Generating elctricity from earths magnetic field

In summary, the Earth's magnetic field is relatively static and low in strength compared to other magnets. Large solar events can cause variations in the field and affect power transmission lines, as seen in 1989. There is an existing discussion on this topic and further discussion should take place there.
  • #1
unclebob
6
0
Q: Is it possible to generate electricity by locating a coil at one of Earth's magnetic poles? By grounding to the Earth a lead out to a load. Maybe Earth's rotation and the coil at some elevation just off the center of magnetic flux lines entering the earth. Would this cause flux lines to cross the coil?
 
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  • #2
no not really

2 main reasons

1) the Earth's magnetic field is relatively static, unless it comes under outside influence
ie. coronal mass ejections etc from the sun
2) the Earth's magnetic field is quite low in strength compared to any of the reasonable permanent magnets you can buy

Large coronal mass ejections from the sun can cause quite large variences in the magnetic field and these can cause large currents to flow in long distance power transmission lines oil pipe lines etc.
It was these large current flows that tripped out protection circuits across Canada and the NE USA during March 1989, after some of the largest solar flares and assoc. CME's ever recorded.

Dave
 
  • #3

Related to Generating elctricity from earths magnetic field

What is the concept behind generating electricity from earth's magnetic field?

The concept behind generating electricity from earth's magnetic field is based on the principle of electromagnetic induction. It states that a changing magnetic field can induce an electric current in a conductor. In this case, the earth's magnetic field acts as the changing magnetic field and the conductor can be a coil of wire.

How can we harness the earth's magnetic field to generate electricity?

To harness the earth's magnetic field, we need to use a device called a generator. The generator consists of a coil of wire that is rotated within the earth's magnetic field. As the coil rotates, the magnetic field lines cut across the wire, inducing an electric current. This current can then be collected and used as electricity.

What are the advantages of generating electricity from earth's magnetic field?

One major advantage of generating electricity from earth's magnetic field is that it is a renewable source of energy. The earth's magnetic field is constantly present and does not need to be replenished. Additionally, it does not produce any harmful emissions, making it a clean source of energy.

Are there any limitations to generating electricity from earth's magnetic field?

One limitation is that the amount of electricity generated is relatively small compared to other sources. This is because the earth's magnetic field is relatively weak and the amount of energy produced is dependent on the strength of the magnetic field and the size of the generator. Additionally, the technology to harness this type of energy is still in its early stages and requires further development.

How is the electricity generated from earth's magnetic field used?

The electricity generated from earth's magnetic field can be used in various ways, just like any other source of electricity. It can power homes, businesses, and even vehicles. It can also be used to charge batteries for portable devices. However, due to the limitations mentioned earlier, it is currently not a major source of electricity production but has potential for future developments.

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