Chapter 24, Problem 87A

To determine

To Describe: The direction of the current in a wire by two ways.

Explanation of Solution

Introduction:

When electric current flows through a wire, magnetic field is generated around the wire. The direction of the field is determined by the Maxwell’s right hand rule. Also, Fleming’s left-hand rule defines the way to find the direction of the force experienced by the wire when current flows through it in a magnetic field.

The direction of the current can be determined by finding the direction of the magnetic field using a compass and them using the Maxwell’s right hand rule to determine the direction of the current.

Another method is to use a strong magnet. The current carrying wire in the influence of the magnet will experience force. The direction of the current then can be determined by using Fleming’s left had rule.

Conclusion:

The direction of the current can be determined by finding the direction of the magnetic field using a compass and them using the Maxwell’s right hand rule to determine the direction of the current.

Another method is to use a strong magnet. The current carrying wire in the influence of the magnet will experience force. The direction of the current then can be described by using Fleming’s left-hand rule.