Calculate Earth's Magnetic Flux at a Certain Location

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the Earth's magnetic flux at a specific location where the magnetic field has a magnitude of 5.6x10-5 T, directed 72 degrees below the horizontal. The correct formula for magnetic flux, \Phi = BA sin \theta, was clarified after an initial incorrect application of cosine. The final calculation for the magnetic flux through a desk measuring 110 cm by 57 cm, using the sine function, yields a value of 1.1e-5 Wb. This emphasizes the importance of understanding the orientation of the surface in relation to the magnetic field.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of magnetic flux and its calculation
  • Familiarity with the formula \Phi = BA sin \theta
  • Basic knowledge of trigonometric functions
  • Ability to convert units (e.g., cm to meters)
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the application of magnetic flux in different orientations
  • Learn about the properties of Earth's magnetic field
  • Explore the implications of magnetic flux in electromagnetic theory
  • Investigate the use of magnetic flux in engineering applications
USEFUL FOR

Students in physics, educators teaching electromagnetism, and professionals involved in geophysics or engineering applications related to magnetic fields.

muffintop
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1. At a certain location, the Earth's magnetic field has a magnitude of 5.6x10-5 T and points in a direction that is 72 degrees below the horizontal. FInd the magnitude of the magnetic flux through the top of a desk at this location that measures 110 cm by 57 cm.
2. I used the formula \Phi = BA cos \theta

The Attempt at a Solution


\Phi[/thex] = 5.6x10<sup>-5</sup> x 1.10m x .57m x cos 72<br /> =1.1e-5 Wb and it&#039;s wrong
 
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muffintop said:
1. At a certain location, the Earth's magnetic field has a magnitude of 5.6x10-5 T and points in a direction that is 72 degrees below the horizontal. FInd the magnitude of the magnetic flux through the top of a desk at this location that measures 110 cm by 57 cm.

2. I used the formula \Phi = BA cos \theta

The Attempt at a Solution


\Phi[/thex] = 5.6x10<sup>-5</sup> x 1.10m x .57m x cos 72<br /> =1.1e-5 Wb and it&#039;s wrong
<br /> <br /> Welcome to PF.<br /> <br /> Is the desk top a vertical surface or a horizontal one?<br /> <br /> <a href="http://hyperphysics.phy-astr.gsu.edu/Hbase/magnetic/fluxmg.html" target="_blank" class="link link--external" rel="nofollow ugc noopener">http://hyperphysics.phy-astr.gsu.edu/Hbase/magnetic/fluxmg.html</a>
 
LowlyPion said:
Welcome to PF.

Is the desk top a vertical surface or a horizontal one?

http://hyperphysics.phy-astr.gsu.edu/Hbase/magnetic/fluxmg.html


Horizontal. and since the I'm looking for the magnetic flux, it should be perpendicular to the area so I use sine instead of cosine. What a stupid mistake haha, thank you for your help!
 

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