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Guilherme Mazui

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What is the Difference Between Magnetic Force and Electric Force?

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The main difference between magnetic force and electric force lies in the charges they act upon and their respective fields. Here are the key differences:

  • Electric Force: Electric forces are created by and act on both moving and stationary charges. They are independent of the direction the charge moves in and are produced by electric fields, which are generated around charged particles. Electric forces can be measured in newton per coulomb.
  • Magnetic Force: Magnetic forces are created by and act on only moving charges. They are always normal to the direction of the velocity of the charge they act upon and are proportional to the speed of the electric charge. Magnetic fields are generated by moving electric charges and can be measured in gauss or tesla.

Both electric and magnetic forces are part of the electromagnetic force, one of the four fundamental forces in nature. While they may seem distinct, they are closely related and can be unified into a single force, as described by the electromagnetic field equations.

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

    • Comparative Table: Magnetic Force vs Electric Force

    Here is a table comparing the differences between magnetic force and electric force:

    Property Magnetic Force Electric Force
    Definition The magnetic force is the force experienced by a moving electric charge within a magnetic field. The electric force is the force experienced by two stationary electric charges due to their mutual presence and orientation.
    Field Lines Magnetic field lines are represented by magnetic flux lines, which indicate the direction and strength of the magnetic field. Electric field lines are represented by electric flux lines, which indicate the direction and strength of the electric field.
    Unit of Measurement Magnetic force is measured in Gauss or Tesla. Electric force is measured in Newton per Coulomb or Volts per Meter.
    Direction The direction of the magnetic force is determined by the direction of the magnetic field and the motion of the electric charge. The direction of the electric force is determined by the orientation of the electric charges.
    Interaction Magnetic forces interact with moving electric charges. Electric forces interact with stationary electric charges.

    Please note that the magnetic and electric forces are interrelated and are collectively referred to as electromagnetic forces.

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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.