The shape of the Earth's magnetic field is approximately that of a
A) monopole,as would be produced by just one pole of a magnet.
B) dipole,such as that produced by a bar magnet.
C) torus,a doughnut-shaped ring parallel to the Earth's equator.
D) sphere,following the shape of the Earth.

Question

The shape of the Earth's magnetic field is approximately that of a 
A) monopole,as would be produced by just one pole of a magnet. 
B) dipole,such as that produced by a bar magnet. 
C) torus,a doughnut-shaped ring parallel to the Earth's equator. 
D) sphere,following the shape of the Earth.

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The Earth's magnetic field is best approximated by a dipole, which is similar to the magnetic field produced by a bar magnet. This is because the Earth's magnetic field has both a north and south magnetic pole, with field lines that emerge from one pole and converge at the other. This dipole shape is what gives the Earth's magnetic field its characteristic shape and properties. While the other options may have some similarities to aspects of the Earth's magnetic field, they are not the best overall approximation.

The Shape of the Earth's Magnetic Field Is Approximately That