How Does a Changing Current in One Wire Affect the Current in an Adjacent Wire?

In summary, the conversation discusses two parallel wires, with one having an increasing current going north. The direction of the current in the wire left of it is questioned, and the concept of Lenz's Law and Faraday's Law is suggested to explain how a changing magnetic field can induce a current in a nearby infinite straight wire. The possibility of both wires being infinite and straight is also considered.
  • #1
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Homework Statement



So basically there are two parallel wires

the wire on the left has an increasing current going north.
What would be the direction of the current in the wire left of it?


Homework Equations



Right Hand Rules

The Attempt at a Solution



So I'm really not sure how an increasing or decreasing current affects wires around it. But I'm guessing that right next to the left wire the magnetic field lines are going in.
 
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  • #2
So am I correct to be assuming that both wires are infinite and straight?

If such is the case, ask yourself if a changing magnetic field (which the time dependent current hints at) would be able to induce a current in a nearby infinite straight wire. Check out Lenz's Law and Faraday's Law for a simple "why does a changing magnetic field induce a current" answer and then apply what you get from those to this problem.
 

FAQ: How Does a Changing Current in One Wire Affect the Current in an Adjacent Wire?

What is the definition of current in two parallel wires?

Current in two parallel wires refers to the flow of electric charge through two separate wires that are placed side by side and connected to a power source. The current in each wire is independent of the other, but the two wires share the same voltage and have a constant potential difference.

How is current affected in two parallel wires?

The current in two parallel wires is affected by the resistance of each wire, the voltage of the power source, and the distance between the wires. As the resistance increases, the current decreases, and as the voltage increases, the current increases. The closer the wires are to each other, the higher the current will be.

What is the difference between series and parallel circuits?

In series circuits, the components are connected one after another in a single loop, so the current is the same throughout the entire circuit. In parallel circuits, the components are connected side by side, providing multiple paths for the current to flow, resulting in different currents in each branch.

How is the total current calculated in two parallel wires?

The total current in two parallel wires is calculated by adding the currents in each individual wire. This is known as Kirchhoff's Current Law, which states that the total current entering a junction is equal to the total current leaving the junction.

What are the applications of two parallel wire circuits?

Two parallel wire circuits are commonly used in household electrical wiring, power distribution systems, and electronic devices. They also play a crucial role in the operation of appliances, such as refrigerators, televisions, and computers.

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