A single, long, straight conductor runs vertically along the y-axis and carries a…
PHYSICS · Multi-part · CBSE · Physics · Magnetic Effects of Electric Current · Magnetic Effects of Electric Current
Problem
A single, long, straight conductor runs vertically along the y-axis and carries a steady current of 5.0 A upward. A rectangular loop of wire lies in the plane z = 0 so that its left side is 0.020 m to the right of the straight conductor. The loop is 0.080 m wide (in the x-direction) and 0.050 m tall (in the y-direction). When viewed from x > 0, the current in the loop flows clockwise.
Neglect any external magnetic fields other than those produced by the given currents.
(1) Describe qualitatively the pattern of the magnetic field produced by the current in the rectangular loop alone. Focus on the direction of the field inside the loop and immediately outside each side of the loop.
(2) Determine the direction of the magnetic field produced by the straight conductor at the geometric center of the loop. Explain how you arrived at this direction.
(3) Considering the superposition of the two magnetic fields, state whether the left side of the loop experiences a net magnetic force that is toward the straight conductor, away from it, or zero. Provide a qualitative justification.
(4) Predict and explain the overall motion (translation and/or rotation) that the loop would undergo immediately after the currents are established, assuming the loop is free to move but cannot change shape.