What is the ideal fluid and setup for observing Magnetohydrodynamics?

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on the ideal fluids and experimental setups for observing Magnetohydrodynamics (MHD). Mercury is deemed unsuitable due to its toxicity and evaporation properties. Salt water is identified as a viable conductive fluid that can be influenced by magnetic fields and electric currents. Additionally, magnetic flow meters are mentioned as devices that generate voltage in conductive fluids, highlighting their relevance in MHD experiments.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Magnetohydrodynamics principles
  • Knowledge of conductive fluids, specifically salt water
  • Familiarity with magnetic fields and their effects on fluids
  • Basic principles of electric currents and voltage generation
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the properties and applications of salt water in Magnetohydrodynamics
  • Explore the design and functionality of magnetic flow meters
  • Investigate safe alternatives to mercury for MHD experiments
  • Learn about experimental setups for observing MHD phenomena
USEFUL FOR

Researchers, educators, and students interested in fluid dynamics, physicists studying Magnetohydrodynamics, and anyone conducting experiments in electromagnetism.

SCHROEDERFPM
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TL;DR
Looking for knowledge and insight about the topic and simple setups to observe this phenomenon.
I have been reading about Magnetohydrodynamics and would like a bit of insight from anyone who has any knowledge on the subject.

If I understand correctly when a conductive fluid is in motion it produces an electric field, and motion can be generated using a few methods one of which is a magnetic field.

I would like to know if there is any way I could setup a basic experiment to observe this phenomenon.

-Would mercury be the ideal fluid?

-Is salt water affected by magnetic fields?
 
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SCHROEDERFPM said:
-Would mercury be the ideal fluid?

-Is salt water affected by magnetic fields?
Mercury should be avoided. It evaporates, and is toxic.

Salt water can be accelerated by a current and a magnetic field.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Magnetohydrodynamic_drive

Magnetic flow meters produce a voltage across a channel in which a conductive fluid such as water is flowing.
 
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