Writing a book and I need some facts if you'd be so kind.

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the effects of electromagnetic pulses (EMP) on electronics, flora, and fauna, as well as the feasibility of rebuilding technology after such an event. The scope includes theoretical implications and practical applications related to EMP shielding.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions the direct effects of a massive EMP on flora and fauna, wondering if they would be affected and if technology could be rebuilt afterward.
  • Another participant explains that EMPs induce voltages in conductors, suggesting that most flora and fauna would not be affected unless the EMP is extremely strong.
  • The concept of EMP shielding is mentioned as a real and utilized method, particularly in military applications, with examples of Faraday cages and complex shielding systems provided.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the extent of the effects of EMP on biological entities or the implications for technology rebuilding, leaving multiple views on the topic.

Contextual Notes

The discussion includes assumptions about the strength of the EMP and the definitions of terms like "flora" and "fauna," which may influence the interpretations of the effects discussed.

Badhorsesmare
So I've done a little research on EMP and I know how they disable electronics, but I don't quite understand the aftermath.
If planet 'A' gets hit with a MASSIVE pulse, or several less massive pulses, would flora and fauna be directly affected?
All the electronics present on 'A' would undoubtedly be broken, (would they explode?) but would the EMP make it impossible to rebuild the technology?

I know that several TV shows (*cringes* sorry) talk about EMP shielding, is that a real concept or is it already in use?

I'm not really physics smart so I apologize if any of these questions seem ridiculous to ask.

Thank you for any help you can give me.
 
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An EMP releases EM radiation that induces voltages and currents in conductors. Most flora and fauna aren't good conductors and wouldn't be affected unless the EMP is unrealistically strong. EMP shielding is real and is used extensively in the U.S. military. The shielding can be something as simple as a faraday cage around a device or can be as complicated as a fully shielded building with filters, spark gaps, and a plethora of other protective methods.
 
Thread closed temporarily for Moderation...
 
Badhorsesmare said:
So I've done a little research on EMP and I know how they disable electronics, but I don't quite understand the aftermath.
If planet 'A' gets hit with a MASSIVE pulse, or several less massive pulses, would flora and fauna be directly affected?
All the electronics present on 'A' would undoubtedly be broken, (would they explode?) but would the EMP make it impossible to rebuild the technology?

I know that several TV shows (*cringes* sorry) talk about EMP shielding, is that a real concept or is it already in use?

I'm not really physics smart so I apologize if any of these questions seem ridiculous to ask.

Thank you for any help you can give me.

Welcome to the PF.

Since EMP use is both illegal and dangerous, we do not generally allow discussions about it here on the PF. Drakkith's reply should give you what you want for your book. I'm also going to move this thread to the Science Fiction Book Forum, and leave it locked.
 

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