magnetic field

noun

1. a region of space near a magnet, electric current, or moving charged particle in which a magnetic force acts on any other magnet, electric current, or moving charged particle.

2. magnetic intensity.

magnetic field

noun

1. a field of force surrounding a permanent magnet or a moving charged particle, in which another permanent magnet or moving charge experiences a force Compare electric field

magnetic field

1. A field of force associated with changing electric fields, as when electric charges are in motion. Magnetic fields exert deflective forces on moving electric charges. Most magnets have magnetic fields as a result of the spinning motion of the electrons orbiting the atoms of which they are composed; electromagnets create such fields from electric current moving through coils. Large objects, such as the earth, other planets, and stars, also produce magnetic fields.

2. See Note at magnetism

3. See magnetic field strength

magnetic field

1. A magnetic field is said to exist in a region if a force can be exerted on a magnet. If a compass needle is deflected when it is put at a particular location, we say a magnetic field exists at that point, and the strength of the field is measured by the strength of the force of the compass needle. The Earth, the sun, and the Milky Way galaxy all have magnetic fields. All known magnetic fields are caused by the movement of electrical charges. Electrons in orbit in atoms give rise to magnetic fields, so that every atom is, like the Earth, surrounded by a magnetic field. (See magnet and magnetism.)

Word History and Origins

Origin of magnetic field¹

First recorded in 1835–45

Example Sentences

Loggerhead turtles are equipped with two different abilities for sensing the Earth's magnetic field, yet scientists had not determined which one they rely on to interpret the magnetic map they inherit at birth.

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The plasmasphere works with Earth's magnetic field to help block harmful charged particles from the Sun and deep space, offering natural protection for satellites and other technology.

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However, they are not without limitations: they are sensitive to external disturbances -- such as strong magnetic fields near a hard drive -- and their performance typically degrades over time.

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Just like moving fingers under the running water from a tap can disrupt its steady flow, HIP 67522 b disturbs the star’s magnetic field as it orbits around its host star.

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This effect describes how the polarization of light rotates as it travels through a material placed in a constant magnetic field.

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