Physics/Earth's inner liquid dynamo
Advertisement
Question
Hi Steve,
this is a follow up in a way. I thought the Dynamo was producing the Earth's magnetic field. Is it also powering volcanic eruptions?
Thanks Robert
You might want to consider asking a geophysicist about the relationship between the dynamo and eruptions instead of a nuclear physicist. The word "dynamo" refers to refers to motion of the molten outer core of the Earth in the sense that the hydromagnetic fluid flow sustains the magnetic field, yes. So you have the mantle of the Earth floating on a moving mass of liquid. That mantle itself undergoes convective flow (yes over long time periods but involving massive amounts of material). Think of it like a massive, slow-moving lava lamp. All that material moving around creates hot spots and molten material under pressure...that leads to eruptions. Big ones. I used "dynamo" to collectively refer to all the movement in the Earth's core/mantle together.
Related Articles
Answers by Expert:
Steve Nelson
Expertise
I can answer most basic physics questions, physics questions about science fiction and everyday observations of physics, etc. I'm also usually good for science fair advice (I'm the regional science fair director). I do not answer homework problems. I will occasionally point out where a homework solution went wrong, though. I'm usually good at explaining odd observations that seem counterintuitive, energy science, nuclear physics, nuclear astrophysics, and alternative theories of physics are my specialties.
Experience
I'm a physics professor at the University of Texas of the Permian Basin, research in nuclear technology and nuclear astrophysics. I teach physics, nuclear chemistry, radiation safety, vacuum technology, and answer tons of questions as I tour schools encouraging students to consider careers in science.
Education/Credentials
Ph. D. from Duke University in physics, research in nuclear astrophysics reactions, gamma-ray astronomy technology, and advanced nuclear reactors.
©2012 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company. All rights reserved.