Right hand rule - Magnetic field

Join the discussion
Registration is free. Ask a follow-up in this thread, or start your own.
1 reply · 6K views
Lee33
Messages
156
Reaction score
0

Homework Statement



Conventional current flows in a ring in the direction indicated in the diagram (if you stand at location A, on the +x axis, and look toward the ring, current flows clockwise). At each of the locations labeled by a letter, use the right hand rule to find the direction of the magnetic field at that location, due to the current in the ring.

18-079-ring_field_6locs_sym.jpg


Homework Equations



Right hand rule

The Attempt at a Solution



I already know the answers, which was given to me:

Location A = -x
Location B = +x
Location C = -x
Location D = +x
Location E = +x
Location F = +x

But I don't know how to apply the right hand rule to find the direction of the magnetic field? Can anyone explain it to me thoroughly, please?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
It's just like any other cross product. AxB
Step 1: You put your open palm with your fingers pointing in the same direction as the first vector A ( in your example it is I)
Step 2: Without moving anything but your fingers, point to the direction of the point whose magnetic field you examine.
Step 3: The magnetic field at this point is given by the direction of your extended thumb without moving your hand.
Watch this too:
 
Last edited by a moderator: