Path of least resistence, static wire in B field or moveable wire?

In summary, when the same voltage is applied to two conductors wired in parallel passing through a magnetic field, the conductor that is allowed to move will draw slightly less current due to the generation of a back EMF, while the conductor that is restrained from moving will behave like an inductor and draw more current. However, when these conductors are put in parallel, the situation becomes more complex.
  • #1
Matus1976
4
0
I was curious, if the same voltage was applied to two conductors, I guess wired in parallel, and both passed through a magnetic field at a right angle to the field, and one was refrained from moving, while the other was allowed to move - which path would the electrical current travel?
 
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  • #2
Good question.

I guess this is like a motor that is turning compared with one that cannot turn.

The one that turns generates a back EMF which opposes the flow of current, while the one that cannot turn just behaves like an inductor and draws more current.

So, the one that moves would draw slightly less current than the one that can't move because the one that can move will generate a back EMF.

This gets complicated if you put them in parallel, though.
 
  • #3


I would approach this question by first considering the factors that influence the path of electrical current. The path of least resistance is determined by the conductivity and resistance of the materials involved. In this scenario, both conductors are assumed to have the same voltage applied and are passing through a magnetic field at a right angle. Therefore, the deciding factor would be the resistance of the conductors.

A static wire would have a fixed position and would not be able to move, while a movable wire would have the ability to move freely. In terms of resistance, a movable wire may have a higher resistance due to potential friction or other factors that could impede its movement. On the other hand, a static wire would have a lower resistance since it is not subject to any external forces.

Based on this analysis, it is likely that the electrical current would travel through the static wire, as it offers the path of least resistance. However, it is important to note that other variables, such as the strength of the magnetic field and the specific properties of the conductors, could also play a role in determining the path of the current. Further experimentation and analysis would be needed to provide a definitive answer.
 

1. What is the path of least resistance?

The path of least resistance is the path that an electric current will take when moving through a conductive material. It is the path that offers the least amount of opposition to the flow of electricity.

2. How does a static wire behave in a magnetic field?

A static wire, also known as a stationary wire, will experience a force when placed in a magnetic field. This force is perpendicular to both the direction of the current in the wire and the direction of the magnetic field.

3. What is the importance of understanding the behavior of a moveable wire in a magnetic field?

Understanding the behavior of a moveable wire in a magnetic field is important in many practical applications, such as electric motors and generators. By understanding how a wire will behave when placed in a magnetic field, we can design more efficient and effective devices.

4. How does the resistance of a wire affect its behavior in a magnetic field?

The resistance of a wire has no direct effect on its behavior in a magnetic field. However, a wire with lower resistance will experience less heating and power loss when carrying a current in a magnetic field, making it a more efficient choice.

5. Can the path of least resistance be altered in a magnetic field?

Yes, the path of least resistance can be altered in a magnetic field by manipulating the strength and direction of the magnetic field. This can be done by using additional magnets or changing the position of the wire in the field.

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