How exactly does a current create a magnetic field and vice versa?

In summary, the conversation discusses the concept of relativity as an explanation for magnetism and electrostatics. It is acknowledged that while we understand how these phenomena work, the reason behind them remains unknown. The conversation also mentions the right hand rule and the perpendicular nature of electric and magnetic field vectors.
  • #1
jaydnul
558
15
And why is it parallel? Do we actually know what causes magnetism at all?
 
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  • #3
Relativity is an explanation of what happens, and is as good a one as we have.
But you can always ask 'why does it work that way?? ' Why does a moving charge withrelative motion create a magnetic field...why do magnetic and elertic fileds exist at all??

nobody knows...but THAT is what happens in this universe...
science almost always explains what happens not why...

we know the 'right hand rule' works but that doesn't mean we really know why...nor why the electric and magnetic field vectors are perpendicular...
 

1. How does a current create a magnetic field?

When an electric current flows through a wire, it creates a circular magnetic field around the wire. This is due to the movement of charged particles in the wire, which creates a magnetic field perpendicular to the direction of the current flow. The strength of the magnetic field is directly proportional to the amount of current flowing through the wire.

2. How does a magnetic field affect a current?

A magnetic field can induce a current in a wire by changing the magnetic flux through the wire. This is known as electromagnetic induction. When a wire is moved through a magnetic field or when the magnetic field around a wire changes, it creates a current in the wire. This is the principle behind generators and electric motors.

3. How does a magnetic field affect a compass?

A compass is a small magnet that aligns itself with the Earth's magnetic field. The Earth's magnetic field is created by the movement of molten iron in its core. When a compass is placed near a magnetic field, the needle aligns itself with the field lines, pointing towards the magnetic north pole.

4. How does a changing magnetic field create an electric field?

According to Faraday's law of electromagnetic induction, a changing magnetic field can induce an electric field. This is because a changing magnetic field will create a changing magnetic flux through a conductor, which in turn creates an electric field that causes current to flow in the conductor.

5. How are magnetic fields used in technology?

Magnetic fields are used in a variety of technologies, including electric motors, generators, speakers, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) machines. They are also used in data storage, such as hard drives and credit cards. Additionally, magnetic fields are used in compasses, navigation systems, and magnetic levitation trains.

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