In which direction does the magnetic field point due to a current flowing in a s
Practice Questions
Q1
In which direction does the magnetic field point due to a current flowing in a straight wire?
Parallel to the wire
Perpendicular to the wire
Radially inward
Radially outward
Questions & Step-by-Step Solutions
In which direction does the magnetic field point due to a current flowing in a straight wire?
Step 1: Understand that a straight wire carrying an electric current creates a magnetic field around it.
Step 2: Visualize the wire as a straight line. Imagine the current flowing through it.
Step 3: Remember that the magnetic field lines form circles around the wire.
Step 4: Know that these circles are perpendicular (at a right angle) to the wire.
Step 5: Use the right-hand rule: Point your thumb in the direction of the current, and your fingers will curl in the direction of the magnetic field lines.
