Calculating the magnetic field inside a field coil

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the magnetic field inside a large field coil connected to a function generator, with a smaller test coil used to measure induced emf. The problem involves understanding the relationship between the induced emf, inductance, and magnetic field, particularly in the context of alternating current at a specific frequency.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants explore the relationship between induced emf and magnetic flux, questioning the assumptions about the test coil's movement and the nature of the magnetic field. There are discussions on using the equations for emf and magnetic flux to derive the magnetic field, with some participants suggesting alternative formulations and clarifying definitions.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants providing insights and alternative approaches to the problem. Some guidance has been offered regarding the use of magnetic flux and its relationship to the area of the coil, but no consensus has been reached on the correct method or interpretation.

Contextual Notes

Participants note the potential lack of information regarding the dimensions of the field coil, which may impact the ability to calculate the magnetic field accurately. The problem is framed as a bonus question for an upcoming lab, adding a layer of urgency to the discussion.

newageanubis
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Homework Statement


(This is a bonus question for a lab I have coming up next week.)

In this part of the lab, a large field coil is hooked up to a function generator that outputs a 100 kHz, 10V peak-to-peak waveform. A smaller test coil is connected to an oscilloscope and slowly inserted into the field coil. The induced emf can be read off of the oscilloscope. Knowing the number of turns and cross-sectional area of the test coil, calculate the magnetic field B inside the large test coil.

Homework Equations


ε = -L*(dI/dt)
B = μNI/L

The Attempt at a Solution


Solution 1:
I'm thinking that the emf in the test coil can be read off of the oscilloscope and represented as a sinusoidal function. The inductance of the test coil can be determined from its known geometric properties. Then, you rearrange the equation so that it reads:

-ε/L dt = dI

And integrate, taking I = 0 at t = 0 as the initial value. Then, since B = μNI/L, the magnetic field inside the field coil can be found as a function of time. You solve for the time of interest (time at which you want to know the B field) using the ε function and a specific ε value at the time of interest, and then solve for the B field using the previously determined function.

The only problem (other than the fact that I'm probably wrong) is that this solution requires me to have access to the dimensions of the field coil, which I don't know if I will.

Thanks in advance for your time.
 
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I think you're on the wrong track.

Test coil: how about Newton's emf = -Nd(phi)/dt?
What is phi in terms of area of the coil and the (average) value of the B field inside that area?
 
rude man said:
I think you're on the wrong track.

Test coil: how about Newton's emf = -Nd(phi)/dt?
What is phi in terms of area of the coil and the (average) value of the B field inside that area?

\Phi = B_avg * A for this situation, I believe. The test coil isn't moved once it is inside the field coil, so the effective area doesn't change.
 
newageanubis said:
\Phi = B_avg * A for this situation, I believe. The test coil isn't moved once it is inside the field coil, so the effective area doesn't change.

Ah, true.

But B does change. 100 KHz ... and emf = d(phi)/dt, not phi. So what is d(phi)/dt? Does that give you dB/dt?

And if you know dB/dt which will be a sinusoid, can you from that deduce the time-varying B field itself?
 

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