Gauss

Definition

Gauss is a unit of magnetic field strength in the CGS (centimeter-gram-second) system of units. It is defined as one maxwell per square centimeter.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. 1 Gauss is equivalent to $10^{-4}$ Tesla in the SI unit system.
2. The Earth's magnetic field at its surface is approximately 0.25 to 0.65 Gauss.
3. Gauss was named after the German mathematician and physicist Carl Friedrich Gauss.
4. It measures magnetic flux density, which represents the amount of magnetic flux passing through a given area.
5. One Gauss equals $1 \,\frac{Mx}{cm^2}$, where Mx stands for Maxwell.

Review Questions

• What is the equivalence of one Gauss in Tesla?
• Who is the unit 'Gauss' named after?
• How does one define a Gauss in terms of Maxwell and square centimeters?

Related terms

Tesla: A unit of magnetic field strength in the SI system, equal to one weber per square meter.

Magnetic Flux: The total magnetic field passing through a given area, often measured in Weber (Wb).

Maxwell: A unit of magnetic flux in the CGS system, equal to one line of magnetic force.