Understanding Magnetic Fields: N and S Pole Placement in Current-Carrying Wires

In summary, a magnet has a magnetic field that runs from the north to south pole and must exist in pairs. However, for a current-carrying wire, the magnetic field is not produced by a physical magnet, so there is no specific location for the N and S poles.
  • #1
bfusco
128
1

Homework Statement



Facts that facilitated this train of thought:
-a magnet has a magnetic field that follows a route from the north to south pole.
-no single pole magnet can exist, they must exist in pairs, implying that a magnetic field must always run from a N to a S pole.

question:
if a current carrying wire generates a magnetic field that continuously traces radially around the cylindrical wire, where would the N and S pole be? and why
 
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  • #2
bfusco said:

Homework Statement



Facts that facilitated this train of thought:
-a magnet has a magnetic field that follows a route from the north to south pole.
-no single pole magnet can exist, they must exist in pairs, implying that a magnetic field must always run from a N to a S pole.

question:
if a current carrying wire generates a magnetic field that continuously traces radially around the cylindrical wire, where would the N and S pole be? and why

Since the magnetic field around the wire is not produced by an actual magnet, why should there be a pole at all?
For any small section of the field, we can work out where/how to pace some physical magnets, with their North and South poles, to create an equivalent local field.
 
  • #3
ok, i thought that a magnetic field implies the presence of magnetic poles. i guess a magnetic field implies there is either a magnet with poles, or a current. thank you
 

1. What are magnetic fields?

Magnetic fields are a physical phenomenon created by moving electric charges. They can be visualized as invisible lines of force that surround a magnet or a current-carrying wire.

2. How are magnetic fields created in current-carrying wires?

When an electric current flows through a wire, it creates a circular magnetic field around the wire. The direction of the field is determined by the direction of the current flow - clockwise for current flowing towards you, and counterclockwise for current flowing away from you.

3. What are N and S poles in magnetic fields?

N and S poles, also known as north and south poles, are the two ends of a magnet or a current-carrying wire where the magnetic field is strongest. The N pole is the end where the magnetic field lines point outwards, while the S pole is the end where the field lines point inwards.

4. How is the placement of N and S poles determined in current-carrying wires?

In a current-carrying wire, the N pole is located on the side of the wire where the current is flowing towards you, while the S pole is located on the side where the current is flowing away from you. This is known as the right-hand rule, where you curl your fingers in the direction of the current and your thumb points towards the N pole.

5. What is the significance of understanding N and S pole placement in current-carrying wires?

Understanding N and S pole placement is important in many practical applications, such as electromagnets and electric motors. It also helps us understand the behavior of magnetic fields and how they interact with each other, leading to advancements in technology and scientific research.

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