the compass method, the iron filings method, or is there any other method?
2007-08-14 03:41:03 · 5 answers · asked by live.likenotomorrow 2 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Physics
Hall probe would be the best. This is the name of the instrument that measures magnetic fields. Its function is based on Hall effect, namely, a potentail difference created on the sample through which the current if flowing and magnetic field in question being perpendicular to the sample. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hall_effect
Out of the two you suggested, I'd go for the compass. Compass is already magnetized, and its field will interact with your field in question. Iron filings are yet to be magnetized, and the field that is going to do it is weak.
Animal idea sounds interesting, getting the animals to report the results is difficult.
2007-08-14 07:54:54 · answer #1 · answered by Snowflake 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
If you're looking to trace the direction of the magnetic field lines, I would suggest using the compass. The compass will point in the direction of the magnet as you're tracing the field lines.
The iron filings will only give you a visual as to what the field lines look like, but not their direction.
2007-08-16 06:08:20 · answer #2 · answered by dkillinx 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Iron fillings. A compass won't work particularly well in a weak magnetic field...it will likely be affected by the Earth's magnetic field.
In order for a compass to work, the magnetic field would have to be fairly strong compared to that of the Earth.
2007-08-14 10:59:14 · answer #3 · answered by jjsocrates 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Using a compass is cleaner, but the filings give you a nice visual.
2007-08-14 10:48:11 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
certain animals react to magnetic fields when they close to them. some believe that whales and dolphins beach themselves for this reason. insects too like cocharoaches who react to earthquakes might also be able to detect them.
iron fillings otherwise.
2007-08-14 12:22:23 · answer #5 · answered by ? 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋