What Happens When a Magnet Approaches a Solenoid?

In summary, the conversation discusses the concept of solenoids and magnets and how they interact with each other. The question posed is what would happen if a magnet is brought close to a solenoid, with the two possibilities being repulsion or the solenoid shooting out the magnet. The discussion also mentions the effect of winding on the strength of the magnetic field in a solenoid. Additionally, the importance of considering the polarity when explaining the interaction between solenoids and magnets is mentioned.
  • #1
nblu
56
0
Hello, I was doing some questions and I thought I was understanding solenoids and magnets in incorrect way..

The question was, what would you feel if you bring a magnet close to a solenoid. I've wrote 2 possibilities, first is that they will repel and the second is that the solenoid would shoot-out the magnet. I was thinking that if the coil on solenoid is loosely wound, the field lines within the coil are curved so it will repel.. but if it is tightly wound, the field becomes straighter and it will react more aggressively..

I've wrote down my ideas but wasn't really happy with what I've wrote..

Could anyone please direct me to a better answer? Thank you in advance.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
nblu said:
The question was, what would you feel if you bring a magnet close to a solenoid. I've wrote 2 possibilities, first is that they will repel and the second is that the solenoid would shoot-out the magnet. I was thinking that if the coil on solenoid is loosely wound, the field lines within the coil are curved so it will repel.. but if it is tightly wound, the field becomes straighter and it will react more aggressively..

Your two possibilities are correct, but that would depend on whether you are bringing the North pole towards the north of the solenoid (remember how to find the direction of the magnetic field when a current is flowing?) and so forth.and the magnetic field of a solenoid is given by [itex]B=\mu n I[/itex] where n is the no. of turns per unit length. If you wind the solenoid more tightly, n will increase and so will B and vice versa.
 
  • #3
rock.freak667 said:
Your two possibilities are correct, but that would depend on whether you are bringing the North pole towards the north of the solenoid (remember how to find the direction of the magnetic field when a current is flowing?) and so forth.


and the magnetic field of a solenoid is given by [itex]B=\mu n I[/itex] where n is the no. of turns per unit length. If you wind the solenoid more tightly, n will increase and so will B and vice versa.

Thank you rockfreak, for your comment. I'll make sure that I mention the polarity as well when I explain. :)
 

FAQ: What Happens When a Magnet Approaches a Solenoid?

What is a solenoid?

A solenoid is an electromagnetic coil that is tightly wound in a helical shape. It is commonly used in electromechanical devices such as relays, motors, and actuators.

How does a solenoid work?

A solenoid works by passing an electric current through the coil, which creates a magnetic field. This magnetic field then interacts with a magnet or other ferromagnetic material to produce motion or force.

What is the difference between a solenoid and an electromagnet?

A solenoid is a type of electromagnet, but unlike other electromagnets, it has a helical shape and is designed to produce a uniform magnetic field along its axis. Electromagnets, on the other hand, can have various shapes and are often used to produce a concentrated magnetic field in a specific location.

What are the applications of solenoids?

Solenoids have a wide range of applications, including in door locks, valves, and pumps. They are also used in medical devices, such as MRI machines, and in industrial settings for automation and control.

Can solenoids be controlled?

Yes, solenoids can be controlled by varying the amount of electric current passing through the coil. By adjusting the current, the strength of the magnetic field and the resulting motion or force can be controlled.

Similar threads

Replies
31
Views
1K
Replies
5
Views
1K
Replies
7
Views
9K
Replies
21
Views
5K
Replies
7
Views
780
Back
Top