Magnetic energy

Magnetic energy and electric energy are related by Maxwell's equations. The potential energy of a magnet of magnetic moment, m, in a magnetic field, B, is defined as the mechanical work of magnetic force (actually of magnetic torque) on re-alignment of the vector of the magnetic dipole moment, and is equal:

$E_{\rm {p,m}}=-m\cdot B$

while the energy stored in an inductor (of inductance, L) when current, I, is passing via it is

$E_{\rm {p,m}}={1 \over 2}LI^{2}$.

This second expression forms the basis for superconducting magnetic energy storage.

Energy is also stored in a magnetic field. The energy per unit volume in a region of space of permeability, μ, containing magnetic field, B, is:

$u={1 \over 2}{B^{2} \over \mu }$

External links

• Magnetic Energy, Richard Fitzpatrick Professor of Physics The University of Texas at Austin.