Magnetic Reversal

Magnetic reversal, or geomagnetic reversal, is the process by which Earth's magnetic field changes direction, effectively swapping the magnetic north and south poles. This phenomenon occurs over thousands to millions of years and has happened many times throughout Earth's history. During a reversal, the magnetic field weakens and can become more complex before settling into a new configuration. While the exact causes are still studied, these reversals are a natural part of Earth's geology and do not happen suddenly; they unfold over extended periods, and life on Earth adapts along with these changes.