Conservative and non conservative fields

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around whether a magnetic field is classified as conservative or non-conservative. Participants explore definitions and implications of conservative fields in the context of energy conservation.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants question whether a magnetic field should be considered conservative, with one expressing uncertainty about their initial stance.
  • Another participant suggests that a practical definition of a conservative field relates to energy conservation.
  • A similar viewpoint is reiterated, emphasizing the importance of energy conservation in defining conservative fields.
  • One participant proposes that if a potential energy can be clearly defined for the magnetic force, then the magnetic field could be considered conservative.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on whether magnetic fields are conservative or non-conservative, with multiple competing views presented.

Contextual Notes

Definitions of conservative fields and the criteria for energy conservation are not fully resolved, leaving room for interpretation and further discussion.

oreo
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Is magnetic field conservative or non- conservative field? I think that it should be conservative but not sure.
 
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I believe that a practical definition of conservative field asks conservative of what? A conservative field conserves energy.
 
Doug Huffman said:
I believe that a practical definition of conservative field asks conservative of what? A conservative field conserves energy.
Yes I did mean energy!
 
If one can clearly define a potential energy due to the magnetic force, then the magnetic force field would be conservative.
 

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