Levels

Lab

The physics

A current loop acts like a small bar magnet. Its moment points at right angles to the loop. Turns, current and area set its size.

μ = N I A

A field turns a moment toward itself. θ is the angle between μ and B.

τ = μ B sin θ    U = −μ B cos θ

U is least at 0°, so the magnet rests there. At 180° it balances, but a nudge flips it back.

A slow turn takes work equal to the rise in U. A magnet nudged from rest swings to and fro.

W = μ B (cos θ₁ − cos θ₂)    T = 2π √(I / μ B)

A solenoid with a current is a bar magnet too. Its magnetisation is N I / L.