It has been proven that the non-uniformity of Earth's magnetic field is caused by hidden structures in the mantle.

A New Perspective on Earth’s Global Magnetic Field

According to the classical model, a planet’s magnetic field looks like a “stream” from a hypothetical rod passing through the poles. However, real data show that the average shape of the field deviates significantly from this ideal picture. Nevertheless, many geological, climatic and paleontological models still rely on a simplified representation, which can introduce unnecessary errors into calculations.

What Liverpool University scientists investigated
In 2024, a group of researchers performed a computer analysis of the long‑term influence of two massive structures – LLSVPs (Large Low‑Shear‑Velocity Provinces) – on Earth’s magnetic field. These objects, discovered at a depth of about 2,900 km (the mantle–core boundary), have existed for roughly 40 years and are comparable in size to Africa.

* Composition – hotter, denser material chemically distinct from the surrounding mantle.
* Shell – a layer of colder material where seismic wave speeds are higher. This creates thermal boundaries that affect the flows of molten iron in the core.

The disruption of symmetry in these flows leads to global magnetic field anomalies.

How the hypothesis was tested
Using a supercomputer, the researchers built two dynamic simulations:

1. Without LLSVPs – the model ignored the existence of large regions.
2. With LLSVPs – it included their influence.

After the calculations, both models were compared with the current observed distribution of the magnetic field. Only the second model (with LLSVPs) accurately predicted the modern configuration, while the first proved incorrect. This is considered reliable confirmation that these structures do indeed affect the global field and explain the pole shift toward Russia.

Why this matters
These results not only refine our understanding of the magnetic field but also help:

* Reevaluate models of ancient continents (Pangaea).
* Address questions about past climate.
* Understand the development of paleobiological processes.
* Assess the origin of natural resources.

As leading author Andy Biggin noted: “We have been accustomed to thinking that the averaged magnetic field behaves like an ideal rod along the rotation axis. Our findings show that reality is far more complex.”