Principle of least astonishment
Article Abstract:
Most of the geomagnetists have dismissed the claim that the rapid changes in the Earth's main magnetic field that were recorded in two 16-million-year old lava flows at Steens Mountain in Oregon were in orders of magnitude faster than seen in direct measurements of the field. However, two of the original scientists continued their work and have shown changes up to six degrees per day. The principle of least astonishment can only be applied once one interpretation is accepted. One potential explanation is that the lava absorbed long term changes but the changes diffused slowly and so surfaced at once.
Publication Name: Nature
Subject: Zoology and wildlife conservation
ISSN: 0028-0836
Year: 1995
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A magnetic reversal record
Article Abstract:
It seems quite justified to claim that there was significant variation in the rates virtual geomagnetic poles (VGPs) moved during the two most recent reversals of the polarity of the Earth's magnetic field. New research on this subject has shown that it is possible to gain important information on the transitional magnetic field from some sediments. Data from sediments and lava flows can provide new insights into reversal transitions. The researchers obtained and analyzed high-resolution records from sedimentary cores in the North Atlantic.
Publication Name: Nature
Subject: Zoology and wildlife conservation
ISSN: 0028-0836
Year: 1997
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Time of reversal
Article Abstract:
The timescale for the reversal of the Earth's magnetic field is documented. The reason for the generation of this magnetic field is depicted through various geological extracts.
Publication Name: Nature
Subject: Zoology and wildlife conservation
ISSN: 0028-0836
Year: 2004
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