Find the magnitude of the magnetic field 10 cm from the wire

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the magnitude of the magnetic field 10 cm from a wire carrying a current of 5 amps. The correct formula to use is B = μ₀I / (2πr), where μ₀ is the permeability of free space (4π × 10^(-7) T·m/A). After correcting the initial calculation, the accurate magnetic field magnitude is determined to be 7.96 × 10^(-7) T. The importance of simplifying the equation by canceling π is emphasized for ease of calculation.

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Covenant32
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Homework Statement



A) Find the magnitude of the magnetic field 10 cm away from the wire at point P as shown in the picture. The current is directed along the x-axis.

B) Find its direction

Info: I = 5 amps. Point P lies on the Y-axis. Current on the X-axis.

Picture (I have drawn): http://twitpic.com/7e0l7e

Homework Equations



I THINK: B=u*I/2*pi*r

The Attempt at a Solution



B = (4pi * 10^(-7)) * 5/2 *pi * .1m = 7.85 * 10^(-8) N

***I am not sure if this is correct. I have no means to check my work, so I am hoping someone can simply tell me whether or not I am correct, and if not, perhaps enlightening me as to which direction I should head to find the right answer. Much thanks.
 
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Covenant32 said:
I THINK: B=u*I/2*pi*r
Better to write it like this:
B = \frac{\mu_0 I}{2 \pi r}

Redo your calculation.
 
Doc Al said:
Better to write it like this:
B = \frac{\mu_0 I}{2 \pi r}

Redo your calculation.


Thank you, Doc Al. I redid my calculation in that format and got 7.96E-7. Does that seem correct?

Again, thank you.
 
Covenant32 said:
I redid my calculation in that format and got 7.96E-7. Does that seem correct?
Not exactly. When you plug in the value of μ0 = 4*pi*10^(-7), that pi will cancel with the pi in the denominator. So you should be able to do the entire calculation without touching a calculator.

Try it one more time. :smile:
 
Doc Al said:
Not exactly. When you plug in the value of μ0 = 4*pi*10^(-7), that pi will cancel with the pi in the denominator. So you should be able to do the entire calculation without touching a calculator.

Try it one more time. :smile:


Aaah, got it. That should've been evident from the beginning. :redface: Thank you, Doc Al. You have alleviated me some frustration. :smile:
 

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