How Fast Does a Magnetic Field Propagate?

In summary, the speed of propagation for a magnetic field is the same for both a vacuum and through air. A stronger magnet does not result in a faster propagation of the magnetic field. The makeup of a standing magnetic field is similar to that of electromagnetic waves, but it can also be transformed away. This is different from gravity, which cannot be transformed away.
  • #1
mordechai9
205
0
How fast does the magnetic field propagate from a magnetic source? In a vacuum versus through air, etc.? Does the magnetic field propagate faster from a stronger magnet?

What is the makeup of a standing magnetic field? Electromagnetic waves or a force field more similar to gravity?
 
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  • #2
mordechai9 said:
Electromagnetic waves or a force field more similar to gravity?

I can only say that both electromagnetic waves and gravity fields move at the speed of light.

i.e. If the sun suddenly stopped existing, the Earth would begin to get out of its orbit at the the same moment it became dark. (About 8 minutes)
 
  • #3
That's not really an answer to the question whatsoever...
 
  • #4
Yes it is. Magnetic fields move at the speed of light.
 
  • #5
mordechai9 said:
How fast does the magnetic field propagate from a magnetic source?
See above.
In a vacuum versus through air, etc.?
What does that mean ? It's not even a sentence.

Does the magnetic field propagate faster from a stronger magnet?
No.

What is the makeup of a standing magnetic field?
Don't know.
Electromagnetic waves or a force field more similar to gravity?
Magnetic fields are relativistic apparitions. You can usually transform them away. So not at all like gravity.

That's not really an answer to the question whatsoever...
Not polite.

Look up Maxwell's equations and Relativistic Electrodynamics on Wiki.
 

FAQ: How Fast Does a Magnetic Field Propagate?

1. What is the speed of magnetic propagation?

The speed of magnetic propagation, also known as the speed of magnetic fields, is the rate at which magnetic fields travel through space. It is determined by the properties of the medium through which the magnetic field is traveling.

2. How is the speed of magnetic propagation related to the speed of light?

The speed of magnetic propagation is related to the speed of light, as both are electromagnetic waves. However, the speed of magnetic propagation is typically much slower than the speed of light. In a vacuum, the speed of light is approximately 299,792,458 meters per second, while the speed of magnetic propagation can range from tens to hundreds of kilometers per second.

3. What factors affect the speed of magnetic propagation?

The speed of magnetic propagation can be affected by several factors, including the strength of the magnetic field, the density and composition of the medium through which it is traveling, and any external forces or obstacles that may impede its movement. In general, stronger magnetic fields and less dense mediums will result in faster speeds of propagation.

4. How is the speed of magnetic propagation measured?

The speed of magnetic propagation is typically measured using specialized equipment, such as magnetic field sensors and oscilloscopes. These instruments can detect changes in the magnetic field over time and calculate the speed at which it is traveling. The speed can also be calculated using mathematical equations that take into account the magnetic field strength and properties of the medium.

5. Why is the speed of magnetic propagation important for scientific research?

The speed of magnetic propagation is important for scientific research because it helps us understand how magnetic fields behave and interact with their surroundings. This knowledge is crucial in fields such as astrophysics, where magnetic fields play a significant role in phenomena such as star formation and the behavior of celestial objects. It also has practical applications in fields such as telecommunications and electronics, where the speed of magnetic propagation is a crucial factor in the functioning of devices and systems.

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