An Electromagnetic Effect of Importance in Solar and Terrestrial Magnetism

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Abstract
The thermal motions of ions in an inhomogeneous magnetic field give rise to a systematic ion drift. A study of the motion of ions executing long free paths and spiralling about an inhomogeneous impressed magnetic field has shown that a systematic drift is imposed which is oppositely directed for the positive and negative ions. The resulting drift velocity is proportional to the component of the magnetic gradient that is perpendicular to the magnetic field itself. Under the conditions of radial symmetry and a closed circuit a current flows which is in such a direction as to reduce the inhomogeneity of the impressed field and increase the total flux enclosed by the current circuit. This increase in the flux enclosed by the circuit shows that the phenomena may be regenerative. Certain applications to the sun's atmosphere, sun-spots and the permanent magnetic field of the sun and earth are suggested.