A bi-stable SOC model for Earthʼs magnetic field reversals

We introduce a simple model for Earthʼs magnetic field reversals. The model consists in random nodes simulating vortices in the liquid core which through a simple updating algorithm converge to a self-organized critical state, with inter-reversal time probability distributions functions in the form...

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Bibliographic Details
Published inPhysics letters. A Vol. 377; no. 6; pp. 443 - 447
Main Authors Papa, A.R.R., do Espírito Santo, M.A., Barbosa, C.S., Oliva, D.
Format Journal Article
LanguageEnglish
Published Elsevier B.V 04.02.2013
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Summary:We introduce a simple model for Earthʼs magnetic field reversals. The model consists in random nodes simulating vortices in the liquid core which through a simple updating algorithm converge to a self-organized critical state, with inter-reversal time probability distributions functions in the form of power-laws for long persistence times (as supposed to be in actual reversals). A detailed description of reversals should not be expected. However, we hope to reach a profounder knowledge on reversals through some of the basic characteristic that are well reproduced. The work opens several future research trends. ► We simulate the Earthʼs external core by a SOC model which presents reversals. ► We study the stationary PDF for inter-reversal intervals. ► The PDF of inter-reversal intervals follows a power-law. ► The introduced model is a natural extension of the Bak–Sneppen model. ► The model opens new possibilities as, for example, spatial correlations in reversals.
ISSN:0375-9601
1873-2429
DOI:10.1016/j.physleta.2012.12.018