Existence of electromagnetic field

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers on the existence and nature of electromagnetic fields in various environments, particularly whether electric and magnetic fields occur simultaneously in natural settings, and the implications of such fields in relation to electromagnetic phenomena.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions whether electric and magnetic fields can coexist simultaneously in natural environments, seeking clarification on the term "electromagnetic."
  • Another participant explains that while constant electric or magnetic fields can exist independently, a changing field induces the other, leading to the generation of electromagnetic waves.
  • A follow-up inquiry asks if there are naturally occurring electromagnetic fields in the atmosphere or space, specifically looking for locations where an electromagnetic field could be encountered.
  • One participant mentions the Earth's Magnetic Field as a constant source of magnetic field, while noting that natural electric fields tend to neutralize due to charge flow, with lightning storms being a notable exception.
  • A participant expresses a sense of an electromagnetic "potential" and inquires about the presence of charges on a ferromagnetic loop moved through space or atmosphere.
  • Another participant suggests that charged particles are frequently present due to solar activity, although they note that the average number of positive and negative charges would balance out.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express various viewpoints on the existence and nature of electromagnetic fields, with no consensus reached on the specifics of naturally occurring electromagnetic fields or the concept of electromagnetic potential.

Contextual Notes

Participants discuss the conditions under which electric and magnetic fields interact and the implications of these interactions in natural settings, but the discussion does not resolve the complexities of these interactions or the specific locations where electromagnetic fields may be found.

elmarsur
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Do electric and magnetic fields occur simultaneously in the same spot anywhere around the globe? (other than during solar flares)

If the field is named "electromagnetic" wouldn't that means exactly this simultaneity?

Thank you.
 
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You can have a constant magnetic field, on its own or an electric one. But, as soon as you start to change one, the other starts to appear. As you vary the current through a loop of wire, for instance, as well as the magnetic field, there is some electric field and the two fields start to radiate, carrying power - you have an electromagnetic wave. Same thing happens when you alternate the voltage on a dipole of wire - currents start to flow and magnetic fields are generated, again producing an electromagnetic wave.
So, in answer to your question, yes- both electric and magnetic fields exist at the same time. When energy is radiated, the two fields are at right angles to each other and at right angles to the direction in which the energy flows.
 
Thank you very much, Sophie.
I am aware of the phenomenon and I apologize for not having been more explicit in my question.
Trying again: Does anywhere (in atmosphere, space) exist naturally an electromagnetic field?
More graphically: I have a closed loop, and am looking for an electromagnetic field to cut through. Is there such a place? Does electromagnetism surround us; is it a "standing" field?

Thank you in advance.
 
There's always the Earth's Magnetic Field. A fairly constant but low value of B. But you must have already thought of that, I'm sure.
'Natural' E fields tend to get neutralised as charges flow. During Lightning storms, there can be very high fields - but I guess that's pretty obvious too.
Otherwise, I really can't think of what you mean, in addition to those two.
 
Thank you again.
I just have a vague sense that there is an electromagnetic "potential" (not as in voltage, but as in "ready to manifest itself").
Let's say that I drop or drag a ferromagnetic loop through space, atmosphere.
Do I find charges on it?
 
You could certainly expect to find the occasional charged particle. They are being thrown out by the Sun by the tonne all the time. On average, though, I would expect the same number of + and - charges.
 
Thank you.
 

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