Calculating Current for Electromagnet Lift

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the current required for an electromagnet to lift a heavy object, specifically a Cadillac, given a force requirement and a known current for a lighter object. The subject area is electromagnetism and electrical circuits.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Conceptual clarification

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to identify the necessary equations and relationships between current, force, and mass. Some participants question the definitions and assumptions regarding the variables involved, particularly the meaning of Q in the context of the problem.

Discussion Status

Participants are actively engaging in clarifying the concepts and equations relevant to the problem. There is a focus on understanding the relationship between current and the magnetic field strength, with guidance being offered to explore the underlying principles rather than providing direct solutions.

Contextual Notes

There is a mention of the original current used for a lighter object and the new force requirement for the heavier Cadillac, indicating a need to explore proportional relationships. The original poster expresses uncertainty about the relevance of the equations they have, particularly regarding electric charge.

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I have this question that I have been completely stuck on with the equations that i have and i was wondering if someone could help me with this question but what equation should i use first to get myself going.

Someone drives an electromagnet at a junk yard. Normally the magnet uses 200 A to lift a car of 360 kg, but now a force of 4200 N is required to lift a big old cadillac. What current would be required to make this lift?
 
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Perhaps you could start by showing us which equations you have to work with. Please share with us some of your thoughts and the work you have done. We can then guide you to a solution.
 
This is what i have so far.

I = 200 A
Car Mass = 360 kg
F = 4200 N
Q= ?

I'm looking for the current required to lift the car. The only equation i know that can find is Q= I delta t and Q=Ne but i don't see how any of those equations would help. If you see something i can't then show me what i should do.
 
First of all, Q refers to "Quantity of Electric Charge", not "Indicated Current".

Do you know what causes a magnetic field in the electro-magnet?
(hint: it is NOT electric charge ...)
You're probably supposed to presume that the strength of the megnet
is proportional to the quantity that determines the magnetic field.
 

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