AP Physics C: Electricity and Magnetism
Advanced Placement Physics C: Electricity and Magnetism with calculus applications.
Magnetic Fields and Forces
Magnetic Fields
Moving charges create magnetic fields. The field’s direction is given by the right-hand rule.
Magnetic Force on a Charge
The force on a charge moving in a magnetic field is
\[ \vec{F} = q \vec{v} \times \vec{B} \] where \( q \) is the charge, \( \vec{v} \) is velocity, and \( \vec{B} \) is magnetic field.
Magnetic Force on a Current
A wire carrying current in a magnetic field experiences a force:
\[ \vec{F} = I \vec{L} \times \vec{B} \]
Calculus Link
Integrals and derivatives help us analyze changing fields and forces, especially in loops and coils.
Real-World Relevance
Magnetic forces run electric motors and help MRI machines create detailed images of our bodies.
Examples
Finding the radius of an electron’s path in a magnetic field.
Calculating the force on a current-carrying wire in a lab magnet.
In a Nutshell
Magnetic fields are created by moving charges and exert forces on other moving charges and currents.