Is there a connection between water and magnetism?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion explores the behavior of water in magnetic fields, particularly in the context of electromagnetic propulsion technologies. Participants examine the effects of temperature and the role of ionization in water's magnetic properties.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions how water behaves in a magnetic field and whether temperature affects this behavior.
  • Another introduces the concept of magnetohydrodynamics, suggesting that passing current through seawater in a magnetic field can lead to propulsion, emphasizing the need for a significant power source.
  • Some participants argue that pure water is not affected by magnetic fields unless it is ionized or polarized.
  • There is a specific mention that seawater, being ionized, can interact with magnetic fields when a current is applied, potentially leading to propulsion.
  • A participant suggests that the reaction force from the interaction of magnetic fields and ionized seawater could facilitate the propulsion mechanism discussed.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on whether water is affected by magnetic fields, with some asserting that only ionized or polarized water exhibits such effects. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the extent and nature of water's interaction with magnetic fields.

Contextual Notes

There are limitations regarding the assumptions about water's state (pure vs. ionized) and the specific conditions under which magnetic effects may be observed. The discussion does not clarify the mathematical or experimental details of magnetohydrodynamics.

jWald
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How exactly does water behave in a magnetic field? I've seen pictures of a boat that uses electromagnetic rail technology to move across water, but I still don't fully grasp it.

Also, does this behavior change when temperatures rise or fall?
 
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jWald said:
I've seen pictures of a boat that uses electromagnetic rail technology to move across water, but I still don't fully grasp it.
Hi jWald. http://img844.imageshack.us/img844/5826/rotwel.gif

Magnetohydrodynamics? It involves passing a lot of current through sea water in the presence of a strong magnetic field. So having a nuclear reactor aboard your ship to supply all that electricity is practically essential. Google it and you'll find as much information as you can handle.
 
Last edited by a moderator:
I don't think that water is affected by magnetic fields- it would have to be ionized, or polarized.
 
What about salt water?
 
LastTimelord said:
I don't think that water is affected by magnetic fields- it would have to be ionized, or polarized.

Seawater is always heavily ionized. If you send a current through the water, a magnetic field can exert a force on it.
 
And the reaction force could cause the type of propulsion the OP was wondering about?
 

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