Direction of Compass Needle near a Solenoid

1. Mar 1, 2014

A compass is placed near a solenoid. It is closer to the North pole generated by the coil. The magnetic north is 90 deg relative to the compass and the solenoid. The strength of the solenoid is equal to the strength of the magnetic north. In which direction will the compass needle point?

Last edited: Mar 1, 2014
2. Mar 1, 2014

tiny-tim

tell us what you think, and why (with full explanation), and then we'll comment!

3. Mar 1, 2014

Since the current is from X to Y, a north pole will be induced near the compass. I would say that the compass needle will point towards the solenoid but it says that the field strength is equal to that of earth's magnetic field. I can only eliminate answer D. Then, I am lost. The answer is A according to the book.

4. Mar 1, 2014

tiny-tim

5. Mar 1, 2014

One component to the right and another one upwards. Is the answer C?

6. Mar 2, 2014

tiny-tim

i'm confused:

C is to the left and upwards …

which one do you mean?

7. Mar 2, 2014

Sorry, its one component to the left and another one upwards. Is it C?

8. Mar 2, 2014

Th book says A :(

9. Mar 3, 2014

rude man

What you need to know is that th Earth's magnet has its S pole at the North pole. Thus, the needle of a compass has its N side pointing North (approximately).

Use that fact and I think you'll see why the answer is indeed A (compass needle points NE).

10. Mar 3, 2014

tiny-tim

(just got up :zzz:)
yes!

aadarsh9, do you understand why that is so?

11. Mar 8, 2014