Direction of the magnetic force

[Nitrate]

Homework Statement

The problem is in the attached image.

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution

I used the third left hand rule (seen in one of the attached images) and pointed my thumb (direction of the current) downwards because the question states that the current flows from point E to point F. However, when I point my thumb downwards I seem to get B as the answer... and my answer key says that A is the answer. I need a bit of clarification please (a drawing might be helpful.)

 

[tiny-tim]

Hi Nitrate!

I used the third left hand rule …

No, for current, it's the right-hand rule.

(It's only the left-hand rule for electrons, because the current is defined as going the opposite way to the electrons)

 

[Nitrate]

Hi Nitrate!


No, for current, it's the right-hand rule.

(It's only the left-hand rule for electrons, because the current is defined as going the opposite way to the electrons)

My mistake. That being said, I still don't understand why A is the answer.

 

[tiny-tim]

Hi Nitrate!

… when I point my thumb downwards I seem to get B as the answer …

… I still don't understand why A is the answer.

I don't get it …

if your right thumb is down, and your fingers are pointing along the field (from N to S, ie from C to D),

then isn't your palm is pointing towards you, ie towards A ?​