Coaxial Solenoids: Finding Magnetic Field

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves two coaxial long solenoids carrying currents in opposite directions, with the goal of finding the magnetic field in three distinct regions: inside the inner solenoid, between the solenoids, and outside both. The context is rooted in electromagnetic theory, specifically the behavior of magnetic fields generated by solenoids.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking, Mixed

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the application of superposition to determine the magnetic fields in different regions. Questions arise regarding the behavior of the magnetic fields both inside and outside the solenoids, particularly about why fields would add between the solenoids but cancel outside.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants exploring the implications of their reasoning regarding the magnetic fields. Some participants express confidence in their answers, while others seek verification and clarification on specific aspects of the magnetic field behavior.

Contextual Notes

There is a lack of consensus on the correct interpretation of the magnetic fields in the regions outside and between the solenoids, as well as the assumptions regarding the superposition principle. Participants are navigating through these uncertainties without reaching a definitive conclusion.

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This one is from Griffiths.

Two coaxial long solenoids each carry current I, but in opposite directions.
The inner solenoid has radius 'a' and has 'n1' turns per unit length.
The outer solenoid has radius 'b' and has 'n2' turns per unit length.
Find the magnetic field [itex]\vec B[/itex] in three regions:
1] inside the inner solenoid
2] between them
3] outside both

My work:
I worked out the solution for these. Someone verify if my answers are correct.
General formula for magnetic field for a solenoid of 'n' turns is:
[tex]\vec B = \mu_0 nI \hat k[/tex]

1] For inner solenoid:
[tex]\vec B = \mu_0 I n_1 \hat k[/tex]

2]Between the solenoids:
[tex]\vec B = \mu_0 I n_1\hat k - \mu_0 I n_2\hat k[/tex]

[tex]\vec B = \mu_0 I \left(n_1 - n_2\right)\hat k[/tex]

3]Outside both:
[tex]\vec B = 0[/tex]
 
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not quite right.
why would the fields add between them but cancel outside both?
[especially what is the field of the "inner" solenoid?
use superposition.]
 
You mean the fields superimpose at the inner solenoid and not between them?
 
the fields superimpose everywhere.
but the fields are only nonzero inside
the respective solenoids.
 
qbert said:
the fields superimpose everywhere.
but the fields are only nonzero inside
the respective solenoids.
So the field inside the inner solenoid would be:
[tex]\vec B = \mu_0 I \left(n_1 - n_2\right)\hat k[/tex]
& the field between them would be:
[tex]\vec B = -\mu_0 I n_2\hat k[/tex]

Hope, I got it right & thanks for the help!
 
No clarifications so far...then I suppose my answer is correct :biggrin:.
 

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