Direction of Electric field (EM induction)

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SUMMARY

The direction of the electric field in a wire being pulled to the right is determined by the movement of charges within the wire. According to the right-hand rule and the equation F=qvXB, the electric field points downward when considering the conventional flow of positive charges. In this scenario, electrons, which are the mobile charge carriers, move to the right, while the conventional current direction aligns with the electric field. It is essential to note that without a complete circuit, there is no established current in the wire.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of electromagnetic induction principles
  • Familiarity with the right-hand rule for determining force direction
  • Knowledge of charge carriers in conductors (electrons vs. protons)
  • Basic grasp of electric field and current concepts
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the right-hand rule in detail for various electromagnetic scenarios
  • Explore the concept of electric fields in conductors under motion
  • Learn about the implications of charge carrier movement in circuits
  • Investigate the conditions required for establishing current in a wire
USEFUL FOR

Students studying electromagnetism, physics educators, and anyone interested in understanding the principles of electric fields and current in conductive materials.

Rod Alexei
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Homework Statement


In which direction would the electric field in the wire point if the wire were pulled to the right?
p62.png

Homework Equations


Right hand rule
F=qvXB

The Attempt at a Solution


My answer is downward. I am confused whether I should take the moving charges as positive or negative since this would determine the direction of the current.
I know that the direction of the current is the same as the electric field. (for positive)
Thanks!
 

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Rod Alexei said:
I am confused whether I should take the moving charges as positive or negative since this would determine the direction of the current.
Which particles are mobile? Electrons or protons?
 
Electrons. But we take the convention of moving "positive charges"
 
There is no "current" in this wire as there is no complete circuit. Protons and electrons both are moving towards right as the wire is dragged. What is the magnitude and direction of the forces acting on both the particles? What will happen because of these forces?
 

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