Forces between two hanging parallel wires

[dietcookie]

Homework Statement

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution

Is this the correct equation to find the current (I)? I setup a free body diagram for bar 2,

TCos(24)-(.036kg)(9.8m/s^2)=0 (for y)
-TSin(24)+ (Eqtn for force between two parallel wires but with the current squared) (for x)

Then I solved for I, which I got 594A. Once I get I, do I use F=ilBsin(24) for part C? Or do I use the equation for force between two wires but with only I (not I^2)?

 

[Delphi51]

Your 594 A looks good. I got 596 but wasn't very careful with significant digits. You could use F=ilB but I don't think you want a sin(24) in it. The current and the magnetic field are perpendicular to each other. Or you could use B = μo*I/(2*π*r) since you know the I is the same in the other wire.