How Do You Interpret and Draw Electromagnetism Diagrams with Dots and Xs?

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SUMMARY

This discussion clarifies the interpretation of electromagnetism diagrams featuring dots and Xs, specifically in relation to the direction of current and magnetic fields. The "dot" indicates that the current is directed towards the observer, resulting in a counterclockwise magnetic field. Conversely, the "X" signifies that the current is moving away from the observer, with the magnetic field direction being opposite to that of the dot. This understanding is essential for accurately representing electromagnetic interactions in physics.

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soulja101
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wats elctromagnestimsand how do you draw those diagrams with the circles and the dot.
 
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Have you looked anywhere for the answers to this question? "What is electromagnetism" should be easily answered through a quick google search, or by reading through your textbook.

What diagrams do you mean; can you please elaborate?
 
I think he means the diagrams that shows the direction of the magnetic field around the conductor with respect to the direction of the current. The "dot" means the current is directed towards you and the magnetic field will be counterclockwise.
 
diagrams

the ones with the circle and the x. the have lines around them showing the magnetic field.
 
ranger said:
I think he means the diagrams that shows the direction of the magnetic field around the conductor with respect to the direction of the current. The "dot" means the current is directed towards you and the magnetic field will be counterclockwise.

Ahh, that makes sense now. I was sat here wondering what these diagrams meant! Thanks for helping with my confusion, ranger!
 
soulja101 said:
the ones with the circle and the x. the have lines around them showing the magnetic field.

The "x" indicates the current is going away from you and the direction of the magnetic field is opposite to that of the "dot".

EDIT: here is an easier way to remember it. Think of the entity ("x" or "dot") in the middle of the magnetic field circles like an arrow. When an arrow is coming at you, you see the tip or a dot. If you are firing the arrow i.e arrow moving away from you, you see the rear which looks like an "x".
 
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