Exploring MacGyver's Science: EMPs and Innovative Gadgets
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Chapter 1: Understanding Electromagnetic Pulses (EMPs)
What exactly is an EMP? It refers to an Electromagnetic Pulse, a sophisticated weapon designed to emit a brief but extremely potent electromagnetic wave.
You may be most familiar with the concept through the phenomenon of lightning strikes. If a bolt of lightning has ever struck close to your home, you may have noticed that some of your electronic devices stopped functioning. This unfortunate occurrence is typically due to a surge in electric current within your house. When lightning strikes, it induces a significant alteration in the magnetic field—this rapid change is linked to the massive current generated by the strike, which can subsequently induce an electric current in nearby circuits.
Consider this experiment: I have a loop of wire and a magnet. When I move the magnet into or out of the loop, it produces an electrical current.
Image: Rhett Allain
This principle is akin to what happens in your household during such events. Now, regarding EMPs, the underlying concept is similar, but with a significantly stronger change in the magnetic field. It is feasible to generate an EMP powerful enough to disrupt the electronic circuits of numerous devices—yes, even aircraft.
Is the creation of a handheld EMP device possible? While it can be done, the effectiveness would be limited; generally, larger devices yield greater power.
Chapter 2: The Mystery of "The Thing"
I had never heard of "the thing" until the brilliant writers of MacGyver introduced it to me. Upon reading the script, I was shocked and intrigued.
"The Thing" refers to a Cold War espionage tool—a covert listening device that the Soviets concealed within a wooden replica of The Great Seal. This fascinating device operates through a conducting cavity equipped with a membrane. When a specific microwave frequency targets the device, sound vibrations move the membrane, altering the reflected wave. This change is then interpreted as sound. For a detailed explanation, visit this site.
Could MacGyver construct one of these devices? Absolutely, especially in the Phoenix lab. Although I initially thought about creating a model for fun, achieving the correct dimensions and functionality poses a challenge. Nevertheless, it would be exciting to build a working prototype.
Section 2.1: Hacking Cars
Unfortunately, hacking vehicles is a genuine concern today.
Older automobiles lack sophisticated computer systems, making them immune to hacking attempts, as you cannot tamper with mere metal and fuel.
Section 2.2: Pacemakers and Audio Signals
Is it feasible to hack a pacemaker? While the probability is low, it isn't entirely out of the question. My initial assumption is that pacemakers lack network connectivity, but what if they did? Imagine wanting to modify its functionality without surgically removing it. In such a scenario, communication with the device would be essential.
In a dramatic twist, MacGyver faces a situation where a character requires a temporary pacemaker. He ingeniously uses paperclips as electrodes, linking them to the car's audio amplifier. By generating a 1.7 Hertz audio signal via his phone, the sound waves create electrical signals that could potentially stimulate the heart.
Would this method be effective in reality? Perhaps, but I wouldn’t want to test it myself.
Originally published at http://rhettallain.com on April 1, 2019.