A straight copper rod of length 0.25 m carries a steady current of 8 A while placed…
MATHEMATICS · Multi-part · ISC · Mathematics · Physics · Magnetic Effects of Current and Magnetism
Problem
A straight copper rod of length 0.25 m carries a steady current of 8 A while placed in a uniform magnetic field of strength 0.4 T.
Answer the following questions based on this situation:
(i) Write the expression for the magnitude of the magnetic force acting on the rod when it makes an angle θ with the magnetic field.
(ii) Explain, with reference to the expression written in part (i), why the force on the rod is (a) maximum when the rod is perpendicular to the field and (b) zero when it is parallel to the field.
(iii) If the rod is perpendicular to the field and experiences a force of Fmax, what will be the force on the rod if it is rotated so as to become parallel to the field? Justify your answer.