# Encyclopedia of electromagnetics

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magnetic_path_length

# Magnetic path length

 Stan Zurek, Magnetic path length , Encyclopedia-Magnetica.com, {accessed 2020-12-01}

## Definition

Magnetic path length, path length or magnetic path, typically represented by the symbol $l$ for “length” 1)2)3) or MPL4) - is the effective path taken by the magnetic flux in a magnetic core or magnetic circuit. The path is measured in the units of length (e.g. metres).

The concept of path length is used in calculations such as: deriving the value of magnetic field strength H from the magnetising current5) in a closed magnetic circuit6), magnetic reluctance7), effective permeability8), and many more.

 Support us with just $1.00 through PayPal or a credit card: Fig. 1. Magnetic path in a magnetic core by S. Zurek, Encyclopedia Magnetica, CC-BY-3.0 Fig. 2. Gapped core with: total magnetic path length$l$(orange), length of core$l_{core}$(blue) and length of gap$l_g\$ (red)

by S. Zurek, Encyclopedia Magnetica, CC-BY-3.0