Confused about solenoid radius from this site

AI Thread Summary
The discussion centers on the confusion regarding the radius of a solenoid and its impact on the magnetic field strength. A referenced equation suggests that the radius is calculated as the difference between the outer and inner radii, but this raises questions about scenarios with only one layer of coils. Participants clarify that while more layers can affect the radius, the number of coils and current also play crucial roles in determining the magnetic field strength. The logarithmic nature of the equation complicates the relationship between radius and field strength, emphasizing the need for careful calculations. Ultimately, the consensus is that more coils generally increase magnetic field strength, despite the complexities introduced by radius variations.
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So I was reading a thread on PF talking about the radius of a solenoid and Bob S answered with a link:
Bob S said:
This equation for the on-axis field is exact both inside and outside the solenoid:

http://www.netdenizen.com/emagnettest/solenoids/?solenoid

You can add more layers at the ends.

Bob S

On that site, it states that the Radius = the outer radius - the inner. It doesn't make sense. What happens when there is only one layer of coil and the outer radius (OR) is basically the inner radius (IR). That would create a larger magnetic field than if I had multiple layers of coils and the OR > IR which would then create a smaller one. I don't understand why.
 
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On that site, it states that the Radius = the outer radius - the inner.
Where?
What happens when there is only one layer of coil and the outer radius (OR) is basically the inner radius (IR).
Even in that case, your cables have a finite width.

You can probably consider this equation in the limit r1 -> r2, and get a simpler equation for the case where the difference between both is not significant.
 
mfb said:
Where?

In the equation where the denominator is 2(r2-r1). So I'm assuming that the more layers of coils you have, the greater r2-r1 is and therefore less magnetic fields. Which I don't get. I thought the more coils you have, the greater the magnetic field.
 
Careful, the radii are used in the logarithms as well. It is not clear which effect will dominate if you don't calculate it.

"More coils" would also increase n (more windings) or I (more current), cancelling this effect. More coils give a higher field strength.
 
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mfb said:
Careful, the radii are used in the logarithms as well. It is not clear which effect will dominate if you don't calculate it.

Oh...Whoops. Thank you. I can't believe I forgot about that.
 
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