Force between poles of two magnets

In summary, the force between the poles of two magnets is governed by the principle that like poles repel each other (north-north or south-south), while unlike poles attract (north-south). This interaction is due to the magnetic field generated by each magnet, which influences the behavior of other magnetic materials and magnets nearby. The strength of the force varies with the distance between the magnets and can be quantified using the inverse square law, indicating that the force diminishes as the distance increases.
  • #1
Meow12
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Homework Statement
What is the magnitude of the force between two magnets if their poles are separated by a distance ##r##? What is the formula and how would you derive it?
Relevant Equations
Biot-Savart law: ##\displaystyle d\vec B=\frac{I d\vec l\times\hat r}{r^2}##

Lorentz force law: ##\vec F = q\vec v\times\vec B##
The Biot-Savart law gives us the magnetic field created by an electric current. We can calculate the force exerted on a moving charge by this magnetic field using Lorentz's force formula.

But my textbook doesn't address the repulsive or attractive force between like or unlike poles (respectively) of two magnets.
 
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  • #2
The potential energy of a magnetic dipole ##\vec m## in a magnetic field ##\vec B## is given by
$$
U = - \vec m \cdot \vec B
$$
Use this and take derivatives as usual to find forces and torques .
 
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FAQ: Force between poles of two magnets

What determines the strength of the force between two magnetic poles?

The strength of the force between two magnetic poles is determined by the magnetic pole strength of each magnet, the distance between the poles, and the medium in which the magnets are situated. The force follows an inverse square law, meaning it decreases with the square of the distance between the poles.

How does the distance between two magnets affect the force between them?

The force between two magnets decreases exponentially as the distance between them increases. Specifically, it follows an inverse square law, meaning if the distance is doubled, the force is reduced to one-fourth of its original value.

What is the difference between attraction and repulsion between magnetic poles?

Magnetic poles of opposite types (north and south) attract each other, while magnetic poles of the same type (north and north or south and south) repel each other. This is due to the alignment of magnetic field lines, which seek to minimize energy by aligning opposite poles together.

How does the medium between two magnets affect the force between them?

The medium between two magnets can significantly affect the force between them. For example, placing a non-magnetic material like air or vacuum between the magnets will have little effect, while placing a magnetic material like iron can enhance the force by providing a path of lower reluctance for the magnetic field lines.

Can the force between two magnets be calculated? If so, how?

Yes, the force between two magnets can be calculated using the formula derived from Coulomb's law for magnetism: \( F = \frac{\mu_0 \cdot m_1 \cdot m_2}{4 \pi \cdot r^2} \), where \( F \) is the force, \( \mu_0 \) is the permeability of free space, \( m_1 \) and \( m_2 \) are the magnetic pole strengths, and \( r \) is the distance between the poles. This formula assumes point-like poles and a vacuum medium.

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