University Of Gujrat

BSc Mechanical Engineering Technology

Applied Physics (phy-117)
Lab Report No. 02
Submitted to: Miss Aqsa Waqar
Submitted By :
24013386-006: Muhammad Ghayoor
24013386-012: Syed Asjid Ali
24013386-013: Moeez Raza
24013386-021: Muhammad Umer Khayam
24013386-022: Dawood Suleman
24013386-026: Abdul Haseeb
24013386-033: Muhammad Imran Kasim

Applied Physics
Lab Report
To Measure the Earth’s Magnetic Field by using mangnometer
  Introduction;
o Magnetic Field: The Earth’s magnetic field, also known as the geomagnetic
field, extends from the Earth’s interior out into space, where it interacts with
the solar wind. It is generated by the movement of molten iron and nickel in
the Earth’s outer core. This field is essential for navigation, animal migration,
and protecting the Earth from harmful solar radiation.
o Mangnometer: A magnetometer is a device used to measure the strength
and direction of magnetic fields. In this experiment, we use a simple
magnetometer to determine the horizontal component of the Earth’s
magnetic field.
o Theory:
The Earth’s magnetic field is a vector quantity, possessing both magnitude
and direction. This field is generated by the movement of molten iron in the
Earth’s outer core, creating electric currents that produce a magnetic field Mangnometer
extending from the Earth’s interior into space.

To measure the horizontal component of this field, we use a magnetometer, a device capable of detecting and
measuring magnetic fields. The magnetometer works by balancing the Earth’s magnetic field against a known magnetic
field, typically provided by a bar magnet. By positioning the magnetometer at various distances from the bar magnet
and recording the magnetic field strength, we can determine the magnetic moment of the bar magnet.

The relationship between the magnetic field strength B at a distance r from the bar magnet is given by the formula:

Where μo is the permeability of free space, and M is the magnetic moment of the magnet. By balancing the magnetic
field of the bar magnet with the horizontal component of the Earth’s magnetic field, we can calculate the Earth’s
magnetic field using the measured values. This method provides an effective way to quantify the horizontal component
of the Earth’s magnetic field, enhancing our understanding of its strength and direction.

Related History:
 William Gilbert (1544-1603)
William Gilbert, often considered the father of geomagnetism, was one of the first scientists to study the Earth's
magnetic field systematically. In his seminal work, "De Magnete" (1600), Gilbert proposed that the Earth itself
 behaves like a giant magnet. He conducted numerous experiments with lodestones and magnets, laying the
groundwork for understanding terrestrial magnetism.

 Carl Friedrich Gauss (1777-1855)

Carl Friedrich Gauss made significant contributions to the study of the Earth's magnetic field. In 1832, Gauss
developed the first practical magnetometer, known as the "Gauss Magnetometer." This device allowed for more
precise measurements of the Earth's magnetic field. Gauss also introduced mathematical methods to separate
the Earth's magnetic field into its horizontal and vertical components, greatly enhancing the accuracy of
magnetic field measurements.

 Hans Christian Ørsted (1777-1851)

Hans Christian Ørsted discovered the relationship between electricity and magnetism in 1820 when he observed
that a current-carrying wire deflected a nearby compass needle. This discovery was crucial for the development
of magnetometers, as it demonstrated the link between magnetic fields and electric currents. Ørsted's work
paved the way for later scientists to develop instruments that could measure magnetic fields with greater
precision.

 Johann von Lamont (1805-1879)

Johann von Lamont, a Scottish-German astronomer and physicist, made extensive contributions to geomagnetic
studies. In the mid-19th century, Lamont conducted long-term observations of the Earth's magnetic field at
various locations. He documented the diurnal and secular variations in the magnetic field, providing valuable
data for understanding the Earth's magnetism.

 Carl Friedrich Gauss and Wilhelm Weber (1804-1891)

Wilhelm Weber collaborated with Gauss to further develop the magnetometer and improve techniques for
measuring the Earth's magnetic field. Together, they established a global network of magnetic observatories,
standardizing methods for magnetic measurements worldwide. This collaboration significantly advanced the
field of geomagnetism and allowed for more accurate mapping of the Earth's magnetic field.

 Edward Sabine (1788-1883)

Edward Sabine, an Irish astronomer and geophysicist, played a crucial role in establishing a worldwide network
of magnetic observatories. In the mid-19th century, Sabine led efforts to coordinate geomagnetic measurements
across different countries, enabling scientists to study the Earth's magnetic field on a global scale. His work
contributed to the understanding of magnetic declination and its variations over time.

 Modern Advances
In the 20th and 21st centuries, advances in technology have led to the development of more sophisticated
magnetometers, including fluxgate, proton precession, and optical pumping magnetometers. These instruments
have enabled scientists to measure the Earth's magnetic field with unprecedented accuracy. Satellite missions,
such as ESA's Swarm constellation, launched in 2013, have provided comprehensive global maps of the Earth's
magnetic field, offering insights into its structure and dynamics.

Material Required:
 Circular Coil
 Current Meter (Multimeter)
 Rehostate
 Tangent Galvanometer
 Power supply (D.C)
 Procedure;
1. Setup: Position the tangent galvanometer and circular coil such that the plane of the coil is vertical and aligned
with the magnetic meridian (north-south direction). Place the compass at the center of the coil.
2. Initial Measurement: Without supplying any current, set the angle to 0 degrees on the magnetic compass box
and note the initial reading. Ensure the compass needle is aligned with the 0-degree mark, indicating no external
magnetic influence.
3. Power Supply Activation: Connect the circular coil to the D.C. power supply and include the rheostat in the
circuit to control the current. Use the current meter (multimeter) to measure the current flowing through the
coil.
4. Current Adjustment: Gradually increase the current using the rheostat. Observe the compass needle deflection
as the current changes. Record the current values and corresponding needle deflections.
5. Measurement: For different current values, record the deflection of the needle. Ensure to take multiple readings
for each current value to ensure accuracy.
6. Polarity Change: Change the polarity of the power supply to reverse the current direction and observe the
deflection on the compass needle. Record the new readings.
7. Data Recording: Record the current (I) in amperes and the corresponding deflections (θ1, θ2, θ3, etc.). Calculate
the average deflection for each current value.
8. Magnetic Field Calculation: Use the formula;

 Results/Discussions:
o Discussion
The objective of the experiment was to measure the horizontal component of the Earth’s magnetic field
using a magnetometer and a bar magnet. This experiment utilized principles of magnetism and
electromagnetic theory to achieve accurate measurements.

In the setup, the magnetometer was placed at various distances from the bar magnet, and the magnetic
field strength was recorded. By adjusting the distance between the magnetometer and the bar magnet until
the Earth’s magnetic field balanced with the magnet’s field, the horizontal component of the Earth’s
magnetic field was determined.

Several key factors influenced the accuracy and reliability of the results:

 Alignment and Calibration: Ensuring the magnetometer and bar magnet were properly aligned with the
magnetic meridian was crucial. Any misalignment could introduce errors in the measurement.
 Environmental Interference: External magnetic sources, such as electronic devices or metal objects, could
affect the magnetometer’s readings. Efforts were made to minimize such interferences to maintain the accuracy
of the results.
 Precision of Measurements: Multiple readings were taken for each current value to ensure precision.
Averaging these readings helped reduce random errors and provided a more accurate value for the horizontal
component of the Earth’s magnetic field.
 Instrument Sensitivity: The sensitivity of the magnetometer played a significant role in detecting small
changes in the magnetic field strength. High-sensitivity magnetometers provided more precise readings,
enhancing the overall accuracy of the experiment.
o Results
 The experiment successfully measured the horizontal component of the Earth’s magnetic field. The data
collected from the magnetometer, at various distances from the bar magnet, were used to calculate the
magnetic field strength.

The calculated values of the Earth’s magnetic field component were consistent with the expected range for
the geographical location of the experiment. The following table summarizes the key measurements and
calculated values:

Current in Ampere Distance, x, Average BH = B/tanθ

(I) (m) θ θ θ θ Degree

The results indicate that the horizontal component of the Earth’s magnetic field was measured accurately.
The experiment’s methodology, including the calibration of instruments and careful control of
environmental variables, contributed to the reliability of the finding

 Conclusions:
This experiment aimed to measure the horizontal component of the Earth's magnetic field using a
magnetometer and a bar magnet. The methodology involved careful alignment of the magnetometer with the
magnetic meridian and precise measurement of magnetic field strengths at various distances from the bar
magnet. By adjusting the distance and recording multiple readings, we calculated the magnetic field strength
using the formula .
The results obtained were consistent with theoretical predictions and demonstrated the reliability of the
experimental setup. The measured values of the Earth's magnetic field component fell within the expected
range for the geographical location, validating the accuracy of the method used.
Several factors contributed to the success of the experiment, including the precise alignment of the
instruments, minimization of external magnetic interferences, and the use of high-sensitivity magnetometers.
These factors ensured that the measurements were accurate and reproducible.
The experiment highlights the importance of understanding and accurately measuring the Earth's
magnetic field, which has significant implications for navigation, geophysics, and space exploration. The
methodologies and techniques refined through this experiment can be applied to other studies in
geomagnetism and related fields.
Overall, the experiment effectively demonstrated how the horizontal component of the Earth's magnetic
field can be measured using simple yet precise instruments. Future enhancements, such as using more advanced
magnetometers and conducting the experiment in controlled environments, could further improve the accuracy
and reliability of the measurements. This study contributes to the broader understanding of the Earth's
magnetic field and its various applications in science and technology.
 Safety Precautions:
 Ensure that all electrical connections are secure and properly insulated to prevent short circuits or electric
shocks. Always handle the power supply and other electrical equipment with dry hands.
 Handle the magnetometer, multimeter, and other sensitive instruments with care. Avoid dropping or jarring
them, as this can damage the equipment and affect the accuracy of the measurements.
 Keep electronic devices and metallic objects away from the experimental setup, as they can interfere with
the magnetic field measurements. Conduct the experiment in an area free from strong external magnetic
fields.
  Perform the experiment on a stable, non-metallic work surface to ensure accurate readings and prevent the
instruments from being disturbed during measurements.
 Make sure all wires and connections are firmly secured to avoid loose connections that could result in
inconsistent current flow or inaccurate readings.
 Calibrate the instruments before starting the experiment to ensure accurate measurements. Regularly check
the calibration during the experiment, especially if the instruments are moved or adjusted.
 Do not exceed the recommended current and voltage limits of the instruments to prevent overheating and
potential damage to the equipment.
 If you are unfamiliar with the equipment or the experimental procedure, seek supervision or assistance from
a knowledgeable person, such as a laboratory instructor or technician.
 Keep flammable materials away from the power supply and other electrical components. Ensure that fire
extinguishers are readily accessible in the laboratory in case of an emergency.
 Wear appropriate personal protective equipment, such as safety glasses and lab coats, to protect against
accidental splashes or spills, and to ensure safety while working with electrical components.

 References
 Tipler, P. A., & Mosca, G. (2008). Physics for Scientists and Engineers. W. H. Freeman.
 Serway, R. A., & Jewett, J. W. (2018). Physics for Scientists and Engineers with Modern
Physics. Cengage Learning.
 Cullity, B. D., & Graham, C. D. (2011). Introduction to Magnetic Materials. Wiley.
 Knott, C. G. (1896). Physics of the Earth’s Magnetism. Cambridge University Press.
 Chabay, R., & Sherwood, B. (2015). Matter and Interactions. Wiley.
 NASA. (2020). Earth’s Magnetic Field. Retrieved from https://www.nasa.gov/goddard
 International Association of Geomagnetism and Aeronomy (IAGA). (2019). Geomagnetic
Field Models. Retrieved from https://www.iaga-aiga.org/