Allgemeines Physikalisches Kolloquium
F |
Westfälische Wilhelms-Universität Münster |
F |
Experimental dynamos and planetary magnetic fields
Dr. Henri-Claude Nataf
Observatoire de Grenoble, Université Joseph Fourier-CNRS
Why is the Earth's
magnetic field dipole aligned with its axis of rotation? This question has been
the major guide for research on the origin of the magnetic field of the
planets, over the past centuries. It is only recently that complete and
coherent models have been produced, this enabling this question to be
thoroughly addressed. The answer involves the dynamics of rotating fluids and
the self-induced dynamo process. I will review the major characteristics of the
Earth magnetic field and mention what is known of planetary magnetic fields. After
a brief discussion of the historical landmarks of research on the origin of the
magnetic field, I will focus on the challenge that represents the numerical
modelling of the Earth dynamo, and present recent achievements (in particular
the Karlsruhe and Riga dynamos) and future plans for experimental dynamos, an
equally challenging and promising research field.
Einladender: Prof. Dr. U. Hansen
Ort: Wilhelm-Klemm-Str.
10, IG I, HS 2
Zeit: Mittwoch, 05. Februar
2003, 17 Uhr c.t.
Kolloquiums-Kaffee
ab 16:45 Uhr vor dem Hörsaal
Im
Auftrag der Hochschullehrer des Fachbereichs Physik
Prof. Dr. H.
Mehrer