Two long, straight wires are parallel to each other and 8.0 cm apart. Each wire…
PHYSICS · Multi-part · AP · Physics 2: Algebra-based · Magnetism and Electromagnetism · Magnetism and Electromagnetism
Problem
Two long, straight wires are parallel to each other and 8.0 cm apart. Each wire carries a current of 4.0 A directed into the page. A point P lies in the plane of the wires such that P is 3.0 cm from wire 1 and 5.0 cm from wire 2.
(a) Calculate the magnitude of the magnetic field at point P due to wire 1.
(b) Calculate the magnitude of the magnetic field at point P due to wire 2.
(c) Using vector addition, determine the magnitude and direction of the net magnetic field at point P. Clearly indicate the orientation of the net field with respect to the line joining the wires.
(d) If both currents were simultaneously reversed in direction, describe how the magnitude and direction of the net magnetic field at point P would change, if at all.