MHDPD-Magneto Hydro Dynamic Propulsion Device: The Experiment/ The Attenuation

Red and green dye reveals the turbulent fluid flows from the magneto hydro dynamic propulsion device. Saline water is forced through the device without any moving parts. The Lorentz force propels the water and dye. The flow creates a beautiful display of eddy currents as a result to shearing with the ambient water.

The art of magneto hydrodynamic fluid flow

Researchers at the University of Arizona have discovered that a demonstration of the laws of electromagnetism in a nonstandard medium can sustain a representation as contemporary art. The project titled: “MHDPD-Magneto Hydro Dynamic Propulsion Device: The Experiment/ The Attenuation” exhibited interactive installations with radio waves and video of a magneto hydro dynamic propulsion device. The exhibit was shown at the Lionel Rombach Gallery at the University of Arizona.

An art history professor commented to one of the researchers at the opening that it was interesting but it wasn’t art. The researcher responded in a whisper: “Shhh I know. It’s physics. Don’t tell anyone.”