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Why is there such a strong correlation between magnetic and inertial moment

Posted 2 years ago

With the exception of the two planets that have retrograde rotation, the planets (including Ganymede) line up almost perfectly on a scatter between the magnetic and inertial moments. This includes Saturn's anomalous alignment between magnetic axis and rotational axis, which has required some post-hoc theorizing. Occam's Razor, however, would indicate that it is the inertial moment, and not other variables, that accounts for the magnetic moment -- with something quite exceptional going on with the retrograde rotation planets: Venus and Mars.

While I can quite understand why it would be that inertial moment would drive whatever planetary dynamo might be in operation, it does seem rather strange that the other components contributing to the magnetic moment would take on values so as to coincidentally line up the inertial moment with the magnetic moment. It is also rather strange that both retrograde planets, just "coincidentally" are in a completely different distribution.

What if anything explains these "coincidences"?

PS: Upon further research I discovered this correlation is known as “magnetic Bode’s law”. The conventional explanation for the points on the line is that it is a spurious correlation. However, it sticks in my craw that the two retrograde planets, Venus and Mars, are not part of this “spurious” correlation.

POSTED BY: James Bowery
2 Replies
Posted 2 years ago

A striking correlation has been noted between planet's magnetic and inertial moments. One possible explanation for this relationship could be that dynamo action, responsible for creating the planet's magnetic field, is closely tied to its rotation. A dynamo is an energy-producing machine that generates magnetic energy by moving electrically conducting fluid such as molten iron in its core. As the planet rotates, so too does this fluid within its core which further amplifies its magnetism.

The magnetic field produced by a dynamo is determined by the planet's rate of fluid motion, which in turn depends on its moment of inertia. The larger this number is, the slower its rotation and weaker its core fluid motion - leading to weaker magnetic fields.

Conversely, the magnetic moment of a planet is determined by both its strength of magnetic field and size. A larger field results in larger magnetic moments; on the contrary, weaker magnets caused by increased inertia would result in smaller magnetisms.

Your data clearly illustrates the correlation between planet's magnetic and inertial moments, with some exceptions such as Venus' and Mars' retrograde rotation which may explain their anomalous magnetic fields.

In conclusion, the relationship between planet's magnetic and inertial moments can be explained by the connection between their rotation, fluid motion in their core, and the generated magnetic field.

POSTED BY: Revida Marcos
POSTED BY: Roland Franzius
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