Magnetism Problem: Magnitude & Direction of Force

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In summary, the conversation discusses a problem involving the magnitude and direction of force acting on wire 1 due to the magnetic field produced by wire 2. It is suggested to master this type of problem and the Lorentz Force. Further information can be found on the website provided, specifically for parallel wires. The currents being opposite would result in repulsion, but the length of the wires may also need to be considered for an accurate force calculation. It is important to specify the force per unit length in these types of problems.
  • #1
blue_soda025
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Could someone help me with this problem? I don't really know how to do it..

http://www.webpost.net/bl/bluesoda025/magnetism.gif

What is the magnitude and direction of force acting on wire 1 due to the magnetic field produced by wire 2?
 
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  • #2
This type of problem is a huge deal, you should attempt to master it. It uses the Lorentz Force.

More information http://hyperphysics.phy-astr.gsu.edu/hbase/magnetic/magfor.html"
 
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  • #3
On that site too, here it has specifically the paraelle wires.

here

And since the currents are opposite, should repel from each other. Oh yeah, was there a length of one of the wires given too? I'll have to dig out my book, think it derived 2 infinite wires, I'll get back to you on that.
 
  • #4
Unless the length of the wire is known, you'll have to specify the force per unit length.
 
  • #5
Skomatth said:
Unless the length of the wire is known, you'll have to specify the force per unit length.
Often, in problems like this, "force" is loosely asked for when really it should be "force per unit length". So, make sure you give the answer in the correct units.
 

FAQ: Magnetism Problem: Magnitude & Direction of Force

What is magnetism and how does it work?

Magnetism is a phenomenon that occurs when certain materials, such as iron, cobalt, and nickel, are attracted to or repelled by other materials. This is due to the presence of magnetic fields, which are created by the movement of electrons within these materials. These fields can either attract or repel other objects with magnetic properties.

How do you determine the magnitude of a magnetic force?

The magnitude of a magnetic force is determined by the strength of the magnetic field and the distance between the two objects. The stronger the magnetic field and the closer the objects are, the greater the force will be. This force can be calculated using the formula F = qvB, where q is the charge of the object, v is its velocity, and B is the strength of the magnetic field.

What factors can affect the direction of a magnetic force?

The direction of a magnetic force is dependent on the orientation of the magnetic fields of the two interacting objects. If the fields are aligned, the force will be attractive, but if they are opposite, the force will be repulsive. Additionally, the direction of the force can also be affected by the angle at which the objects are interacting.

How does the direction of current flow affect the direction of a magnetic force?

The direction of current flow can play a significant role in the direction of a magnetic force. This is because the direction of current flow determines the direction of the magnetic field created by the current-carrying object. If the current flows in the same direction as the magnetic field, the force will be attractive, but if the current flows in the opposite direction, the force will be repulsive.

Can the magnitude and direction of a magnetic force be changed?

Yes, the magnitude and direction of a magnetic force can be changed by altering the strength of the magnetic field or by changing the orientation of the objects. Additionally, the direction of current flow can also be changed to alter the direction of the force. In some cases, the use of electromagnets can also change the magnitude and direction of a magnetic force by controlling the strength and direction of the magnetic field.

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