Separating Liquids with an Electromagnetic Field

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the feasibility of using an electromagnetic field to separate two liquids, specifically petrol and water, based on their differing magnetic properties. Participants explore various methods of separation, including magnetohydrodynamics and centrifugation, while also touching on related topics such as submarine design.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions whether an electromagnetic field can effectively separate two liquids like petrol and water due to their different magnetic properties.
  • Another participant suggests that while using an electromagnetic field may require more energy than practical, it could be possible in certain cases and references magnetohydrodynamics for further exploration.
  • A participant proposes the use of a centrifuge as a simpler method for separation, noting that it relies on density differences rather than electromagnetic properties.
  • One participant acknowledges the centrifuge's efficiency limitations when dealing with large quantities of liquid.
  • There is a shift in the discussion with a participant pondering the design of a quieter submarine, suggesting a dual-hull design to minimize sound propagation.
  • Another participant comments on the off-topic nature of the submarine discussion but engages with the idea presented.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the practicality of using electromagnetic fields for liquid separation, with some supporting the idea and others highlighting its limitations. The discussion also diverges into submarine design, indicating a lack of consensus on the main topic.

Contextual Notes

Participants reference magnetohydrodynamics and centrifugation without fully resolving the technical details or assumptions involved in their arguments. The discussion includes speculative ideas about submarine design that may not directly relate to the initial topic.

bishwa
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can't an electro-magnetic field be used to separate two liquids?
For example: petrol and water(as they have different magnetic properties)

i'd be grateful if someone helps me with this.
 
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Things like this usually require more energy than is feasible. But, perhaps in some cases it is possible and is even done. You might check into magnetohydrodynamics for related discussions.
 
How about a centrifuge?
(BTW, those usually use magnetic fields to spin the motor.) But it's much easier because you rely on the difference in density instead of the difference in electro-magnetic properties.
 
centrifuge can ofcourse an easier solution but it cannot be used efficiently when the amount considered is very large.Ive been doing some studies on magnetohydrodynamics(thanks Ivan for that was the first time i'd heard about it).
 
I wonder how you could make a submarine really quiet? Hmmm.
 
Originally posted by bishwa
centrifuge can ofcourse an easier solution but it cannot be used efficiently when the amount considered is very large.
Are you looking for a better way to clean up major oil spills on the ocean?

ivan seeking said:
I wonder how you could make a submarine really quiet? Hmmm.
Seems off topic, but I'll bite.
How about if you make your sub with 2 hulls, a thick one outside for the pressure and armor, and an inside skin with a gap between the two. You create a vacuum between the two skins with any supports or transmissions made with an ultra-rigid material. That way the vacuum can't propagate any internal sounds and the ultra-rigid material doesn't vibrate. I'll leave it up to you to design this ultra-rigid, non vibratable material.
 
Originally posted by J-Man
Seems off topic...
Not at all. I dare say no more. :smile:
 

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