What Causes the Magnetic Field in Magnetized Iron?

AI Thread Summary
The magnetic field in magnetized iron is fundamentally linked to the movement of charged particles, specifically electrons. When electrons orbit the nucleus of an atom, their motion creates a current, which generates a magnetic field. This phenomenon can be understood through the simplified Bohr model of the atom, where charged particles contribute to the overall magnetic properties. The discussion emphasizes the relationship between electric current and magnetism, highlighting that the movement of electrons is crucial in producing the magnetic field. Understanding these concepts is essential for grasping the underlying basis of magnetism in materials like iron.
Emily6
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Homework Statement


What is the underlying basis of the magnetic field in a magnetized piece of iron?

The Attempt at a Solution



I have absolutely no clue what this problem is asking or how to go about answering it.

Thanks in advance
 
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Have you learned of anything that produces a magnetic field?
 
Such as the Earth and electric current?
 
Yes, good.
An electric current is what again and might we find that in matter somehow? (I am leaving this vague for now)
 
Electric current is the rate of charge flow through a given point. I think we can find electric current in matter because there can be charges acting upon each other?
 
Okay.
Take a simplified view of the atom. Is there any current associated with this picture?
 
There can be if it has a charge?
 
Well, what is an atom composed of? Think of maybe the Bohr model, ie. no need for full on quantum here.
 
It is composed of protons, neutrons, electrons. Is charged atomic particles the answer to this question?
 
  • #10
What about those electrons? Do they have motion about the nucleus?
 
  • #11
Yes they move around the nucleus.
 
  • #12
Do electrons have charge?
 
  • #13
Yes they have a negative charge.
 
  • #14
So you have a charge moving, is that a current?
 
  • #15
Yes it is a current.
 
  • #16
Nice! Now you may want to flush this out further by considering the motion (orbit) of the electron and what the field would look like from this one "atom."
 
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