Magnetic fields used in the invention of the telephone

In summary, the telephone was invented using magnetic fields. This was done to create a telecommunication system that worked similarly to the variable-resistance transmitter.
  • #1
physicsgal
164
0
help!

here's what i have. this does some what explain how magnetic fields were used to invent the telephone? I am not sure what else to put.

"In 1977 Bell patented a telephone that uses an electromagnetic transmitter. This invention works similarly to the variable-resistance transmitter (described in part A), but uses an electro-magnet and not acidic water. This invention consists of an electro-magnet using permanent magnet, a battery, a plate of iron or steel for use as a diaphragm (or any material capable or inductive action), and a call ball. The main feature of this invention consists in the armature of the receiving-instrument being vibrated by the varying attraction of the electro-magnet which vibrates the air in the same manner at both the receiving and transmitting end of the telephone. The magnet is coiled at both ends (which end is a pole) and is positioned as close to the plate as possible, without actually touching.

When a person speaks into the mouthpiece, the iron diaphragm vibrates with the voice in the magnetic field of the pole, this excites the currents in the coil. These currents travel through wires to another telephone. This subsiquently effects the magnetism in the pole of the receiving telephone, and makes the armature vibrate with makes the sound of the original voice. "

does that pretty much make sense? and get to the point?

any input is appreciated!

~Amy
 
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  • #2
The vibrations in the air, which come from the voice, cause vibrations of the magnet, which produces time varying potential, which induces pulses (time varying currents) which are then transmitted over wire.

At the other end, those pulses (time varying currents) cause a similar magnet to vibrate, which causes a diphragm to vibrate, which cause vibrations in the air, which our ears 'hear' as sound.

That was then. Now the pulses are transmitted as light in many cases or as radio waves in cell phone/wireless systems.
 
  • #3
thanks Astronuc :)

~Amy
 

1. How did magnetic fields play a role in the invention of the telephone?

The telephone was invented by Alexander Graham Bell in 1876. He utilized the concept of electromagnetic induction, which involves using a magnet to create an electric current in a wire. This current could then be used to transmit sound waves, allowing for the transmission of speech over a distance.

2. What is the connection between magnetic fields and telephone wires?

Telephone wires are made of conductive material, such as copper, which allows electricity to flow through them. When a fluctuating magnetic field is placed near a wire, it creates a current in the wire. This current can then be amplified and transmitted through the wire to carry sound waves.

3. How did the use of magnetic fields improve upon previous methods of communication?

Before the invention of the telephone, the main method of long-distance communication was through telegraph systems, which used electrical signals to transmit messages. However, the use of magnetic fields in the telephone allowed for the transmission of actual sound waves, greatly improving the clarity and speed of communication.

4. What advancements have been made in the use of magnetic fields in modern telecommunication?

Since the invention of the telephone, magnetic fields have continued to play a crucial role in telecommunication technology. For example, in modern telephones, the speaker and microphone both use magnets and electromagnets to convert sound waves into electrical signals and vice versa. Additionally, magnetic fields are used in technologies such as magnetic storage devices and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) machines.

5. Are there any potential drawbacks or limitations to using magnetic fields in telecommunication?

One potential limitation of using magnetic fields in telecommunication is the interference that can occur when multiple devices are in close proximity to each other. This can cause disruptions in the transmission of signals and affect the quality of communication. Additionally, magnetic fields can also be affected by various environmental factors, which may impact the clarity and strength of the transmitted signals. However, advancements in technology have helped to minimize these issues.

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