Magnetic field and current homework

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on calculating the magnetic field generated by a steady current flowing through a cylindrical wire of radius R. Two scenarios are analyzed: (a) a uniformly distributed current on a coaxial surface of radius R' < R, and (b) a current density j defined as j = a r³ within the region r < R'. The correct magnetic field expressions derived are B = (μI r⁴)/(2πR⁵) for r < R and B = (μI)/(2πr) for r > R. The participants emphasize the importance of unit consistency in integrals and the correct application of cylindrical coordinates in the calculations.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Ampère's Law and its applications in magnetostatics.
  • Familiarity with cylindrical coordinates and their integration techniques.
  • Knowledge of current density and its implications in magnetic field calculations.
  • Basic principles of electromagnetism, specifically relating to magnetic fields around conductors.
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation of magnetic fields using Ampère's Law in cylindrical coordinates.
  • Learn about the implications of different current density distributions on magnetic fields.
  • Explore the concept of magnetic field continuity at boundaries between different regions.
  • Investigate the effects of varying current distributions on the magnetic field in practical applications.
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Students of electromagnetism, physics educators, and anyone involved in electrical engineering or related fields looking to deepen their understanding of magnetic fields generated by current-carrying conductors.

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Homework Statement


I have seen 4 different solutions to this question so I am starting to get confused.

A steady current I flows down a long cylindrical wire of radius R. Find the magnetic field, both inside and
outside the wire, if

(a) the current is uniformly distributed over an infinitely thin coaxial surface of radius R' < R within the wire.
(b) the current is distributed within the region r < R' such a way that j = a r3.
4

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



i have done part a0 but i am not sure about part b

Integrating i get I=2piar^5/5
Now other people have shown me 2pir^4/4,
but we are integrating an area da in cyllindrical coordinates so i am not sure what they are doing.

Then for the current enclosed in the cyllinder of radius R i get similarly. Then substituing the value for the constant a i get B=muIr^4/2piR^5 for r<R and B=muI/2piR for r>R

I am not sure if i have made any msiatkes
 
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For the integral to find I, look at the units of the expression you got and of the expression other people have shown you. The two expressions have different units so they clearly can't both be right.

For the magnetic field, the split between the two expressions' domains shouldn't be at r=R. Also, in the last expression, you shouldn't have R in the denominator (but there should be something else in its place).
 

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