I Magnets, Outer space, and Rings

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    Magnets Rings Space
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The discussion centers on whether a ring of iron filings could form around a magnet in space, with initial consensus suggesting that no ring would form, as most filings would either drift away or cling to the magnet. The possibility of a ring forming under different conditions, such as a spinning magnet or multiple magnets, is questioned. It is noted that for a stable ring system to develop, there must be a situation that allows for the circulation of particles, akin to orbital dynamics. The conversation references a previous thread on the topic, indicating ongoing interest in the physics of magnetic fields and particle behavior in space. Ultimately, the inquiry remains focused on identifying scenarios where a ring could indeed form around a magnet.
James William Hall
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Awhile back there was a discussion about the following scenario: an astronaut sets free into space outside his window a round magnet so it just sits there a distance away ensuring the spaceship has no effect on the experiment. Then he wafts out gently a large pail of tiny iron filings and dust in the direction of the magnet and watches to see if a ring (ala Saturn) forms around the magnet at just the right distance from it. I believe the consensus was that no ring would form and that some filings would drift away and the rest cling to the magnet though there were dissenters. But I can’t remember if a different outcome, a ring, would form if the magnet was spinning or any other scenario where the ring would form. For instance if there were two magnet balls separated a short distance from one another or if they were bar magnets. So, the question is: is there any scenario where the ring would form?
 
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James William Hall said:
So, the question is: is there any scenario where the ring would form?
Any situation that supports circulation of particles, like in an orbit, must develop a ring system. That is the only topology that can avoid dynamic interactions and collisions, that is, once it has stabilised.
 
Berkeman, thank you for the thread.
 
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