MAGNETISM AND MATTER

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Bar magnet
The iron ore magnetite which attracts small pieces of iron, cobalt, nickel etc. is a natural
magnet. The natural magnets have irregular shape and they are weak. A piece of iron or
steel acquires magnetic properties when it is rubbed with a magnet. Such magnets made
out of iron or steel are artificial magnets. Artificial magnets can have desired Shape and
desired strength. If the artificial magnet is in the form of a rectangular or cylindrical bar,
it is called a bar magnet.

Basic properties of magnets

(i) When the magnet is dipped in iron filings, they cling to the ends of the magnet. The
attraction is maximum at the two ends of the magnet. These ends are called poles of the
magnet.
(ii) When a magnet is freely suspended, it always points along north-south direction. The
pole pointing towards geographic north is called North Pole N and the pole which points
towards geographic south is called South Pole S.
(iii) Magnetic poles always exist in pairs. (i.e) isolated magnetic pole does not exist.
(iv) The magnetic length of a magnet is always less than its geometric length, because
the poles are situated a little inwards from the free ends of the magnet. (But for the
purpose of calculation the geometric length is always taken as magnetic length.)
(v) Like poles repel each other and unlike poles attract each other.
North Pole of a magnet when brought near North Pole of another magnet, We can
observe repulsion, but when the north pole of one magnet is brought near South Pole of
another magnet, we observe attraction.
(vi) The force of attraction or repulsion between two magnetic poles is given by
Coulomb’s inverse square law.

Magnetic field
Magnetic field is the space in which a magnetic pole experiences a force or it is the space
around a magnet in which the influence of the magnet is felt.

Magnetic lines of force

A magnetic field is better studied by drawing as many numbers of magnetic lines of force
as possible. A magnetic line of force is a line along which a free isolated north pole would
travel when it is placed in the magnetic field.

Properties of magnetic lines of force

(i) Magnetic lines of forces are closed continuous curves, extending through the body of
the magnet.
(ii) The direction of line of force is from North Pole to South Pole outside the magnet.
While it is from South Pole to North Pole inside the magnet.
(iii) The tangent to the magnetic line of force at any point gives the direction of magnetic
field at that point. (i.e) it gives the direction of magnetic induction (𝐵
⃗ ) at that point.
(iv) They never intersect each other.
(v) They crowd where the magnetic field is strong and thin out where the field is weak.

Magnetic moment
Since any magnet has two poles, it is also called a magnetic dipole. The magnetic
moment of a magnet is defined as the product of the pole strength and the
distance between the two poles. If m is the pole strength of each pole and 2l is the
distance
between the poles, the magnetic moment Magnetic moment is a vector quantity. It is
denoted by M. Its unit is A m2. Its direction is from south pole to north pole
⃗⃗ = 𝑚(2𝑙 )
𝑀
1

Bar magnet as an equivalent solenoid

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The magnetic dipole moment m associated with a current loop was defined to be m=NIA
where N is the number of turns in the loop, I the current and A the area vector. The
direction of magnetic moment m of a loop can be found by using right hand rule, curl
fingers in the direction of current then thumb gives the direction of magnetic moment.
The resemblance of magnetic field lines for a bar magnet and a solenoid suggest that a
bar magnet may be thought of as a large number of circulating currents in analogy
with a solenoid.
Let the solenoid consists of n turns per unit length. Let its length be 2l and radius a. We
can evaluate the axial field at a point P, at a distance r from the centre O of the solenoid.
To do this, consider a circular element of thickness dx of the solenoid at a distance x
from its centre. It consists of n d x turns. Let I be the current in the solenoid. The
magnetic field on the axis of a circular current loop at point P due to the circular element
is
𝜇0 𝑛𝑑𝑥𝐼𝑎2
𝑑𝐵 = 3
2[(𝑟 − 𝑥)2 + 𝑎2 ] ⁄2

The magnitude of the total field is obtained by summing over all the elements — in other
words by integrating from x = – l to x = + l . Thus,

+𝑙
𝜇0 𝑛𝐼𝑎2 𝑑𝑥
𝐵= ∫ 3
2 2[(𝑟 − 𝑥)2 + 𝑎2 ] ⁄2
−𝑙

Consider the far axial field of the solenoid, i.e., r >> a and r >> l . Then the
denominator is approximated by
3
2[(𝑟 − 𝑥)2 + 𝑎2 ] ⁄2 = 𝑟 3
Then
+𝑙
𝜇0 𝑛𝐼𝑎2
𝐵= ∫ 𝑑𝑥
2𝑟 3
−𝑙

𝜇0 𝑛𝐼𝑎2
𝐵= (2𝑙)
2𝑟 3
Note that the magnitude of the magnetic moment of the solenoid is,
m = n (2l ) I (πa2) = (total number of turns × current × cross-sectional area).
Thus,
𝜇0 2𝑚
𝐵=
4𝜋 𝑟 3
This is also the far axial magnetic field of a bar magnet which one may obtain
experimentally. Thus, a bar magnet and a solenoid produce similar magnetic fields. The
magnetic moment of a bar magnet is thus equal to the magnetic moment of an
equivalent solenoid that produces the same magnetic field.

Magnetic induction
Magnetic induction is the fundamental character of a magnetic field at a point. Magnetic
induction at a point in a magnetic field is the force experienced by unit north pole placed
at that point. It is denoted by B. Its unit is N/Am.
It is a vector quantity. It is also called as magnetic flux density. If a magnetic pole of
strength m placed at a point in a magnetic field experiences a force F, the magnetic
induction at that point is
𝐹
⃗ =
𝐵
𝑚

Magnetic flux and magnetic flux density

2

The number of magnetic lines of force passing through an area A is called magnetic flux.
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It is denoted by φ. Its unit is Weber. It is a scalar quantity.

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The number of magnetic lines of force crossing unit area kept normal to the direction of
line of force is magnetic flux density. Its unit is Wb m–2 or Tesla.
Magnetic flux 𝜙 = 𝐵⃗ ∙𝐴

Uniform and non-uniform magnetic field

Magnetic field is said to be uniform if the magnetic induction has the same magnitude
and the same direction at all the points in the region. It is represented by drawing
parallel lines
If the magnetic induction varies in magnitude and direction at different points in a
region, the magnetic field is said to be non-uniform. The magnetic field due to a bar
magnet is non-uniform. It is represented by convergent or divergent lines

Force between two magnetic poles

In 1785, Coulomb made use of his torsion balance and discovered the law governing the
force between the two magnetic poles.

Coulomb’s inverse square law

Coulomb’s inverse square law states that the force of attraction or repulsion between the
two magnetic poles is directly proportional to the product of their pole strengths and
inversely proportional to the square of the distance between them.
If m1 and m2 are the pole strengths of two magnetic poles separated by a distance of d
in a medium, then
1
F ∝ m1m2 and F∝ 2
𝑑
𝑚1 𝑚2
𝐹∝
𝑑2
𝑚1 𝑚2
𝐹=𝐾
𝑑2

where K is the constant of proportionality and

𝜇
𝐾=
4𝜋
where μ is the permeability of the medium. But μ = μ0× μr
μ0 - permeability of free space or vacuum.
μr - relative permeability of the medium
Let m1 = m2 = 1, and d = 1 m
𝜇
𝐾=
4𝜋
In free space, μo = 4π × 10-7 H m-1
𝑚1 𝑚2
𝐹 = 10−7
𝑑2

1×1
𝐹 = 10−7
1
F = 10-7 N
Therefore, unit pole is defined as that pole which when placed at a
distance of 1 metre in free space or air from an equal and similar pole,
repels it with a force of 10-7 N.

Magnetic induction at a point along the axial line due to a

magnetic dipole (Bar magnet)
NS is the bar magnet of length 2l and of pole strength m. P is a point on the axial line at
a distance d from its midpoint O
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According to inverse square law,

𝜇0 𝑚1 𝑚2
𝐹=
4𝜋 𝑑 2

Magnetic induction (B1) at P due to north pole of the magnet,

Along NP
𝜇0 𝑚
𝐵1 =
4𝜋 (𝑁𝑃)2
𝜇0 𝑚
𝐵1 =
4𝜋 (𝑑 − 𝑙)2

Magnetic induction (B2) at P due to south pole of the magnet,

Along PS
𝜇0 𝑚
𝐵2 =
4𝜋 (𝑃𝑆)2

𝜇0 𝑚
𝐵2 =
4𝜋 (𝑑 + 𝑙)2

Magnetic induction at P due to the bar magnet,

B = B1-B2

𝜇0 𝑚 𝜇0 𝑚
𝐵= −
4𝜋 (𝑑 − 𝑙)2 4𝜋 (𝑑 + 𝑙)2

𝜇0 𝑚 4𝑙𝑑
𝐵= ( )
4𝜋 (𝑑 2 − 𝑙 2 )2

𝜇0 𝑚 2𝑙 × 2𝑑
𝐵= ( )
4𝜋 (𝑑 2 − 𝑙 2 )2

𝜇0 2𝑙 × 𝑀
𝐵= ( )
4𝜋 (𝑑 2 − 𝑙 2 )2

As M =m×2l

For a short bar magnet, l is very small compared to d, hence l2 is neglected

𝜇0 2𝑀
𝐵=
4𝜋 𝑑 3
The direction of B is along the axial line away from the north pole.

Magnetic induction at a point along the equatorial line of a bar

magnet
NS is the bar magnet of length 2l and pole strength m. P is a point on the equatorial line
at a distance d from its midpoint O
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Components magnetic field at point P are as follows

Magnetic induction (B1) at P due to north pole of the magnet,

Along NP
𝜇0 𝑚
𝐵1 =
4𝜋 (𝑁𝑃)2

𝜇0 𝑚
𝐵1 =
4𝜋 (𝑑 + 𝑙 2 )
2

( AS NP2 = NO2 + OP2 )

Magnetic induction (B2) at P due to south pole of the magnet,
Along PS

𝜇0 𝑚
𝐵2 =
4𝜋 (𝑃𝑆)2
𝜇0 𝑚
𝐵2 =
4𝜋 (𝑑 + 𝑙 2 )
2

Resolving B1 and B2 into their horizontal and vertical components. Vertical components
B1 sin θ and B2 sin θ are equal and opposite and therefore cancel each other
The horizontal components B1 cos θ and B2 cos θ will get added along PT.
Resultant magnetic induction at P due to the bar magnet is
B = B1 cos θ + B2 cos θ. (along PT)
𝜇0 𝑚 𝑙 𝜇0 𝑚 𝑙
𝐵= +
4𝜋 (𝑑 2 + 𝑙 2 ) √𝑑 2 + 𝑙 2 4𝜋 (𝑑 2 + 𝑙 2 ) √𝑑 2 + 𝑙 2
𝑆𝑂 𝑁𝑂
𝑐𝑜𝑠𝜃 = =
𝑃𝑆 𝑁𝑃
As M =2lm

𝜇0 𝑀
𝐵=
4𝜋 (𝑑 2 + 𝑙 2 )3⁄2
For a short bar magnet, l2 is neglected.
𝜇0 𝑀
5

𝐵=
4𝜋 𝑑 3
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The direction of ‘B’ is along PT parallel to NS.

Solved numerical
Q) Find the force between two small bar magnets of magnetic moments m 1 and m2 lying
on the axis, as shown in figure ( p1 and p2 are the pole strength of magnet (1) and (2)
respectively, X is far greater than l1 and l2 )

Solution :
To calculate force on magnet (2) due to magnet (1)
We will calculate magnetic field due to magnet (1) at the poles of the magnet(2).
Magnet (2) is on the axis of magnet (1).
Magnetic field at North pole of magnet (2), magnetic moment of magnet(1) is m1
𝜇0 2𝑚1
𝐵𝑁 =
4𝜋 (𝑥 − 𝑙2 )3

The repulsive force FN acting on the north pole of magnet(2) having pole strength p2
𝜇0 2𝑚1 𝑝2
𝐹𝑁 = 𝑝2 𝐵𝑁 =
4𝜋 (𝑥 − 𝑙2 )3

Similarly magnetic field at South pole of magnet(2), is

𝜇0 2𝑚1
𝐵𝑆 =
4𝜋 (𝑥 + 𝑙2 )3

The attractive force FS acting on the north pole of magnet(2) having pole strength p2

𝜇0 2𝑚1 𝑝2
𝐹𝑆 = 𝑝2 𝐵𝑆 =
4𝜋 (𝑥 + 𝑙2 )3

Hence resultant force on magnet(2) is

F=FN - FS
𝜇0 1 1
𝐹= 2𝑝2 𝑚1 [ 3
− ]
4𝜋 (𝑥 − 𝑙2 ) (𝑥 + 𝑙2 )3

𝜇0 6𝑥 2 𝑙2
𝐹= 2𝑝2 𝑚1 [ 2 ]
4𝜋 (𝑥 − 𝑙22 )3

𝜇0 6𝑥 2 𝑙2
𝐹= 2𝑝2 𝑚1 [ 2 3 ]
4𝜋 (𝑥 )

𝜇0 𝑚1 (2𝑝2 𝑙2 )(3𝑥 2 )
𝐹= [ ]
2𝜋 𝑥6
As p2l2 = m2

𝜇0 𝑚1 (𝑚2 )(3)
𝐹= [ ]
6

2𝜋 𝑥4
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3𝜇0 𝑚1 𝑚2
𝐹=
2𝜋𝑥 4
Resultant force is repulsive and acts on magnet (2) in a direction away from magnet(1)

Q) Find the torque on small bar magnet(2) due to small bar magnet(1), when they are
placed perpendicular to each other as shown in figure l 2 and l1 are far
less than d

Solution :
From the figure Magnetic field at north pole of second magnet due to
magnet(1) is
𝜇0 2𝑚1
𝐵𝑁 =
4𝜋 (𝑑 − 𝑙2 )3
Force on north pole is towards left is
𝜇0 2𝑚1 𝑝2
𝐹𝑁 = 𝑝2 𝐵𝑁 =
4𝜋 (𝑑 − 𝑙2 )3
As X >> l2
𝜇0 2𝑚1 𝑝2
𝐹𝑁 =
4𝜋 (𝑑)3

Magnetic field at south pole of second magnet due to magnet(1) is

𝜇0 2𝑚1
𝐵𝑆 =
4𝜋 (𝑑)3
Force on south pole is towards right is
𝜇0 2𝑚1 𝑝2
𝐹𝑆 = 𝑝2 𝐵𝑆 =
4𝜋 (𝑑 + 𝑙2 )3
As X >> l2

𝜇0 2𝑚1 𝑝2
𝐹𝑆 =
4𝜋 (𝑑)3
Since FN = FS are non collinear, equal and opposite in direction, they form a couple.
Hence the torque is produced
𝐹𝑁 × 2𝑙⃗⃗2 = ⃗⃗⃗
𝜏 = ⃗⃗⃗⃗ 𝐹𝑆 × 2𝑙⃗⃗2
Since FN and FS are perpendicular to l2 magnitude of torque with respect to centre of
magnet (2)
μ m1 2l2 p2
τ = 2FN l2 = 0
4π d3
as 2l2p2 = m2 magnetic dipole moment of magnet(2)
μ m1 m2
τ= 0
4π d3

Torque on a bar magnet placed in a uniform magnetic field

Consider a bar magnet NS of length 2l and pole strength m placed in a uniform magnetic
field of induction B at an angle θ with the direction of the field
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Due to the magnetic field B, a force mB acts on the north pole along the direction of the
field and a force mB acts on the south pole along the direction opposite to the magnetic
field.
These two forces are equal and opposite, hence constitute a couple. The torque τ due to
the couple is
τ= one of the forces × perpendicular distance between them
τ = F × NA
τ = mB × NA ...(1)
τ = mB × 2l sin θ
τ = MB sin θ ...(2)
Vectorially,
𝜏=𝑀 ⃗⃗ × 𝐵
⃗
The direction of τ is perpendicular to the plane containing 𝑀
⃗⃗ and 𝐵
⃗
If B = 1 and θ = 90o
Then from equation (2), τ = M
Hence, moment of the magnet M is equal to the torque necessary to keep the agent at
right angles to a magnetic field of unit magnetic induction.

Periodic time of bar magnet

Here τ is restoring torque and θ is the angle between 𝑀⃗⃗ and 𝐵⃗.
Now Newton’s second law
𝑑2𝜃
𝜏=𝐼 2
𝑑𝑡
Here I is moment of inertia of bar magnet
Therefore, in equilibrium
𝑑2𝜃
𝐼 2 = −𝑚𝐵𝑠𝑖𝑛𝜃
𝑑𝑡
Negative sign with mB sinθ implies that restoring torque is in opposition to deflecting
torque. For small values of θ in radians, we approximate sin θ ≈ θ and get
𝑑2𝜃
𝐼 2 = −𝑚𝐵𝜃
𝑑𝑡
𝑑2𝜃 𝑚𝐵
=− 𝜃
𝑑𝑡 2 𝐼
This represents a simple harmonic motion. The square of the angular frequency is
ω2 = mB/I and the time period is
𝐼
𝑇 = 2𝜋√
𝑚𝐵
The magnetic potential energy Um
The magnetic potential energy Um is given by
𝑈𝑚 = ∫ 𝜏𝑑𝜃

𝑈𝑚 = ∫ 𝑚𝐵𝑠𝑖𝑛𝜃𝑑𝜃
Um = -mBcosθ
𝑈𝑚 = 𝑚 ⃗
⃗⃗ ∙ 𝐵
When the needle is perpendicular to the field, Equation shows that potential
energy is minimum (= –mB) at θ = 0o (most stable position) and maximum (= +mB) at
θ = 180o (most unstable position).

Solved numerical
Q) Work done in moving a magnet of magnetic moment m from most stable to most
unstable position
Solution:
Most stable position is θ = 0o and most unstable position is θ = 180o hence work done
8

W = UB(θ =180o ) - UB(θ = 0o ) = mB –(-mB) = 2mB

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Q) A bar magnet is suspended horizontally by a torsion less wire in magnetic meridian.
In order to deflect the magnet through 30o from the magnetic meridian, the upper end of
the wire has to be rotated by 270o. Now this magnet is replaced by another magnet. In
order to deflect the second magnet through the same angle from the magnetic meridian,
the upper end of the wire has to be rotated by 180o. What is the ratio of the magnetic
moments of the two bar magnets.
Solution
Let C be the deflecting torque per unit twist and M1 and M2 be the magnetic moments of
the two magnets.
The deflecting torque is τ = Cθ
The restoring torque is τ = MB sin θ
In equilibrium,
deflecting torque = restoring torque
For the Magnet − I
C (270o − 30o) = M1 BH sin θ ... (1)
For the magnet − II
C (180o − 30o) = M2 BH sin θ ... (2)
Dividing (1) by (2)
𝑀1 240𝑜 8
= =
𝑀2 150𝑜 5
Q) A magnetic needle placed in uniform magnetic field has magnetic moment 6.7×10 -
2
Am2 and moment of inertia of 15×10-6 kgm2. It performs 10 complete oscillations in 6.7
s. What is the magnitude of the magnetic field
Solution:
The periodic time of oscillation is
𝐼
𝑇 = 2𝜋√
𝑚𝐵
𝐼
𝐵 = 4𝜋 2
𝑚𝑇 2

4𝜋 2 (3.13)2 × 15 × 10−6
𝐵= = 0.02𝑇
6.7 × 102 × (0.67)2

Gauss’s Law for Magnetic Field

Magnetic field lines always forms a closed loops, the magnetic flux associated with any
closed surface is always zero

∮ ⃗ ∙ ⃗⃗⃗⃗
𝐵 𝑑𝑎 = 0
𝐶𝑙𝑜𝑠𝑒𝑑
𝑆𝑢𝑓𝑟𝑎𝑐𝑒

Where B is the magnetic field and ds is an infinitesimal area vector of the closed surface
“The net magnetic flux passing through any closed surface is zero” This statement is
called Gauss’s law for magnetic field.

Earth’s magnetic field and magnetic elements

A freely suspended magnetic needle at a point on Earth comes to rest approximately
along the geographical north - south direction.
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This shows that the Earth behaves like a huge magnetic dipole with its magnetic poles
near its geographical poles. Since the north pole of the magnetic needle approximately
points towards geographic north (NG) it is appropriate to call the magnetic pole near NG
as the magnetic south pole of Earth Sm. Also, the pole near SG is the magnetic north
pole of the Earth (Nm).
The Earth’s magnetic field at any point on the Earth can be completely defined in terms
of certain quantities called magnetic elements of the Earth, namely

(i) Declination or the magnetic variation θ.

The angle between the magnetic meridian and geographic meridian at a place on the
surface of the earth is called magnetic declination at that place

(ii) Dip or inclination δ

Magnetic dip or angle of inclination is the angle δ ( up or down) that the magnetic field
of earth makes with the horizontal at a place in magnetic meridian
(iii) The horizontal and vertical component of the Earth’s magnetic field.
BV = B sinδ and BH = Bcosδ
𝐵𝑉
𝑡𝑎𝑛𝛿 =
𝐵𝐻

𝐵 = √𝐵𝑉2 + 𝐵𝐻2
10

Causes of the Earth’s magnetism

The exact cause of the Earth’s magnetism is not known even today. However, some
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important factors which may be the cause of Earth’s magnetism are:

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(i) Magnetic masses in the Earth.
(ii) Electric currents in the Earth.
(iii) Electric currents in the upper regions of the atmosphere.
(iv) Radiations from the Sun.
(v) Action of moon etc.
However, it is believed that the Earth’s magnetic field is due to the molten charged
metallic fluid inside the Earth’s surface with a core of radius about 3500 km compared to
the Earth’s radius of 6400 km.
Solved Numerical
Q) A short bar magnet is placed with its north pole pointing north. The neutral point is
10 cm away from the centre of the magnet. If B = 4 × 10−5 T, calculate the magnetic
moment of the magnet.
Solution:
When we keep North pole pointing north pole it means, it is in the direction of field lines
of earth is opposite to magnetic field lines of magnet.
As shown in figure let neutral point (where effective magnetic field becomes zero) be at
point n, at distance d1 = 20 cm

Now magnetic field due to bar magnet = Horizontal component of earth

𝜇0 𝑚
= 𝐵𝐻
4𝜋 𝑑13
𝑚
10−7 = 4 × 105
(0.1)3
m=0.4 A m2
Q) A magnet makes an angle of 45 with the horizontal in a plane making an angle of
o

30O with the magnetic meridian. Find the true value of the dip angle at the place.
Solution:

Let B be the magnetic field in magnetic meridian, making an angle of θ with horizontal.
Thus Horizontal component is BH = Bcos θ and
vertical component is BV = Bsinθ
Component of Horizontal component of magnetic field in magnetic meridian along plane
= Bcosθcos30
11

Let magnetic field in plane be B’. Thus Horizontal component B’H = B’cos45 and Vertical
component B’V = B’sin45
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Bsinθ = B’sin45 eq(1)
And
Bcosθcos30 =B’cos45 eq(2)
Taking ratio of eq(1) and eq(2) we get
Bsinθ B’sin45
=
Bcosθcos30 B’cos45
𝑡𝑎𝑛𝜃 = 𝑐𝑜𝑠30
√3
𝑡𝑎𝑛𝜃 = = 0.866
2
−1 (0.866)
𝜃 = 𝑡𝑎𝑛

Tangent law
A magnetic needle suspended, at a point where there are two crossed magnetic fields
acting at right angles to each other, will come to rest in the direction of the resultant of
the two fields.

B1 and B2 are two uniform magnetic fields acting at right angles to each other. A
magnetic needle placed in these two fields will be subjected to two torques tending
to rotate the magnet in opposite directions. The torque τ1 due to the two equal and
opposite parallel forces mB1 and mB1 tend to set the magnet parallel to B1.
Similarly the torque τ2 due to the two equal and opposite parallel forces mB2 and mB2
tends to set the magnet parallel to B2. In a position where the torques balances each
other, the magnet comes to rest. Now the magnet makes an angle θ with B2 as
shown in the Fig.
The deflecting torque due to the forces mB1 and mB1
τ1 = mB1 × NA
= mB1 × NS cos θ
= mB1 × 2l cos θ
= 2l mB1 cos θ
∴ τ1 = MB1cos θ
Similarly the restoring torque due to the forces mB2 and mB2
τ2 = mB2 × SA
= mB2 × 2l sin θ
= 2lm × B2 sin θ
τ2 = MB2 sin θ
At equilibrium,
τ1 = τ2
∴MB1 cos θ = MB2 sin θ
12

∴ B1 = B2 tan θ
This is called Tangent law
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Invariably, in the applications of tangent law, the restoring magnetic

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field B2 is the horizontal component of Earth’s magnetic field BH.

Solved Numerical
A short bar magnet of magnetic moment 5.25 × 10–2 A m2 is placed with its axis
perpendicular to the Earth’s field direction. At what distance from the centre of the
magnet on (i) its equatorial line and (ii) its axial line, is the resultant field inclined at 45 o
with the Earth’s field. Magnitude of the Earth’s field at the place is 0.42 × 10–4 T.
Solution
From Tangent Law
𝐵
= 𝑡𝑎𝑛𝜃
𝐵𝐻
B = BH tan θ = 0.42 × 10–4 × tan 45o
B = 0.42 × 10–4 T
(i) For the point on the equatorial line
𝜇0 𝑚
𝐵=
4𝜋 𝑑 3
𝜇0 𝑚
𝑑3 =
4𝜋 𝐵

5.25 × 10−2
𝑑 3 = 10−7 ×
0.42 × 10−4

d = 5×10-2 m

(ii) For the point on the axial line

𝜇0 2𝑚
𝐵=
4𝜋 𝑑 3
𝜇0 2𝑚
𝑑3 =
4𝜋 𝐵

2 × 5.25 × 10−2
𝑑 3 = 10−7 ×
0.42 × 10−4

d = 6.3 × 10–2 m.

Magnetic properties of materials

The study of magnetic properties of materials assumes significance since these
properties decide whether the material is suitable for permanent magnets or
electromagnets or cores of transformers etc.
Before classifying the materials depending on their magnetic behavior, the following
important terms are defined.
(i) Magnetizing field or magnetic intensity
The magnetic field used to magnetize a material is called the magnetizing field. It is
denoted by H and its unit is A m–1.
(Note : Since the origin of magnetism is linked to the current, the magnetizing field is
usually defined in terms of ampere turn)
(ii) Magnetic permeability
Magnetic permeability is the ability of the material to allow the passage of magnetic lines
of force through it. Relative permeability μr of a material is defined as the ratio of
number of magnetic lines of force per unit area B inside the material to the number of
lines of force per unit area in vacuum Bo produced by the same magnetizing field.
∴ Relative permeability μr = B / BO
μH μ
13

μr = =
μ0 H μ0
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(since μr is the ratio of two identical quantities, it has no unit.)

∴ The magnetic permeability of the medium μ = μoμr where μo is the

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permeability of free space.
Magnetic permeability μ of a medium is also defined as the ratio of magnetic induction B
inside the medium to the magnetizing field H inside the same medium.
𝐵
𝜇=
𝐻
(iii) Intensity of magnetization
Intensity of magnetization represents the extent to which a material has been
magnetized under the influence of magnetizing field H. Intensity of magnetization of a
magnetic material is defined as the magnetic moment per unit volume of the material.
𝑚
𝑀=
𝑉
Its unit is A m-1.
For a specimen of length 2l, area A and pole strength m,
2𝑙𝑚
𝑀=
2𝑙𝐴
𝑚
𝑀=
𝐴
Hence, intensity of magnetization (M) is also defined as the pole strength
per unit area of the cross section of the material.

(iv) Magnetic induction

When a soft iron bar is placed in a uniform magnetizing field H, the magnetic induction
inside the specimen B is equal to the sum of the magnetic induction Bo produced in
vacuum due to the magnetizing field and the magnetic induction Bm due to the induced
magnetization of the specimen.
B = Bo + B m
But Bo= μoH and Bm = μoM
B = μoH + μoM
∴B = μo (H + M)
𝐵
𝐻= −𝑀
μo
where H has the same dimensions as M and is measured in units of A m–1.
Thus, the total magnetic field B

(v) Magnetic susceptibility

Magnetic susceptibility χm is a property which determines how easily and how strongly a
specimen can be magnetized.
Susceptibility of a magnetic material is defined as the ratio of intensity of magnetization
induced in the material to the magnetizing field H in which the material is placed.
Thus
𝑀
𝜒𝑚 =
𝐻
Since I and H are of the same dimensions, χm has no unit and is dimensionless.

Relation between χm and μr

𝑀
𝜒𝑚 =
𝐻
M = χm H
We know B = μo (H + M)
B = μo (H + χmH)

B = μoH (1 + χm)
If μ is the permeability, we know that B = μH.
∴ μH = μoH (1 + χm)
14

𝜇
= (1 + 𝜒𝑚 )
𝜇0
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μr= 1 + χm

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Solved Numerical
A bar magnet of mass 90 g has magnetic moment 3 A m2. If the intensity of
magnetization of the magnet is 2.7 × 105 A m−1, find the density of the material of the
magnet.
Solution
𝑚
Intensity of magnetization, 𝑀 =
𝑉
volume V =mass/ ρ
𝑚𝜌
𝑀 =
𝑚𝑎𝑠𝑠
𝑀 × 𝑚𝑎𝑠𝑠 2.7 × 105 × 0.090
𝜌= =
𝑚 3

𝑘𝑔
𝜌 = 8100
𝑚3

Q) A magnetizing field of 50 A m−1 produces a magnetic field of induction 0.024 T in a

bar of length 8 cm and area of cross section 1.5 cm2. Calculate (i) the magnetic
permeability (ii) the magnetic susceptibility
Solution
Permeability
𝐵 2.4 × 10−2
𝜇= = = 4.8 × 10−4 𝐻𝑚−1
𝐻 50
susceptibility
𝜇
𝜒𝑚 = −1
𝜇0

4.8 × 10−4
𝜒𝑚 = − 1 = 381.16
4𝜋 × 10−7

Q) A solenoid has a core of material with relative permeability of 400. The current
passing through the wire of solenoid is 2A. If the number of turns per cm are 10,
calculate the magnitude of
(a) H (b) B (c) χm (d) M
Solution
Here μr = 400, I = 2A n = 10 turns/cm = 1000 turns/m
(a) Magnetic intensity H = nI = 1000 × 2 = 2000 Am-1
(b) Magnetic field B = μo μrH = 4π×10-7×400×2000 = 1.0 T
(c) Magnetic susceptibility of the core material is
χm = μr -1 = 400 -1 = 399
(d) Magnetization
M = χmH = 399 × 2000 = 8 ×105 A/m

Q) The region inside a current carrying toroidial winding is filled with tungsten of
susceptibility 6.8×10-5. What is the percentage increase in the magnetic field in the
presence of the material with respect to the magnetic field without it?
Solution:
The magnetic field in the current carrying toroidial winding without tungsten is
BO = μOH
The magnetic field in the same current carrying toroidial winding with tungsten is
B = μH
𝐵 − 𝐵𝑜 𝜇 − 𝜇𝑜
∴ =
𝐵𝑜 𝜇𝑜
But μ = μo ( 1 + χm)
15

𝜇
= 1 + 𝜒𝑚
𝜇𝑜
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𝜇 − 𝜇𝑂
𝜒𝑚 =
𝜇0

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𝐵 − 𝐵𝑜
∴ = 𝜒𝑚
𝐵𝑜

𝐵 − 𝐵𝑜
∴ × 100 = 𝜒𝑚 × 100
𝐵𝑜
𝐵 − 𝐵𝑜
∴ × 100 = (6.8 × 10−5 ) × 100
𝐵𝑜
𝐵 − 𝐵𝑜
∴ × 100 = (6.8 × 10−3 )%
𝐵𝑜

Classification of magnetic materials

On the basis of the behavior of materials in a magnetizing field, the materials are
generally classified into three categories namely,
(i) Diamagnetic, (ii) Paramagnetic and (iii) Ferromagnetic
(i) Properties of diamagnetic substances
Diamagnetic substances are those in which the net magnetic moment of atoms is zero.
The susceptibility has a low negative value.
(For example, for bismuth χm= – 0.00017).
2. Susceptibility is independent of temperature.
3. The relative permeability is slightly less than one.
4. When placed in a non uniform magnetic field they have a tendency to move away
from the field (i.e) from the stronger part to the weaker part of the field. They get
magnetized in a direction opposite to the field.
5. When suspended freely in a uniform magnetic field, they set themselves perpendicular
to the direction of the magnetic field
Examples : Bi, Sb, Cu, Au, Hg, H2O, H2 etc.
(ii) Properties of paramagnetic substances
Paramagnetic substances are those in which each atom or molecule has a net non-zero
magnetic moment of its own.
1. Susceptibility has a low positive value.
(For example : χm for aluminium is +0.00002).
2. Susceptibility is inversely proportional to absolute temperature. As the temperature
increases susceptibility decreases.
3. The relative permeability is greater than one.
4. When placed in a non uniform magnetic field, they have a tendency to move from
weaker part to the stronger part of the field. They get magnetized in the direction of
the field.
5. When suspended freely in a uniform magnetic field, they set themselves parallel to
the direction of magnetic field
Examples : Al, Pt, Cr, O2, Mn, CuSO4 etc.
Pierre Curie observed the magnetization M of a paramagnetic material is directly
proportional to the external magnetic filed B and inversely proportional to its absolute
temperature T, called Curie’s law
𝐵
𝑀=𝐶
𝑇
Where C = Curie’s constant
𝐵 𝜇0
𝑀=𝐶
𝑇 𝜇0

𝜇0 𝐵
𝑀 = 𝐶𝐻 (∵ 𝐻 = )
𝑇 𝜇0

𝑀 𝜇0
= 𝜒𝑚 = 𝐶
16

𝐻 𝑇

(iii) Properties of ferromagnetic substances

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Ferromagnetic substances are those in which each atom or molecule has a strong
spontaneous net magnetic moment. These substances exhibit strong paramagnetic
properties.
1. The susceptibility and relative permeability are very large.
(For example : μr for iron = 200,000)
2. Susceptibility is inversely proportional to the absolute temperature.
As the temperature increases the value of susceptibility
decreases. At a particular temperature, ferromagnetic become paramagnetic. This
transition temperature is called Curie temperature.
The relation between magnetic susceptibility of the substance in the acquired
paramagnetic form and temperature is given by
𝐶1
𝜒𝑚 =
𝑇 − 𝑇𝐶
C1 is a constant
For example: Curie temperature of iron is about 1000 K.
3. When suspended freely in uniform magnetic field, they set themselves parallel to the
direction of magnetic field.
4. When placed in a non uniform magnetic field, they have a tendency to move from the
weaker part to the stronger part of the field. They get strongly magnetized in the
direction of the field.
Examples : Fe, Ni, Co and a number of their alloys.

Hysteresis
Consider an iron bar being magnetized slowly by a magnetizing field H whose strength
can be changed. It is found that the magnetic induction B inside the material increases
with the strength of the magnetizing field and then attains a saturated level. This is
depicted by the path OP in the

If the magnetizing field is now decreased slowly, then magnetic induction also decreases
but it does not follow the path PO. Instead, when H = 0, B has non zero value equal to
OQ. This implies that some magnetism is left in the specimen. The value of magnetic
induction of a substance, when the magnetizing field is reduced to zero, is called residual
magnetic induction of the material. OQ represents the residual magnetism of the
material. Now, if we apply the magnetizing field in the reverse direction, the magnetic
induction decreases along QR till it becomes zero at R. Thus to reduce the residual
magnetism (remnant magnetism) to zero, we have to apply a magnetizing field OR in
the opposite direction.
The value of the magnetizing field H which has to be applied to the magnetic material in
the reverse direction so as to reduce its residual magnetism to zero is called its
coercivity.
When the strength of the magnetizing field H is further increased in the reverse
17

direction, the magnetic induction increases along RS till it acquires saturation at a point
S (points P and S are symmetrical). If we now again change the direction of the field,
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the magnetic induction follows the path STUP. This closed curve PQRSTUP is called the

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‘hysteresis loop’ and it represents a cycle of magnetization. The word ‘hysteresis’ literally
means lagging behind. We have seen that magnetic induction B lags behind the
magnetizing field H in a cycle of magnetization. This phenomenon of lagging of magnetic
induction behind the magnetizing field is called hysteresis.
In the process of magnetization of a ferromagnetic substance through a cycle, there is
expenditure of energy. The energy spent in magnetizing a specimen is not recoverable
and there occurs a loss of energy in the form of heat. This is so because, during a cycle
of magnetization, the molecular magnets in the specimen are oriented and reoriented a
number of times. This molecular motion results in the production of heat. It has been
found that loss of heat energy per unit volume of the specimen in each cycle of
magnetization is equal to the area of the hysteresis loop. The shape and size of the
hysteresis loop is characteristic of each material because of the differences in their
retentivity, coercivity, permeability, susceptibility and energy losses etc. By studying
hysteresis loops of various materials, one can select suitable materials for different
purposes.
At H = 0, B ≠ 0. The value of B at H = 0 is called retentivity or remanence.
At H ≠ 0, B = 0. The value of H at B = 0 is called coercivity.
Hysteresis loss

In the process of magnetization of a ferromagnetic substance through a cycle, there is

expenditure of energy. The energy spent in magnetizing a specimen is not recoverable
and there occurs a loss of energy in the form of heat. This is so because, during a cycle
of magnetization, the molecular magnets in the specimen are oriented and reoriented a
number of times. This molecular motion results in the production of heat. It has been
found that loss of heat energy per unit volume of the specimen in each cycle of
magnetization is equal to the area of the hysteresis loop. The shape and size of the
hysteresis loop is characteristic of each material because of the differences in their
retentivity, coercivity, permeability, susceptibility and energy losses etc. By studying
hysteresis loops of various materials, one can select suitable materials for different
purposes.

Uses of ferromagnetic materials

(i) Permanent magnets
The ideal material for making permanent magnets should possess high retentivity
(residual magnetism) and high coercivity so that the magnetization lasts for a longer
time. Examples of such substances are steel and alnico (an alloy of Al, Ni and Co).
(ii) Electromagnets
Material used for making an electromagnet has to undergo cyclic changes. Therefore, the
ideal material for making an electromagnet has to be one which has the least hysteresis
loss. Moreover, the material should attain high values of magnetic induction B at low
18

values of magnetizing field H. Soft iron is preferred for making electromagnets as it has
a thin hysteresis loop[small area, therefore less hysteresis loss] and low retentivity.It
Page

attains high values of B at low values of magnetizing field.

(iii) Core of the transformer

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A material used for making transformer core and choke is subjected to cyclic changes
very rapidly. Also, the material must have a large value of magnetic induction B.
Therefore, soft iron that has thin and tall hysteresis loop is preferred. Some alloys with
low hysteresis loss are: radio-metals, pern-alloy.
(iv) Magnetic tapes and memory store
Magnetization of a magnet depends not only on the magnetizing field but also on the
cycle of magnetization it has undergone. Thus, the value of magnetization of the
specimen is a record of the cycles of magnetization it has undergone. Therefore, such a
system can act as a device for storing memory. Ferro magnetic materials are used for
coating magnetic tapes in a cassette player and for building a memory store in a modern
computer. Examples : Ferrites (Fe, Fe2O, MnFe2O4 etc.).

Questions
Q) It is observed that the neutral points lie along the axis of a magnet placed on the
table. What is the orientation of the magnet with respect to the earth’s magnetic field
Ans. North pole of the magnet is towards the south of the earth
Q) A bar magnet is stationary in magnetic meridian. Another similar magnet is kept to it
such that the centre lie on their perpendicular bisectors. If the second magnet is free to
move, then what type of motion it will have - translator, rotator or both
Ans: Only translator
Q) A short bar magnet placed with its axis making an angle θ with a uniform external
field B experiences a torque. What is the magnetic moment of the magnet
Q) Name the parameters needed to completely specify the earth’s magnetic field at a
point on the earth’s surface
Ans: Declination, Dip and Horizontal component of earth’s field
Q) What is geomagnetic equator
Ans: The great circle on the earth’s surface whose plane is perpendicular to the magnetic
axis is called magnetic equator.
Q) What is magnetic meridian
Ans: A vertical plane passing through the magnetic axis of earth is called magnetic
meridian
Q) Name the physical quantity which is measured in Wb A-1
Ans: The ratio of the magnetic induction and the magnetic moment is measured in Wb A -
1

Q) Name one property of magnetic material used for making permanent magnet
Ans: High coercivity
Q) The ratio of the horizontal component to the resultant magnetic field of earth at a
given place is (1/√2) . What is the angle of dip at that place
𝐵 1
Ans : 𝑐𝑜𝑠𝜃 = 𝐻 =
𝐵 √2
θ = 45O
Q) Why does a paramagnetic sample display greater magnetization ( for same
magnetizing field) when cooled
Ans: The tendency to disrupt the alignment of dipoles with the magnetizing field arising
from random thermal motion is reduced at lower temperatures. So, as the paramagnetic
substance is cooled, its atomic dipoles tends to get aligned with the magnetizing field.
Thus, the paramagnetic substance display a greater magnetization when cooled
Q) What is SI unit of magnetic permeability?
Ans: T m A-1
Q) Why do magnetic lines of force prefer to pass through iron than air
Ans: Permeability of soft iron is greater than that of air
Q) What is the SI unit of susceptibility
Ans: It has no unit
Q) Identify a substance, which has negative magnetic susceptibility.
19

Ans: Diamagnetic substance. Magnetic susceptibility is positive for both para and
ferromagnetic substance
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Q) What is the net magnetic moment of an atom of a diamagnetic material

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Ans: Zero
Q) What is the dimensional formula of magnetic flux
Ans: [ ML2T-2A-1]
Q) An iron nail is attracted by a magnet. What is the source of kinetic energy
Ans: It is the magnetic field energy which is partly converted into kinetic energy
Q) A bar magnet is cut into two equal pieces transverse to its length. What happens to
its dipole moment
Ans: The magnetic moment will be halved because length will be halved
Q) What is magnet
Ans: A magnet is an arrangement of two equal and opposite magnetic poles separated
by a certain distance. It has attractive and directive properties
Q) What is the SI unit of magnetic moment of a dipole
Ans: Am2 or JT-1
Q) What is Hysteresis?
Ans: Hysteresis is defined as the lagging of the magnetic induction B behind the
corresponding magnetic field H
Q) Define angle of magnetic dip
Ans: It is the angle made by the direction of earth’s total magnetic field with the
horizontal component of the earth’s magnetic field at magnetic poles
Q) What is the effect on the magnetization of diamagnetic substance when it is cooled
Ans: The magnetization of a diamagnetic substance is independent of temperature
Q) A magnet is held vertically on a horizontal plane. How many neutral points are there
in the horizontal plane

Ans.) The magnetic field due to the magnet and the

magnetic field of earth are shown at four different
points a, b, c and d. Clearly, the two fields cancel
only at the point a. So, a is the neutral point.

Q) In the stirrup of a vibration magnetometer are

placed two magnets one above the other with their
axes parallel. When will their time period be
maximum/minimum
Ans: The time period will be maximum when opposite poles are together
𝐼1 + 𝐼2
𝑇𝑚𝑎𝑥 = 2𝜋√
(𝑚1 − 𝑚2 )𝐵𝐻
The time period will be minimum when like poles are together
𝐼1 + 𝐼2
𝑇𝑚𝑎𝑥 = 2𝜋√
(𝑚1 + 𝑚2 )𝐵𝐻
Q) Two substances A and B have their relative permeability slightly greater and less than
unity respectively. What do you conclude about A and B
Ans: χm = μr – 1
Relative permeability of A is slightly greater than 1. So χm is small and positive. So,
substance is paramagnetic.
Relative permeability of B is slightly less 1
So χm is small and negative. Clearly, substance is diamagnetic
20

Q) How does the knowledge of declination at a place help in navigation?

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Ans: Declination at place gives us the angle between the geographic and the magnetic
meridians. So, the knowledge of declination shall help in steering the ship in the required
direction so as to reach the destination
Q) Two identical-looking iron bars A and B given, one of which is definitely known to be
magnetized [ We don’t know which one]. How would one ascertain whether or not both
are magnetized? If only one is magnetized, how does one ascertain which one? [ Use
nothing but the two bars A and B]
Ans: Try to bring different ends of the magnets closer. A repulsive force in some
situation establishes that both are magnetized. If it is always attractive, then one of
them is not magnetized. To see which one, pick up one say A and lower one of its ends:
first one of the ends of their other say b, and then on the middle part of B. A experiences
no force, and then B is magnetized. If you do not notice any change from end to middle
point Of B, then A is magnetized.
Q) A magnetized needle in a uniform magnetic field experiences a torque but no net
force. An iron nail near a bar magnet, however, experiences a force of attraction in
addition to a torque. Why?
Ans: In the case of uniform magnetic field, the forces experienced by the needle are
equal in magnitude, opposite in direction and have different lines of action. So, net force
is zero. But torque is not zero
The iron nail experiences a non-uniform magnetic field due to the bar magnet. The
induced magnetic moment in the nail, therefore, experiences both force and torque. The
net force is attractive because the induced (say) south pole in the nail is closer to the
north pole of the magnet than the induced north pole
Q) Why two magnetic lines of force due to a bar magnet do not cross each other?
Ans: If two magnetic lines of force cross at a point, then this would mean that there are
two directions of magnetic field at the point of crossing. This is physically absurd. Thus,
two magnetic lines of force cannot cross each other
Q) What is the basic use of hysteresis curve?
Ans: Hysteresis loop gives useful information about the different properties, of materials,
such as coercivity, retentivity, energy loss. This information helps us in the suitable
selection of materials for different purposes.
Q) Does the magnetization of paramagnetic salt depend on temperature? Justify your
answer
Ans: The atoms of a paramagnetic substance posses small magnetic dipole moments.
But these atomic dipoles are oriented in a random manner. In the presence of the
external magnetic field, these dipoles tend to align in the direction of the field. But the
tendency for alignment is hindered by thermal agitation. So, the magnetization of
paramagnetic salt decreases with increase of temperature.

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