In the context of electromagnetic induction, what can astronomical objects with changing magnetic fields do?

• A. Cause gravitational lensing by bending spacetime through variations in the magnetic field alone
• B. Eliminate existing electric fields by forcing the magnetic flux through any surface to remain constant
• C. Induce electric fields and drive currents in surrounding conductive plasma, potentially producing electromagnetic radiation
• D. Instantaneously create net electric charge in a closed, isolated conductor without any current flow

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Recall Faraday's law of electromagnetic induction, which states that a changing magnetic field induces an electric field. This is mathematically expressed as \(\nabla \times \mathbf{E} = -\frac{\partial \mathbf{B}}{\partial t}\), where \(\mathbf{E}\) is the electric field and \(\mathbf{B}\) is the magnetic field.
2. Understand that in astrophysical contexts, many astronomical objects such as pulsars or magnetars have strong and time-varying magnetic fields. These changing fields can induce electric fields in the surrounding space.
3. Recognize that the space around these objects often contains conductive plasma, which can respond to induced electric fields by generating currents. These currents can then interact with the magnetic fields, leading to complex electromagnetic phenomena.
4. Note that these induced currents and fields can produce electromagnetic radiation, such as radio waves or X-rays, which can be observed by astronomers and provide information about the object’s magnetic activity.
5. Conclude that the key effect of changing magnetic fields in astronomical objects is to induce electric fields and drive currents in surrounding conductive plasma, rather than causing gravitational lensing, eliminating electric fields, or creating net charge without current flow.