EVERYDAY SCIENCE

Detailed explanation-1: -When the magnetic fields of the sun or Earth … are strong, there is greater deflection of the charged particles of galactic cosmic rays, so there should be fewer clouds and the weather and climate should be warmer. Conversely, when the magnetic fields are weaker, the prevailing weather should be cloudier and colder.

Detailed explanation-2: -Since the forces that generate our magnetic field are constantly changing, the field itself is also in continual flux, its strength waxing and waning over time. This causes the location of Earth’s magnetic north and south poles to gradually shift, and to even completely flip locations every 300, 000 years or so.

Detailed explanation-3: -If Earth’s magnetic field were to decay significantly, it could collapse altogether and flip polarity – changing magnetic north to south and vice versa. The consequences of this process could be dire for our planet. Most worryingly, we may be headed right for this scenario.

Detailed explanation-4: -The strength of the field at the Earth’s surface ranges from less than 30 microteslas (0.3 gauss) in an area including most of South America and South Africa to over 60 microteslas (0.6 gauss) around the magnetic poles in northern Canada and south of Australia, and in part of Siberia.