What are the properties of the Earth's magnetic field?

The Earth's magnetic field is a powerful force that extends from its core out into space, creating a protective barrier known as the magnetosphere. This field is primarily generated by the movement of liquid iron in the outer core of the Earth's interior. The Earth's magnetic field has two main properties: strength and direction. The strength of the magnetic field is measured in units called teslas, with the average strength at the Earth's surface being about 25 to 65 millionths of a tesla. The direction of the magnetic field lines is not aligned with the Earth's geographic poles but is tilted at an angle, resulting in compass needles pointing slightly off from true north. Additionally, the Earth's magnetic field is not constant and can vary in strength and direction over time, a phenomenon known as geomagnetic secular variation. Understanding the properties of the Earth's magnetic field is crucial for various fields such as navigation, geology, and space research.

This mind map was published on 20 December 2023 and has been viewed 92 times.