# Compression force in current loop in magnetic field

## Homework Statement

Find the force of compression in the wire loop.
Magnetic field B is directed into the page and current i is flowing anti-clockwise. The radius of the wire loop is 'a'.

## Homework Equations

$\vec{F}=i\vec{l}\times\vec{B}$

## The Attempt at a Solution

I first took a component $dl$ and calculated force on it. It came out to be $Bidl$ towards center. That, in angular form, is $Biadθ$.
Now, as force of compression is asked, I thought that I will have to consider vertical components of that force only. So, I took two $dl$s and I resolved forces on them. I have elaborated in the figure. Horizontals (I am saying horizontals and verticals because they appear like that in the figure) cancel out and what I get is $2Biacosθdθ$. Integrating over $0$ to $2π$ gets you zero.
I gave it a thought and it occured to me that this might be so because net force is zero, just like when you press a pen from both ends towards its center. Then tried it by cutting the wire in semicircles and trying to find effective force towards the center and doubling it (again thinking of a pen, like if you apply 5N from each end, net compressive force is 10N). I did it pretty much the same way, only in vain. Now, something is going wrong in my basic assumptions, I think, but what exactly I don't know. Help me.

#### Attachments

• 76 KB Views: 624