Parallel wires and forces acting upon them

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the force between two parallel wires carrying current. Given a separation of 1.0 m and a current of 1.0 A in each wire, the correct magnitude of the force on a 1.0 m length of each wire is determined to be 2×10–7 N (option D). The force is derived using the formula F = BIL, where B is the magnetic field density created by one wire at the location of the other wire.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of electromagnetic theory, specifically the interaction between currents.
  • Familiarity with the formula for magnetic field density around a straight current-carrying wire.
  • Knowledge of the force between parallel conductors carrying current.
  • Basic algebra for manipulating equations and solving for unknowns.
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the Biot-Savart Law to understand how to calculate the magnetic field around a straight wire.
  • Learn about Ampère's Law and its application to parallel wires.
  • Explore the concept of magnetic force between parallel conductors in more complex configurations.
  • Practice problems involving the calculation of forces between multiple current-carrying wires.
USEFUL FOR

Physics students, educators, and anyone interested in understanding electromagnetic forces and their applications in circuit design and analysis.

magiclink
Messages
23
Reaction score
0
Two long, parallel wires are separated by a distance of 1.0 m. The current in each wire is 1.0 A.
Which of the following is the magnitude of the force on 1.0 m length of each wire?
A. 2π×107 N
B. 2×107 N
C. 2π×10–7 N
D. 2×10–7 N

Homework Equations


Force on wire= B field density * Length of wire * Current flowing through it
F=BIL

Hi! This problem came up in one of my practice tests and it completely eludes me. I know the answer is D, but the markscheme offers no explanation. I'm certain the answer has to do with magnetic fields that arise due to current flowing through the wires but I cannot think myself past this simple stage. I'll be extremely thankful for any helpful explanation!
 
Physics news on Phys.org
each wire creates a magnetic field B. Do you know how to calculate B at a distance from a straight wire?
 

Similar threads

Long distance electrical transmission efficiency
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
Force on rectangular loop by a current in a long straight wire
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
Appliance plug connected wrongly: live neutral earth
  • · Replies 13 ·
Replies
13
Views
943
Help: Electricity and Magnetism Question
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
998
Force between Parallel Current Carrying Wires
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
2K
Forces of a straight wire on a semi-circular wire loop (Magnetism)
  • · Replies 17 ·
Replies
17
Views
3K
What is the net force on the current loop?
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
2K
Magnetic field at origin due to infinite wires and semicircular turn
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
3K
Multiple choice Q: Mangetic fields and Spring Constant
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
2K
Forces acting on a coil due to a varying magnetic field
  • · Replies 12 ·
Replies
12
Views
3K