Calculating a Homopolar Generator's EMF

In summary, the conversation discusses the process of finding the emf for a disk with a negative charge in equilibrium on the edge. The participants use equations for emf, force, and potential difference, and integrate to find the final answer of approximately 24.1V. There is also a mention of backtracking to understand the steps.
  • #1
ElPimiento
17
0

Homework Statement


Screen Shot 2016-04-14 at 1.21.10 PM.png
Screen Shot 2016-04-14 at 1.21.18 PM.png

Homework Equations


##\omega = v/r##
##q\vec v \times \vec B\ =\ \vec F_B##
##|\vec F|d\ =\ |\vec E|##
##q \Delta V\ =\ E##

The Attempt at a Solution


(So, my answer is twice and large as the correct answer. This is the second time this has happened on a question like this . . .)
Since a negative charge would collect on the outside of the disk I began by analyzing one negative charge and treated it in equilibrium on the edge of the disk,
$$\begin{align}
q\vec v \times \vec B- \frac{|\vec E|}{d}\ &=\ 0 \\
qvB \ &=\ \frac{q \Delta V}{r} \\
vBr \ &=\ \Delta V
\end{align}$$
And since ##v\ =\ \omega r##:
$$\begin{align}
(\omega r)Br \ &=\ \Delta V \\
\Delta V \ =\ \epsilon \ &\approx\ 48.3\ V
\end{align}$$
Any help would be wonderful c:
 
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  • #2
Start with the differential form for emf:
d(emf) = Bv(r)dr
and show off your powers of integration! :-)
 
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  • #3
I'm back tracking the work a little to make sure i understand where your getting that form of emf:
##\begin{align}
F_B - F_E \ &=\ 0 \\
F_B \ &=\ F_E\ =\ q|\vec E|\ =\ q\frac{d(\epsilon)}{dr} \\
vB\ =\ \omega r B\ &=\ \frac{d(emf)}{dr} \\
\int (\omega r B)dr\ &=\ \epsilon \\
\frac{\omega B r^2}{2} \ &=\ \epsilon\ \approx 24.1\ V
\end{align}##
thanks so much!
 
  • #4
ElPimiento said:
I'm back tracking the work a little to make sure i understand where your getting that form of emf:
##\begin{align}
F_B - F_E \ &=\ 0 \\
F_B \ &=\ F_E\ =\ q|\vec E|\ =\ q\frac{d(\epsilon)}{dr} \\
vB\ =\ \omega r B\ &=\ \frac{d(emf)}{dr} \\
\int (\omega r B)dr\ &=\ \epsilon \\
\frac{\omega B r^2}{2} \ &=\ \epsilon\ \approx 24.1\ V
\end{align}##
thanks so much!
Looking good!

d(emf) = B(r) v(r) dr is just the generalized (differential) form of emf = Bvr. Just basic calculus. It allows B and/or v to be functions of r. If B and v are not functions of r then it's just Bvr. But in your case B = constant but v = v(r) so then
d(emf) = B v(r) dr = B ωr dr
and when integrated over r=0 to r= R you get emf = ωBR2/2
where R is the disk's radius.
 
Last edited:

Related to Calculating a Homopolar Generator's EMF

1. What is a homopolar generator?

A homopolar generator is a type of electrical generator that uses a single moving part to produce electricity. It is also known as a unipolar generator or a Faraday disc, named after the scientist Michael Faraday who first demonstrated its principle in 1831.

2. How does a homopolar generator work?

A homopolar generator works by using a magnetic field and motion to generate an electric current. The generator consists of a rotating disc made of a conductor, such as copper, and a stationary magnetic field. When the disc rotates, it cuts through the magnetic field, creating an electric field that produces a current along the edge of the disc.

3. What factors affect the EMF of a homopolar generator?

The EMF (electromotive force) of a homopolar generator is affected by several factors, including the strength of the magnetic field, the speed of rotation, and the size and material of the disc. The number of turns in the coil and the resistance of the circuit also play a role in determining the EMF.

4. How is the EMF of a homopolar generator calculated?

The EMF of a homopolar generator can be calculated using the equation: EMF = B x L x v, where B is the magnetic field strength, L is the length of the conductor, and v is the velocity of rotation. This equation assumes that the magnetic field is uniform and the disc is rotating at a constant speed.

5. What are some practical applications of homopolar generators?

Homopolar generators are often used in high-power applications, such as in particle accelerators and other research facilities. They can also be used in electric motors and generators, and in some cases, as a backup power source for spacecraft. They are also used in some experimental renewable energy systems.

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