Conceptual questions about magnetism

In summary, some celestial bodies, such as the Sun and Earth, have magnetic fields due to the presence of certain materials in their cores. While metals are known to have magnetic properties, nonmetals are typically not categorized as magnetic. However, this classification may not take into account the behavior of materials in plasma states, which is often outside the scope of chemistry.
  • #1
channel1
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Do any celestial bodies not have magnetic fields? Why?

I'm having a difficult time finding good resources for dynamo theory a question about that...
So first what I know:
1 - The Sun has a nonmetal hydrogen/helium plasma interior which is generating a magnetic field
2 - the Earth has a liquid iron core with a magnetic field
3 - metals can be magnetized because their electron spin orientations result in the atom having an electric current inducing a magnetic field, and nonmetals are labeled as not having magnetic properties
Q - If both metals and nonmetals (e.g. hydrogen plasma) can be magnetized then why are nonmetals categorized as not being able to be magnetized (according to the periodic table). Clearly I'm missing something in there because that's not consistent.
 
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  • #2
I don't think your periodic table is considering plasma states. Plasma behavior is kind of outside the scope of most chemistry.
 

1. What is magnetism?

Magnetism is a physical phenomenon that results from the force between objects with opposite magnetic properties. It is caused by the motion of electric charges, specifically electrons, within certain materials.

2. How does magnetism work?

Magnetism works through the interaction between the magnetic fields of two objects. The strength of the magnetic force depends on the distance between the two objects, as well as the strength of their magnetic fields.

3. What are the properties of magnets?

Magnets have two poles, known as the north and south poles, which attract or repel each other depending on their orientation. They also have a magnetic field, which is the area around the magnet where its force can be detected.

4. What are the different types of magnets?

There are three main types of magnets: permanent, temporary, and electromagnets. Permanent magnets, such as those found in refrigerator magnets, retain their magnetism without an external power source. Temporary magnets, like paperclips, can be magnetized by a strong magnetic field but lose their magnetism quickly. Electromagnets are created by running an electric current through a wire wrapped around a core, and their strength can be controlled by adjusting the current.

5. How is magnetism used in everyday life?

Magnetism has many practical applications in everyday life. Some common uses include generators, electric motors, speakers, and MRI machines in the medical field. Magnets are also used in credit cards, computer hard drives, and compasses.

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