The right definition of magnetic field?

In summary, the conversation discusses the definition of a magnetic field and its relationship to electric fields. While one person believes it is a vectorial field that interacts with a moving charge, Wikipedia defines it as a field generated by electric currents and magnetic materials. The conversation questions why the definition is different and suggests using the Lorentz force to define B instead. The validity of Wikipedia's definition is also questioned.
  • #1
physics user1
I thought the definition was: a vectorial field that interacts with a moving charge
But wikipedia says it's a field generated by electric currents and magnetic materials...
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Magnetic_field
Why is in the definition the way it is Generated?

When we had defined the electric field we said that is a vectorial field that acts on a charge (that exerts a force on the charge) we basically defined E as E= F/q, why can't we make the same for B? Using the Lorentz force, defining B using the force that acts on the moving charge?
 
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  • #2
Cozma Alex said:
I thought the definition was: a vectorial field that interacts with a moving charge
But wikipedia says it's a field generated by electric currents and magnetic materials...
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Magnetic_field
Why is in the definition the way it is Generated?

When we had defined the electric field we said that is a vectorial field that acts on a charge (that exerts a force on the charge) we basically defined E as E= F/q, why can't we make the same for B? Using the Lorentz force, defining B using the force that acts on the moving charge?

I don't see the problem here. Are they contradictory? This is like saying that a cow is a female bovine while the other says that a cow produces milk.

Besides, why would what Wikipedia use as a "definition" matter?

Zz.
 
  • #3
Cozma Alex said:
But wikipedia says
If you don't like what Wikipedia says then just fix it.
 

Related to The right definition of magnetic field?

1. What is the definition of a magnetic field?

A magnetic field is a force field that is created by moving electric charges. It is represented by a vector that describes the direction and magnitude of the force that a magnetic object experiences when placed in the field.

2. How is a magnetic field different from an electric field?

A magnetic field is created by moving electric charges, while an electric field is created by stationary electric charges. Magnetic fields are also perpendicular to the direction of the electric field, and their strength is measured in teslas rather than volts per meter for electric fields.

3. What are some real-world examples of magnetic fields?

Some common examples of magnetic fields include the Earth's magnetic field, which causes compass needles to align with the north and south poles, and the magnetic fields created by magnets, which can attract or repel other magnets or magnetic materials.

4. How is the strength of a magnetic field measured?

The strength of a magnetic field is measured in units of teslas or gauss. One tesla is equal to 10,000 gauss. The strength of the magnetic field is also dependent on the distance from its source, with the strength decreasing as distance increases.

5. What are some practical applications of magnetic fields?

Magnetic fields have many practical applications, including in electric motors, generators, MRI machines, and magnetic levitation trains. They are also used in compasses, speakers, and credit and debit cards that use magnetic stripes for data storage.

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