The discussion centers on the feasibility of a Magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) drive operating without a tube, specifically exploring alternative designs that utilize a ship's hull. It concludes that while a tube is commonly used to channel water, a hull could theoretically pull the vessel through water if designed with ridges to accommodate magnets. However, this design poses challenges, such as the need for external electrodes and the risk of magnetic interference affecting navigation. The hull material also plays a critical role, as magnetic materials like iron would guide the magnetic field along the surface, while conductive materials like aluminum would lead to corrosion issues.
PREREQUISITESMarine engineers, physicists specializing in fluid dynamics, and researchers in alternative propulsion systems will benefit from this discussion.
Which would require an electrode outside the hull, making the corrugation a tube.Godspanther said:What if the hull is ridged like a piece of corrugated metal? The magnets could be placed in the ridges.