Calculating the centre of mass of a U shaped conductor/Magnetic Field

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the magnetic field (\vec{B}=B\hat{z}) of a U-shaped conductor that is rotated around the y-axis at an angle θ with the vertical axis. The conductor has a linear mass density (ρ) and consists of three rods. To determine the center of mass (CM), participants suggest treating each rod as a point particle located at its center, allowing for the calculation of the CM of the three particles. This approach is essential for equating the torque of gravity with the torque of the magnetic force to achieve equilibrium.

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  • Understanding of magnetic fields and torque in physics.
  • Familiarity with linear mass density (ρ) and its implications.
  • Knowledge of equilibrium conditions in physics.
  • Basic principles of center of mass calculations.
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  • Study the principles of torque and equilibrium in magnetic fields.
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  • Explore the effects of electric current on magnetic fields in conductors.
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Homework Statement


The exercise asks you to calculate the magnitude of the magnetic field (\vec{B}=B\hat{z}), knowing that the U shaped conductor is initially parallel to Oyz plane and then rotated around the y-axis to a stable position defined by θ (angle) with the vertical axis (z).

The U shaped conductor has a linear density of mass, ρ (g/cm), with a horizontal length d, and a vertical length L. There is also a flow of electric charge (I) traveling the conductor.

Homework Equations


The Attempt at a Solution



To calculate the magnitude of the magnetic field I used the definition of torque (τ), equating the torque of gravity to the torque of the magnetic force so that the conductor is in equilibrium (θ). But to calculate the torque I have to know how to calculate its centre of mass, with which I'm having a hard time...

I'd appreciate some feedback on how to proceed in this exercise. :)
 
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If I'm understanding the set up, the U-shape conductor is made of three conducting rods. To find the center of mass: replace each rod by a point particle located at the center of the rod with mass equal to the mass of the rod. Then you just have to find the CM of the three particles.
 
TSny said:
If I'm understanding the set up, the U-shape conductor is made of three conducting rods. To find the center of mass: replace each rod by a point particle located at the center of the rod with mass equal to the mass of the rod. Then you just have to find the CM of the three particles.

Thanks, I've got it know :)
 

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