Magnetism (determining the magnetic field)

In summary: To the left of the wire" is just to the left of the wire if you were to look at the wire in a plane.In summary, the conversation discusses the direction of the magnetic field and force created by a wire carrying current in the northerly direction. The direction is determined using the right hand rule and can be found by setting up a coordinate system and visualizing the wire in a plane. "Above the wire" refers to directly above the wire, while "to the left of the wire" refers to the left of the wire in a plane.
  • #1
jojo14
5
0
I just need help on how to solve these problems. I am so confused with the directions that i just don't get it...

1) A long straight wire is aligned north-south and carries current in the northerly direction. What is the direction of the magnetic field created directly abvove the wire?
Answer: East

2) What is the direction of the magnetic field created immediately to the left of the wire?
a. Downward
b. south
c. east
d. west
e. upward
f. north

3) If a proton is traveling north directly above the wire, what is the direction of the magnetic force on the proton due to the wire?
a. upward
b. south
c. downward
d. north
e. west
f. east

I just need an explanation on why, and how to do this? I know it's the right hand rule, but i dont' get the questions that are asking the placement, for example number 2 says to the left of the wire? what does that mean? and like number 1 says above the wire? what does that mean?
how do i go about this?

any help is greatly appreciated. thanks!
 
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  • #2
Just draw the wire and set up a coordinate system. You know the wire goes N and S so you can label that. From those you can label E and W as well. Then "above the wire" is just above the plane of the wire or above sheet of paper.
 

FAQ: Magnetism (determining the magnetic field)

What is magnetism?

Magnetism is a fundamental force of nature that causes certain materials, such as iron and nickel, to attract or repel each other. It is caused by the alignment of tiny magnetic fields within these materials.

How is the magnetic field of an object determined?

The magnetic field of an object can be determined by using a magnetometer, which measures the strength and direction of the magnetic field. This information can be used to create a map of the magnetic field around the object.

What factors affect the strength of a magnetic field?

The strength of a magnetic field is affected by the distance from the source of the field, the size and shape of the magnet, and the material it is made of. Additionally, external factors such as temperature and electrical currents can also affect the strength of a magnetic field.

What are the units of measurement for magnetic field?

The units of measurement for magnetic field are tesla (T) and gauss (G). Tesla is the standard unit in the International System of Units (SI), while gauss is commonly used in older systems of measurement.

How is magnetism used in everyday life?

Magnetism has many practical applications in everyday life, including in generators and electric motors, credit cards, computer hard drives, and medical imaging machines such as MRI scanners. Magnets are also used in speakers, headphones, and other audio devices to convert electrical signals into sound waves.

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