Force Exerted on a Conductor by a Homogeneous Magnetic Field

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the mechanics of a conductor moving within a homogeneous magnetic field, specifically addressing the Lorentz force's role. The participant challenges the textbook explanation that attributes movement to a difference in magnetic field strength, asserting that the Lorentz force, determined by the right-hand rule, is the primary cause of the conductor's motion. The conversation highlights the misconception that variations in magnetic induction lead to force, emphasizing that the Lorentz force acts uniformly across the conductor.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Lorentz force and its application in electromagnetism
  • Familiarity with the right-hand rule for magnetic forces
  • Basic knowledge of magnetic field concepts and induction
  • Concept of homogeneous magnetic fields in physics
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the principles of Lorentz force in detail
  • Explore the right-hand rule and its applications in various scenarios
  • Investigate the behavior of conductors in non-homogeneous magnetic fields
  • Examine the relationship between magnetic field lines and induced currents
USEFUL FOR

Students of physics, educators teaching electromagnetism, and engineers working with electromagnetic systems will benefit from this discussion.

Heisenberg7
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In my book it's said that a conductor in a homogeneous magnetic field moves because there is a stronger magnetic field on one side and a weaker magnetic field on the other. Now that seems wrong to me. I mean, if we were to look at the Lorentz force that the magnetic field exerts on the conductor, it should point in the same direction anyway (right hand rule; both sides). The way they say it, it's like "because of the difference in magnetic field/induction we get a force". So, is it because of the Lorentz force or the difference in magnetic field?

Thanks in advance.
 
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I think the textbook shows an interpretation of Lorentz force by magnetic field lines, i.e. vortex made by current around the wire should pushed away from dense to less dense side.
 
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