Earth's magnetic field could change 10 times faster than we thought, scientists say

The Earth's magnetic field could change 10 times faster than previous thought, scientists have said. Using computer simulation of the iron deep beneath our feet that influences how the magnetic field appears to us, they showed that it could move around much more quickly than we had realised. The discovery could have important implications for our understanding of some of the most fundamental processes that power life on Earth: the magnetic field is not only used in compasses and for navigation, but helps protect us from radiation coming from space and keeps our atmosphere in place. The magnetic field is generated and regulated by a swirling flow of molten metal that creates the Earth's outer core. As the liquid iron moves around, it creates electric currents that power the magnetic field that is used on the surface.