B field of cylinder with time-varying current

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the magnetic field (B field) and electric field (E field) generated by multiple coils wrapped around a non-magnetic cylinder, with a focus on time-varying currents. Participants explore the implications of sinusoidal currents on the fields, and the problem involves theoretical and computational aspects of electromagnetism.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related
  • Technical explanation
  • Mathematical reasoning
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant suggests that the equation for the magnetic field B could be B0*cos(wt), based on the assumption that if the current is sinusoidal, the magnetic field must also be sinusoidal.
  • Another participant argues that the diameter of the wire is redundant information for solving the problem, as the number of turns and the extent of each coil are sufficient.
  • There is confusion among participants regarding how to derive the electric field (E) and magnetic field (B) from the time-varying current, with one participant proposing I=I1m*cos(wt) as a starting point.
  • Some participants discuss using solenoid equations, questioning whether to use the magnitude of the current or the time-dependent form in their calculations.
  • One participant expresses uncertainty about the correctness of their derived equation for B(t) and its relation to Bz, while also clarifying that E should be plotted against time.
  • Clarifications are made regarding the definitions of Bz and E, with one participant emphasizing that Bz refers to the magnetic field along the z-axis and E has a primarily theta component.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express varying levels of understanding and confusion regarding the equations and concepts involved. There is no consensus on the correct approach to deriving the fields, and multiple competing views on how to handle the time dependence of the current and fields remain unresolved.

Contextual Notes

Participants note that the problem may contain redundant information and that assumptions about the relationships between the fields and the sinusoidal current are not fully established. The discussion reflects uncertainty about the correct application of solenoid equations and the definitions of the fields involved.

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Homework Statement


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In the picture in the figure, three coils are tightly wrapped around a non-magnetic cylinder of diameter Dcyl. Each coil is defined through the diameter of each wire comprising the coil, dcoil1-dcoil3, the current going through each coil, I1-I3, and the number of turns in each coil, N1 – N3. In addition, each coil extends a length equal to a 1/3 the length of the cylinder. Write a program that defines the magnetic field in the centerline of the cylinder (on the z axis) and plots it against z (from –l to l, where l is the length of the cylinder). Note that the cylinder extends from –l/2 to l/2.

The difference in this problem is that I1, I2, and I3 are now time varying (sinusoidal), with magnitudes I1m, I2m, and I3m and frequency w.

The program outputs a graph of Bz and Ez vs t and z from –l to l for:
1. All coils identical – same current I, same diameter, same number of coils. This should give you an answer identical to the case of one coil with current I and number of coils equal to 3N.

Homework Equations


B=B0 * cos(wt) ?
B field of solenoid (constant field) = uNI/L

The Attempt at a Solution


not really sure about the equation for B or E. i know if I is sinusoidal then B must be too. I think it is something like B0*cos(wt), from what I understand in my book.
 
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As before, the problem gives redundant information. Since it gives the extent of each coil (l/3) and the number of turns for each coil, the diameter of the wire is redundant and should be omitted from the problem.
If you figured out the problem for dc then substituting an ac current is a gimme.
 
I guess I'm just confused how to find Bz and Et. I think I=I1m*cos(wt) but how do i find the E and B field from this?
 
Should I just use the solenoid equations? Bz=u*I/(2*pi*r) but since I has time dependence too, would I use just I am (magnitude) instead of the cos(wt)? I guess I would convert Bz then to Et but it would be without the the z in equation.
 
asdf12312 said:
Should I just use the solenoid equations? Bz=u*I/(2*pi*r) but since I has time dependence too, would I use just I am (magnitude) instead of the cos(wt)? I guess I would convert Bz then to Et but it would be without the the z in equation.
Where did you get Bz=u*I/(2*pi*r)? That's the solenoid equation? You previously had the right equation for B inside the solenoid in post 1.
The B field with current = I0cos(wt) is a gimme.
For the E field, use Faraday's law around a circular path concentric with the solenoid.
Please define Et. Is it a space movie? I think you mean Ez?
 
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I get B(t)=u*N*I0*sin(wt)/L, but I was wondering if this is wrong because it should be Bz. also I think it meant E(t) because we need to plot it against t.
 
asdf12312 said:
I get B(t)=u*N*I0*sin(wt)/L, but I was wondering if this is wrong because it should be Bz. also I think it meant E(t) because we need to plot it against t.
What do you mean by Bz? I thought Bz, i.e. the B field along the z axis which is the solenoid's axis. B = Bz(z,t) in other words it varies with time t and it varies with location along the z axis, and is directed along the z axis.

E = Eθ(z,t), meaning E has mainly a theta component and is also a function of t and z.
 
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