Details:

This project aims to measure the strength of a magnet and Earth's magnetic field by analyzing the deflection angle of a compass at different distances from the magnet. The key principles involved in this experiment are based on the dipole magnetic field and the balance between the Earth's magnetic field and the external magnet's influence.

Key Concepts:

  1. Magnetic Dipole Field: The magnetic field strength of a dipole decreases with distance, typically following an inverse cubic relation.
  2. Deflection Angle Measurement: The compass needle aligns with the resultant vector of Earth's magnetic field and the magnet’s field, allowing for calculations.
  3. Earth’s Magnetic Field Strength: Using the measured deflection angles and distances, we can estimate the local magnetic field strength of Earth.

General Approach:

  • Place the compass at varying distances from the magnet.
  • Measure the deflection angle of the compass needle.
  • Use trigonometric and magnetic dipole field equations to calculate the magnet’s field strength.
  • Compare results with Earth's magnetic field in the test location.

Mathematical Relations:

  • The magnetic field of a dipole at a distance r follows:

                                    B∝1/r^3

  • The deflection angle θ is related to the ratio of the external magnet's field to Earth's field:

                                    tan(θ)= B-magnet/B-earth

      By measuring θ at different distances r, we can solve for B-magnet and B-Earth.

Conclusion:

      This project provides a simple yet effective method to determine magnetic field strengths using          basic tools. The project is still in progress, and if you are interested in contributing, feel free to            contact me!