Magnetic Fields in Zero Gravity: Do They Interact with Gravity?

[Viper2838]

Hello all,
My physics group is planning an experiment that involes the effects of magnets on fluid dynamiscs in a weighless enviroment. Unfortunately, we, and our advisor, are unsure if gravity has any effect upon a magnetic field. Anybody know?
thanks

 

[Soveraign]

If you are asking does gravity affect the magnitude and direction of a magnetic field as decribed by classical equations, then strictly speaking, I believe it does. BUT this would only be in cases of very high gravitational fields (like near black holes, etc...).

But on the earth, I would not expect any measurable effect.

 

[HallsofIvy]

If you are asking does gravity affect the magnitude and direction of a magnetic field as decribed by classical equations, then strictly speaking, I believe it does. BUT this would only be in cases of very high gravitational fields (like near black holes, etc...).

But on the earth, I would not expect any measurable effect.

In terms of classical equations there would be no effect at all. In general relativity there is (gravity bends light and light is, after all, electromagnatism).

 

[Soveraign]

What he said. I kludged my words.

 

[Viper2838]

thanks all, i kind of figured for any measureable effect to occur, things would have to be a much much larger scale.