Calculating Force of Parallel Wires: 1 Wire & 1 Loop

  • Thread starter Thread starter Marioqwe
  • Start date Start date
Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the magnetic force between a straight wire and a loop of wire using the equation B = μ0 I / (2 * π r), where μ0 equals 4(pi)e-7. It is established that this equation is valid for infinitely long parallel wires, but its application is limited when one wire is replaced by a loop. The symmetry assumption inherent in the equation does not hold for loops, making it unsuitable for calculating the magnetic field produced by a loop.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of magnetic fields and forces
  • Familiarity with the Biot-Savart Law
  • Knowledge of the concept of magnetic field lines
  • Basic proficiency in physics equations related to electromagnetism
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the Biot-Savart Law for calculating magnetic fields from current-carrying loops
  • Explore the concept of magnetic field symmetry in different geometries
  • Learn about Ampère's Law and its applications to various wire configurations
  • Investigate numerical methods for simulating magnetic fields in complex arrangements
USEFUL FOR

Students of physics, educators teaching electromagnetism, and engineers working with electromagnetic systems will benefit from this discussion.

Marioqwe
Messages
65
Reaction score
4

Homework Statement



So let's say that we have 2 wires that are parallel. To find the force that one exerts on the other I can use the equation B = μ0 I / (2 * π r), where μ0 is equal to 4(pi)e-7. But what can I do when I have 1 wire parallel to a wire that forms a loop. Will the equation still work?

Homework Equations



B = μ0 I / (2 * π r)

The Attempt at a Solution

 
Physics news on Phys.org
Depends. The derivation of the equation relies on a symmetry that arises because you assume the wire is infinitely long. The equation is only applicable to situations where that assumption is a good approximation, so if you want to use it to calculate the magnetic field of the wire, that's fine. You can't use it, however, to find the magnetic field due to the loop.
 

Similar threads

Replies
8
Views
3K
  • · Replies 9 ·
Replies
9
Views
2K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
3K
  • · Replies 14 ·
Replies
14
Views
3K
Replies
3
Views
4K
  • · Replies 14 ·
Replies
14
Views
2K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
3K
Replies
4
Views
3K
Replies
17
Views
3K
  • · Replies 9 ·
Replies
9
Views
2K