Magnetometer

A Magnetometer is a scientific instrument used to measure the strength and or direction of the magnetic field in the vicinity of the magnetometer. The magnetometer is used to find deposits of iron because they can help measure the magnetic fields variations. Magnetometers also help find archaeological sites. Shipwrecks and other submerged objects. It can also be used by satellites and can measure the magnitude and direction of the earth’s magnetic field. They are also used in drilling for oil or gas to detect the location or azimuth of the drilling tools near the drill bit. A grid of magnetometers around the world constantly measures the effects of the solar wind on the earth magnetic field. A magnetometer helps scientists study earthquakes by finding the changes in lava flow. Because they are so sensitive it can detect changed deep down in the earth. When there is a change in the magnetic field it can signal that an earthquake maybe about to happen. The magnetometer can detect changes is the lava flows inside the earth. A magnetometer can notice the difference because the lava has iron in it which radiates a magnetic field. The Magnetometer can detect the changes and can measure their strength and direction. When there are changes in the pressure of the tectonic plates or a crack forms and earthquake can happen or a volcano can be made. The magnetometer is also one of two most effective instruments used to survey the earth’s crust, the other being a seismograph. pm5