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Energy flux determines magnetic field strength of planets and stars

Author

Listed:
  • Ulrich R. Christensen

    (Max-Planck-Institut für Sonnensystemforschung, Max Planck Strasse 2, 37191 Katlenburg-Lindau, Germany)

  • Volkmar Holzwarth

    (Max-Planck-Institut für Sonnensystemforschung, Max Planck Strasse 2, 37191 Katlenburg-Lindau, Germany)

  • Ansgar Reiners

    (Institut für Astrophysik, Universität Göttingen, Friedrich Hund Platz 1, 37077 Göttingen, Germany)

Abstract

Magnetic field generation Some planets and many stars have magnetic fields that are generated by a convection-driven dynamo process. Stellar fields, known from their effect on the emitted light, are often 1,000 times stronger than that of Earth, so if the dynamo mechanism is similar for all these bodies, it is one that can produce field strengths varying over three orders of magnitude. Christensen et al. propose a simple law relating field strength to energy flux that applies to stars and planets alike, provided they are rotating sufficiently rapidly. Computer models of the geodynamo and stellar dynamos support the law, and its predictions agree with the observed fields of Earth, Jupiter and two groups of stars. Objects of intermediate mass, brown dwarf stars and supermassive extrasolar planets, should have strong detectable magnetic fields courtesy of this mechanism — but our Sun rotates too slowly to fit this template.

Suggested Citation

  • Ulrich R. Christensen & Volkmar Holzwarth & Ansgar Reiners, 2009. "Energy flux determines magnetic field strength of planets and stars," Nature, Nature, vol. 457(7226), pages 167-169, January.
    • Handle: RePEc:nat:nature:v:457:y:2009:i:7226:d:10.1038_nature07626
    DOI: 10.1038/nature07626
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