The right definition of magnetic field?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the definition of a magnetic field, contrasting a personal interpretation as a vectorial field interacting with a moving charge against the Wikipedia definition, which describes it as a field generated by electric currents and magnetic materials. Participants question the necessity of the term "generated" in the definition and explore the parallels between defining electric fields and magnetic fields using the Lorentz force. The conversation emphasizes the importance of clarity in definitions and the role of collaborative platforms like Wikipedia in shaping scientific terminology.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of vector fields in physics
  • Familiarity with the Lorentz force equation
  • Knowledge of electric and magnetic field interactions
  • Basic principles of electromagnetic theory
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the Lorentz force and its implications in electromagnetism
  • Study the relationship between electric currents and magnetic fields
  • Examine the role of collaborative editing in scientific definitions on platforms like Wikipedia
  • Explore advanced concepts in electromagnetic theory, such as Maxwell's equations
USEFUL FOR

Students of physics, educators in electromagnetism, and anyone interested in the definitions and interactions of electric and magnetic fields.

physics user1
I thought the definition was: a vectorial field that interacts with a moving charge
But wikipedia says it's a field generated by electric currents and magnetic materials...
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Magnetic_field
Why is in the definition the way it is Generated?

When we had defined the electric field we said that is a vectorial field that acts on a charge (that exerts a force on the charge) we basically defined E as E= F/q, why can't we make the same for B? Using the Lorentz force, defining B using the force that acts on the moving charge?
 
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Cozma Alex said:
I thought the definition was: a vectorial field that interacts with a moving charge
But wikipedia says it's a field generated by electric currents and magnetic materials...
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Magnetic_field
Why is in the definition the way it is Generated?

When we had defined the electric field we said that is a vectorial field that acts on a charge (that exerts a force on the charge) we basically defined E as E= F/q, why can't we make the same for B? Using the Lorentz force, defining B using the force that acts on the moving charge?

I don't see the problem here. Are they contradictory? This is like saying that a cow is a female bovine while the other says that a cow produces milk.

Besides, why would what Wikipedia use as a "definition" matter?

Zz.
 
Cozma Alex said:
But wikipedia says
If you don't like what Wikipedia says then just fix it.
 

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