Magnetic field

A magnetic field is a vector field that describes the magnetic influence of electric charges in relative motion^[1][2] and magnetized materials. A charge that is moving parallel to a current of other charges experiences a force perpendicular to its own velocity.^[3] The effects of magnetic fields are commonly seen in permanent magnets, which pull on magnetic materials (such as iron) and attract or repel other magnets. Magnetic fields surround and are created by magnetized material and by moving electric charges (currents) such as those used in electromagnets. They exert forces on nearby moving electrical charges and torques on nearby magnets. In addition, a magnetic field that varies with location exerts a force on magnetic materials. Both the strength and direction of a magnetic field vary with location. As such, it is described mathematically as a vector field.

In electromagnetics, the term "magnetic field" is used for two distinct but closely related fields denoted by the symbols B and H. In the International System of Units, H, magnetic field strength, is measured in the SI base units of ampere per meter (A/m).^[4] B, magnetic flux density, is measured in tesla (in SI base units: kilogram per second² per ampere),^[5] which is equivalent to newton per meter per ampere. H and B differ in how they account for magnetization. In a vacuum, B/${\displaystyle \mu _{0}}$ and H are the same; but in a magnetized material, B/${\displaystyle \mu _{0}}$ and H differ by the magnetization M of the material at that point in the material.

Magnetic fields are produced by moving electric charges and the intrinsic magnetic moments of elementary particles associated with a fundamental quantum property, their spin.^[6][7] Magnetic fields and electric fields are interrelated and are both components of the electromagnetic force, one of the four fundamental forces of nature.

Magnetic fields are used throughout modern technology, particularly in electrical engineering and electromechanics. Rotating magnetic fields are used in both electric motors and generators. The interaction of magnetic fields in electric devices such as transformers is conceptualized and investigated as magnetic circuits. Magnetic forces give information about the charge carriers in a material through the Hall effect. The Earth produces its own magnetic field, which shields the Earth's ozone layer from the solar wind and is important in navigation using a compass.