Question about the Earth's magnetic field and electric field

[SRH]

dumb and simple question here...

How do we know that the Earth's "magnetic field" is not the Earth's electric field?
And that the Earth's "electric field" is really the Earth's magnetic field?

Thanks.

[antoniseb]

dumb and simple question here...

How do we know that the Earth's "magnetic field" is not the Earth's electric field?
And that the Earth's "electric field" is really the Earth's magnetic field?

Thanks.

You use a magnetic needle, and it points North. You use a charged needle and where does it point? Did you have something broader in mind?

[korjik]

Because the Earth's electric field is something completely different.

[cjameshuff]

How would we confuse one for the other?

[SRH]

Let me ask the question differently...
If we put a magnetic compass in an electric field, would it cause the compass needle to align a certain way?

[antoniseb]

Try it. Rub a balloon on your hair until it has enough static charge to stick to a wall, and then bring a compass near it.

[SRH]

I don't own a compass.
What happens?

[tusenfem]

nothing

[primummobile]

That's not complete. A magnetic field is produced if you have a moving charge (a current), and it will cause a compass to react. For a static charge, like a balloon that has had electrons rubbed off, it will not do anything.

[Jeff Root]

Wait a minute, there is something horribly wrong here.

Everyone should have a compass, even if they're useless
for finding your way around. They are too much fun not
to have one. If you don't have one, and (for any reason)
can't buy one, you can make one.

Just search for "make a compass".

-- Jeff, in Minneapolis