The way in which a reversal occurs is that the dipole's magnetic strength decreases and then return but in the opposition orientation. This change in the dipole means that solar winds occur much closer to earth and the cosmic-ray particles that are normally deflected by the magnetic field reach the planet’s surface. These particles can cause genetic damage leading to the disappearance of a species and the emergence of another.
However the evidence for such dramatic changes at the time of reversals remains inconclusive. The evidence that proves geomagnetic reversals is indubitable, as the magnetic surveys of the ocean flow reveal the strips of oppositely magnetised oceanic crust.
Magnetic Striping: Do we care?
Although this question is difficult to answer from a collective (‘we’) and judgmental (‘care’) stance, it is possible to ascertain ‘relative importance’ from particular standpoints. Magnetic striping proves to be incredible insightful about the history of the planet and lends itself well to prove theories of continental drift and polar wandering as well as being a major factor of consideration in the study of paleomagnetism. Furthermore, from a biological point of view the considering the impact of solar wind and cosmic ray particles could prove particularly advantageous when investigating the evolution of species.
By Sarina Chandaria
Year 13