Force experienced by a current-carrying conductor placed in a magnetic field

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the Lorentz force experienced by a current-carrying conductor in a magnetic field, specifically defined by the formula F = Bil. It is established that for this formula to apply, the current direction (l) must be perpendicular to the magnetic field (B). The general expression for the force is F = I l x B, which reinforces the necessity of the perpendicular relationship between the current and the magnetic field for accurate calculations.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Lorentz force and its implications in electromagnetism
  • Familiarity with the formula F = Bil and its components
  • Knowledge of vector cross products in physics
  • Application of the right-hand rule in determining force direction
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation and applications of the Lorentz force law
  • Explore the implications of the right-hand rule in electromagnetic contexts
  • Learn about the conditions under which F = I l x B is applicable
  • Investigate real-world applications of current-carrying conductors in magnetic fields
USEFUL FOR

Physics students, educators, and professionals in electrical engineering who seek to deepen their understanding of electromagnetic forces and their applications in various technologies.

richieec
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I'm a little bit confused about this...i know that when a current-carrying conductor is placed in a magnetic field, it experiences a force called Lorentz force, this is the formula:

F = Bil

but the thing i can't understand is whether this FORCE is perpendicular to the magnetic field or the magnetic field is perpendicular to the CURRENT?

by the right hand rule, i can see easily that the magnetic field is perpendicular to the force, but in some books and examples it says that the current must be perpendicular to the magnetic field for applies this formula.
 
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welcome to pf!

hi richieec! welcome to pf! :smile:
richieec said:
F = Bil

but the thing i can't understand is whether this FORCE is perpendicular to the magnetic field or the magnetic field is perpendicular to the CURRENT?

… in some books and examples it says that the current must be perpendicular to the magnetic field for applies this formula.

for this formula, yes

the general formula is F = I l x B …

so this formula, F = BIl, only works if the current direction (l) is perpendicular to the magnetic field
 

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