Is there a connection between water and magnetism?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the relationship between water and magnetism, specifically in the context of magnetohydrodynamics (MHD). Participants highlight that seawater, being ionized, can interact with magnetic fields when an electric current is applied, enabling propulsion technologies like electromagnetic rail systems. The necessity of a substantial power source, such as a nuclear reactor, for these systems is emphasized. Additionally, the impact of temperature on water's behavior in magnetic fields is questioned but not conclusively addressed.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of magnetohydrodynamics (MHD)
  • Knowledge of ionization in seawater
  • Familiarity with electromagnetic propulsion systems
  • Basic principles of electricity and magnetism
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the principles of magnetohydrodynamics (MHD) in detail
  • Explore the effects of temperature on the conductivity of seawater
  • Investigate the design and operation of electromagnetic propulsion systems
  • Learn about the requirements and safety considerations of using nuclear reactors for marine propulsion
USEFUL FOR

Marine engineers, physicists, and researchers interested in propulsion technologies, as well as anyone exploring the intersection of electromagnetism and fluid dynamics.

jWald
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How exactly does water behave in a magnetic field? I've seen pictures of a boat that uses electromagnetic rail technology to move across water, but I still don't fully grasp it.

Also, does this behavior change when temperatures rise or fall?
 
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jWald said:
I've seen pictures of a boat that uses electromagnetic rail technology to move across water, but I still don't fully grasp it.
Hi jWald. http://img844.imageshack.us/img844/5826/rotwel.gif

Magnetohydrodynamics? It involves passing a lot of current through sea water in the presence of a strong magnetic field. So having a nuclear reactor aboard your ship to supply all that electricity is practically essential. Google it and you'll find as much information as you can handle.
 
Last edited by a moderator:
I don't think that water is affected by magnetic fields- it would have to be ionized, or polarized.
 
What about salt water?
 
LastTimelord said:
I don't think that water is affected by magnetic fields- it would have to be ionized, or polarized.

Seawater is always heavily ionized. If you send a current through the water, a magnetic field can exert a force on it.
 
And the reaction force could cause the type of propulsion the OP was wondering about?
 

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