The Generation of Saturn's Magnetosphere



This figure illustrates the motions of the interior which contribute toward generating the magnetosphere.
Click on image for full size version (92K GIF)

Magnetospheres are generated with 1.) magnetic materials and 2.) with motions within the magnetic material.

The terrestrial planets generate magnetospheres within the iron cores at the center. This leads to dipole-shaped, rounded magnetic fields. Saturn has almost no iron core, however.

The magnetic material of Saturn is found within the liquid metallic shell found within Saturn. Motions within that shell produce the magnetic field.


"Return to Saturn's Magnetosphere"



The Generation of Saturn's Magnetosphere



This figure illustrates the motions of the interior which contribute toward generating the magnetosphere.
Click on image for full size version (92K GIF)

Magnetospheres are generated with 1.) magnetic materials and 2.) with motions within the magnetic material.

The Earth-like planets generate magnetospheres from iron at the center.

But Saturn has almost no iron core. The magnetic material of Saturn is found within the liquid metallic shell. Motions within that shell produce the magnetic field.


"Return to Saturn's Magnetosphere"



The Generation of Saturn's Magnetosphere



This figure illustrates the motions of the interior which contribute toward generating the magnetosphere.
Click on image for full size version (92K GIF)

Magnetospheres are generated with 1.) magnetic materials and 2.) with motions within the magnetic material.

The Earth-like planets generate magnetospheres from iron at the center.

But Saturn has almost no iron core. The magnetic material of Saturn is found within the liquid metallic shell. Motions within that shell produce the magnetic field.


"Return to Saturn's Magnetosphere"




Last modified April 16, 1997 by the Windows Team

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