Question

List the ways in which magnetic field lines and electric field lines are similar. For example, the field direction is tangent to the line at any point in space. Also list the ways in which they differ. For example, electric force is parallel to electric field lines, whereas magnetic force on moving charges is perpendicular to magnetic field lines.

a) Similarities: Tangent at any point; Differences: Force direction for moving charges.

b) Similarities: Perpendicular to the lines; Differences: Tangent at any point.

c) Similarities: Parallel to the lines; Differences: Force direction for moving charges.

d) Similarities: Radial from the source; Differences: No distinctions.

Answer 1

Magnetic field lines and electric field lines have similarities and differences. They are similar in that they are tangent at any point and form closed loops. They differ in terms of the force direction and their continuity.

Step-by-step explanation:

The ways in which magnetic field lines and electric field lines are similar are:

1. Both magnetic field lines and electric field lines are tangent to the line at any point in space.
2. Both magnetic field lines and electric field lines form closed loops in a magnetic or electric field respectively.

The ways in which magnetic field lines and electric field lines differ are:

1. The force on a charge due to an electric field is parallel to the electric field lines, while the force on a moving charge due to a magnetic field is perpendicular to the magnetic field lines.
2. Magnetic field lines are continuous, having no beginning or end, while electric field lines originate on positive charges and terminate on negative charges.