Magnetic Moment, PLEASE ANSWER quick

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on determining the direction of the magnetic moment (μ) for a wire carrying current, specifically in the context of two parallel wires. The magnetic field (B) produced by the lower wire points out of the page, while the force (F) acting on the upper wire is directed to the right. The torque (τ) can be calculated using the cross-product rules τ = μ x B and τ = F x r. The correct application of the right-hand rule is essential for finding the direction of μ, which ultimately leads to understanding the counterclockwise (CCW) rotation of the upper wire.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of magnetic fields and forces in electromagnetism
  • Familiarity with the right-hand rule for determining directions of vectors
  • Knowledge of torque calculations in physics
  • Basic principles of current-carrying conductors and their interactions
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the right-hand rule applications for straight current-carrying wires
  • Learn about torque calculations in electromagnetic systems
  • Explore the concept of magnetic moments in different configurations
  • Investigate the forces between parallel current-carrying wires
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Physics students, electrical engineers, and anyone interested in understanding the principles of electromagnetism and torque in current-carrying conductors.

letsgo
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So here are two wires. With currents in the specified direction.

What I want to know, is how do you determine the direction of the magnetic moment of the upper wire, which would ultimately lead to me determining what direction its torque is in, therefore letting me determine what direction it rotates in (the answer is CCW, I do not know how to get it though).

I know that the B-field on it from the second wire, points out of the page.
And I know that the Force acting on it (due to the lower wire), is to the right.

Cross-Product Rules:
τ = μ x B
τ = F x r

I know when the current is in a loop, to find μ direction you just wrap your hand around, and your thumb points in the direction. But this wire is just a wire... I have no clue how to use a right-hand rule on the current alone.
 
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letsgo said:
I know that the B-field on it from the second wire, points out of the page.
And I know that the Force acting on it (due to the lower wire), is to the right.

That's right. What's the magnitude of the force above P compared to the magnitude of the force below P? Which way will I2 rotate (I assume P is a pivot).

What's the force per unit length at each point on I2? How would you compute the total torque given this force per unit length?
 

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