Magnetic field directionality, mathematic rigmarole?

In summary, the directionality of the magnetic field is perpendicular to the force created by a moving charged particle through a magnetic field. This is described by the mathematical notation F.b=q(vXB), but it is questioned why the magnetic force cannot be described in terms of a parallel magnetic field. This leads to the question of whether the directionality of the magnetic field is simply assigned by definition or if it can be proven by experiment. The magnitude and direction of the magnetic force on a particle depend on its speed and direction of motion, making it impossible to define a single magnetic field that aligns with the force.
  • #1
Phyzwizz
60
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The force as a result of a moving charged particle through a magnetic field is perpendicular to the field apparently. Why should the magnetic field be perpendicular to the force created as a result. F.b=q(vXB) is the mathematical notation for this which accurately describes the world. But I cannot imagine why it would be impossible for math to describe the magnetic force instead in terms of a magnetic field that is parallel with it. So is the directionality of the magnetic field, simply just assigned by definition, or does it have some basis in reality that can actually be proven by experiment?
 
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  • #2
Both the magnitude and direction of the magnetic force on a particle moving through a particular point in space (with a given surrounding arrangement of currents and/or moving charges) depend on the particle's speed and direction of motion. Two particles going through the same point with the same speed but in different directions, experience magnetic forces that (in general) have different magnitudes and directions. Therefore one cannot define a unique magnetic field at that point that has the same direction as the magnetic force.
 

FAQ: Magnetic field directionality, mathematic rigmarole?

What is a magnetic field?

A magnetic field is an invisible force field that surrounds a magnet or electrically charged object. It is created by the movement of electrons and can exert a force on other magnets or charged particles.

How is the direction of a magnetic field determined?

The direction of a magnetic field is determined by the direction in which a compass needle points when placed near the magnet or charged object. The north pole of the compass needle will point towards the south pole of the magnet, indicating the direction of the magnetic field.

What is meant by "directionality" of a magnetic field?

The directionality of a magnetic field refers to the orientation of the magnetic field lines. These lines indicate the direction in which a magnetic object will move when placed in the field. The closer the lines are to each other, the stronger the magnetic field is in that direction.

What is the mathematical formula for calculating the direction of a magnetic field?

The mathematical formula for calculating the direction of a magnetic field is given by the right-hand rule. This rule states that if you point your thumb in the direction of the current, the direction of your fingers will indicate the direction of the magnetic field.

How is magnetism related to electricity?

Magnetism and electricity are closely related as they are both forms of electromagnetic energy. Moving electric charges create magnetic fields, and changing magnetic fields can induce electric currents. This relationship is described by Maxwell's equations and is the basis for many modern technologies such as generators, motors, and electromagnets.

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