Virtual Electromagnetism Laboratory

Theoretical Foundation

Biot-Savart Law

The Biot-Savart law is used to compute the magnetic field generated by a constant electric current. It relates the magnetic field to the magnitude, direction, length, and proximity of the electric current.

dB = (μ₀ / 4π) * (I * dl x ) / r²

This law is fundamental in magnetostatics, playing a role similar to that of Coulomb's law in electrostatics.

Ampere's Law

Ampere's circuital law relates the integrated magnetic field around a closed loop to the electric current passing through the loop's surface.

B ⋅ dl = μ₀ * Ienc

It is particularly useful for calculating the magnetic field of symmetric current distributions, such as an infinite straight wire or a solenoid.