Defining the Forces from Magnetic Fields and Electric Fields

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the definitions and conceptual understanding of electric and magnetic fields, specifically questioning whether the magnetic field vector (B vector) can be defined similarly to the electric field intensity vector. The conversation touches on theoretical aspects and interpretations found in textbooks.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant proposes that the B vector could be defined as the magnetic force acting on a unit magnetic north pole, similar to how the electric field intensity vector is defined.
  • Another participant asserts that there is no such entity as a unit magnetic north pole or magnetic monopoles, challenging the initial proposal.
  • A later reply references textbooks that derive the magnetic field at points around a bar magnet using the concept of a unit north monopole, questioning the validity of this approach and the terminology of B vector as magnetic field intensity vector.
  • Another participant critiques the use of the term "Coulomb's Law for magnetism" in relation to the Biot-Savart Law, suggesting it may lead to misunderstandings.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express disagreement regarding the existence of magnetic monopoles and the appropriateness of certain definitions and terminologies. The discussion remains unresolved with multiple competing views presented.

Contextual Notes

Limitations include the reliance on definitions of magnetic monopoles and the potential misapplication of terminology in textbooks, which may not align with established physics concepts.

physics_nsrg
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We define Electric Field Intensity vector at a point as the force experienced by a unit positive charge kept at a point. Is it correct to define B vector similarly that is, is B vector the magnetic force acting on an unit magnetic north pole and is it correct to call B vector Magnetic Field Intensity vector?
 
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There is no such thing as a unit magnetic north pole or magnetic monopoles in general for that matter.
 
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Thank you for the response.
In a couple of textbooks I have gone through, to calculate magnetic field at any point on the axial line and equatorial line of a bar magnet of giver pole strength, the derivation for the expression of magnetic field is done by calculating the force acting on unit north mono pole kept at the given point and in the process, Coulomb's Law for magnetism is used. Is this approach wrong and is B vector ever called magnetic field intensity vector?
 
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If they describe the Biot-Savart Law as "Coulomb's Law for magnetism", that is a problem, yes.
 
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Welcome to PF.

physics_nsrg said:
In a couple of textbooks I have gone through
Which textbooks?
 
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