Print This lesson focuses on Earth's magnetic field. We will go over some background material regarding how the magnetic field is generated and why it is important that this planet has one. We'll discuss how to measure the field and also important implications of the magnetic field that led to other discoveries. Namely, we'll use magnetic anomaly maps to reconstruct plate tectonic motion, and we'll explore the Neat-o Interdisciplinary Idea of magnetoreception in animals.
What will we learn in Lesson 3?
By the end of Lesson 3 you should be able to:
- use magnetic anomaly charts to calculate ridge spreading rates.
- deduce plate speed using a variety of measurement techniques.
- discuss the ways in which animals interact with Earth's magnetic field.
- describe the characteristics of a dipole field.
- calculate paleomagnetic latitude for a given magnetic inclination.
What is due for Lesson 3?
As you work your way through these online materials for Lesson 3, you will encounter additional reading assignments and hands-on exercises and activities. The chart below provides an overview of the requirements for Lesson 3. For assignment details, refer to subsequent pages in this lesson.
Lesson 3 will take us one week to complete. 10 - 16 Jun 2020
| Requirement | Submitted for Grading? | Due Date |
|---|---|---|
| Reading discussion | Yes - we will discuss this in a discussion forum in Canvas. This will be part of your course discussion grade. | multiple participation spanning 10 - 16 Jun 2020 |
| Paleomag problem set | Yes - turn in to Canvas assignment called "L3: Paleomag problem set." This will be part of your course data analysis grade. | 16 Jun 2020 |
Questions?
If you have any questions, please post them to our Questions? Discussion Forum (not e-mail). I will check that discussion forum daily to respond. While you are there, feel free to post your own responses if you, too, are able to help out a classmate.