Scientists Detect Invisible Electric Field Around Earth
Image: Unsplash
30 Aug 2024
Scientists have detected a weak, invisible electric field around Earth called the ambipolar field
Image: Unsplash
The ambipolar field, first theorized over 60 years ago, was recently measured by NASA scientists
Image: Unsplash
This field influences the behavior and evolution of Earth's atmosphere and possibly other planets
Image: Unsplash
The ambipolar field works by balancing the upward pull of electrons with the downward ion pull
Image: Unsplash
This electric field helps maintain atmospheric charge neutrality, allowing some particles to escape into space
Image: Unsplash
The Endurance mission detected the ambipolar field by measuring a small electric potential of 0.55 volts
Image: Unsplash
This charge is strong enough to propel hydrogen ions into space at supersonic speeds
Image: Unsplash
The ambipolar field increases the ionosphere's density at high altitudes by up to 271 percent
Image: Unsplash
Understanding this field could reveal its impact on Earth's evolution, atmosphere, and life development
Image: Unsplash
The discovery opens new research avenues to explore how the ambipolar field shapes planetary systems
Image: Unsplash
Check More Stories
Image: Reuters
Image: Unsplash
Image: Unsplash
ndtv.com