B Not sure about the magnetic flux (phi) depending on a cosine function

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Magnetic flux can indeed be negative, indicating the direction of the magnetic field relative to the area through which it passes. The formula for magnetic flux is given by Φ = BA cos(θ), where θ is the angle between the magnetic field and the normal to the surface. When a frame is rotated 180 degrees, the change in flux is calculated as -2Φ(initial), reflecting the reversal of the magnetic field direction. The discussion also clarifies that the term "frame" refers to a loop of wire, particularly in the context of a DC motor. Understanding the signs of magnetic flux is crucial for accurate calculations in electromagnetism.
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Hi, school student here. I have a question about magnetic flux. I know it is BAcosa. But can it actually be negative?
Hi, school student here.
I have a question about magnetic flux.
I know it is BAcosa. But can it actually be negative? Based on cosine function it can be, because it is related to it. But based on my logic, magnetic flux is just how much magnetic field (for example lines) goes through the Area (A). (or I may be wrong). EXAMPLE: The frame which Area A=5cm^2 is placed in a magnetic field (perpendicular to B)(B=0,1T). It is then rotated through a=120 degrees. What is the change in magnetic flux? Im thinking about dPhi=B(A1-A2)=BA(1-((abs)(cosa)))
But if it can be negative then it should be just dPhi=B(A1-A2)=BA(1-cosa)

I am adding specific problem to solve. Having this problem right here:
A frame with an area of 5 cm^2 and a resistance of 2 Ω is placed in a uniform magnetic field with an induction of 0.1 T. A galvanometer is connected to the frame. What charge will flow through the galvanometer when the frame is rotated through an angle of 120 degrees? At the beginning of the observation, the plane of the frame is perpendicular to the lines of magnetic induction.

Thank you for helping.
 
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Yes, it can be negative. That just means that the flux is entering the other side.
 
The flux is signed, yes. Remember that magnetic fields have a direction: you want the same strength of field in the opposite direction through the same surface to have the opposite sign.
 
Dale said:
Yes, it can be negative. That just means that the flux is entering the other side.
So, talking about the change in the flux. If the frame in the field is turned 180 degrees, upside down, does the change in the flux become 2*phi(initial)?
 
Antoha1 said:
So, talking about the change in the flux. If the frame in the field is turned 180 degrees, upside down, does the change in the flux become 2*phi(initial)?
Check your signs.

Also note that there's LaTeX here - you can write ##\Phi=BA\cos\theta##. (If that doesn't show as maths, refresh the page.)
 
Antoha1 said:
frame in the field
What do you mean by this? By “frame” do you mean a loop of wire?
 
Last edited:
Dale said:
Yes, it can be negative. That just means that the flux is entering the other side.
So, talking about the change in the flux. If the frame in the field is turned 180 degrees, upside down, does the change in the flux become 2*phi(initial
Dale said:
What do you mean by this? By “frame” do you mean a loop of wire?
 
Dale said:
What do you mean by this? By “frame” do you mean a loop of wire?
Yes. Like frame in DC motor
 
Antoha1 said:
Yes. Like frame in DC motor
OK. Frame in physics usually refers to a coordinate system. A loop of wire in a motor is typically called a loop.

If the field makes an angle ##\theta## with a loop and then the loop is rotated by ##\pi## then the new angle will be ##\theta+\pi##.
 
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Antoha1 said:
So, talking about the change in the flux. If the frame in the field is turned 180 degrees, upside down, does the change in the flux become 2*phi(initial)?
If the initial flux is ## \phi_0##, the final flux will be ## - \phi_0## and the change will be ##-2 \phi_0##.
 
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