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Chapter 7: Problem 18

How is the magnetic field of a planet different from that of a bar magnet? Why is a large planet more likely to have a magnetic field than a small planet?

Short Answer

Expert verified
A magnetic field of a planet differs from that of a bar magnet in that it is generated by dynamo action in the planet's core and is usually not purely dipolar, being affected by factors such as the planet's rotation or interaction with solar wind. A larger planet is more likely to have a magnetic field than a smaller one because it is more likely to have a molten, conducting core due to better retention of internal heat, and its rotation can contribute to the creation of a magnetic field through the dynamo effect.

Step by step solution

01

Understand Magnetic Field of a Bar Magnet

A bar magnet has a simple, predictable magnetic field, known as a dipolar magnetic field. It's strongest at the poles (the 'ends' of the magnet), and its field lines flow out of one pole, arc around to the exterior, and re-enter the magnet at the other pole.
02

Understand Magnetic Field of a Planet

In contrast to a bar magnet, a planet's magnetic field can be more complex and is usually described as being generated by dynamo action in the planet's core. It's not purely dipolar, meaning the field lines don't simply flow from one pole to the other. They can be distorted by factors like the planet's rotation or interaction with the solar wind.
03

Understand Why Larger Planets Are More Likely to Have a Magnetic Field

Larger planets are more likely to have a magnetic field than smaller ones because they have a greater chance of having a molten, conducting core. This is due to the fact that larger planets retain their internal heat better than smaller ones. These planets' rotation can also lead to the creation of a dynamo effect, which is the process by which the motion of conducting fluids creates a magnetic field.

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