Exploring Magnetic Flux Tubes: Current, Composition, and Buoyancy

In summary, the conversation discusses the presence of a current in a magnetic flux tube and the difference in pressure inside and outside the tube. The question arises if there is any difference between ordinary Type I flux tubes and quantum Type II flux tubes. The discussion also mentions the term "Birkeland current" as a possible answer to the question about the current in the tube.
  • #1
ImaLooser
489
4
Does a magnetic flux tube always have a current flowing in it?

Where is the current? Electrons on the surface and protons inside?

Why are flux tubes magnetically buoyant? That is, why is there a difference in pressure inside and outside the tube.

As far as these questions go, is there any difference between ordinary Type I flux tubes and quantum Type II flux tubes?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
ImaLooser said:
Does a magnetic flux tube always have a current flowing in it?

Where is the current? Electrons on the surface and protons inside?

Why are flux tubes magnetically buoyant? That is, why is there a difference in pressure inside and outside the tube.

As far as these questions go, is there any difference between ordinary Type I flux tubes and quantum Type II flux tubes?

No replies. Now what do I do? The last time I reposted in another group I was penalized.
 
  • #3
ImaLooser said:
Does a magnetic flux tube always have a current flowing in it?

Where is the current? Electrons on the surface and protons inside?

I found it. It is called Birkeland current.
 

Related to Exploring Magnetic Flux Tubes: Current, Composition, and Buoyancy

1. What are magnetic flux tubes?

Magnetic flux tubes are narrow, cylindrical structures of magnetic field lines that extend from the surface of the sun into its atmosphere. They are typically a few hundred kilometers in diameter and can span thousands of kilometers in length.

2. How are magnetic flux tubes formed?

Magnetic flux tubes are formed by the interaction of the sun's magnetic field with its plasma. Plasma is a state of matter in which atoms are ionized, meaning they have lost some or all of their electrons. The sun's plasma is highly conductive, allowing the magnetic field lines to become concentrated and form tubes.

3. What is the role of current in magnetic flux tubes?

Current is an important component of magnetic flux tubes as it helps to maintain their shape and structure. As the plasma inside the tubes moves, it generates electric currents, which in turn create magnetic fields that reinforce the original magnetic field lines.

4. What is the composition of magnetic flux tubes?

The composition of magnetic flux tubes is primarily plasma, which is made up of protons and electrons. However, there may also be small amounts of heavier elements, such as helium and iron, that have been ionized and become part of the plasma.

5. How does buoyancy affect magnetic flux tubes?

Buoyancy, or the upward force on an object in a fluid, plays a significant role in the dynamics of magnetic flux tubes. As the plasma inside the tubes becomes hotter and more buoyant, the tubes can rise to the surface of the sun. This can lead to the formation of sunspots and other solar activity.

Similar threads

I Mutual inductance in a transformer
    • Electromagnetism
Replies
16
Views
1K
I Hall effect -- is it always applicable?
    • Electromagnetism
Replies
7
Views
994
Magnetic Flux outside of a long solenoid
    • Electromagnetism
Replies
2
Views
976
PPMT, Magnetic Flux Switch, electro-permanent magnet generator
    • Electromagnetism
Replies
8
Views
2K
Magnetic flux and inductance?
    • Electromagnetism
Replies
5
Views
1K
How can there be a current in this magnet/coil configuration
    • Electromagnetism
Replies
17
Views
2K
Why does the magnetic field/flux change in copper conductor?
    • Electromagnetism
Replies
3
Views
2K
Questions about magnetic levitation of a Thompson Ring
    • Electromagnetism
Replies
6
Views
2K
I Magnetic Flux - Misleading Definition or what?
    • Classical Physics
Replies
24
Views
1K
I Railgun: Significant magnetic field where projectile is?
    • Electromagnetism
Replies
8
Views
805

Hot Threads

Recent Insights

Back
Top