Mysterious weak spot in the Earth’s magnetic field is spreading: ESA

The video discusses the South Atlantic Anomaly, a weak spot in Earth's magnetic field that has been expanding since 1970. This anomaly may be forming a second cell near Southwest Africa. Earth's magnetic field, generated by its molten core, shields the planet from solar and cosmic radiation. Over the past two centuries, the field has weakened by 9%. The anomaly currently affects satellites and spacecraft, but Earth's magnetic field can change over geological time, sometimes even reversing poles. The cause of the anomaly's weakening is unclear but may relate to the African large low shear velocity province.

What is the South Atlantic Anomaly?

• A type of ocean current

• A strong spot in the Earth's magnetic field

• A weak spot in the Earth's magnetic field

• A new continent discovered in the Atlantic

What generates the Earth's magnetic field?

• The Earth's atmosphere

• The Earth's crust

• The dynamo action of its molten metal core

• The gravitational pull of the moon

By what percentage has the global magnetic field's strength decreased over the last two centuries?

• 15%

• 20%

• 9%

• 5%

What is one significant effect of the South Atlantic Anomaly?

• Higher sea levels

• Interference with satellites and spacecraft

• More frequent earthquakes

• Increased volcanic activity

What is a possible cause of the South Atlantic Anomaly?

• The movement of tectonic plates

• The melting of polar ice caps

• The African large low shear velocity province

• Increased solar activity