What is the visual representation of a magnetic field called?

The visual representation of a magnetic field is referred to as field lines. Field lines are a way to illustrate the direction and strength of a magnetic field in a two-dimensional or three-dimensional space. They show the path a positive magnetic pole would take, indicating the direction from the north pole of a magnet to its south pole. The density of these lines represents the strength of the magnetic field: closer lines signify a stronger field, while lines that are further apart indicate a weaker field. This representation helps in understanding how magnetic fields interact with magnets and charges, making it a fundamental concept in physics.

Magnetic flux pertains to the quantity of magnetic field passing through a surface but does not visually represent the field itself. Wave patterns are associated with the behavior of waves, such as light or sound, rather than any magnetic property. Force diagrams illustrate forces acting on an object but do not specifically represent the characteristics of magnetic fields.