Calculating magnetic field as a function of magnet size

In summary, the conversation discusses the relationship between the physical size of a magnet and the magnetic field it produces at a given distance away from its surface. The formula used for the field of a magnetic dipole on the axis of the dipole is mentioned, and it is clarified that the distance from the dipole does not depend on the volume. The formula for the field at a distance d from the surface of the magnet is provided, assuming that the specified field of 1.47 T is at the surface of the end of the magnet. The derivation of the equation is also briefly mentioned.
  • #1
eman3
15
0
I want to determine how large a magnet I need in order to get a given field a certain distance away from the surface.

An N48 neodymium magnet has a Bremanence of ~1.47T. How does the physical size of the magnet affect the field a given distance away?

https://www.physicsforums.com/showthread.php?t=519563 seems to imply it's proportional to the volume. However, I'm unclear on how to apply the equations. I'm also surprised that no mention is given to the shape -- shouldn't a flat, thin magnet have its magnetic field fall off more slowly than a long, deep one?
 
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  • #2
That formula you refer to is for the field of a magnetic dipole and ONLY on the axis of the dipole. There, d is the distance from the dipole, it has nothing to do with the volume. In other words, the field of a static dipole decays as the reciprocal of the cube of the distance.

As an estimation to your problem, I am assuming that the (manufacturer?) specified field of 1.47 T is specified at the surface of the end of the magnet. Then, as long as you stay on the axis of the magnet, the field at a distance d away from the surface of the magnet is
[tex]B(d) = \frac{(\frac{H}{2})^3}{(d+(\frac{H}{2}))^3} \cdot 1.47 [\rm{T}] \; ,[/tex]
where H is the height of the magnet.
 
  • #3
Thanks! How did you derive that?
 
  • #4
No problem; it's just the only way to enforce the d^-3 relation with the field referenced to the surface. Look up "magnetic dipole" for the derivation of the equation from the other thread.
 
  • #5


I can provide some insight into your question about calculating magnetic field as a function of magnet size. The magnetic field produced by a magnet is indeed proportional to its volume, as stated in the link you provided. This is because the strength of a magnet's field is determined by its magnetic dipole moment, which is directly proportional to the volume of the magnet.

However, the shape of the magnet does play a role in the magnetic field it produces. The magnetic field will be stronger at the poles of the magnet and will decrease as you move further away from the poles. This is why a flat, thin magnet may have a stronger field at a distance compared to a long, deep magnet. The shape of the magnet can also affect the direction and distribution of the magnetic field.

To calculate the exact magnetic field at a given distance from the surface of a magnet, you will need to use the equation for the magnetic field of a dipole, which takes into account the dipole moment, distance, and angle of the magnet. This equation can be found in most physics textbooks or online resources.

In order to determine the size of magnet you need to achieve a certain field strength at a given distance, you will need to rearrange the equation to solve for the volume of the magnet. Keep in mind that the strength of the magnet's field will also be affected by the material it is made of and any external factors such as nearby objects or other magnets.

I hope this helps to clarify the relationship between magnet size and magnetic field strength. It is important to consider both the volume and shape of the magnet when calculating the field at a given distance. Additionally, it is always best to consult reliable sources and perform your own calculations to ensure accuracy in your results.
 

FAQ: Calculating magnetic field as a function of magnet size

How do I calculate the magnetic field of a magnet?

The magnetic field of a magnet can be calculated using the formula B = μ₀M/(4πr³), where B is the magnetic field strength in Tesla, μ₀ is the permeability of free space, M is the magnetic moment of the magnet, and r is the distance from the center of the magnet.

How does the size of a magnet affect its magnetic field?

The size of a magnet directly affects its magnetic field. As the size of the magnet increases, the magnetic field strength also increases. This is because a larger magnet has a larger magnetic moment and can generate a stronger magnetic field.

Can I calculate the magnetic field of any shape of magnet?

Yes, the formula for calculating magnetic field as a function of magnet size can be applied to any shape of magnet as long as the magnetic moment and distance from the center of the magnet are known.

How do I measure the magnetic moment of a magnet?

The magnetic moment of a magnet can be measured using a magnetometer or a teslameter. These instruments can accurately measure the magnetic field strength and direction of a magnet, which can then be used to calculate the magnetic moment.

Is the magnetic field the same at all points around a magnet?

No, the magnetic field is not the same at all points around a magnet. The strength of the magnetic field decreases as the distance from the magnet increases. Additionally, the magnetic field is stronger at the poles of the magnet compared to the sides.

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