Question about earth's magnetic field strength

In summary, the Earth's magnetic field strength does increase with depth, according to the universe cube law. However, when close to the Earth and far from the equator, the inverse square law is more accurate, while the inverse cube law applies when dealing with both poles. The actual prediction for field strength near the Earth's core would be a combination of both formulas.
  • #1
nuby
336
0
Does Earth's magnetic field strength increase with depth?
 
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  • #2
I don't know of any measurements being taken udnerground, but I would haev to say "yes," because we do know that the field strength decreases as one moves away from the Earth (by the universe cube law).
 
  • #3
Interesting.. how could you calculate the field strength near the Earth's core?
 
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  • #4
The nivese cube law wul cotninue to be aplicable at the equator, but close to Earth and far from the equator the inverse square is the rule.

Maybe I should explain that a bit further;
When you're close to the Earth and far from the equator, only one ole is imortant, and the influence from the other pole is negligable (not zero, but small enough). When you're far from the Earth, the difference in distance between one pole and the other is less significant. When dealing with only one pole, the power drops off by the inverse square of the distance, and when dealing with both, it's the inverse cube. Of course, in reality, the accurate prediction would be one that incorperates both formuli to find a value somewhere in between, depending on how close to the core you are and how far from the equator.
 

1. What is the strength of Earth's magnetic field?

The strength of Earth's magnetic field varies at different locations on the surface, but on average it is approximately 25-65 microteslas (μT) at the Earth's surface.

2. How is the strength of Earth's magnetic field measured?

The strength of Earth's magnetic field is measured using a device called a magnetometer, which detects the intensity of the magnetic field at a specific location.

3. What causes Earth's magnetic field to fluctuate?

The Earth's magnetic field is primarily generated by the movement of molten iron in the planet's outer core. This movement constantly changes, causing fluctuations in the strength and direction of the magnetic field.

4. Why is Earth's magnetic field important?

Earth's magnetic field plays a crucial role in protecting our planet from harmful cosmic radiation and charged particles from the sun. It also helps animals like birds and sea turtles navigate, and is used by humans for navigation and communication.

5. Has Earth's magnetic field always existed?

Scientists believe that Earth's magnetic field has been present for at least the past 3.5 billion years, and it has likely existed since the planet formed. However, the strength and direction of the magnetic field has changed over time.

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