Spontaneous magnetic field generation in hypervelocity impactsHypervelocity impacts of meteoroids onto early planetary surfaces may have generated short-lived magnetic fields. The high specific power densities of the impacts, plasma production in the ejecta clouds, and the chemically layered targets of the meteoroids are analyzed in describing the evolution of the magnetic fields. Durations from about one millionth of a minute to one minute, as well as strengths up to 100 tesla, are posited for the impact-generated magnetic fields. The analogy of magnetic-field generation in laser-target experiments is also mentioned. The acquisition of shock remanence and thermoremanence by the ejecta and nearby rock following impact is discussed.
Document ID
19780057693
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Conference Proceedings
Authors
Srnka, L. J. (Lunar and Planetary Institute Houston, Tex., United States)