

What is the Dimensional Formula and SI Unit of the Magnetic Field?
The Dimensions of Magnetic Field are a key topic in JEE Main Physics, especially for dimensional analysis and unit conversion in electromagnetism. The magnetic field concept helps in understanding forces on moving charges and current-carrying conductors. JEE students must know its formula, dimensions, and where it applies in physical problems.
Understanding the dimensions of magnetic field allows you to verify equations, compare units like Tesla and Gauss, and distinguish magnetic field intensity from induction and flux. Mastery of this area is crucial for quick problem-solving during JEE paper attempts.
In electromagnetism, the magnetic field is represented by B (magnetic induction). It acts perpendicularly to both current and resultant force, and always follows the right-hand rule. Magnetic field intensity and related terms often confuse students, so learning their dimensions and differences is necessary.
Dimensional Formula of Magnetic Field (B) and Its Derivation
In SI units, the dimensions of magnetic field (magnetic induction, B) are derived from the Lorentz force: F = q(v × B). Here, F is force, q is charge, v is velocity, and B is magnetic field.
| Quantity | Symbol | Dimensional formula |
|---|---|---|
| Force | F | [M1L1T-2] |
| Charge | q | [I1T1] |
| Velocity | v | [L1T-1] |
| Magnetic Field | B | [M1L0T-2I-1] |
Derivation:
Start with F = qvB sinθ (take θ = 90° for max value). Rearranging gives B = F/(qv). Substitute dimensions: [B] = [M1L1T-2]/([I1T1][L1T-1]) = [M1L0T-2I-1].
Hence, the dimensional formula for the magnetic field B is [M1L0T-2I-1]. This matches JEE and NCERT expectations.
Units, Measurement and Related Variants for Dimensions of Magnetic Field
The primary SI unit for the dimensions of magnetic field is Tesla (T), while the CGS unit is Gauss (G), where 1 T = 104 G. Both units represent magnetic field induction, or magnetic field density (B).
| Physical Quantity | SI Unit | CGS Unit | Dimension |
|---|---|---|---|
| Magnetic field (B) | Tesla (T) | Gauss (G) | [M1L0T-2I-1] |
| Magnetic field intensity (H) | A/m | Oersted | [M0L0T-1I1] |
| Magnetic flux (Φ) | Weber (Wb) | Maxwell | [M1L2T-2I-1] |
This table shows how SI and CGS units relate for different magnetic quantities. Knowing conversions is vital for JEE numericals and unit checks. Explore more about units and measurement for expert strategies.
Magnetic field is a vector quantity, meaning it has both magnitude and direction in three-dimensional space. Always apply the right-hand thumb rule for direction sense and remember vector rules in vector questions.
Comparison: Dimensions of Magnetic Field Intensity, Permeability, Energy Density
It's common for students to confuse the dimensions of magnetic field (B) with magnetic field intensity (H), magnetic permeability, or energy density of a magnetic field. Each has its own definition and dimensional formula.
| Quantity | Symbol | Unit | Dimension |
|---|---|---|---|
| Magnetic field (B) | B | Tesla | [M1L0T-2I-1] |
| Magnetic field intensity | H | A/meter | [M0L0T-1I1] |
| Magnetic permeability | μ | Henry/meter | [M1L1T-2I-2] |
| Magnetic field energy density | u | J/m3 | [M1L-1T-2] |
Each term above appears in standard JEE Main questions or formula derivations. Learn about magnetic permeability for detailed applications and differences in their dimensions.
- The dimensions of magnetic flux differ from the field itself.
- Magnetic field energy density involves B squared in its formula.
- Field intensity (H) is not the same as induction (B).
Misidentifying these quantities can lead to incorrect unit or dimension analysis. Always clarify what is being asked, especially when using dimensional analysis tools.
Application of Dimensions of Magnetic Field in JEE Problems
Direct questions on dimensions of magnetic field may ask you to compute or check expressions using dimensional consistency. Using B’s formula helps identify errors and verify derived results under principle of homogeneity conditions.
- Check that units on both sides of an electromagnetism equation match.
- For formulas like F = BIL, verify [B] using [F] = [B][I][L].
- Convert Tesla to Gauss using 1 T = 104 G.
- Apply dimensional analysis to unknown or derived expressions in papers.
Mini Example: In the Biot-Savart Law, dB = (μ₀/4π)·(I dl × r̂)/r², dimensions of dB must reduce to [M1L0T-2I-1]. If not, you have a mistake.
The same validation applies when working with Biot-Savart law, Faraday’s law, or field expressions for a solenoid or infinite wire.
For more practice, review units and measurements mock tests and magnetic effects of current and magnetism mock test 2.
- Check formula consistency using dimensions before substituting values.
- Memorize dimensions of B, H, μ, and flux for last-moment revision.
- Avoid mixing up the meaning and formula for B and H in vectors.
Explore worked problems and revision strategies via dimensional analysis and its applications and work energy and power pages.
Vedantu’s expert content team updates these formulas to match JEE standards and includes clear step-by-step logic, not just rote learning.
Summary: The dimensions of magnetic field are [M1L0T-2I-1], with the SI unit Tesla. Always distinguish magnetic field B from related terms. Apply dimensional analysis for both revision and error detection. For more clarity, check related concepts like dimensions of electric flux and magnetic effects of current and magnetism.
- Units and dimensions basics for Physics formulas.
- Conceptual review with magnetic field and magnetic force examples.
- Revision with dimensional analysis methods.
- Practice more with magnetic effects of current and magnetism practice paper.
- Explore magnetism revision notes for exam-oriented tips.
- Clarify comparisons via difference between electric field and magnetic field.
Review these pages from Vedantu for systematic JEE-level mastery of electromagnetic field problems.
FAQs on Dimensions of Magnetic Field – Formula, Derivation, Units & Uses
1. What is the dimensional formula for the magnetic field?
The dimensional formula of the magnetic field (B) is [M1 L0 T-2 I-1]. This formula uses fundamental quantities: mass (M), length (L), time (T), and electric current (I).
- Used to check validity of equations via dimensional analysis.
- Essential for JEE Main, NEET, and board physics exams.
- Reflects the strong connection between current and magnetic effects.
2. What is the unit of magnetic field and its dimensions?
The SI unit of magnetic field is the Tesla (T), and its dimensional formula is [M1 L0 T-2 I-1]. In the CGS system, the unit is Gauss (G).
- 1 Tesla = 10,000 Gauss
- Dimensions: MLT and current (I)
- Measured using devices like a fluxmeter or Hall probe
3. Are magnetic fields three-dimensional?
Yes, magnetic fields are inherently three-dimensional vectors. This means they have both magnitude and direction in space.
- Represented visually by magnetic field lines in 3D space
- Direction indicates how forces act on moving charges
- Important in solving JEE and NEET vector problems
4. How do you calculate the size of the magnetic field?
The size (magnitude) of the magnetic field depends on the source and can be calculated using relevant formulas.
- For a straight current: B = μ₀I/(2πr)
- For a solenoid: B = μ₀ n I
- Magnetic field around magnets and coils differs by configuration
- Units: Measured in Tesla (T)
5. What is the difference between the dimensions of a magnetic field and an electric field?
The dimensional formula for a magnetic field is [M1 L0 T-2 I-1], whereas for an electric field it is [M1 L1 T-3 I-1].
- Magnetic field involves force on moving charges/currents
- Electric field involves force on stationary charges
- Dimension difference reflects their physical interactions
6. What are the dimensions of magnetic field energy density?
The dimensional formula for magnetic field energy density is [M1 L-1 T-2]. This is derived from energy per unit volume.
- Formula: u = B2/(2μ₀)
- Important for advanced physics and electromagnetic induction
- Used in sample JEE numericals
7. Is the magnetic field (B) a vector quantity?
Yes, magnetic field (B) is a vector quantity. It has both direction and magnitude.
- Direction is given by the right-hand rule
- Used to describe the force on a moving charge: F = q(v × B)
- Constantly tested in board and entrance exams
8. Can dimensional analysis be used to check the validity of magnetic field formulas?
Yes, dimensional analysis helps verify if magnetic field formulas are dimensionally consistent.
- Match dimensions on both sides of an equation
- Detects potential mistakes in complex formulas
- Commonly used technique in JEE and CBSE numericals
9. Is the dimension of magnetic field the same as magnetic induction?
Yes, magnetic field (B) and magnetic induction have the same dimensional formula: [M1 L0 T-2 I-1].
- Both refer to the same physical quantity
- Unit: Tesla (SI)
- Magnetic induction is another name for the magnetic field
10. Do I need to memorize dimensions for related quantities like flux and permeability?
Yes, memorizing the dimensional formulas for flux, permeability, and related quantities is important for JEE and board exams.
- Often asked in matching, assertion-reason, or formula verification
- Examples:
- Magnetic flux (φ): [M1 L2 T-2 I-1]
- Permeability (μ): [M1 L1 T-2 I-2]































