Nature 377, 203 - 209 (21 September 1995); doi:10.1038/377203a0

A three-dimensional self-consistent computer simulation of a geomagnetic field reversal

Gary A. Glatzmaiers^* & Paul H. Roberts^†

^*Institute of Geophysics and Planetary Physics, Los Alamos National Laboratory, Los Alamos, New Mexico 87454, USA
^†Institute of Geophysics and Planetary Physics, University of California, Los Angeles, California 90024, USA

A three-dimensional, self-consistent numerical model of the geodynamo is described, that maintains a magnetic field for over 40,000 years. The model, which incorporates a finitely conducting inner core, undergoes several polarity excursions and then, near the end of the simulation, a successful reversal of the dipole moment. This simulated magnetic field reversal shares some features with real reversals of the geomagnetic field, and may provide insight into the geomagnetic reversal mechanism.

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