Magnetic flux density vs magnetic flux

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers on the distinction between magnetic flux and magnetic flux density, exploring their definitions, measurements, and relationships. Participants also examine the implications of voltage and current on magnetic flux density, along with relevant formulas.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Magnetic flux is described as a scalar quantity measured in webers, representing the total amount across a surface, while magnetic flux density is a vector quantity measured in teslas, existing at each point.
  • Some participants assert that magnetic flux and magnetic flux density cannot be used interchangeably, highlighting their distinct definitions and roles.
  • One participant introduces the concept of magnetization, measured in amp-turns per meter, as an additional related quantity.
  • There is a claim that some sources suggest magnetic flux density is related to voltage rather than current, leading to confusion regarding the role of moving charges in generating the magnetic field in a wire.
  • A formula for maximum magnetic flux density is presented, prompting questions about how changes in the number of turns, area, and voltage affect magnetic flux density.
  • Participants express a desire for a thorough and intuitive explanation of the relationships between voltage, current, and magnetic flux density.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the definitions of magnetic flux and magnetic flux density, but there is disagreement regarding the relationship of magnetic flux density to voltage and current, as well as the implications of the presented formula.

Contextual Notes

The discussion includes unresolved questions about the dependencies of magnetic flux density on various factors, such as the number of turns in a coil and the rate of voltage change, without reaching a consensus on these points.

chanderjeet
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i'm having trouble distinguishing between magnetic flux and magnetic flux density...can someone please explain to me?

also why is it sometimes used interchangeably?
 
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Hi chanderjeet! :smile:

Magnetic flux, Φ, is a scalar, measured in webers (or volt-seconds), and is a total amount measured across a surface (ie, you don't have flux at a point).

Magnetic flux density, B, is a vector, measured in webers per square metre (or teslas), and exists at each point.

The flux across a surface S is the integral of the magnetic flux density over that surface:
Φ = ∫∫S B.dS
(and is zero for a closed surface)

Magnetic flux density is what physicists more commonly call the magnetic field. :rolleyes:

It is a density per area, rather than the usual density per volume.

(and they can't be used interchangeably)

Similarly, electric flux is a scalar, measured in volt-metres, and electric flux density (also a density per area), E, is a vector, measured in volts per metre (and is more commonly called the electric field).​
 
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that really cleared things up...thank you.
 
There is also H, magnetization, measured in amp-turns per meter (in MKS units).

Bob S
 
Some sources say that magnetic flux density is not related to current but to VOLTAGE. I don't understand why. I always thought that the magnetic field in a wire is caused by the movement of charged elements (e.g electrons) in a wire. Can you explain this?
 
In some litterature this formula is used:

Bmax = Vmax/ (2*pi*f * A * n)

Where Bmax is the max magnetic flux density, Vmax is the max voltage over a coil with n turns wound on a toroid core with area A. 2*pi*f is the rate of voltage change per time unit.

It looks like the magnetic flux density is reduced :

If we increase the number of turns. Why?
If we increase the area. Why?
If we increase the rate of change of voltage applied. Why?

It looks like the magnetic flux density is increased:
If the max VOLTAGE is increased. Why? Isnt it the current that causes the flux density to increase?

I would appreciate a thorough and intuitive explanation!

Mike Hansen
 

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