A bar magnet, of magnetic moment M, is placed in a magnetic...

A bar magnet, of magnetic moment $M$, is placed in a magnetic field of induction $B$. The torque exerted on it is
(A) $\vec{M} \cdot \vec{B}$
(B) $\vec{B} \times \vec{M}$
(C) $\vec{M} \times \vec{B}$
(D) $-\vec{B} \cdot \vec{M}$

Labs

Want to see this concept in action?

NEW

Explore this concept interactively to see how it behaves as you change inputs.

View Labs

Key Concepts

Vector Cross Product

The vector cross product is a mathematical operation on two vectors in three-dimensional space. It results in a third vector that is perpendicular to the plane containing the original vectors, with magnitude proportional to the sine of the angle between them. This operation is used to compute quantities such as the torque exerted on a magnetic dipole.

Torque on a Magnetic Dipole

When a magnetic dipole is placed in a magnetic field, it experiences a torque. This torque tends to realign the dipole to align its magnetic moment with the magnetic field direction. The magnitude and direction of this torque depend on the vector quantities involved.

Magnetic Dipole Moment

This is a fundamental vector quantity that characterizes the strength and orientation of a magnetic dipole, such as a bar magnet. It is a measure of the magnet's tendency to align with an external magnetic field and is intrinsic to magnetic dipoles.

Magnetic Field

A magnetic field is a vector field that exerts forces on moving charges and magnetic dipoles. It is characterized by its magnitude and direction, and is typically represented by field lines that indicate how a magnetic dipole would be oriented if placed within it.

Transcript

Please give Ace some feedback