Shock wave, a possible source of magnetic fields?
Abstract
One possible effect due to impact cratering is the transformation of part of the kinetic energy of the projectile to energy in the electromagnetic field. Shock-induced polarization of piezo- and dielectric material could be the mechanism by which this is accomplished. Although the estimates show that the fraction of kinetic energy transformed by this mechanism is rather small, the effect could be sufficient to form some magnetic features of planets that have even a slight planetary magnetic field of their own. The possible limits of this effect are still uncertain. The mechanism suggested is attractive because it gives a possible explanation for the high values of remanent magnetization displayed by some lunar samples, without calling for the hypothesis of a strong global magnetism for the moon in the past epochs.
- Publication:
-
Impact and Explosion Cratering: Planetary and Terrestrial Implications
- Pub Date:
- 1977
- Bibcode:
- 1977iecp.symp..861I
- Keywords:
-
- Dielectric Polarization;
- Impact Damage;
- Lunar Craters;
- Lunar Magnetic Fields;
- Remanence;
- Shock Waves;
- Dielectrics;
- Dipole Moments;
- Electromagnetic Fields;
- Lunar Rocks;
- Lunokhod Lunar Roving Vehicles;
- Magnetic Anomalies;
- Magnetic Field Configurations;
- Magnetic Induction;
- Magnetization;
- Wave Fronts;
- Lunar and Planetary Exploration;
- Artificial Craters;
- Planets: Craters