Magnetic field of a linear conductor

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the magnetic field generated by a linear conductor, specifically addressing the negative sign in the equation for the z-coordinate, represented as z = -r cot(theta). This negative value indicates that the z-coordinate is below the reference horizontal line (z=0) that passes through the linear conductor. The participants clarify that this convention is essential for accurately describing the orientation of the magnetic field in relation to the conductor's position.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of magnetic fields and their mathematical representations
  • Familiarity with coordinate systems in physics
  • Knowledge of trigonometric functions, particularly cotangent
  • Basic principles of electromagnetism related to linear conductors
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the Biot-Savart Law for calculating magnetic fields around conductors
  • Learn about the right-hand rule for determining the direction of magnetic fields
  • Explore the implications of coordinate systems in electromagnetism
  • Investigate the effects of different conductor orientations on magnetic field strength
USEFUL FOR

Physics students, electrical engineers, and anyone studying electromagnetism or the behavior of magnetic fields around conductors.

gsan
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Anyone can tell me why there is a -ve for the z= -r cot theta for the picture shown below? thanks!

magnetic.jpg
 
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Because z is negative with respect to the horizontal line passing through the linear conductor which I take to be z=0.
 

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