Determining the direction of magnetic field

In summary, the direction of a magnetic field can be determined using a compass or magnetic needle. The right-hand rule can also be used to determine the direction of a magnetic field by pointing your thumb in the direction of current flow and observing the direction of your fingers. The direction of a magnetic field can be changed by reversing the current flow or flipping the orientation of the magnet. The direction of a magnetic field can affect the motion of a charged particle, causing it to move in a circular or helical path. Earth's magnetic field is determined by using a compass or magnetometer, with the north pole pointing towards the magnetic north pole near the geographic South Pole. The declination, or angle between the compass needle and the Earth's surface, varies
  • #1
darksyesider
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http://ocw.mit.edu/courses/physics/8-02sc-physics-ii-electricity-and-magnetism-fall-2010/faradays-law-1/faradays-law/MIT8_02SC_challenge_sol21.pdf


In problem 8 b), they say the magnetic force must cancel with gravity. How do you determine which way the magnetic force is?
I don't understand this conceptually, although I get how to solve the problem from there.
 
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  • #2
The terminal speed is by definition the speed where a=0. Then Newtons 2nd law gives you the net force and the net force tells you that the magnetic force cancels with gravity.
 

FAQ: Determining the direction of magnetic field

How do you determine the direction of a magnetic field?

To determine the direction of a magnetic field, you can use a compass or a magnetic needle. The north pole of the compass will point towards the south pole of the magnet, indicating the direction of the magnetic field.

What is the right-hand rule for determining the direction of a magnetic field?

The right-hand rule states that if you point your thumb in the direction of the current flow, the direction in which your fingers curl represents the direction of the magnetic field.

Can the direction of a magnetic field be changed?

Yes, the direction of a magnetic field can be changed by reversing the direction of the current flow or by flipping the orientation of the magnet.

How does the direction of a magnetic field affect the motion of a charged particle?

The direction of a magnetic field can affect the motion of a charged particle by exerting a force on the particle, causing it to move in a circular or helical path depending on the angle between the magnetic field and the particle's velocity.

How is the direction of Earth's magnetic field determined?

The direction of Earth's magnetic field is determined by using a compass or a magnetometer. The north pole of the compass will point towards the magnetic north pole, which is located near the geographic South Pole. The angle between the compass needle and the surface of the Earth is known as the declination, which varies depending on the location on Earth.

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