Physics 9702 · AS & A Level · Force on a current-carrying conductor

Force on a current-carrying conductor — practice question

Within a uniform magnetic field, the flux density $B$ is constant. A straight wire of fixed length carries a current $I$ at an angle $\theta$ to the magnetic field, as shown in Fig. 6.1.
(a(i))[2]

The current $I$ in the wire is varied while the angle $\theta$ remains constant. On Fig. 6.2, sketch a graph to show how the force $F$ on the wire varies with current $I$.

(a(ii))[3]

The angle $\theta$ between the wire and the magnetic field is now varied, while the current $I$ is kept constant. On Fig. 6.3, sketch a graph to show how the force $F$ on the wire varies with angle $\theta$.

(b)

A uniform magnetic field acts at right-angles to the rectangular surface PQRS of a slice of conducting material, as shown in Fig. 6.4. Electrons moving towards side SR enter the slice of conducting material. The electrons enter the slice at right-angles to side SR.

(b(i))[2]

Explain why, at first, the electrons do not move in straight lines across the slice from side SR to side PQ.

(b(ii))[2]

Explain whether the electrons tend to move towards side PS or QR.

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