Simple Solenoid Problem Solution Using Ampere's Law

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around a problem related to calculating the magnetic field in a solenoid using Ampere's Law. Participants explore the application of relevant equations and the implications of solenoid dimensions on the magnetic field strength.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants attempt to apply Ampere's Law to derive the magnetic field strength, questioning the definitions of variables and the assumptions involved. There is uncertainty about the role of solenoid dimensions and the distinction between magnetic field and flux density.

Discussion Status

The discussion is active, with participants providing insights into the derivation of formulas and the application of concepts. Some participants express confusion about specific terms and their implications, while others suggest looking into textbooks for further clarification.

Contextual Notes

Participants note the potential lack of information regarding the derivation of formulas in their textbooks and question how the length-to-diameter ratio of the solenoid affects the magnetic field calculations.

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Homework Statement


the question can be found here: http://www.mailfreeonline.com/uploader/CED0D65C.jpg


Homework Equations


ampere's law


The Attempt at a Solution



a.
(is B the magnetic field?)
B = uI/L; u = 4pi x 10^-7, I = 1, L = 2pi x 0.1
so B = 2 x 10^-6

^ can anyone confirm this?

b. B = uNI/L (i'm guessing L is the radius this time). i don't know how to incorporate the length of the solenoid into this equation. i don't know the assumption either.

c. is this the same as part b but with numbers plugged in?
 
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B = uNI/L (i'm guessing L is the radius this time)
An explanation of the letters should appear in your textbook where the formula is derived.
I looked in mine from the 1960's and it has B = uIn, where n is the number of turns per unit length. It looks like the value of B applies anywhere near the center of the coil.

My reading is that in (b) you have to derive the formula and in (c) use it to calculate the strength of the magnetic field. If your textbook doesn't have the derivation, you might look for a copy of my old Engineering Physics book - "Physics" by Halliday and Resnick. It is a big blue one. The derivation begins with Ampere's Law as a path integral.
 
Delphi51 said:
An explanation of the letters should appear in your textbook where the formula is derived.
I looked in mine from the 1960's and it has B = uIn, where n is the number of turns per unit length. It looks like the value of B applies anywhere near the center of the coil.

My reading is that in (b) you have to derive the formula and in (c) use it to calculate the strength of the magnetic field. If your textbook doesn't have the derivation, you might look for a copy of my old Engineering Physics book - "Physics" by Halliday and Resnick. It is a big blue one. The derivation begins with Ampere's Law as a path integral.

so B is constant anywhere inside the solenoid? that would make sense because the magnetic field is roughly a straight line when inside the solenoid as I've drawn it, but i still fail to see how the ratio of the length of the solenid and its diameter make a difference. also, is there a difference between "magnetic field" and "flux density"? i thought they were both given the symbol B.
 
ABoul said:
so B is constant anywhere inside the solenoid? that would make sense because the magnetic field is roughly a straight line when inside the solenoid as I've drawn it, but i still fail to see how the ratio of the length of the solenid and its diameter make a difference. also, is there a difference between "magnetic field" and "flux density"? i thought they were both given the symbol B.

The ratio between the diameter and length contribute to the idealization of the situation. If the diameter is comparable to the length, then the field lines in the solenoid are not "straight" enough for the equation to work.

Flux density sounds a bit funny. Its been a while since I've done this, so I may have simply forgotten what the term meant, but magnetic flux is the "bombardment" or flow of a magnetic field through an area. Flux density would depend on what density is being referred to (length, area, volume...); if its area, then it should technically simply be the magnetic field.
 

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