Magnetic field — Science definition
Defined in 2 courses:
- A representation of magnetic interaction around magnets or electric currents. (Science 6: Matter, Energy & Earth Systems)
- The region around a magnet or current where magnetic forces act, measured in tesla (T) and drawn with field lines from north to south. (Physics & Environmental Science)
Where it is taught
- Magnetic Forces, Fields & Distance — Electricity, Magnetism & Light, Science 6: Matter, Energy & Earth Systems, Grade 6
- Magnetism & Electromagnetism — Electricity, Magnetism & Circuits, Physics & Environmental Science, Grade 12
In use
A magnet acts without touching, through a region around it called a magnetic field.
Magnetic Forces, Fields & Distance
Around every magnet stretches a magnetic field, an invisible region of influence we draw with field lines running out of the north pole and into the south.
Magnetism & Electromagnetism
Questions using magnetic field
Problem 1
- Every metal must be strongly attracted by a magnet.
- magnetic field: A representation of magnetic interaction around magnets or electric currents.
- Dividing a bar magnet creates an ordinary magnet with only one pole.
- One illustrative result establishes every real condition and needs no further evidence.
Answer and explanation
magnetic field: A representation of magnetic interaction around magnets or electric currents.
A representation of magnetic interaction around magnets or electric currents. The recorded holding count decreases as gap increases under this method. At 2 cm the mean is 5 clips and the range 4–6. Clip count is a practical proxy, not force in newtons, and these three distances do not establish an exact mathematical law or prove the field stops beyond 3 cm.
Problem 2
Answer and explanation
0.4 N
F = BIL = 0.2 × 4 × 0.5 = 0.4 N. The BIL form applies because current and field are perpendicular; otherwise include sinθ.
Problem 3
Answer and explanation
0.6 N
F = BIL = 0.5 × 3 × 0.4 = 0.6 N. The BIL form applies because current and field are perpendicular; otherwise include sinθ.