Magnetic flux formula confusion

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the confusion regarding the magnetic flux formula, specifically the differences between Ø = BAcosø and Ø = BAsinø. Participants explore the implications of these formulas in the context of magnetic flux, its definition, and the role of angles in determining the appropriate formula to use.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses confusion about the use of cos and sin in the magnetic flux formula, questioning why magnetic flux uses cos when the force formula uses sin.
  • Another participant states that Ø = BAcosα is the correct magnetic flux formula and relates it to the force formula F = ILBsinα, suggesting a connection between the two.
  • A later reply clarifies that both formulas may be valid depending on how the angle ø is defined, emphasizing that they are special cases applicable when the area is flat and B is constant.
  • The real definition of magnetic flux is presented as Φ = ∫A B_n dA, indicating the need to consider the normal component of B across the surface area A.
  • It is noted that when B is constant and A is flat, the integral simplifies, leading to the use of cos or sin based on the angle's definition relative to the surface.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on which formula is universally correct, as the discussion highlights that the validity of each formula depends on the definition of the angle used.

Contextual Notes

The discussion reveals limitations in understanding the definitions of angles in relation to magnetic flux, as well as the conditions under which the formulas apply, such as the flatness of the area and the constancy of the magnetic field.

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:
 
Last edited:
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formula [tex][tex]\phi[/tex] = BAcos[tex]\alpha[/tex][/tex] is magnetic flux
it like [tex][tex]\phi[/tex]=[tex]\oint[/tex]<b>E</b>d<b>A</b>[/tex]
formula [tex]F=ILBsin\alpha[/tex] was deduced from F=qvB or F=qvbsin[tex]\alpha[/tex]
 
Last edited:
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:

[tex]\Phi = \int_A B_n dA[/tex]

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:

[tex]\Phi = \int_A B_n dA[/tex]

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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