is noted that while non-magnetic objects typically do not respond to magnetism, extreme magnetic fields can influence them, with an example of a spider being levitated using strong electromagnetism.
  • Concerns are raised about the reliability of explanations regarding electromagnetism, with one participant expressing skepticism about the clarity of the topic.
  • A later reply highlights that the generation of Earth's magnetic field is an ongoing research topic, with challenges in recreating a self-generating magnetic field in laboratory settings.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the mechanisms behind Earth's magnetic field and the effects of magnetism on non-magnetic materials. The discussion remains unresolved, with multiple competing explanations and uncertainties present.

Contextual Notes

Participants acknowledge limitations in their understanding and the complexity of the topic, particularly regarding the generation of magnetic fields and the conditions under which non-magnetic materials might be affected by magnetism.

alchemist
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would non magnetic matters be affected by magnetism? and why? and why do the Earth have a natural magnetic field??
 
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I think the Earth's magnetic field is generated by its spin around its axis...
 
The Earth's magnetic field is caused by rotation and more specifically the churning of the Earth's molten iron core.

Why is that? Well, I'm not totally sure but I believe the churning molten core causes currents to be induced and currents cause electromagnetism?

Yes, normally non-magnetic things are not affected by magnetism. However, if you put an enormous magnetic field through something, say a spider, a cherry or anything it will be affected. In fact, I saw on the Discovery channel a facility in Japan was able to levitate a spider with extreme amounts of electromagnetism.
 
Matt Jacques said:
Why is that? Well, I'm not totally sure but I believe the churning molten core causes currents to be induced and currents cause electromagnetism?
I have learned in my short science career that when it comes to electromagnetism, this explanation will make you sound smart even when you don't have a clue what you're talking about.
 
meister said:
I have learned in my short science career that when it comes to electromagnetism, this explanation will make you sound smart even when you don't have a clue what you're talking about.

How rude! That's why I said I am not sure and ended my sentence with a question mark! I'm eager to hear your explanation from your distinguished science career.
 
Last edited:
Matt Jacques said:
The Earth's magnetic field is caused by rotation and more specifically the churning of the Earth's molten iron core.

Why is that? Well, I'm not totally sure but I believe the churning molten core causes currents to be induced and currents cause electromagnetism?

This is an ongoing topic of research for geologists. There was a Topic in Earth Sciences about the research being done, mostly the work of http://complex.umd.edu/dynamo/index.html , who is trying to reproduce the effect in the lab. So far, no-one has been able to succesfully recreate a self-generating magnetic field from an homogenous dynamo. So the rotating of the core and convection currents in the mantle are probably generating the field, but until we can make it happen in the lab, we can't really say for certain that it's possible.
 
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