Neptune and Uranus are not simple magnets

2004/04/01 Elhuyar Zientzia Iturria: Elhuyar aldizkaria

• Astronomia

However, they are nearby. The same goes for most magnetic field planets, but Uranus and Neptune are exceptions.

The magnetic poles of Uranus and Neptune are located near the equators. For astronomers it is a very curious feature, since the magnetic field produces in most cases liquid metals that rotate within the planet. This turn has much to do with the rotation of the planet. Consequently, the whole planet behaves like a big magnet. However, the magnetic field of Uranus and Neptune does not produce liquid metals, but a thin liquid layer formed by ions.

The movement of this layer and the rotation of the planet are very different. Consequently, the planets, instead of behaving like the dipoles, act like the quadrupole. Therefore, Uranus and Neptune are not simple magnets. From the point of view of magnetism, that is why Uranus and Neptune are special.