If a long straight wire carries a current I, what is the direction of the magnet
Practice Questions
Q1
If a long straight wire carries a current I, what is the direction of the magnetic field at a point located directly above the wire?
Towards the wire
Away from the wire
Clockwise around the wire
Counterclockwise around the wire
Questions & Step-by-Step Solutions
If a long straight wire carries a current I, what is the direction of the magnetic field at a point located directly above the wire?
Step 1: Identify the direction of the current in the wire. Let's say the current is flowing upwards.
Step 2: Use your right hand to apply the right-hand rule. Point your thumb in the direction of the current (upwards).
Step 3: Curl your fingers around the wire. Your fingers will show the direction of the magnetic field lines.
Step 4: Look at the point directly above the wire. Your fingers will be pointing in a counterclockwise direction around the wire.
Step 5: Conclude that the magnetic field at the point directly above the wire is directed counterclockwise.
Magnetic Field Around a Current-Carrying Wire – The magnetic field generated by a long straight wire carrying an electric current follows the right-hand rule, where the thumb points in the direction of the current and the fingers curl in the direction of the magnetic field lines.