[E&M] Sliding Conductor & Magnetic Field

In summary, the conversation discusses two forces present in a diagram: the Lorentz Force and the Magnetic Force on a Current Carrying Wire. The direction and orientation of these forces are determined using the Right Hand Rule. The assumptions made are based on being in the reference frames of the rails. A question is posed about the direction of the current and the resulting orientation of the magnetic force.
  • #1
CyberneticTitan
4
1
Hello,

Please consider this diagram:

TnAlF.png


From the diagram, we can see there are two forces.

One: The Lorentz Force (qvB). Using the RHR, we can see that there is a force pushing north (up) to cause the separation of charges in the sliding conductor to establish the current in the loop.

Two: The Magnetic Force on a Current Carrying Wire (ILB). Orienting our index towards the direction of the current (north in the conductor) and the middle finger into the page, we can see that there is a resulting force pushing in the west direction (to the left).

Now these assumptions are generated if we are in the reference frames of the rails.

If the current is flowing north, and the velocity is oriented towards the right, would we consider that the direction of the current to be north-east? As a result, wouldn't the magnetic force be oriented slightly north-west?

Thanks!
 
Physics news on Phys.org

1. What is a sliding conductor?

A sliding conductor is a conducting material, such as a metal wire, that can move or slide freely along a surface.

2. How does a sliding conductor interact with a magnetic field?

When a sliding conductor moves through a magnetic field, it experiences a force known as the Lorentz force. This force is perpendicular to both the direction of motion and the magnetic field.

3. What is the direction of the Lorentz force on a sliding conductor?

The direction of the Lorentz force depends on the direction of the magnetic field and the direction of motion of the conductor. If the magnetic field and motion are parallel, there is no force. If they are perpendicular, the force will be either towards or away from the magnetic field, depending on the direction of the field.

4. How does the speed of the sliding conductor affect the Lorentz force?

The magnitude of the Lorentz force is directly proportional to the speed of the sliding conductor. This means that the faster the conductor moves through the magnetic field, the greater the force will be.

5. Can a sliding conductor generate electricity?

Yes, a sliding conductor can generate electricity through electromagnetic induction. When a conductor moves through a magnetic field, it creates a changing magnetic flux, which induces an electric current in the conductor.

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