Stopping Ice Formation on Surfaces: The Power of Electric Fields

AI Thread Summary
The discussion explores the feasibility of using electromagnetic fields to prevent ice formation on cold surfaces. Time-varying electromagnetic fields, like those from microwaves, can generate heat and potentially melt ice. Static electric fields may polarize ice, possibly affecting its melting point, while static magnetic fields are unlikely to influence temperature due to ice's diamagnetic properties. The conversation highlights the need for more specific questions and expertise in material science to fully address the topic. Overall, the concept of using electromagnetic fields to manage ice formation is deemed theoretically possible but requires further investigation.
cippy31
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Hi guys, brand-new simpleton here.
Quick question: would it be possible to stop ice formation on a cold surface with an electromagnetic field? How strong should it be (if possible)?
Thank you!
 
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Time varying EM fields that is an EM Wave definitely would melt ice, as it produces heat. I am not sure about static Electric or Magnetic Field.
 
You mean kinda like a microwave oven? Hmmmm...yes, that might work.
Thank you!
 
So did you get what you were looking for? As i don't think i have answered it completely. Even the question seems incomplete to me. It doesn't have relevant data.
 
I think so, but if you or someone else wants to intervene some more I certainly don't mind.
Actually I was trying to understand if the concept at large was feasible or not, theoretically speaking.
 
cippy31 said:
I think so, but if you or someone else wants to intervene some more I certainly don't mind.
Actually I was trying to understand if the concept at large was feasible or not, theoretically speaking.

Okay, as i read the question again it seems to be more related to 'MATERIAL SCIENCE'. As i am an Electrical engineering student i don't study much of Material Science. But i am sure there are many people here at PF who are good at it. And they would help you understand this if you ask the right question. I mean the question you asked is incomplete. Still i will try to answer this and i would appreciate if someone expert in Material science corrects me.

Electrically Ice is non conducting Dielectric material.
Magnetically it is Diamagnetic.

How i think Electromagnetic field will effect ice?

1) Time varying EM Fields, the simplest example is sun light, it would definitely effect the temperature of ICE as i told you earlier.

2) Static Electric Field: It would effect it effect it as it affects a dielectric material. It will polarize it. Whether it will raise the temperature or not? I haven't studied it. But i think it will, because as we increase the strength of Electric Field the the polarisation will increase and this can effect the melting/boiling point of water

3) Static Magnetic Field: A diamagnetic material isn't affected by Magnetic Filed. So i don't think it would affect temperature.

I have just said things which i can remember from my first year and high school. Sorry i can't help further.
 
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