Earth's field ten times stronger

Problem

If the Earth’s magnetic field were $\sim 5\cdot 10^{-4}$ T, what would change for (a) auroras, (b) air routes with magnetic instruments, (c) compasses, (d) solar storms?

Solution

An Earth field roughly ten times stronger would strengthen the magnetosphere. Qualitative effects:

• (a) More intense auroras, present even at lower latitudes: solar-wind particles would be deflected more strongly and channelled towards the poles with greater energy.
• (b) Magnetic instruments (compasses, on-board magnetometers) more sensitive and precise, but also more exposed to local magnetic anomalies.
• (c) Compasses with greater aligning torque: they would orient themselves more quickly and more stably.
• (d) Better shielding from the solar wind: a more robust magnetosphere would better protect satellites and power grids during solar storms, reducing damage. $\ev{\text{stronger shield: intense auroras, better protection}}$

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Topics: Magnetismo Concepts: Campo magnetico Skills: Analisi di casi limite e fantafisica