To review this material, the most appropriate group would be Academic Outreach Coordinators and Heliophysics Researchers.
Senior Astrophysicist / Science Communication Lead Review
Abstract:
This presentation outlines a public outreach initiative by University of Glasgow researchers for the 2026 Glasgow Science Festival. Titled "Our Sun: The Dynamo," the program utilizes five physical demonstrations to translate complex magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) and plasma physics concepts for a general audience. The curriculum covers the fundamental properties of plasma, the visualization of magnetic field lines, the application of Lorentz forces in solar loop formation, and the mechanics of the solar dynamo cycle. Central to the demonstrations is the relationship between thermal convection, the motion of conducting fluids (ionized gas), and the generation of magnetic fields. The outreach concludes with a functional MHD pump demonstration, illustrating how perpendicular electromagnetic fields induce fluid motion, serving as a proxy for plasma ejections from the solar surface.
The Solar Dynamo: Pedagogical Demonstrations for Plasma Physics
0:00 Program Introduction: Val and colleagues from the University of Glasgow introduce the "Our Sun: The Dynamo" theme, designed for the Glasgow Science Festival at the Riverside Museum.
0:53 Plasma State Characteristics: Francesca utilizes a plasma ball to demonstrate the light-emitting and chaotic properties of ionized gas, serving as a macroscopic model for the sunβs composition.
1:20 Mapping Magnetic Fields: Luke employs iron filings and bar magnets to visualize magnetic flux lines. This demonstration establishes the foundational concept of the sun as a dipolar magnet that guides particle streams through space.
2:06 Electromagnetic Force and Plasma Loops: Aisha demonstrates the Lorentz force via a manual electric motor. The experiment shows how current-carrying wires perpendicular to magnetic fields generate motion, simulating the forces that launch massive plasma loops from the solar surface.
3:22 Convection and the Dynamo Cycle: Francis explains the solar dynamo by linking thermal gradients (hot core vs. colder boundary) to convection. This motion of conducting plasma generates electrical currents, which in turn sustain and enhance the solar magnetic field.
5:08 Magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) Pumping: Sage presents a functional MHD pump using salt water as a conducting fluid. By applying an electric field and a vertical magnetic field at right angles, the device demonstrates electromagnetic fluid propulsion.
7:30 Solar Surface Ejections: The researchers conclude by connecting MHD principles to the ejection of plasma from the sun into space.
7:54 Event Logistics: The public event is scheduled for June 8th and 9th at the Riverside Museum, Glasgow, focusing on plasma physics and astrophysics education.