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Guilherme Mazui

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What is the Difference Between Electric Dipole and Magnetic Dipole?

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The main difference between an electric dipole and a magnetic dipole lies in their composition and behavior in their respective fields:

  1. Composition: An electric dipole consists of two equal and opposite charges (q and -q) separated by a distance d. On the other hand, a magnetic dipole consists of two equal but unlike poles that do not have a separate existence.
  2. Behavior in Fields: Electric dipoles tend to align with their respective electric fields, while magnetic dipoles tend to align with their respective magnetic fields. In the case of electric dipoles, materials made of electric dipoles cause the electric field to be reduced, while materials made of magnetic dipoles cause the magnetic field to be reduced.

In summary, an electric dipole is composed of two equal and opposite charges, while a magnetic dipole is composed of two equal but unlike poles. Electric dipoles align with electric fields, and magnetic dipoles align with magnetic fields.

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  • What is the Difference Between Electric Dipole and Magnetic Dipole?
  • Comparative Table: Electric Dipole vs Magnetic Dipole

    • Comparative Table: Electric Dipole vs Magnetic Dipole

    Here is a table summarizing the differences between electric dipoles and magnetic dipoles:

    Property Electric Dipole Magnetic Dipole
    Definition An electric dipole is a couple of opposite charges ("q" and "-q") separated by a distance "d". A magnetic dipole is a system with two equal and unlike poles that do not have a separate existence.
    Composition Electric dipoles are made of two electric monopoles, "q" and "-q". Magnetic dipoles are the most elementary element and do not have a separate existence.
    Dipole Moment The electric dipole moment is a vector quantity, denoted by "p". It has a defined direction, from the negative charge towards the positive charge. The magnetic dipole moment is denoted by "m" and is a vector quantity as well.
    Field Lines Electric dipole field lines originate from the negative charge and terminate at the positive charge. Magnetic dipole field lines form continuous closed loops.
    Energy Calculation The energy of an electric dipole in an external field is calculated using the formula: $$E = \frac{1}{2}p \cdot \mathbf{E}$$, where $$\mathbf{E}$$ is the electric field. The energy of a magnetic dipole in an external field is calculated using the formula: $$E = -\frac{1}{2}m \cdot \mathbf{B}$$, where $$\mathbf{B}$$ is the magnetic field.
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    Guilherme Mazui

    Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.