What physical direction is "horizontally to the north"?

Similarly, a current that is horizontally south would be horizontal and toward the south. This may seem counter-intuitive at first, but it is a common description used in physics problems. In summary, "horizontally north" and "horizontally south" refer to a current that is both horizontal and toward the north or south direction, respectively. This may seem counter-intuitive, but it is a common description used in physics problems.
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lilspicytaco
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Homework Statement


I am in Intermediate Electricity and Magnetism, and am working on review problems.
I have a potentially very silly question:
What physical direction is "horizontally north" (and similarly "horizontally south")?
This seems like a counter-intuitive description to me (90 degrees?) and yet I keep encountering it, for example in the context such as "the wire carries a current horizontally to the south," "slides horizontally to the north." (these two statements NOT part of the same problem)
Any insight much appreciated!

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The Attempt at a Solution


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  • #2
A current that is horizontally north would be a current that is horizontal (parallel to the ground) and also toward the north.
 
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FAQ: What physical direction is "horizontally to the north"?

What does it mean for something to be "horizontally to the north"?

"Horizontally to the north" refers to a direction that is parallel to the horizon (or ground) and is also pointing towards the north.

How is "horizontally to the north" different from "vertically to the north"?

"Horizontally to the north" and "vertically to the north" are two different directions. Horizontally means parallel to the ground, while vertically means perpendicular to the ground. So, something that is horizontally to the north would be on the same level as the ground, while something vertically to the north would be pointing directly up towards the sky.

Can you give an example of something that is "horizontally to the north"?

An example of something that is "horizontally to the north" would be a compass needle pointing towards the north while laying flat on a table. The needle is parallel to the table (horizontally) and also pointing towards the north.

How is "horizontally to the north" determined?

The direction of "horizontally to the north" is determined by using a compass or by knowing the cardinal directions (north, south, east, west). It is important to keep in mind that this direction is parallel to the horizon and not necessarily straight ahead in front of you.

Is "horizontally to the north" the same as due north?

No, "horizontally to the north" and due north are not the same. Due north refers to a direction that is directly towards the north, while horizontally to the north refers to a direction that is parallel to the ground and also pointing towards the north.

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