Is it possible to move air using a magnetic field?

[Sharky]

Is it possible to move air using a strong enough magnetic field? Let's say for something like a fan.

If so, what's the physics behind how that would work, and how would you quantify how strong the magnetic field would need to be?

 

[scoobmx]

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Magnetohydrodynamic_drive

 

[Sharky]

I thought MHD requires a conductive medium, such as salt water or plasma.

Are you saying MHD can be applied to air at normal temperatures and pressures?

 

[boneh3ad]

If you ionize the air you can do it, for example using dielectric discharge plasma, which is a non-thermal plasma at nearly ordinary room temperature and pressure and is cheap and easy to produce.

 

[sardar]

Yes, it is possible to move air using a magnetic field. This concept is known as magnetohydrodynamics (MHD) and it involves the interaction between a magnetic field and a conductive fluid, such as air.

The physics behind how this would work is based on the Lorentz force, which describes the force exerted on a charged particle in a magnetic field. In this case, the charged particles in the air (such as ions) would be affected by the magnetic field and would move in a particular direction, causing the air to move as well.

The strength of the magnetic field needed to move air would depend on various factors such as the size and shape of the fan, the density and velocity of the air, and the conductivity of the fluid. A strong enough magnetic field would need to be able to overcome the resistance of the air and generate enough force to move it.

In order to quantify the strength of the magnetic field needed, we would need to use mathematical equations and simulations to analyze the specific parameters of the system. This would involve calculating the magnetic field intensity, the velocity of the air, and the resulting force on the air particles. Additionally, experimental testing would also be necessary to determine the optimal strength of the magnetic field for efficient air movement.