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Oersted

The oersted is the CGS unit of magnetic induction. The magnetic field produced at the center of a plane circular coil of one turn and a radius of one centimetre, which carries a current of 1/2π amperes.

In SI units, 1 oersted = 1000/(4π) A/m = about 79,577 A/m

The unit is named after Hans Christian Ørsted who discovered electromagnetism in 1820.


Oersted is also the name of the first Danish satellite, which was successfully launched into space on February 23, 1999. The main scientific objective of the spacecraft was to map the Earth's magnetic field.


The Oersted Medal recognizes notable contributions to the teaching of physics.

Last updated: 05-13-2005 07:56:04