Force on a ferromagnetic object

In summary, calculating the force exerted on a ferromagnetic object by a magnetic field created by a solenoid is difficult due to the complexity of the field's gradient. This is because the object needs to have a magnetic dipole induced in order for the force to be accurately measured. This information is helpful for someone building a DIY coilgun and will likely require trial-and-error in order to determine the force exerted.
  • #1
mahela007
106
0
How can one calculate (even as a rough estimate) the force exerted on a ferromagnetic object by a magnetic field created by a solenoid? Thanks
 
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  • #2
With great difficulty, since it depends on the gradient of the field, which is not simple for a solenoid.
 
  • #3
oh well..
Just for the sake of knowledge, does the gradient of the field come into play because all magnets have two poles and because the net force depends on the difference between the force on each end?
 
  • #4
Yes - although in this case it's more complicated, since you need to induce a magnetic dipole in the object.
 
  • #5
well, I asked this question because I'm building a simple DIY coilgun.. (just 8J of energy stored in the caps). So I'm going to have to resort to trial-and-error. Thanks for your help.
 

1. What is "force on a ferromagnetic object"?

"Force on a ferromagnetic object" refers to the strength and direction of the force exerted on a ferromagnetic material, such as iron, when it is placed in a magnetic field.

2. What factors affect the force on a ferromagnetic object?

The force on a ferromagnetic object is affected by the strength of the magnetic field, the orientation of the object in the field, and the magnetic properties of the object itself, such as its magnetization and susceptibility.

3. How is the force on a ferromagnetic object calculated?

The force on a ferromagnetic object can be calculated using the formula F = B x m, where F is the force, B is the magnetic field strength, and m is the magnetic moment of the object.

4. Can the force on a ferromagnetic object be repulsive?

Yes, the force on a ferromagnetic object can be either attractive or repulsive, depending on the orientation of the object's magnetic moment relative to the magnetic field.

5. How does the force on a ferromagnetic object change with distance from the magnet?

The force on a ferromagnetic object decreases as the distance from the magnet increases, following an inverse square law. This means that the force decreases exponentially as the distance increases, and is proportional to the inverse of the square of the distance.

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