Which statement correctly describes the Earth’s magnetic field?
The geomagnetic south is consistent with a magnetic south.
The geomagnetic north is similar to the south pole of a magnet.
The Earth’s magnetic poles are the same magnetic charge at the poles.
The Earth does not have a consistent pattern of magnetism
The correct answer and explanation is:
Correct Answer: The geomagnetic north is similar to the south pole of a magnet.
The Earth’s magnetic field behaves like that of a giant bar magnet tilted slightly with respect to the planet’s rotational axis. However, the naming of magnetic poles is based on the direction they attract. The magnetic north pole of a compass needle points toward the geographic North Pole. Since opposite magnetic poles attract, the geographic North Pole must be magnetically a south pole in terms of physics.
This leads to an important clarification: the geomagnetic north—the magnetic pole near the geographic North Pole—functions as a magnetic south pole. That is why the compass needle, which has a magnetic north end, is attracted to it. The confusion arises because the magnetic poles are named after the direction they are found, not their actual magnetic polarity.
Therefore, when it is said that “the geomagnetic north is similar to the south pole of a magnet,” it accurately reflects the physical reality. It means that Earth’s geomagnetic north has characteristics of a magnetic south pole, which is why it attracts the north pole of a compass needle.
The Earth’s magnetic field is relatively stable but does change over long periods. The field is generated by the movement of molten iron and other metals in the outer core, creating electric currents. This geodynamo effect results in the magnetic field that surrounds the planet. The field protects Earth from solar wind and cosmic radiation, making it essential for life.
Other answer choices are incorrect. The Earth’s magnetic poles are not the same charge. The geomagnetic south is not consistent with a magnetic south. Finally, the Earth does have a consistent, though slowly changing, pattern of magnetism.