Does a Changing Electric Field Create a Magnetic Field?

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SUMMARY

A changing electric field does indeed create a magnetic field, as established by Maxwell's equations. Specifically, both a moving charge and an electric field that varies with time can generate a magnetic field. The relationship between electric and magnetic fields is crucial in understanding electromagnetic phenomena, particularly in alternating current (AC) circuits where the electric field changes continuously. The formula I = C * dv/dt illustrates the connection between current and the changing electric field, reinforcing the concept that time-varying electric fields induce magnetic fields.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Maxwell's equations
  • Knowledge of alternating current (AC) and direct current (DC) circuits
  • Familiarity with capacitor behavior in electrical circuits
  • Basic concepts of electromagnetic fields
NEXT STEPS
  • Study Maxwell's equations in detail
  • Learn about the relationship between electric and magnetic fields in AC circuits
  • Explore the behavior of capacitors in AC versus DC circuits
  • Investigate electromagnetic induction and its applications
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Students of physics, electrical engineers, and anyone interested in the principles of electromagnetism and their applications in technology.

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Creating Magnetic Field

Homework Statement



Which of the following that creates a magnetic field?

A. A moving charge
B. An electric field that changes with time.
C. Both of them.

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution


A is definitely correct, I wonder if B is correct as well. I can not figure out their relation(electric field and magnetic field). If possible, please provide me a formula.

Thanks a lot for your help:D
 
Last edited:
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When you think back through your course, do you vary the electric field to generate a magnetic one or do you vary the magnetic field to generate an electric one?

I think this is the distinction they are looking for.
 
I believe B will also create a magnetic field perpendicular to the electric field. Here is my logic:

* When there is an alternating electric field, charges will change position to keep up with the polarity which is same with the condition a.
* As example: Assume you are charging a capacitor with AC; your capacitor will definitely drain current in steady state. But in DC case capacitor will only drain current at the time in between zero voltage on capacitor and DC voltage on capacitor.

You know the formula of the capacitor

I= C* dv/dt

So you know the relation between the current and the magnetic field: Or so to say the maxwell equations:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Magnetic_field#Maxwell.27s_equations
 
The presence of a time-changing E does imply something about charges moving and so it would be accompanied by a magnetic field ... does that fit in with the level that the question is being asked?

That's the trick with these things.
 
Thanks. I think I can get on with that explanation:D The electric field change due to charge movement.
 

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