What is the net magnetic force on a compass needle?

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What is the net magnetic force on a compass needle? By what mechanism does a compass needle align w/ a magnetic field? No net force, needle stops moving, so no force on it.

The net magnetic force acting on a compass needle is zero. A compass needle is a small magnet with a north and a south pole. When placed in a magnetic field, such as that created by Earth's magnetic field, the needle aligns itself with the field lines. This alignment happens because the needle's north pole is attracted to the Earth's magnetic south pole and vice versa.

Since a compass needle can freely rotate, it will align itself parallel to the magnetic field lines. In this orientation, the forces acting on the north and south poles of the needle are equal in magnitude and opposite in direction. Consequently, these forces cancel each other out, resulting in a net magnetic force of zero.

To determine the net magnetic force on a compass needle, you need to consider the strength and direction of the magnetic field it is placed in and the magnetic properties of the needle itself. By understanding the principles of magnetism and the behavior of compass needles in magnetic fields, you can calculate or assess the net magnetic force acting on the needle.

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