How exactly does a current create a magnetic field and vice versa?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the relationship between electric currents and magnetic fields, emphasizing that while relativity provides a framework for understanding these phenomena, the fundamental reasons behind magnetism remain elusive. Participants highlight the 'right hand rule' as a practical tool for determining the direction of magnetic fields generated by moving charges, yet acknowledge that the underlying causes of electric and magnetic fields are not fully understood. The conversation underscores the distinction between scientific explanations of phenomena and the deeper inquiries into their origins.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic electromagnetism concepts
  • Familiarity with the principles of relativity
  • Knowledge of the right hand rule in physics
  • Basic comprehension of electric and magnetic field vectors
NEXT STEPS
  • Explore the implications of special relativity on electromagnetism
  • Research the mathematical foundations of Maxwell's equations
  • Investigate the relationship between electric currents and magnetic fields in depth
  • Study advanced topics in quantum electrodynamics
USEFUL FOR

Physics students, educators, and anyone interested in the fundamental principles of electromagnetism and the nature of magnetic fields.

jaydnul
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And why is it parallel? Do we actually know what causes magnetism at all?
 
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Relativity is an explanation of what happens, and is as good a one as we have.
But you can always ask 'why does it work that way?? ' Why does a moving charge withrelative motion create a magnetic field...why do magnetic and elertic fileds exist at all??

nobody knows...but THAT is what happens in this universe...
science almost always explains what happens not why...

we know the 'right hand rule' works but that doesn't mean we really know why...nor why the electric and magnetic field vectors are perpendicular...
 

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