How does a dipole behave when it is placed in a uniform magnetic field?

The correct answer is It experiences torque but no net force..

Key Points

• A dipole in a uniform magnetic field experiences torque due to the interaction between the magnetic field and the magnetic moments.
• The torque acts to align the dipole with the magnetic field direction.
• There is no net force acting on the dipole in a uniform magnetic field as the forces on the two poles of the dipole are equal and opposite, canceling each other out.
• The magnitude of the torque is given by τ = pE sin θ, where p is the dipole moment, E is the electric field, and θ is the angle between p and E.

Additional Information

• Magnetic Dipole Moment:
  • It is a measure of the strength of a magnetic source.
  • It is a vector quantity with both magnitude and direction.
• Uniform Magnetic Field:
  • A magnetic field that has the same strength and direction at all points.
  • Examples include the Earth's magnetic field over small regions and the magnetic field inside a solenoid.
• Torque on a Dipole:
  • Torque is the rotational equivalent of force.
  • It causes the dipole to rotate and align with the magnetic field.
  • The formula for torque is τ = pE sin θ.
• Electric Dipole:
  • Consists of two equal and opposite charges separated by a distance.
  • It creates an electric field with a characteristic pattern.