Magnetic Strength: Moving Cars & Potential Hazards

In summary, the conversation discusses the power of a magnet's magnetic field and its potential effects on objects and humans. The exact level of power needed to move a car or be hazardous to a person is unclear, but it is suggested that a field above 1 billion gauss could be deadly. The conversation also mentions the use of strong magnetic fields in MRI scanning and the potential for further research and development in this field.
  • #1
Nim
74
0
How powerful would a magnet's magnetic field have to be to move something as big as a typical car towards it from, say 50 feet away?

And how powerful would it have to be to be hazardous to someone? Would the first problem arise from it attracting the iron in your body?
 
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  • #2
Depends what you mean by 'powerful'. Your question is a little un-scientific. What units do you want the answer in? To answer in non-physics terms, VERY powerful. Go to a car scrapyard and have a look - they have them there.

No, they won't do you any damage. At least non that I know of. Strong fields are used in MRI scanning without any side affects.
 
  • #3
I was thinking in terms of gauss or tesla. I am pretty sure 20,000 gauss can pull a paper clip across the room.

A magnetic field above 1e9 ( 1 billion) gauss squeezes electron orbitals into cigar shapes, which would instantly kill a human. In a 1e14 gauss field, a hydrogen atom becomes 200 times narrower. Magnetars, which have the largest magnetic fields known in the universe, are about 1e15 or 1e16 gauss.
 
  • #4
Those are some very interesting statistics, NIM.
Magnetic research, in my opinion, is a science worthy of serious endeavor, given the astounding effects at high field strenghts.
Research and development has always been somewhat problematic, but the goal is clear: high-density flux.
 

1. What is magnetic strength?

Magnetic strength refers to the ability of a magnet to attract or repel other objects. It is dependent on the strength of the magnetic field produced by the magnet.

2. How does magnetic strength affect moving cars?

Magnetic strength can affect moving cars in several ways. For example, if a car is passing by a strong magnetic field, it can cause interference with the car's electronic systems, such as the radio or navigation system. Additionally, strong magnetic fields can also affect the car's compass, causing it to give inaccurate readings.

3. Are there any potential hazards associated with magnetic strength and moving cars?

Yes, there can be potential hazards associated with magnetic strength and moving cars. Strong magnetic fields can interfere with the car's electronic systems, as mentioned before, which can be dangerous if the car relies on these systems for safe operation. Additionally, magnetic fields can also affect the car's metal components, causing them to become magnetized and potentially disrupting their function.

4. How can the potential hazards of magnetic strength and moving cars be mitigated?

To mitigate the potential hazards, it is important to be aware of areas with strong magnetic fields and avoid driving through them if possible. Additionally, car manufacturers often incorporate shielding in their vehicles to protect against magnetic interference. It is also important to regularly maintain and check the car's electronic systems to ensure they are functioning properly.

5. Is there a safe distance to maintain between a moving car and a strong magnetic field?

Yes, there is a safe distance to maintain between a moving car and a strong magnetic field. The exact distance may vary depending on the strength of the magnetic field, but a general rule of thumb is to maintain a distance of at least 100 feet between the car and the source of the magnetic field.

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