Separation distance between wires - Magnetic fields

AI Thread Summary
The discussion revolves around calculating the separation distance between two parallel wires carrying currents of 2.03 A and 8.83 A, given a force per unit length of 4.49 x 10^5 N/m. The relevant formula for the force between the wires is provided, and it is clarified that the length (L) of the wires does not need to be known since the force per unit length is given. Participants confirm that using L=1 simplifies the calculation, allowing them to solve for the separation distance (d). The key takeaway is that the force per unit length allows for direct calculation without needing the actual length of the wires. Understanding the parameters and their relationships is essential for solving the problem effectively.
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Homework Statement


http://i.imgur.com/mgIkS.png
Two long parallel wires carry currents of 2.03 A and 8.83 A. The magnitude of the force per unit length acting on each wire is 4.49*10^5 N/m. Find the separation distance of the wires expressed in millimeters.


Homework Equations


I'm not entirely sure.


The Attempt at a Solution


I thought that I would need to use the formula:
http://latex.codecogs.com/gif.latex?F_{21}=(\mu_0*I_1*I_2*L )/(2\pi d)
I don't have L however, so how do I solve for d?
 
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Actually you have the right formula, just understand the parameters involved and relate to the given problem.

Hint: "The magnitude of the force per unit length acting on each wire is 4.49*10^5 N/m."
 
So are you suggesting that L=1?
Edit: I tried it with L=1 and it worked. Thanks!
 
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We'll you can say that, but I can also say L=2 and my F = 2.245x105 N/m.

What I want you to understand is that you don't need to know L as you are readily given with F/L.
 
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