Use of a solenoid for inductance

In summary, solenoids are used as inductors because they are designed to maximize magnetic fields and produce mechanical kinetic results. While local currents in a circuit can induce a small magnetic field, they are usually not as powerful as a solenoid and do not have a noticeable effect on current and voltage. Therefore, entire circuits do not have inductor properties.
  • #1
Mr Davis 97
1,462
44
Although I'm sure the answer is obvious, but why are solenoids used as inductors? Why don't entire circuits in general have inductor properties, since the entire circuit creates magnetic fields? More specifically, why don't random points along a circuit do the same thing as a solenoid (retain a magnetic field) since they create fields too? Is it because the solenoid is more powerful thus it affects on current and voltage are more noticeable?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
Local currents in a circuit WILL induce a small amount of local magnetic field ,which usually are of no importance for the circuit.
A solenoid is a component which is designed with the specific intention of maximizing a magnetic field, often for the purpose of producing a mechanical kinetic result, such as turning a switch on or off..
 
  • Like
Likes Mr Davis 97

FAQ: Use of a solenoid for inductance

1. What is a solenoid?

A solenoid is a coil of wire that is tightly wound in a cylindrical shape. It is often used to create a magnetic field when an electric current is passed through it.

2. How does a solenoid create inductance?

A solenoid creates inductance by producing a changing magnetic field when an electric current flows through it. This changing magnetic field induces a voltage in the solenoid, which opposes the change in current and creates inductance.

3. What is the formula for calculating the inductance of a solenoid?

The formula for calculating the inductance of a solenoid is L = μN²A/l, where L is the inductance in henries, μ is the permeability constant of the material inside the solenoid, N is the number of turns, A is the cross-sectional area of the solenoid, and l is the length of the solenoid.

4. What are some applications of solenoids in everyday life?

Solenoids have many practical applications in everyday life, such as in doorbells, speakers, and electric motors. They are also used in electronic locks, vending machines, and medical devices.

5. How does a solenoid differ from an electromagnet?

A solenoid is a coil of wire that creates a magnetic field when an electric current is passed through it. An electromagnet, on the other hand, is a solenoid wrapped around a ferromagnetic core, which increases its magnetic strength. Additionally, an electromagnet can be turned on and off by controlling the flow of electric current, while a solenoid remains on as long as current is flowing through it.

Similar threads

B Inductive Reactance of Solenoid with Solid Metal Core With respect to frquency
Replies
5
Views
938
Altered inductance around a solenoid in a cryostat (from Eddy currents?)
Replies
1
Views
1K
I Question on Hall Effect and magnetic force
Replies
2
Views
1K
Biot Savart Law with Different Magnetic Permeabilities
Replies
1
Views
4K
Why Does a Second Solenoid Feel a Strong Induction in Electromagnetic Induction?
Replies
1
Views
1K
Understanding self-inductance in a solenoid.
Replies
3
Views
573
I Mutual inductance in a transformer
Replies
16
Views
2K
Magnetic field outside of a solenoid conceptual
Replies
3
Views
5K
Current induced from a changing magnetic field
Replies
2
Views
1K
Induced magnetic field in a cylinder
Replies
3
Views
1K

Hot Threads

Recent Insights

Back
Top