Naked Science Forum

General Science => General Science => Topic started by: Joe L. Ogan on 08/01/2010 01:05:02

Title: Do other planets have a North and South Magnetic pole similar to that of Earth?
Post by: Joe L. Ogan on 08/01/2010 01:05:02

Do other planets have a North and South magnetic pole similar to that of the Earth?
What causes the magnet poles?  Is it the molten outer core?  Why does the molten outer core cause the magnetic system?  Thanks for comments.  Joe L. Ogan

Title: Re: Do other planets have a North and South Magnetic pole similar to that of Earth?
Post by: graham.d on 08/01/2010 08:38:57

Yes, and I think some moons too; certainly Gannymede. Planets other than earth that are known to have a magnetosphere are Mercury, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune. The cause, at least on the earth, is thought to be circulation of the molten metallic core. I don't think the exact mechanism is understood (certainly not by me). The metallic core can also be highly compressed hydrogen, which also behaves like a metal.

Title: Re: Do other planets have a North and South Magnetic pole similar to that of Earth?
Post by: Madidus_Scientia on 08/01/2010 10:13:56

It is thought Mars no longer has a magnetosphere due to its core freezing. The result being it is not protected from solar winds and its ability to hold an atmosphere is reduced.