Expert reviewed • 22 November 2024 • 4 minute read
Magnetic flux and magnetic flux density are fundamental concepts in electromagnetic induction. Understanding these principles is crucial for studying how changing magnetic fields can induce electrical currents, a phenomenon that underlies many modern technologies.
Magnetic flux (φ) measures the total number of magnetic field lines passing through a given area. Think of it as counting how many field lines penetrate a surface. The unit of magnetic flux is the Weber (Wb).
Magnetic flux density, commonly known as magnetic field strength (B), represents how concentrated these field lines are in a particular region. It is measured in Teslas (T) or Webers per square meter (Wb/m²).
The relationship between magnetic flux, flux density, and area is given by:
Where:
The angle θ plays a crucial role in determining magnetic flux:
Magnetic flux can change through several mechanisms:
For example, when a coil moves out of a magnetic field region, the effective area in the field decreases, reducing the total magnetic flux through the coil.