Tesla

Definition

The tesla (T) is the SI unit of magnetic field strength or magnetic flux density. It measures how much force a magnetic field exerts on moving charges or current-carrying wires.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The tesla is defined as one weber per square meter ($1 \text{ T} = 1 \frac{Wb}{m^2}$).
2. A charge of 1 coulomb moving at 1 meter per second perpendicular to a magnetic field of 1 tesla experiences a force of 1 newton.
3. The Earth's magnetic field strength is about $25-65 \mu\text{T}$, much weaker than many artificial magnets.
4. A typical MRI machine generates a magnetic field of around 1.5 to 3 teslas.
5. Magnetic fields can be calculated using the right-hand rule, which helps determine the direction of the force on a positive charge.

Review Questions

Related terms

Magnetic Flux:

The measure of the quantity of magnetism, taking into account the strength and extent of a magnetic field typically measured in webers (Wb).

Right-Hand Rule:

A mnemonic for understanding orientation conventions for vectors in three dimensions; used to determine the direction of force exerted by a magnetic field on a moving positive charge.

Lorentz Force:

The combined electric and magnetic force on a point charge due to electromagnetic fields, given by $\vec{F} = q(\vec{E} + \vec{v} \times \vec{B})$.