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

The Making of Uranus' Magnetosphere

Magnetosphere's 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. Uranus has almost no iron core, however.

The magnetic material of Uranus is found within the icy shell found within Uranus. Motions within that shell produce the magnetic field.


Last modified May 7, 2009 by Randy Russell.

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