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Magnetic monopoles
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Hypothetical isolated poles, never observed.
Isolated magnetic charges would make ∇·B ≠ 0 and symmetric Maxwell's equations. Dirac showed they'd explain charge quantisation. None have been found.
Searches in cosmic rays and colliders.
Not seen in nature so far.
In more detail
A magnetic monopole would be an isolated north or south magnetic pole. Maxwell's equations allow them in principle, but no monopole has been observed, so magnetic field lines form closed loops.
Real-world uses
- Physicists search for monopoles in cosmic rays and accelerators.
- Grand unified theories predict monopoles that would have formed in the early universe.
- Physicists search for magnetic monopoles in particle detectors, since their existence would be a major discovery.
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Frequently asked questions
Have monopoles been found?
No confirmed detection so far, though searches continue.
Why are they important?
Their discovery would reveal new physics and symmetry in the universe.
Have magnetic monopoles been found?
No confirmed monopole has been observed, although theories such as grand unification predict them.
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