Potential energy and magnetic torque

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the concept of potential energy in the context of magnetic torque, specifically when the magnetic moment (μ) is perpendicular to the magnetic field (B). It is established that potential energy is defined as zero when μ is perpendicular to B, despite maximum torque occurring at this angle. The key takeaway is that potential energy is arbitrary and only the change in potential energy matters, not the absolute value. The transition from zero to a negative potential energy value is a critical point of understanding in this context.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of magnetic moments and their behavior in magnetic fields.
  • Familiarity with torque and its relationship to angular displacement.
  • Basic knowledge of potential energy concepts in physics.
  • Concept of energy conservation and its implications in mechanical systems.
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the relationship between torque and potential energy in electromagnetic systems.
  • Explore the mathematical formulation of magnetic torque and potential energy changes.
  • Learn about the principles of energy conservation in magnetic fields.
  • Investigate real-world applications of magnetic torque in devices like electric motors.
USEFUL FOR

Physics students, educators, and professionals in engineering fields who are exploring the principles of electromagnetism and energy dynamics in magnetic systems.

Jaymo3141
Messages
12
Reaction score
0
i'm having a hard time understanding why potential energy is 0 when u(mu) is perpendicular to B(mag field). Isn't the torque at max when the angle between u and B is 90? and there for has potential to do work all the way until the angle is 0. The way my mind sees it is, since there is a torque on the loop, it will move. Since it wants to move it should therefore have potential energy, just like if a box is up in the air and wants to fall. I just don't understand how potential energy goes from 0 to negative. It doesn't make sense to me. Any help would be greatly appreciated. thank you
 
Physics news on Phys.org
It is arbitrary to what position you assign the zero of potential energy. Only the change counts. The change from zero to some -U value is the same as from U to zero.

ehild
 

Similar threads

Undergrad Magnetic dipole and a torque
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
1K
Graduate What is the origin of magnetic potential energy?
  • · Replies 15 ·
Replies
15
Views
5K
Graduate Potential Energy of an Electric Dipole in a Uniform Field
  • · Replies 11 ·
Replies
11
Views
5K
Undergrad Does Larmor precession change the force exerted on a magnetic dipole?
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
Undergrad Expanding loop torque division
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
414
Undergrad Work Done in Changing Shape of Current Carrying Loop
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
2K
High School Conservation of energy and magnetism
  • · Replies 11 ·
Replies
11
Views
2K
Graduate Potential energy and torque in a magnetic field
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
3K
Graduate Apparent vanishing of (magnetic) potential energy
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
15K
Undergrad Hall effect -- is it always applicable?
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
3K