study guides for every class that actually explain what's on your next test Magnetic field
from class: Intro to Astronomy Definition A magnetic field is a region around a magnetic material or a moving electric charge within which the force of magnetism acts. It is essential in understanding the behavior of charged particles and planetary dynamics.
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Predict what's on your test 5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test The giant planets, such as Jupiter and Saturn, have extremely strong magnetic fields due to their rapid rotation and metallic hydrogen interiors. Jupiter's magnetic field is the strongest of all the planets in our solar system, approximately 20,000 times stronger than Earth's. Saturn's magnetic field is weaker than Jupiter's but still much stronger than Earth's; it aligns closely with its rotational axis. Magnetic fields can trap high-energy particles, creating radiation belts similar to Earth's Van Allen belts around the giant planets. The auroras on Jupiter and Saturn are caused by interactions between their magnetic fields and solar wind particles. Review Questions Which giant planet has the strongest magnetic field in our solar system? How do rapid rotation and metallic hydrogen contribute to the magnetic fields of giant planets? What phenomenon on Jupiter and Saturn is caused by interactions between their magnetic fields and solar wind particles? "Magnetic field" also found in:
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