This figure illustrates the motions of the interior which help generate the magnetosphere.
Click on image for full size
Image from: Random House Atlas

The Making of Uranus' Magnetosphere

Magnetospheres are generated with 1.) magnetic materials and 2.) with motions within the magnetic material.

The Earth-like planets generate magnetospheres within the iron cores at the center. However, Uranus has almost no iron core.

The magnetic material of Uranus is found within the icy shells inside Uranus. Motions within those shells produce the magnetic field.


Last modified May 7, 2009 by Randy Russell.

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