Magnetic flux formula confusion

AI Thread Summary
The discussion centers on confusion regarding the magnetic flux formulas Ø = BAcosø and Ø = BAsinø, with participants clarifying that the correct formula depends on how the angle ø is defined. The integral definition of magnetic flux, Φ = ∫A B_n dA, accounts for the normal component of the magnetic field across a surface. When the magnetic field B is constant and the area A is flat, the formulas simplify, with cosø used when ø is the angle between B and a perpendicular axis to A, and sinø when it is the angle between B and the surface A. Understanding the context of the angle is crucial for applying the correct formula. This clarification resolves the initial confusion about the use of sine and cosine in the magnetic flux calculations.
sameeralord
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Hello everyone,

In the magnetic flux formula in our textbook it says Ø = BAcosø and somewhere else I saw it as Ø=BAsinø. I don't know which one to use. If F=BIL sinø
why does magnetic flux have cos in it formula. If something is perpendicular don't we have to use sine. Any help would be apppreciated. Thanks:smile:
 
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formula \phi = BAcos\alpha is magnetic flux
it like \phi=\oint<b>E</b>d<b>A</b>
formula F=ILBsin\alpha was deduced from F=qvB or F=qvbsin\alpha
 
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sameeralord said:
Hello everyone,

In the magnetic flux formula in our textbook it says Ø = BAcosø and somewhere else I saw it as Ø=BAsinø. I don't know which one to use. If F=BIL sinø
why does magnetic flux have cos in it formula. If something is perpendicular don't we have to use sine. Any help would be apppreciated. Thanks:smile:

Those 2 formulas might both be fine, it just depends on how is the angle ø defined.

They are however just special cases, when the area considered is flat and B is constant.

The real definition of magnetic flux, which is valid for every surface and in every case, is:

\Phi = \int_A B_n dA

which means that you have to sum (integral) the contributes of the perpendicular (normal) component of B in every point of the surface A.

When B is constant everywhere (does not vary in different points of the surface) and A is flat, the integral goes away and the normal component of B is Bcosø if ø is defined as the angle between B and an axis perpendicular to A (or Bsinø if ø if the angle between B and the surface A).
 
Domenicaccio said:
Those 2 formulas might both be fine, it just depends on how is the angle ø defined.

They are however just special cases, when the area considered is flat and B is constant.

The real definition of magnetic flux, which is valid for every surface and in every case, is:

\Phi = \int_A B_n dA

which means that you have to sum (integral) the contributes of the perpendicular (normal) component of B in every point of the surface A.

When B is constant everywhere (does not vary in different points of the surface) and A is flat, the integral goes away and the normal component of B is Bcosø if ø is defined as the angle between B and an axis perpendicular to A (or Bsinø if ø if the angle between B and the surface A).

I got it. You are right it depend on the angle they give. Thanks a lot :smile:.
 
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