Mastering Physics Homework about Magnetic field

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on measuring the strength of a horizontal magnetic field using a 12-cm-long rigid metal rod suspended by two nonmagnetic springs with a spring constant of 1.3 N/m. The method involves measuring the downward deflection of the rod as current is passed through it, with data showing a linear relationship between current and deflection. The calculated magnetic field strength, B, was determined to be 0.87 T, but discrepancies arose due to an incorrect slope value used in the calculations. Participants emphasized the importance of accurate slope measurement in determining the magnetic field strength.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of magnetic fields and forces
  • Familiarity with basic physics concepts such as current and deflection
  • Knowledge of linear regression and graphing techniques
  • Experience with measuring spring constants and their applications
NEXT STEPS
  • Review the principles of magnetic field measurement using the formula BIL = 2kΔy
  • Learn about linear regression techniques for analyzing experimental data
  • Investigate the effects of spring constants on measurements in physics experiments
  • Explore common pitfalls in physics calculations and how to avoid them
USEFUL FOR

Students studying physics, educators teaching magnetic fields, and anyone involved in experimental physics or data analysis will benefit from this discussion.

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Homework Statement
Mastering Physics
Relevant Equations
Magnetic Field
Magnetic fields are sometimes measured by balancing magnetic forces against known mechanical forces. Your task is to measure the strength of a horizontal magnetic field using a 12-cm-long rigid metal rod that hangs from two nonmagnetic springs, one at each end, with spring constants 1.3 N/m
. You first position the rod to be level and perpendicular to the field, whose direction you determined with a compass. You then connect the ends of the rod to wires that run parallel to the field and thus experience no forces. Finally, you measure the downward deflection of the rod, stretching the springs, as you pass current through it. Your data are as follows:





Current, I(A)


Deflection Δy(mm)


1.0​
4​
2.0​
9​
3.0​
12​
4.0​
15​
5.0​
21​
Graphing either Δy versus I or I versus Δy gives a straight line. In the graph shown, we chose to plot Δy on the vertical axis and I on the horizontal axis. From the equation for the line of best fit given, determine the magnetic field strength B
.
Express your answer to two significant figures and include the appropriate units.

1587585121806.png


According to BIL = 2k*∆y

The slope is BL/(2k)

B = 2 * slope * k / (L) = 0.87

However, the system told me it was wrong.
 
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Did you include the units?
 
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kuruman said:
Did you include the units?
Yes. I choose "T" to be the unit.
 
1587587547690.png

The slope appears to be about .004 m/A. But you used 0.040 m/A for the slope in the calculation.
 
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TSny said:
https://www.physicsforums.com/attachments/261204
The slope appears to be about .004 m/A. But you used 0.040 m/A for the slope in the calculation.

Thank you! The slope on the graph is incorrect. I will report this to mastering physics.
 

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