Magnetic fields across lines and surfaces

In summary, the conversation discusses the concept of magnetic flux and its relationship to closed surfaces and paths. It is stated that the magnetic flux is zero for a closed surface because magnetic field lines enter and exit in equal numbers. However, this is not necessarily true for a closed path, as shown by an example given in the conversation. The concept of the perimeter of a path is also questioned.
  • #1
IniquiTrance
190
0
I know that [tex] \int_{S}^{}\int_{}^{}\vec{B}\cdot d\vec{A} = 0 [/tex] because [tex] \textbf {div} \vec{B}=0 [/tex]

IE, because [tex] \Phi_{B} [/tex] leaving a closed surface must equal [tex]\Phi_{B}[/tex] entering.

Yet how is it then that [tex]\int_{C}^{}\vec{B}\cdot d\vec{l}[/tex] isn't also equal to zero?

Shouldn't it be true for any closed path that the amount of magnetic field lines leaving the perimeter of the path be equal to the amount entering, so that there be no net amount of field lines across it?

If it is true for a closed surface, shouldn't it be true for a closed path?

Thanks!
 
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  • #2
I think that the first thing you have there is for a closed surface, ie, a volume enclosed by a surface. The magnetic flux is zero for a surface enclosing a volume because magnetic field lines exit and enter in equal numbers, because there are no magnetic monopoles.

The second thing is a line integral around a curved path. A path can never enclose a volume. It's not true that the magnetic field lines passing through *any* surface must cancel out. In fact, I can give you an example of the second that isn't zero...

Let B = M(-sin theta, cos theta) / r^2 and let C : x=cos theta, y=sin theta, 0<t<2PI. Then C': x=-sin theta, y=cos theta, and the integral becomes the integral from 0 to 2 of M(sin^2 theta + cos^2 theta) = M which turns out to be (2PI)M.

I think...
 
  • #3
IniquiTrance said:
Shouldn't it be true for any closed path that the amount of magnetic field lines leaving the perimeter of the path be equal to the amount entering, so that there be no net amount of field lines across it?

What is the 'perimeter' of a path?
 
  • #4
IniquiTrance said:
Shouldn't it be true for any closed path that the amount of magnetic field lines leaving the perimeter of the path be equal to the amount entering, so that there be no net amount of field lines across it?

Think what you're asking. What is the perimeter of a path?
 

What is a magnetic field?

A magnetic field is a region in space where a magnetic force can be detected. It is created by moving electric charges or by the intrinsic magnetic dipole moment of elementary particles.

How do magnetic fields interact with each other?

Magnetic fields can interact with each other in three ways: attraction, repulsion, and induction. Attraction occurs when two magnetic fields with opposite polarities come into contact, while repulsion occurs when two fields with the same polarity interact. Induction occurs when a changing magnetic field induces an electric current in a conductor.

Can magnetic fields be shielded?

Yes, magnetic fields can be shielded by using materials with high magnetic permeability, such as iron, to redirect the magnetic field lines away from the shielded area. This is commonly used in electronic devices to prevent interference from external magnetic fields.

How are magnetic fields measured?

Magnetic fields are typically measured using a device called a magnetometer. This device uses a sensor, such as a Hall effect sensor or a fluxgate magnetometer, to detect the strength and direction of the magnetic field.

What are some real-life applications of magnetic fields?

Magnetic fields have a wide range of applications, including in electric motors, generators, MRI machines, and compasses. They are also used in data storage devices, such as hard drives, and in particle accelerators for scientific research.

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