Today we’re publishing three articles on magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) propulsion, a means of propelling a ship without moving parts like paddlewheels or propellers. Instead, MHD relies on passing electrical currents through the water, effectively turning the water itself into part of an electric motor, where the only thing that moves is the water.

Here’s a quick guide to the articles:

• First Demonstrate magnetohydrodynamic propulsion in one minute. You’ll need a magnet, a battery, two wires, water, and salt and pepper.
  
• Next, Build a simple boat that propels itself with a magnetohydrodynamic drive.
  
• Finally Get serious, and start hacking magnetohydrodynamic propulsion systems into RC boats.

PS: Happy International Talk Like a Pirate Day. Arr.