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

Click For Summary

Homework Help Overview

The problem involves calculating the magnitude and direction of the magnetic field at a point 10 cm away from a wire carrying a current of 5 amps. The current is directed along the x-axis, and the point of interest lies on the y-axis.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Mathematical reasoning, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the formula for the magnetic field around a long straight wire and share calculations. There is uncertainty about the correctness of the initial calculation and the proper format for the equation.

Discussion Status

Participants are actively engaged in recalculating the magnetic field using the correct formula format. Some guidance has been provided regarding the simplification of the equation, and there is an ongoing exploration of the calculation process.

Contextual Notes

There is a mention of the original poster's lack of means to verify their work, which may influence their confidence in the calculations. The discussion also reflects a focus on ensuring the correct application of the formula and understanding the underlying concepts.

Covenant32
Messages
15
Reaction score
0

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.
 
Last edited by a moderator:
Physics news on Phys.org
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:
 

Similar threads

Replies
2
Views
1K
Replies
11
Views
5K
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
1K
Replies
16
Views
2K
Replies
4
Views
1K
Replies
14
Views
3K
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
2K
Replies
7
Views
3K
Replies
2
Views
1K
Replies
6
Views
1K