What is the Force on a Current Loop in a Magnetic Field?

AI Thread Summary
The discussion revolves around calculating the force on a current loop in a magnetic field, specifically focusing on the force between two parallel wires carrying currents. Participants suggest using Ampère's force law, with the relevant equations provided for calculating the magnetic field produced by one wire and the resulting force on the second wire. The method involves determining the magnetic field at a distance from the first wire and applying it to find the force per unit length on the second wire. A specific example calculation is presented, demonstrating the application of these principles. The conversation concludes with confirmation that the approach and calculations are correct.
james11223
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Homework Statement



Here is the problem and the picture that goes along with it. I am really stuck because our teacher never explained a problem like this to us before. Any help is appreciated! THank you so much

http://a2.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/229022_113377112081455_100002275016913_125327_6984938_n.jpg


Homework Equations

 
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Here are the equations that I was given

http://a2.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/223417_113388105413689_100002275016913_125390_5418139_n.jpg
 
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Ok, in your formulas, use

<br /> F = BI l \sin\theta <br />

<br /> B_{wire}=\frac{\mu_0I}{2\pi r}<br />
to find out the force per unit length b/w two infinite parallel wires carrying currents I_1, I_2. Can you do that?
 
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THank you so much!
 
Sorry I just realized... irdg what you meant
@praharmitra...

sorry can you explain a little bit more
 
Ok, what I want you to do is find the force per unit length b/w a pair of infinite wires separated at a distance r. Here's what you do.

You have one wire carrying current I_1. What magnetic field does it produce at a distance r from itself?

Now the second wire carrying current I_2, is in the presence of the magnetic field you calculated above. Therefore, what is the force per unit length on this wire?

That is your answer for the force b/w two wires.
 
Would you do it like this:??

Fnet = Fnear - Ffar = (µoI1I2)(ℓnear)/(2πdnear) - (µoI1I2)(ℓfar)/(2πdfar) = (µoI1I2ℓ)/(2π) * (1/dnear - 1/dfar) = [(4π x 10-7T·m/A) (2A)(3A)(6m)]/(2π) * [1/1 - 1/3] = 4.74 x 10-5N away from the wire


doest that make sense? llol

Thank you so much for all the help guys!
 
yes, that is correct yes.
 
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