A square current loop of side lies in a horizontal plane

PHYSICS · Multi-part · AP · Physics 2: Algebra-based · Magnetism and Electromagnetism · Magnetism and Electromagnetism

Problem

A square current loop

ABCD

of side

10\,\text{cm}

lies in a horizontal plane. The current in the loop is

2.0\,\text{A}

and flows in the sequence

A \to B \to C \to D \to A

as seen by an observer standing to the west of the loop. A long straight vertical conductor

PQ

passes close to the centre of side

CD

on the north of the loop and carries a current of

15\,\text{A}

vertically upward. The perpendicular distance between

PQ

and side

CD

5.0\,\text{cm}

. (i) For each side of the square, state the direction of the magnetic field produced at that side due to the current in

PQ

. (ii) Using your answer to part (i), determine the direction of the magnetic force acting on each side of the square loop. (iii) Hence show whether the loop will experience (a) a net translational force, (b) a net torque about its centre. Explain your reasoning in each case.

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