Magnetic Pole Reversal: Explaining the Paradox

  • Thread starter endoparasite
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In summary, when a magnet is cut in half, the two cut edges do NOT become like poles, but rather maintain their original polarities. This goes against common sense, but it is a fact of magnetism.
  • #1
endoparasite
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If the magnetic field lines are going from north to south pole then why when we cut a magnet from middle the two cutting edges become like poles. Common sense says that one edge should be north pole and other should be south . Can anyone explain ?
 
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  • #2
The cut edges can't be like poles. That would mean that one of the new magnets would have to either be a monopole or instantly flip its polarity.
 
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  • #3
All we can say is that "common sense" is right in this case. If you cut a bar magnet into two pieces, the two cut edges do NOT become like poles. The S and N poles of the original magnet become S and N poles of the new magnets, the cut ends become N and S poles. What made you think they became like poles?
 
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  • #4
endoparasite said:
If the magnetic field lines are going from north to south pole then why when we cut a magnet from middle the two cutting edges become like poles. Common sense says that one edge should be north pole and other should be south . Can anyone explain ?

I cannot explain this any more than I can explain why the sun sets in the north, water is dry, or sound moves faster than light. It is literally the opposite of what happens.
 
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  • #5


The phenomenon of magnetic pole reversal is a natural occurrence that has been observed and studied by scientists for many years. It is caused by the movement and flow of molten iron in the Earth's outer core, which generates the planet's magnetic field. This magnetic field can be thought of as a giant bar magnet, with a north and south pole. However, unlike a bar magnet, the Earth's magnetic field is not fixed and can change over time.

When a magnet is cut in half, the magnetic field lines are disrupted and the two new ends of the magnet will align themselves with the Earth's magnetic field. This means that the end that was previously the north pole will now align with the Earth's south pole, and vice versa. This is because the Earth's magnetic field is the dominant force, and the smaller magnet will align itself with it.

Additionally, the magnetic field lines of a magnet do not simply go from one end to the other, but rather form a continuous loop. This means that when a magnet is cut in half, the new ends will still have both north and south poles, but the dominant polarity will be determined by the Earth's magnetic field.

In conclusion, the paradox of why both ends of a magnet appear to have the same polarity after being cut in half is due to the Earth's magnetic field being the dominant force. This phenomenon has been extensively studied and observed, and is a natural occurrence that is essential for the functioning of our planet.
 

Related to Magnetic Pole Reversal: Explaining the Paradox

1. What is magnetic pole reversal?

Magnetic pole reversal refers to the process in which the Earth's north and south magnetic poles switch places. This phenomenon occurs periodically, with an average of about every 200,000 to 300,000 years. During a reversal, the magnetic field weakens, and the poles may even wander before settling in their new positions.

2. How does magnetic pole reversal happen?

The exact mechanism behind magnetic pole reversal is still not fully understood, but it is thought to be caused by changes in the Earth's outer core. The outer core is made of liquid iron and nickel, which are in constant motion. This creates electric currents, which generate the Earth's magnetic field. When these currents change, the magnetic field weakens and can even flip, causing a reversal.

3. Is magnetic pole reversal a new phenomenon?

No, magnetic pole reversal has occurred throughout the Earth's history. Scientists have found evidence of multiple reversals in the geological record, and they have been happening since at least the time of the dinosaurs. However, the frequency and timing of reversals are not constant, making it difficult to predict when the next one will occur.

4. What are the potential effects of magnetic pole reversal?

During a magnetic pole reversal, the Earth's magnetic field weakens, leaving us more vulnerable to solar winds and cosmic radiation. This could potentially disrupt communication and navigation systems and affect certain animal species that rely on the Earth's magnetic field for navigation. However, there is no evidence to suggest that a reversal would cause catastrophic events such as mass extinctions.

5. Is magnetic pole reversal happening now?

Yes, magnetic pole reversal is an ongoing process, but it occurs over a long period of time (thousands of years). The last full reversal occurred about 780,000 years ago, and there is evidence that the Earth's magnetic field is currently weakening, which could indicate that a reversal is in progress. However, it is impossible to predict when the process will be complete, as it can take anywhere from a few hundred to a few thousand years.

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