Magnetic Circuits: Why Does Flux Divide in Parallel?

In summary, while current flows in an electric circuit, magnetic flux does not flow in a magnetic circuit. However, it can be treated as if it did in order to understand the mathematics behind it. This is due to the duality between electric and magnetic fields in Maxwell's equations. While the intuition of physical carrier flow can be misleading, understanding the underlying math is crucial in fully understanding the concept of magnetic flux.
  • #1
anupadhikari
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Current flows... But Flux doesn't flow in magnetic circuit. It is a sense of electrons being divided in parallel circuits. We don't have any such in Magnetic Circuit like electrons in electric circuit. Then Why does the flux divides in Parallel system of magnetic circuit?
 
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  • #2
anupadhikari said:
Current flows... But Flux doesn't flow in magnetic circuit. It is a sense of electrons being divided in parallel circuits. We don't have any such in Magnetic Circuit like electrons in electric circuit. Then Why does the flux divides in Parallel system of magnetic circuit?

The mathematics of magnetic flux is the same as current so even though it doesn't have an obvious "carrier" that actually flows, you can treat it as if it did. The result is that you get a dual to electrical current. Of course the reason is the duality between electric and magnetic fields in Maxwell's equations.

This is one of those cases when the simplistic intuition of physical carrier flow actually hurts you. It's also why physicists sneer at anything that isn't strictly mathematics-based: intuitions can lie to you if you don't understand the abstraction and the underlying math that was approximated to justify the abstraction.
 

FAQ: Magnetic Circuits: Why Does Flux Divide in Parallel?

What is a magnetic circuit?

A magnetic circuit is a closed path or loop made of magnetic materials, such as iron or steel, through which magnetic lines of flux can flow. It is used to control and direct the flow of magnetic energy in a specific direction.

Why does flux divide in parallel magnetic circuits?

The flux divides in parallel magnetic circuits because of the principle of superposition. This states that the total magnetic flux in a closed loop is equal to the sum of the individual fluxes produced by each source of magnetomotive force in the circuit. In parallel circuits, the total flux is divided among the multiple parallel paths, resulting in a decrease in the flux in each individual path.

How does the division of flux affect the strength of a magnetic field?

The division of flux in parallel magnetic circuits results in a weaker magnetic field compared to a single, non-parallel circuit with the same total flux. This is because the same amount of flux is spread out over a larger area in parallel circuits, resulting in a lower flux density and thus a weaker magnetic field.

Can flux be added or subtracted in magnetic circuits?

Yes, flux can be added or subtracted in magnetic circuits. In series circuits, the flux from each component adds up to give the total flux in the circuit. In parallel circuits, the flux divides among the multiple paths, resulting in a decrease in the individual fluxes. Additionally, the direction of the flux can be reversed, resulting in a subtraction of the total flux in the circuit.

How is flux controlled and manipulated in magnetic circuits?

Flux can be controlled and manipulated in magnetic circuits through the use of different materials, such as ferromagnetic or non-ferromagnetic materials, and by varying the shape and size of the circuit components. By changing these factors, the amount and direction of flux in a circuit can be adjusted to suit specific needs and applications.

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