Magnetic flux formula confusion

In summary, the magnetic flux formula can be written as Ø = BAcosø or Ø = BAsinø, depending on how the angle ø is defined. However, the general formula for magnetic flux is \Phi = \int_A B_n dA, where the normal component of B is summed for every point on the surface A. When B is constant and A is flat, the formula simplifies to Ø = BAcosø or Ø = BAsinø.
  • #1
sameeralord
662
3
Hello everyone,

In the magnetic flux formula in our textbook it says Ø = BAcosø and somewhere else I saw it as Ø=BAsinø. I don't know which one to use. If F=BIL sinø
why does magnetic flux have cos in it formula. If something is perpendicular don't we have to use sine. Any help would be apppreciated. Thanks:smile:
 
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  • #2
formula [tex][tex]\phi[/tex] = BAcos[tex]\alpha[/tex][/tex] is magnetic flux
it like [tex][tex]\phi[/tex]=[tex]\oint[/tex]EdA[/tex]
formula [tex]F=ILBsin\alpha[/tex] was deduced from F=qvB or F=qvbsin[tex]\alpha[/tex]
 
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  • #3
sameeralord said:
Hello everyone,

In the magnetic flux formula in our textbook it says Ø = BAcosø and somewhere else I saw it as Ø=BAsinø. I don't know which one to use. If F=BIL sinø
why does magnetic flux have cos in it formula. If something is perpendicular don't we have to use sine. Any help would be apppreciated. Thanks:smile:

Those 2 formulas might both be fine, it just depends on how is the angle ø defined.

They are however just special cases, when the area considered is flat and B is constant.

The real definition of magnetic flux, which is valid for every surface and in every case, is:

[tex]\Phi = \int_A B_n dA[/tex]

which means that you have to sum (integral) the contributes of the perpendicular (normal) component of B in every point of the surface A.

When B is constant everywhere (does not vary in different points of the surface) and A is flat, the integral goes away and the normal component of B is Bcosø if ø is defined as the angle between B and an axis perpendicular to A (or Bsinø if ø if the angle between B and the surface A).
 
  • #4
Domenicaccio said:
Those 2 formulas might both be fine, it just depends on how is the angle ø defined.

They are however just special cases, when the area considered is flat and B is constant.

The real definition of magnetic flux, which is valid for every surface and in every case, is:

[tex]\Phi = \int_A B_n dA[/tex]

which means that you have to sum (integral) the contributes of the perpendicular (normal) component of B in every point of the surface A.

When B is constant everywhere (does not vary in different points of the surface) and A is flat, the integral goes away and the normal component of B is Bcosø if ø is defined as the angle between B and an axis perpendicular to A (or Bsinø if ø if the angle between B and the surface A).

I got it. You are right it depend on the angle they give. Thanks a lot :smile:.
 

FAQ: Magnetic flux formula confusion

What is magnetic flux?

Magnetic flux is a measure of the total magnetic field passing through a given area. It is represented by the symbol Φ and is measured in units of webers (Wb).

What is the formula for calculating magnetic flux?

The formula for magnetic flux is Φ = B * A * cos(θ), where B is the magnetic field strength, A is the area, and θ is the angle between the magnetic field and the area vector.

What causes confusion in understanding the magnetic flux formula?

The most common source of confusion is the use of the cosine function in the formula. The angle between the magnetic field and the area vector must be calculated correctly to get an accurate result. Additionally, the units of measurement for B and A must be consistent.

What are some practical applications of the magnetic flux formula?

The magnetic flux formula is used in various fields such as electrical engineering, physics, and astronomy. It is used to calculate the strength of magnetic fields in different materials, design electromagnets, and understand the behavior of magnetic fields in different situations.

Are there any limitations to the magnetic flux formula?

The magnetic flux formula is based on certain assumptions, such as the magnetic field being constant and uniform. It may not accurately represent more complex magnetic fields, such as those found in electromagnets with varying currents. Additionally, it does not take into account other factors such as magnetic hysteresis or eddy currents.

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