How Does the Right Hand Rule Determine Magnetic North in Solenoids?

[rmarkatos]

Homework Statement

We need to find magnetic North and south on some different solenoid arrangements (meaning the wires are arranged in pointing in different directions)

Homework Equations

The Right Hand Rule for Solenoids

The Attempt at a Solution

In class we were told the fingers point along the direction of the current on top of the hallow cylinder and your thumb will point towards magnetic north.

I am having a problem because in a few different examples the current is traveling down the front of the solenoid. But sometimes the current going across the front is traveling down the front moving to the right while other times it is traveling down and to the left. In both situations if i point my fingers down magnetic north is to the left. I am almost positive that is not right. My teacher really did not specify.

Another question i have is that if i face my palm towards me and if i face my palm toward the page, the direction of my fingers is still pointing down with the current but my thumb will point in oppositite directions. How do i distinguish?

 

[Mitchtwitchita]

I think you got it backwards. Your thumb should point in the direction of the current flow, thus, your fingers will point in the direction of the magnetic field lines with north located at your fingertips.

 

[m2003]

As a scientist, it is important to have a clear understanding of the concepts and principles involved in magnetism and solenoids. In this case, the Right Hand Rule for Solenoids is a useful tool to determine the direction of the magnetic field in relation to the direction of the current.

In terms of finding magnetic North and South on different solenoid arrangements, it is important to first identify the direction of the current in each arrangement. This can be done by using the Right Hand Rule, where the fingers point in the direction of the current and the thumb points towards the magnetic North.

In situations where the current is traveling down the front of the solenoid, it is important to consider the direction of the current in relation to the direction of the fingers. If the current is moving to the right, then magnetic North would be to the left, and vice versa. It is important to note that the direction of the magnetic field is always perpendicular to the direction of the current.

Regarding your question about facing your palm towards you or towards the page, the direction of your fingers will still point down with the current, but the direction of your thumb will change depending on the orientation of your palm. In this case, it is important to consider the direction of the current and the orientation of your hand to accurately determine the direction of the magnetic field.

In conclusion, the Right Hand Rule for Solenoids is a fundamental principle in understanding magnetism and can be applied to determine the direction of the magnetic field in relation to the direction of the current. By carefully considering the direction of the current and using the Right Hand Rule, you should be able to accurately find magnetic North and South on different solenoid arrangements.