Does the Right Hand Rule Determine Current Direction Without Acceleration?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the application of the right-hand rule to determine the direction of electric current in relation to magnetic fields. The user applies the right-hand rule with their thumb pointing towards point Y and fingers down, concluding that the current flows in the direction of their thumb. However, they question the validity of this application when the solenoid is moved at a constant speed, suggesting that the absence of acceleration implies no force, which complicates the use of the right-hand rule. The conversation highlights the need to consider magnetic field gradients and the dynamics of moving magnetic fields.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of the right-hand rule in electromagnetism
  • Familiarity with magnetic fields and flux lines
  • Knowledge of Newton's second law (f = m x a)
  • Concept of electromagnetic induction and Faraday's law
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the application of the right-hand rule in various electromagnetic scenarios
  • Learn about Faraday's law of electromagnetic induction
  • Explore the behavior of magnetic fields around different geometries, such as solenoids and parallel plates
  • Investigate the implications of constant velocity motion in electromagnetic contexts
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for physics students, electrical engineers, and anyone interested in understanding the principles of electromagnetism and the behavior of electric currents in magnetic fields.

Ry122
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Just need to know if current goes from x to y or y to x.
using right hand rule with my thumb pointing towards y and my fingers pointing down (in direction of flux lines) and my palm pointing in direction of force which is straight into the magnet indicates current is in the direction of my thumb.
Is that correct?
Also, since f=m x a and the solenoid is being moved in at a constant speed (no acceleration) that means there should be no force.
Does this mean the right hand rule can't be used in this situation?
 
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magnetic fields are not linear in all space from a horse shoe magnet. So it will react to the gradient, or the change in flux.
Trying to understand your drawing.
If that is not a horseshoe magnet, but two parallel plates, ignoring edge effects,
well
[itex]\bigtriangledown \times E = -\frac{\delta B}{\delta t}[/itex] so you need a moving magnetic field.
Maybe just explain your problem better, and set up the motion and geometry properly.
 
Last edited:

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