Calculating Magnetic Force on a Wire in Earth's Magnetic Field at 40 Degrees

  • Thread starter Del
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Earth's magnetic field at a certain point, using the equation F=ILBsinθ. She estimates the force to be 3.45*10^-4, but the correct answer is 2.9*10^-4. She asks for help in figuring out her mistake. Another person chimes in, agreeing with her estimate. The conversation ends with Delilah feeling silly for trying so hard to get the correct answer. In summary, Delilah has a question about the magnetic force on a wire due to the Earth's magnetic field and uses the equation F=ILBsinθ to estimate the force. She is unsure of her answer and asks
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Del
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" A 1.5-m length of wire carrying 6.5 A of current is oriented horizontally. At that point on the Earth's surface, the dip angle of the Earth's magnetic field makes an angle of 40 degrees to the wire. Estimate the magnetic force on the wire due to the Earth's magnetic field of 5.5*10^-5 T at this point."
I'm sure it's very easy but this is the first day I've worked with this stuff so I can't figure out why I'm getting it wrong. I used the equation F=ILBsinθ so; F=(6.5A)(1.5m)(5.5*10^-5)sin40, which gives F=3.45*10^-4. However I checked and the correct answer is, F=2.9*10^-4. Please someone tell me what I'm doing wrong. Thanks in advance.
 
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  • #2
Um, I think you're right. Either that or we've both made the same mistake. How confident are you that the "correct" answer is correct?
 
  • #3
Boy is it a pain to get wrong correct answers. I now feel dumb for trying so hard to get the stupid thing "right"

-Del
 

FAQ: Calculating Magnetic Force on a Wire in Earth's Magnetic Field at 40 Degrees

What is magnetism?

Magnetism is a natural phenomenon that occurs when certain materials, such as iron, cobalt, and nickel, exert an attractive or repulsive force on other materials. This force is caused by the alignment of tiny magnetic domains within the material.

How does a magnet work?

A magnet works by creating a magnetic field around it, which is a region where the force of the magnet can be felt. This magnetic field is created by the alignment of magnetic domains within the magnet. When another material with magnetic properties, such as iron, is placed within the magnetic field, it will be either attracted or repelled by the magnet.

What are the two types of magnets?

The two types of magnets are permanent magnets and electromagnets. Permanent magnets are made from materials that are naturally magnetic, while electromagnets are created by passing an electrical current through a coil of wire.

How can I make a magnet?

To make a magnet, you can either purchase a magnet or create one using electricity. To create an electromagnet, you will need a battery, a wire, and a nail. Wrap the wire around the nail and connect the ends of the wire to the battery. The electrical current flowing through the wire will create a magnetic field, making the nail behave like a magnet.

What are some everyday uses of magnets?

Magnets have many everyday uses, such as in compasses, refrigerator magnets, and speakers. They are also used in motors, generators, and credit cards. Magnets are also used in medical technology, such as MRI machines, to create images of the inside of the body.

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