Potential difference in rod rotating in magnetic field

In summary, a rod of length l rotates with a uniform angular velocity ω about an axis passing through its center. A uniform magnetic field B exists perpendicular to the plane of rotation. The e.m.f. induced between the center and one end of the rod is given by ΔV = {\displaystyle\frac{Bl^2ω}{8}} according to the given solution. However, an alternative method using the average speed of the rod's ends results in ΔV = {\displaystyle\frac{Bl^2ω}{4}}. The difference arises due to the fact that only one end of the rod is rotating, resulting in a halved average speed.
  • #1
kbar1
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Homework Statement



Q: A rod of length l rotates with a uniform angular velocity ω about the axis passing through its center and perpendicular to its length. A uniform magnetic field B exists with its direction normal to the plane of rotation. The e.m.f. induced between the center and anyone end of the rod is:

(A)[itex]Bl^2ω[/itex] (B)[itex]{\displaystyle\frac{Bl^2ω}{2}}[/itex] (C) [itex]{\displaystyle\frac{Bl^2ω}{4}}[/itex] (D)[itex]{\displaystyle\frac{Bl^2ω}{8}}[/itex]

Homework Equations



[itex]ΔV = {\displaystyle\frac{\delta\phi}{\delta t}}[/itex], where [itex]\phi[/itex] = magnetic flux = B∙Area

[itex]ΔV = Blv[/itex], where B is magnetic field, l is length of rod, v is velocity of rod perpendicular to length and magnetic field.

[itex]ω = {\displaystyle\frac{2\pi}{T}}[/itex]

[itex]v = rω[/itex]

The Attempt at a Solution



The answer provided is (D).

The given solution goes something like this:

Area swept in one rotation = [itex]\pi{\displaystyle\frac{l^2}{4}}[/itex]

[itex]ΔV = B{\displaystyle\frac{ΔA}{ΔT}} = B{\displaystyle\frac{\pi{\displaystyle\frac{l^2}{4}}}{{\displaystyle\frac{2\pi}{ω}}}} = {\displaystyle\frac{Bl^2ω}{8}}[/itex]

However, the method I tried was:
[itex]ΔV = Bvl = B(rω)l = B{\displaystyle\frac{lω}{2}}{\displaystyle\frac{l}{2}} = {\displaystyle\frac{Bl^2ω}{4}}[/itex].

Where did I go wrong?
 
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  • #2
hi kbar1! :smile:

Bvl only works if every point on the line of length l has speed v

but this line is stationary at one end, so its average speed is halved :wink:
 
  • #3
Hello! The rod's center is stationary. The two ends are rotating. But I think I got your point. That has to be one of the quickest problem resolutions ever! Thanks a lot!
 

FAQ: Potential difference in rod rotating in magnetic field

What is potential difference in the context of a rotating rod in a magnetic field?

Potential difference, also known as voltage, is the difference in electrical potential between two points. In the case of a rotating rod in a magnetic field, it refers to the difference in electrical potential between the ends of the rod as it rotates.

How is potential difference created in a rotating rod in a magnetic field?

As the rod rotates in the magnetic field, the free electrons in the rod experience a force due to the magnetic field. This force causes the electrons to move, creating a potential difference between the two ends of the rod.

What factors affect the potential difference in a rotating rod in a magnetic field?

The potential difference depends on the strength of the magnetic field, the speed of rotation of the rod, and the length of the rod. It also depends on the material of the rod and its resistance to the flow of electrons.

How does potential difference affect the motion of a rotating rod in a magnetic field?

The potential difference creates an electric current in the rotating rod, which in turn produces a magnetic field that interacts with the original magnetic field. This interaction causes the rod to experience a force, resulting in its motion.

What are some real-life applications of potential difference in a rotating rod in a magnetic field?

This phenomenon is used in generators to convert mechanical energy into electrical energy. It is also used in electric motors, where the reverse effect occurs, converting electrical energy into mechanical energy to power the motor.

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