magnetic field

American  

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.

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magnetic field British  

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

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magnetic field Scientific  

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

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magnetic field Cultural  

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.)

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Etymology

Origin of magnetic field

First recorded in 1835–45

Example Sentences

Josephson contacts form the core of many quantum computers and make it possible to measure extraordinarily weak magnetic fields.

From Science Daily

The work may clarify whether magnetic fields trap charged dust particles, as suggested by Steward researchers George Rieke and András Gáspár.

From Science Daily

Earth's magnetic field features two well-defined poles, but the fields of these distant planets are more irregular and include multiple poles.

From Science Daily

The motion of light elements may explain seismic anisotropy -- directional variations in seismic wave speeds -- and could also play a role in sustaining Earth's magnetic field.

From Science Daily

This created rapid variations in the Earth's magnetic field that caused electricity to be generated in long wires.

From BBC