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

Force on a current-carrying conductor — practice question

As shown in Fig. 7.1, two long, straight copper wires A and B are held vertically and parallel to each other. They pass through holes in a horizontal sheet of card PQRS.
(a)[3]

A current flows in wire A in the direction shown on Fig. 7.1. On Fig. 7.1, draw four field lines in the plane PQRS to represent the magnetic field produced by the current in wire A.

(b(i))[1]

A direct current is now sent through wire B in the same direction as the current in wire A. The current in wire B is greater than the current in wire A. On Fig. 7.1, draw an arrow in the plane PQRS to show the direction of the force on wire B due to the magnetic field produced by the current in wire A.

(b(ii))[2]

Wire A also experiences a force. State and explain which wire, if any, will have the larger force.

(c)[3]

The direct currents in wires A and B are now replaced by sinusoidal alternating currents with equal peak values. The currents are in phase. Describe the variation, if any, of the force experienced by wire B.

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