This image shows how the Earth's magnetic field causes electrons to drift one way about the Earth. Protons drift the opposite direction.
Movie adapted from original clips provided courtesy of Professor Patricia Reiff, Rice University, Connections Program
The Facts About Drift Motion
The Earth's magnetic field forces some particles to drift around the earth, protons (ions) in one direction, electrons in the other.
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Magnetic fields can cause particles to move in these three ways: Spiral Motion Bounce Motion Drift Motion
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