The discussion revolves around calculating the magnitude and direction of the magnetic field created by a straight vertical wire carrying a downward current. The specific scenario involves determining the magnetic field 25 cm to the east of the wire with a current of 12A.
Some participants have provided guidance on using the right-hand rule to ascertain the direction of the magnetic field. There is an ongoing exploration of how the magnetic field direction is determined based on the current's orientation.
Participants are examining the implications of the right-hand rule and its application to the specific scenario, questioning how the magnetic field direction is derived from the current's downward flow.
rss14 said:Homework Statement
Calculate the magnitude and direction of the magnetic field 25cm to the east of a straight vertical wire with a current of 12A downward through the air.
Homework Equations
B = u(I / 2*pi*r)
The Attempt at a Solution
Finding the magnitude is simple, but finding the direction is giving me difficulty.
The magnitude is 9.6E-6 T, and the direction is South. How is the direction South?
rss14 said:Clockwise, since the current faces downwards.
So the direction for that point (east of the wire) is South because that is the direction the field faces when it connects with the point?