Circular Coil vs Solenoid: What's the Difference?

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SUMMARY

The discussion clarifies the distinction between a circular coil and a solenoid. A circular coil consists of wire wound in a loop with negligible length, while a solenoid is defined as a cylindrical coil with significant length and a moveable core, commonly used in mechanical devices like automotive starters. The solenoid's geometry and functionality differentiate it from a simple circular coil, which lacks the same mechanical applications.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of electromagnetic theory
  • Familiarity with coil geometry and magnetic fields
  • Knowledge of solenoid applications in mechanical devices
  • Basic principles of electromagnetism
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the mathematical formulas for calculating magnetic fields in solenoids
  • Explore applications of solenoids in automotive and industrial settings
  • Learn about the differences in magnetic field strength between circular coils and solenoids
  • Investigate the design considerations for creating efficient solenoids
USEFUL FOR

Electronics engineers, physics students, and professionals involved in designing electromagnetic devices will benefit from this discussion.

pardesi
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what' the differnece between a circular coil of wire of many turns and a solenoid.
 
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Isn't that exactly what a solenoid is: a circular coil of wire with lots of turns in it?
 
Correct. But by 'popular' terminology, most people think of a solenoid as being a mechanical device consisting of a moveable core within the solenoid coil, as in an automotive starter or a model train track switch.
 
To me, a solenoid is a "stretched out" coil, that is, its geometry is a cylinder, and the length is significant.
 

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thanks that seems logical now...becaus ei was working out through the formulaes for the magnetic field due to each...

so circular coil is a coil of negligible length and same radius
 

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