Chapter 3: Problem 12

What is a magnetic reversal? (D)

Short Answer

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A magnetic reversal is an event where the Earth's magnetic field reverses its polarity due to movements of molten iron and other metals in the Earth's outer core, causing the North Magnetic Pole to switch places with the South Magnetic Pole. The process takes thousands of years to complete and does not occur at regular intervals. The most recent magnetic reversal occurred approximately 780,000 years ago. Understanding magnetic reversals is important for studying the Earth's geological history, internal processes, plate tectonics, and potential impacts on life and technology.

Step by step solution

Definition of Magnetic Reversal

A magnetic reversal is an event in which the Earth's magnetic field flips or reverses its polarity, causing the North Magnetic Pole (located in the Northern Hemisphere) to switch places with the South Magnetic Pole (located in the Southern Hemisphere). This means that the magnetic north would become the magnetic south and vice versa.

Process of Magnetic Reversal

Magnetic reversals occur due to the movement of molten iron and other metals in the Earth's outer core. These movements generate electric currents, which in turn produce the Earth's magnetic field. The flow of the material in the outer core is not uniform, and over time, it causes the magnetic field to fluctuate, weaken, and eventually reorient itself in the opposite direction. The process can take thousands of years to complete.

Frequency of Magnetic Reversals

Magnetic reversals, also referred to as geomagnetic reversals, do not occur at regular intervals and can be difficult to predict. They have occurred in the past, with varying intervals in between. The most recent magnetic reversal, known as the "Brunhes-Matuyama reversal," occurred approximately 780,000 years ago.

Importance of Magnetic Reversals

Magnetic reversals are important for understanding the Earth's geological history and deep interior. The pattern and frequency of magnetic reversals have been used to develop models of the Earth's internal processes and to study plate tectonics and the behavior of the Earth's magnetic field. Additionally, as the magnetic field helps protect the Earth from harmful solar radiation, understanding magnetic reversals can help us assess potential impacts on life and technology during a future reversal event.

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What is a magnetic reversal? (D)

Short Answer

Step by step solution

Definition of Magnetic Reversal

Process of Magnetic Reversal

Frequency of Magnetic Reversals

Importance of Magnetic Reversals

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