Terminal velocity of loop falling through magnetic field

In summary, the conversation discusses the calculation of the terminal velocity of a square loop falling through a magnetic field. The formula for terminal velocity is derived using the equation for magnetic force and the concept of power loss in the system. The dimensions of the square loop are considered in the calculation to account for resistance and ensure that the power loss matches the mechanical power supplied. There is also a note mentioning that the dimensions of the square will cancel out in the calculation.
  • #1
Rawl
2
0

Homework Statement



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I'm trying to figure out the terminal velocity of the loop as it falls through the magnetic field (figure 7.20).

3. The Attempt at a Solution


The terminal velocity will happen when

[tex]\vec{F} = 0[/tex]

i.e.

[tex] mg = \vec{f}_{mag}[/tex]
But we know:

[tex]\oint \vec{f}_{mag} . d\vec{l} = vBl [/tex]

So

[tex]\vec{f}_{mag} = vB [/tex]

[tex]v_t = \frac{mg}{B}[/tex]

Why is this wrong?
 

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  • #2
You have to regard the energy/power in the system. The square loop has some dimensions which have influence in the resistance, R, of the loop. So as the velocity of the loop increases, the voltage and thus the current will increase, leading to a power loss = I2 * R.

This power loss must match the mechanical power supplied = m*g*v.

See the note: The dimensions of the square will cancel out.
It think it's right.
 

Related to Terminal velocity of loop falling through magnetic field

1. What is the terminal velocity of a loop falling through a magnetic field?

The terminal velocity of a loop falling through a magnetic field depends on several factors, such as the strength of the magnetic field, the size and shape of the loop, and the material the loop is made of. It is a balance between the force of gravity pulling the loop down and the magnetic force pushing it up.

2. How is the terminal velocity of a loop falling through a magnetic field calculated?

The terminal velocity of a loop falling through a magnetic field can be calculated using the formula v = √(2mg/ρAC), where v is the terminal velocity, m is the mass of the loop, g is the acceleration due to gravity, ρ is the density of the loop, A is the cross-sectional area of the loop, and C is the drag coefficient.

3. Can the terminal velocity of a loop falling through a magnetic field be changed?

Yes, the terminal velocity of a loop falling through a magnetic field can be changed by altering the factors that affect it. For example, increasing the strength of the magnetic field or using a more aerodynamic loop shape can increase the terminal velocity.

4. What happens to the terminal velocity of a loop falling through a magnetic field as it gets closer to the magnet?

As the loop gets closer to the magnet, the magnetic force acting on it increases, causing the terminal velocity to increase as well. This is because the loop is experiencing a stronger upward force that balances out the force of gravity pulling it down.

5. Are there any real-life applications of studying the terminal velocity of a loop falling through a magnetic field?

Yes, studying the terminal velocity of a loop falling through a magnetic field has many real-life applications, such as in the design and testing of magnetic levitation systems and magnetic brakes. It can also be used to study the behavior of objects in space, such as satellites orbiting around Earth.

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