Comparing Series & Parallel Connections of Helmholtz Coils

In summary, the differences between electrically connecting helmholtz coils in series and parallel depend on the circuit they are connected to. In a static setup, they act like resistors, while in a driven setup, the magnetic field will oscillate if they are driven by an oscillator. The absolute value of the magnetic field also depends on the current and the electric setup.
  • #1
strokebow
123
0
Hi,

With the condition that 2 helmholtz coils are parallel with each other sharing the same axis in space . . .

What are the differences between electrically connecting up the coils in series and in parallel?

cheers
 
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  • #2
That depends on the circuit you connect them to. In a static setup, they are like resistors.
 
  • #3
Thanks for your response.

In the case that they are being driven to produce a constant magnetic field between them.
 
  • #4
The magnetic field is always constant if the current in coils is constant. And its second derivative vanishes if the coils are identical and have the same current inside.

The absolute value of the magnetic field there depends on that current, and that depends on the electric setup.
 
  • #5
Thanks very much.

How would things differ if they were driven by an oscillator?
 
  • #6
The magnetic field would oscillate as well.
 

FAQ: Comparing Series & Parallel Connections of Helmholtz Coils

1. What are Helmholtz coils and how do they work?

Helmholtz coils are a pair of identical circular or square-shaped coils of wire placed parallel to each other, with a distance between them equal to their radius. They are used to generate a uniform magnetic field. When an electrical current is passed through the coils, it creates a magnetic field that is perpendicular to the plane of the coils. The two coils work together to produce a more uniform magnetic field than a single coil would generate.

2. What is the difference between series and parallel connections of Helmholtz coils?

In series connection, the two Helmholtz coils are connected end to end, so the current flows through one coil and then through the other. This results in a stronger magnetic field than a single coil, but the field is not as uniform. In parallel connection, the two coils are connected side by side, so the current is divided between the two coils. This results in a weaker magnetic field, but it is more uniform.

3. Which connection, series or parallel, is better for creating a uniform magnetic field?

It depends on the specific application. Series connection is better for applications where a stronger magnetic field is needed, such as in particle accelerators. Parallel connection is better for applications where a more uniform magnetic field is important, such as in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) machines.

4. What are the advantages and disadvantages of series and parallel connections of Helmholtz coils?

The advantage of series connection is that it produces a stronger magnetic field, but the disadvantage is that the field is not as uniform. The advantage of parallel connection is that it produces a more uniform magnetic field, but the disadvantage is that the field is weaker. Additionally, parallel connection requires more complex wiring and can be more expensive to set up.

5. Can Helmholtz coils be used for other purposes besides generating a uniform magnetic field?

Yes, Helmholtz coils can also be used for measuring the strength of a magnetic field. By passing a current through the coils and measuring the resulting magnetic field, the strength of an external magnetic field can be determined. They can also be used in experiments to study the effects of magnetic fields on objects or materials.

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