Problem already solved. concept help needed. Four Wires in a square.

AI Thread Summary
The discussion focuses on a physics problem involving four wires arranged in a square, where three wires exert forces on one wire. The user has successfully solved parts of the problem using vector diagrams and the formula F=ILB, but is struggling with understanding why the angle of the magnetic field vector from the lower left wire is assumed to be 45 degrees. They seek clarification on this assumption and request assistance in visualizing the vector representations for part B of the problem. The urgency of the request is heightened by an upcoming cumulative exam.
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Four Wires form corners of a square. Force exerted by 3 of them on 1. Concept help!

Homework Statement



side length "a"= 5.5 cm
current through wires "I" = 1.6A
"L" of lower right wire= 1 cm
upper and lower left currents are out of the page
upper and lower right currents are into the page

Problem Attached

My issue is with part b!

Homework Equations



F=ILB
B=μ0I /2∏R
Vector diagrams based on right hand thumb rule

The Attempt at a Solution



I've solved both parts of this problem. I solved the second part by creating vector diagrams and then applying Fx=ILB for the B's produced by the upper right and lower left wires. The lower left wire has a y-component as well so I multiplied by the cos (45). However, I'm having trouble comprehending why you can assume that the angle of the field vector by the lower left hand wire is exactly 45 degrees. Can anyone explain that to me?

Also appreciated would be if someone could draw the vector representations for part B (the forces of B acting on the wires), as I want to check my diagrams!

I have a cumulative exam next Monday, so help would be much appreciated!
 

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someone please reply! I really need help!
 
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