The Units
- Tesla (T): The standard SI unit for strong magnetic fields. Named after Nikola Tesla.
- Gauss (G): The smaller CGS unit. Named after Carl Friedrich Gauss.
The Conversion
- 1 Tesla = 10,000 Gauss
Examples of Strength
- Earth's Magnetic Field: 0.5 Gauss (very weak)
- Refrigerator Magnet: 50 Gauss
- MRI Machine: 1.5 to 3.0 Tesla (extremely strong!)
Safety Warning
MRI machines are so strong they can pull metal objects across the room. This is why you must remove all jewelry and piercings before entering the room.
Key Takeaways
- Tesla is for "Big Science" and medicine
- Gauss is for everyday magnets
- The Earth's magnetic field protects us from solar wind