Magnetism and Electromagnetism

In summary, the fundamentals of how and why things operate involve the interaction of photons with charged matter, as explained by quantum mechanics. Magnetism and electromagnetism are essentially the same thing, and at a beginner level, it is important to focus on understanding the mathematical relationships. It typically takes years of education to fully grasp these concepts, and specific questions can be addressed for further understanding. For example, at a basic level, the operation of a solenoid involves the switch of power to create a magnetic field.
  • #1
minhty96
3
0
In basic but precise terms, can someone please explain to me the fundamentals on how/why these things operate?

I've been reading about how these things work but I really want a good understanding on why these works too.

Thanks :)
 
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  • #2
Welcome to PF;
We don't know why they work the way they do - they just do.

Some notes:
magnetism and electromagnetism are fundamentally the same thing.
fundamentally they work by the interaction of photons with charged matter - photons may be emmitted, absorbed, or exchanged. But that's quantum mechanics (specifically QED) and really brief and incomplete. It is impossible to get basic and precise - you know whole text-books get written on this thing? What level did you want this at?
 
  • #3
At an beginner level approximately. I'm quite unsure how solenoids operate too !
 
  • #4
At the start of E-mag (electromagnetism courses) you should be concentrating on getting the mathematica relations down.

You should realize that it typically takes two years of secondary school and four of college before students get the fundamentals of E-mag down if at all. I don't think you intend anyone to write all that down right here.

We can help with specific questions ... eg. what is it about the operation of a solenoid you don't understand? At the really basic level, you switch on the power and you get a magnet.
Do you know the shape of the magnetic field around a wire?
 
  • #5


Magnetism and electromagnetism are fundamental forces of nature that govern the behavior of objects and particles. Magnetism is the force that attracts or repels objects made of certain materials, such as iron or nickel. This force is caused by the alignment of tiny magnetic fields within these materials.

Electromagnetism, on the other hand, is the interaction between electricity and magnetism. It is a force that can be created when an electric current flows through a wire, producing a magnetic field. This magnetic field can then interact with other magnetic fields, creating movement or force.

The fundamentals of how and why these things operate lie in the properties of electrons, which are negatively charged particles that surround the nucleus of an atom. When electrons move, they create an electric current, and this movement also generates a magnetic field. In materials with aligned magnetic fields, the movement of electrons can cause these fields to influence each other, resulting in the force of magnetism.

The interaction between electricity and magnetism is also fundamental to many modern technologies, such as generators, motors, and even the functioning of our electronic devices. Understanding the principles of magnetism and electromagnetism is crucial in many fields of science and engineering.
 

FAQ: Magnetism and Electromagnetism

1. What is the difference between magnetism and electromagnetism?

Magnetism is a fundamental force of nature that is responsible for the attractive or repulsive interactions between electrically charged particles. Electromagnetism, on the other hand, is a combination of electricity and magnetism. It describes the relationship between electrically charged particles and the magnetic fields they create.

2. How do magnets work?

Magnets work because they have a magnetic field, which is a region in space where magnetic forces can be felt. This field is created by the alignment of tiny magnetic particles, called domains, within the magnet. When two magnets are brought together, their magnetic fields interact to either attract or repel each other.

3. What is an electromagnet?

An electromagnet is a type of magnet that is created by passing an electric current through a wire. The electric current creates a magnetic field around the wire, making the wire act like a magnet. The strength of the electromagnet can be controlled by adjusting the amount of current flowing through the wire.

4. What is the relationship between electricity and magnetism?

Electricity and magnetism are closely related and are actually two aspects of the same fundamental force, known as electromagnetism. When an electric current flows through a wire, it creates a magnetic field around the wire. Similarly, a changing magnetic field can induce an electric current in a conductor.

5. How are magnets and electromagnets used in everyday life?

Magnets and electromagnets have many practical applications in everyday life. They are used in motors, generators, and speakers to convert electrical energy into mechanical energy and vice versa. They are also used in medical imaging machines, credit and debit cards, and even in household items such as refrigerator magnets and doorbells.

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