Force between poles of two magnets

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the force between two magnets using the Biot-Savart law and Lorentz's force formula. It highlights the potential energy of a magnetic dipole, represented as ##\vec m##, in a magnetic field ##\vec B##, defined by the equation U = - \vec m \cdot \vec B. The conversation emphasizes the need to derive forces and torques from this potential energy equation, which is not covered in standard textbooks.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of the Biot-Savart law
  • Familiarity with Lorentz's force formula
  • Knowledge of magnetic dipoles and their properties
  • Basic calculus for taking derivatives
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation of forces and torques from potential energy in magnetic fields
  • Explore applications of the Biot-Savart law in electromagnetic theory
  • Learn about magnetic dipole interactions in different configurations
  • Investigate advanced topics in magnetostatics and their practical implications
USEFUL FOR

Physicists, electrical engineers, and students studying electromagnetism who are interested in the interactions between magnetic poles and the underlying mathematical principles.

Meow12
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Homework Statement
What is the magnitude of the force between two magnets if their poles are separated by a distance ##r##? What is the formula and how would you derive it?
Relevant Equations
Biot-Savart law: ##\displaystyle d\vec B=\frac{I d\vec l\times\hat r}{r^2}##

Lorentz force law: ##\vec F = q\vec v\times\vec B##
The Biot-Savart law gives us the magnetic field created by an electric current. We can calculate the force exerted on a moving charge by this magnetic field using Lorentz's force formula.

But my textbook doesn't address the repulsive or attractive force between like or unlike poles (respectively) of two magnets.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
The potential energy of a magnetic dipole ##\vec m## in a magnetic field ##\vec B## is given by
$$
U = - \vec m \cdot \vec B
$$
Use this and take derivatives as usual to find forces and torques .
 
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