Question 928 of 949
What is the direction of the magnetic force experienced by a straight current-carrying conductor placed in a uniform magnetic field, if the current flows from left to right and the magnetic field is directed upward?
- Downward
- Upward
- Out of the page
- Into the page
Correct Answer:
C
Explanation
### Correct Option: C. Out of the page
### Detailed Explanation:
To determine the direction of the magnetic force experienced by a straight current-carrying conductor in a magnetic field, we can use the **right-hand rule**. This rule is a helpful mnemonic used in physics to find the direction of the force on a current-carrying conductor in a magnetic field.
#### Step-by-Step Explanation:
1. **Identify the Directions**:
- The current is flowing from **left to right**.
- The magnetic field is directed **upward**.
2. **Apply the Right-Hand Rule**:
- Extend your right hand.
- Point your thumb in the direction of the current (from left to right).
- Point your fingers in the direction of the magnetic field (upward).
3. **Determine the Force Direction**:
- Your palm will face outward, which indicates the direction of the magnetic force acting on the conductor.
- In this case, the force is directed **out of the page** towards you.
### Why the Other Options Are Incorrect:
- **Option A: Downward**:
- This option suggests that the magnetic force is directed downward. However, according to the right-hand rule, the force is not in the downward direction when the current flows left to right and the magnetic field is upward.
- **Option B: Upward**:
- This option implies that the force is directed upward. Again, using the right-hand rule, the force cannot be upward since the magnetic field is already directed upward, and the current is flowing horizontally.
- **Option D: Into the page**:
- This option suggests that the force is directed into the page. However, as established by the right-hand rule, the force is directed out of the page, not into it.
### Formulas and Concepts:
- The magnetic force \( F \) on a current-carrying conductor can be calculated using the formula:
\[
F = I \cdot L \cdot B \cdot \sin(\theta)
\]
where:
- \( F \) is the magnetic force,
- \( I \) is the current,
- \( L \) is the length of the conductor in the magnetic field,
- \( B \) is the magnetic field strength,
- \( \theta \) is the angle between the current direction and the magnetic field direction.
- In this scenario, since the current and magnetic field are perpendicular, \( \sin(90^\circ) = 1 \), simplifying our understanding of the force direction.
### Common Pitfalls:
- **Confusing the Directions**: Students often mix up the directions of the current and the magnetic field. Always ensure you clearly identify both directions before applying the right-hand rule.
- **Forgetting the Right-Hand Rule**: Some may forget to use the right-hand rule or misinterpret it. Practice using your right hand to visualize the directions correctly.
### Revision Summary:
- Use the right-hand rule to determine the direction of the magnetic force on a current-carrying conductor.
- Current flowing from left to right and a magnetic field directed upward results in a force directed out of the page.
- Remember that the force direction is perpendicular to both the current and the magnetic field.
- Always double-check the directions of the current and magnetic field before applying the right-hand rule.