Why does a solenoid coil move when a large current is sent through it?

  • Context: Undergrad 
  • Thread starter Thread starter Salamon
  • Start date Start date
Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The movement of a solenoid coil around an iron rod when a large current is applied is primarily due to the interaction of magnetic fields. When current flows through the coil, it generates a magnetic field that magnetizes the iron rod, creating a scenario where the coil is attracted to the stronger magnetic field at the center of the rod. This phenomenon is explained by Lenz's Law, which states that the induced electromotive force (E.M.F.) will generate a magnetic field that opposes the change in magnetic flux. The interaction between the coil's magnetic field and the atomic currents in the iron results in a net force that moves the coil downward toward the center.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Lenz's Law
  • Basic knowledge of electromagnetism
  • Familiarity with magnetic fields and their interactions
  • Concept of induced electromotive force (E.M.F.)
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the principles of Lenz's Law in detail
  • Explore the relationship between current and magnetic fields in solenoids
  • Investigate the behavior of magnetic materials, particularly ferromagnetism
  • Learn about the applications of solenoids in electromagnetic devices
USEFUL FOR

Physics students, electrical engineers, and anyone interested in understanding the principles of electromagnetism and the behavior of magnetic fields in conductive materials.

Salamon
Messages
36
Reaction score
0
If you were to place something like a 100 turn coil of wire around an iron rod and position it toward the end of the rod, why does the coil quickly move to the center of the rod when a large current is sent through it?

I understand that a magnetic field is produced by the current which resembles the magnetic field of a bar magnet. I understand that the iron has now become magnetized. I don't understand why the wire must move downward as a result though.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Might have something to do with lenz's law. When you plug it in we get a change in current and this creates a changing B field which induces an E field and this E field cause charge to flow in the iron and creates another B field, And this will oppose the change in B flux.
 
I think it is because dipoles often move toward stronger field. Well, for diamagnets it's the opposite effect, because the induced magnetic moment opposes the field (that's why frogs have been kept floating in mid-air above a strong magnet), but iron will be magnetized with the field and hence move toward stronger field. Parallel currents attract, so the current in the coil and the atomic currents in the iron will affect each other, moving them closer.

Edit: There's a similar effect in the fringe field of a parallel plate capacitor.
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
3K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
603
  • · Replies 14 ·
Replies
14
Views
2K
  • · Replies 43 ·
2
Replies
43
Views
8K
  • · Replies 27 ·
Replies
27
Views
3K
  • · Replies 60 ·
3
Replies
60
Views
8K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
3K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
2K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
2K
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
3K