Vector addition of gravitaional , magnetic and elctrical field

AI Thread Summary
Gravitational, magnetic, and electrical fields can be considered as vectors due to their ability to exert forces on test sources, which are inherently vector quantities. However, the discussion highlights the distinction between vector fields and scalar fields, noting that while forces can be vectorial, potential fields can be scalar. The concept of equilibrium among these fields through vector addition is debated, with some asserting that they cannot be directly added due to differing units. The Millikan oil drop experiment is referenced as an example of examining these fields in a practical context. Ultimately, the conversation emphasizes the complexity of combining these fields mathematically.
shivakumar06
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can we consider gravitational field, magnetic field and electrical field as vector? can see the net result of this field.
 
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shivakumar06 said:
can we consider gravitational field, magnetic field and electrical field as vector? can see the net result of this field.

A bit of a puzzle here with this question.

What exactly do you mean by "field" in this question? I can put a net test source (be it a mass or a charge), and it feels a force from the field. This "force", as we all know, is a vector. So in that case, yes, you can consider the field as a vector based on the reaction of the test source.

But I can also describe them as a scalar field, i.e. the scalar potential field. Look for example, the electrostatic potential and the electrostatic E-field. One is a scalar, the other is a vector.

So what exactly are you asking for here? It is difficult to decipher when you have only one line and do not provide a more in-depth explanation.

Zz.
 
sir is the the gravitational field in equilibrium with electrical and magnetic field if we consider vector addition of all the possible field present at any point in universe?
 
shivakumar06 said:
sir is the the gravitational field in equilibrium with electrical and magnetic field if we consider vector addition of all the possible field present at any point in universe?

Sure! That's what they did in the Millikan oil drop experiment.

Zz.
 
shivakumar06 said:
sir is the the gravitational field in equilibrium with electrical and magnetic field if we consider vector addition of all the possible field present at any point in universe?

I don't agree with ZapperZ's answer. These fields cannot be added because they are incommensurable (They have different units). You can add the forces produced by the fields to each other though (That's what ZapperZ meant.)
 

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