The discussion revolves around whether the magnetic field B is a state function and an exact differential, with references to thermodynamics and comparisons to the electric field E. Participants are exploring the definitions and implications of these concepts in the context of physics.
The discussion is ongoing, with various interpretations being explored. Some participants have provided insights and references to external sources, while others express confusion about the definitions and implications of the terms involved.
There are references to external sources, such as a Wikipedia article, which participants are analyzing for clarity on the equations presented. Concerns about the accuracy of these equations and their implications for the classification of B are also noted.
I'm not sure if it makes sense to distinguish between state functions and non-state functions outside the field of thermodynamics.johankep said:Homework Statement:: . a state function and exact differential?
Relevant Equations:: state functions
is the magnetic field B→. a state function and exact differential?
I argued that it's a state function, what do you guys think
Philip Koeck said:I'm not sure if it makes sense to distinguish between state functions and non-state functions outside the field of thermodynamics.
How did you argue that B is a state function.
However, E is an exact differential in electrostatics since it is the gradient of a scalar field.
B is not the gradient of a scalar field.
Sorry forget to say..my argument was that since B can be measured knowing its current value(state) only..then it's a state function but I'm not sure to be honest if my reasoning correctPhilip Koeck said:I'm not sure if it makes sense to distinguish between state functions and non-state functions outside the field of thermodynamics.
How did you argue that B is a state function.
However, E is an exact differential in electrostatics since it is the gradient of a scalar field.
B is not the gradient of a scalar field.
Now I see why you ask. In a thermodynamic context I guess it can be important whether B is a state function or not.johankep said:Thanks for the reply Philip
regarding your question, this is the context of B here
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Magnetic_Thermodynamic_Systems
Philip Koeck said:Now I see why you ask. In a thermodynamic context I guess it can be important whether B is a state function or not.
I don't understand very much about this, I'm afraid, but I'm a bit surprised about the equations in the wikipedia article.
In the second equation p dV is not integrated, whereas the other 3 terms are. Probably just a typo.
What worries me more is the last term which contains both a ΔB and a dV in the integrand. Is that really correct? Do you have a derivation? Maybe it should say B rather than ΔB.
B is not an extensive quantity, so I wouldn't expect it to show up as a difference or differential in the fundamental equation.
Then the integration over V is also strange. Which V? V is one of the quantities that changes.