How do EMPs work and how can you make one?

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    Electromagnetic Pulse
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SUMMARY

Electromagnetic pulses (EMPs) function by utilizing the Compton effect, where high-energy gamma ray photons knock electrons out of their atomic orbits, particularly in low atomic number elements like oxygen and nitrogen. This phenomenon was first observed during the initial hydrogen bomb explosion, which caused widespread power outages in Hawaii. The resulting surge of free electrons interacts with the Earth's magnetic field, inducing a current that can overload and damage electrical systems, including appliances and vehicles. Constructing an EMP device requires a significant production of high-energy gamma rays.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of the Compton effect
  • Knowledge of electromagnetic theory
  • Familiarity with high-energy physics
  • Basic principles of electrical engineering
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the Compton effect in detail
  • Study the principles of electromagnetic pulses and their effects on electrical systems
  • Explore high-energy gamma ray production methods
  • Investigate the historical context and implications of EMPs in military applications
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for physicists, electrical engineers, military strategists, and anyone interested in the effects and construction of electromagnetic pulse devices.

Maltaethirion
Does anyone know how emps work and how to construct one?
 
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jump a spark across a gap...

Perhaps you should give us more details of what exactly you want to know; or 'do a Google' on electromagnetic pulse.
 
The emp works on the compton effect. It was first detected in the first H-bomb blast. It knocked out power to some Hawainal towns hundreds of miles away from the blast. The way it works is the intence high energy gamma ray photons emmited from the bombs blast cause electrons to be knocked out of the orbits of low atomic number elements. This would happen in Oxygen and Nitrogen atoms in the atmosphere. This free rush of elecrons would interact with the Earth's magnetic field and induce a current, which would create a magnetic field. This electromagnetic pulse would then overload electrical appliances and elecric machines, such as cars. This overload would run down the line and fry wiers, semiconductors and transformers. Its a messed up weapon.
To construct and EMP, I wouldent know how to do that, but you would need a good rate of production of high energy gamma rays.
 
This site gives some pretty good information.
 
Adrian Baker said:
'do a Google' on electromagnetic pulse.

Heh, the two guys that started that are worth 50 billion dollars
 

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