Magnetic field from stream of protons

In summary, the conversation discusses the use of the "right hand" rule to determine the direction and position of an induced magnetic field when there is electric current flow through a wire. The question then shifts to whether a "left hand" rule would be appropriate to describe the magnetic field if the flow is of protons instead of electrons. The question is reframed to ask if a stream of protons moving from left to right would also induce a magnetic field and if it would have an opposite or mirror image configuration compared to a stream of electrons with the same movement.
  • #1
rrosenthal
16
0
Quick question. With electric current flow thru wire, the "right hand" rule indicates direction and position of the induced magnetic field. With a flow of protons in one direction, would a magnetic field be induced, and would a "left hand" rule be appropriate to describe this magnetic field ?------------Randall Rosenthal
 
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  • #2
If protons are moving to the left, which way is the current flowing?
 
  • #3
rather than get caught up in semantics, let me rephrase the question. A stream of electrons moving from left to right induces a magnetic field in a specific configeration. Would a stream of protons--also moving from left to right--also induce a magnetic field and would this be of opposite or mirror image configaration--??---r rosenthal
 

1. What is a magnetic field?

A magnetic field is a region of space around a magnet or electric current where magnetic forces can be observed. It is produced by the movement of electrically charged particles, such as electrons or protons.

2. How is a magnetic field created by a stream of protons?

When a stream of protons, which have a positive charge, moves through a magnetic field, it creates a force known as the Lorentz force. This force causes the protons to curve in their path, creating a circular motion and thus, a magnetic field.

3. What factors affect the strength of the magnetic field created by a stream of protons?

The strength of the magnetic field created by a stream of protons depends on the speed and density of the protons, as well as the strength of the external magnetic field they are passing through.

4. How is the direction of the magnetic field determined from a stream of protons?

The direction of the magnetic field from a stream of protons can be determined by the right-hand rule. If you point your right thumb in the direction of the proton's velocity, the direction of the magnetic field can be determined by the curl of your fingers.

5. What are the applications of a magnetic field created by a stream of protons?

The magnetic field created by a stream of protons has various applications in scientific research, such as in particle accelerators and magnetic confinement fusion reactors. It is also used in medical imaging techniques, such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), to create detailed images of the body's tissues and organs.

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