Electricity and Magnetism · Problem 7.5

ALTERNATING-CURRENT CIRCUITS — Edward Purcell & David Morin

Physics — E&M · electromagnetic-induction-total-charge

Problem

Total charge ** A circular coil of wire, with NN turns of radius aa, is located in the field of an electromagnet. The magnetic field is perpendicular to the coil (that is, parallel to the axis of the coil), and its strength has the constant value B0B_0 over that area. The coil is connected by a pair of twisted leads to an external resistance. The total resistance of this closed circuit, including that of the coil itself, is RR. Suppose the electromagnet is turned off, its field dropping more or less rapidly to zero. The induced electromotive force causes current to flow around the circuit. Derive a formula for the total charge Q=∫I dtQ = \int I\, dt that passes through the resistor, and explain why it does not depend on the rapidity with which the field drops to zero.

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