A long straight wire carries a current I. What is the direction of the magnetic
Practice Questions
Q1
A long straight wire carries a current I. What is the direction of the magnetic field at a point located directly above the wire? (2020)
Towards the wire
Away from the wire
Clockwise
Counterclockwise
Questions & Step-by-Step Solutions
A long straight wire carries a current I. What is the direction of the magnetic field at a point located directly above the wire? (2020)
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 away from the wire at that point.
Step 5: Conclude that the direction of the magnetic field at the point above the wire is away from the wire.
Magnetic Field Around a Current-Carrying Wire – The magnetic field generated by a long straight wire carrying an electric current can be determined using the right-hand rule, which states that if you point your thumb in the direction of the current, your fingers will curl in the direction of the magnetic field lines.