Magnetic Dipole - Dipolar Fields From Finite Sources

Dipolar Fields From Finite Sources

See also: Near and far field

The magnetic scalar potential ψ produced by a finite source, but external to it, can be represented by a multipole expansion. Each term in the expansion is associated with a characteristic moment and a potential having a characteristic rate of decrease with distance r from the source. Monopole moments have a 1/r rate of decrease, dipole moments have a 1/r2 rate, quadrupole moments have a 1/r3 rate, and so on. The higher the order, the faster the potential drops off. Since the lowest-order term observed in magnetic sources is the dipolar term, it dominates at large distances. Therefore, at large distances any magnetic source looks like a dipole with the same magnetic moment.

Read more about this topic:  Magnetic Dipole

Famous quotes containing the words fields, finite and/or sources:

    Forget about the precious sight
    of my lover’s face
    that steals away my heart.
    Just seeing the borders
    of the fields on the borders
    of her village
    gives me instant joy.
    Hla Stavhana (c. 50 A.D.)

    The finite is annihilated in the presence of the infinite, and becomes a pure nothing. So our spirit before God, so our justice before divine justice.
    Blaise Pascal (1623–1662)

    The American grips himself, at the very sources of his consciousness, in a grip of care: and then, to so much of the rest of life, is indifferent. Whereas, the European hasn’t got so much care in him, so he cares much more for life and living.
    —D.H. (David Herbert)