This paper presents a linear stability analysis for the Rayleigh-Benard convection in a finite-length, vertical cylinder with a rotating magnetic field. The vertical wall of the cylinder is adiabatic, and the planar top and bottom walls are isothermal with a higher temperature at the bottom. The stabilizing effects of the rotating magnetic field are studied for four values of the Prandtl number. Results for one Prandtl number are compared to previously published experimental results. (C) 2003 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.