Help with electromagnetism problem

In summary: This problem is actually from Chapter 4 of the electromagnetism textbook. It's called a riddle, and it's a problem that challenges you to find a solution without any given information.
  • #1
Darth Geek
10
0

Homework Statement



An airplane with a wingspan W = 30 m is flying due north at v = 672 km/h. The Earth's field is 1.210-4 T, due north and inclined q = 42 below horizontal. What is the magnitude of the potential difference between the ends of the wings?
http://media.apexlearning.com/Images/200408/06/ba941605-5eb4-4e21-a8eb-b2cb82a7c95e.gif

Homework Equations



Magnetic flux: φ = B · A · cosθ

Induced potential difference (emf)
due to a changing magnetic field: V = -N · ∆φ/∆t

Motional emf: V = -B · L · v


Could be anyone of these. Also, the problem said to treat it like pulling a rectangular wire through a magnetic field, and find the area facing the field using the angle.

The Attempt at a Solution



It seems this is more of a riddle than a problem. How do I find the area facing the magnetic field? I'm only given the wingspan!
 
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  • #2
The wingspan gives you the length dimension of conducting rod right? So how can you get the width given the velocity of the plane?
 
  • #3
Well, the plane is traveling into the field, so I would think the wingspan is the width. So it's the length I don't have. And it's not a conducting rod. The hint said to do the problem as if it was a rectangle circuit, and anyway I don't think there would be any potential difference if it was just a rod.
 
  • #4
Depending on your setup and how the conducting rod is moving with respect to the magnetic field, you can interpret the wingspan as either the width or length. The term conducting rod is just to relate the situation to a very similar one which you are familiar with.

EDIT: By the way I can't access your picture. It's appears to be "forbidden access".
 
  • #5
Bah. It's from Apex (Not) Learning. I'll mirror it on Imageshack. Here you go.

http://img401.imageshack.us/img401/892/ba9416055eb44e21a8ebb2cwy2.th.gif

Well whatever the wingspan is, I need another dimension, and Apex is being really anal about not giving me any hints. Would I just use like 1 meter or something?

[gripe] And HOW is this related to the chapter? I don't remember seeing 'riddles' in the curriculum for electromagnetism! [/gripe]
 
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  • #6
There is already another dimension. The plane is not stationary, it's moving at a constant speed. You need to find the rate at which the conducting wings pass through the magnetic field lines, which would then give rise to a potential difference.
 

FAQ: Help with electromagnetism problem

What is electromagnetism?

Electromagnetism is a branch of physics that studies the relationship between electricity and magnetism. It explains how electric charges interact with each other and with magnetic fields to create electromagnetic waves.

What are some common applications of electromagnetism?

Electromagnetism has many practical applications, including electric motors, generators, transformers, and various electronic devices such as computers and televisions. It also plays a crucial role in telecommunications, as it allows for the transmission of information through radio, television, and other wireless communication methods.

How do I calculate the strength of an electromagnet?

The strength of an electromagnet can be calculated by multiplying the number of turns in the coil by the current flowing through it. It is also affected by the type of core material used and the distance between the coil and the core.

What factors affect the strength of an electromagnet?

The strength of an electromagnet is affected by the number of turns of wire in the coil, the amount of current flowing through the coil, the type of core material used, and the distance between the coil and the core. Other factors such as temperature and the presence of other nearby magnetic fields can also impact the strength of an electromagnet.

How can I use electromagnetism to generate electricity?

Electromagnetic induction is the process of generating electricity by moving a magnet through a coil of wire or vice versa. This is the principle behind electric generators, which are used to produce electricity on a large scale. Additionally, solar panels use photovoltaic cells, which convert sunlight into electricity using the principles of electromagnetism.

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