What Direction Does the Force on the Wire Point in a Solenoid Setup?

[IHave]

Quick question on force direction...Please help!

Homework Statement

A 550 - turn solenoid is 12 cm long. The current into it is 36 A. A 3.6 cm long straight wire cuts through the center of the solenoid, along the diameter. This wire carries a 26 A current downward (and is connected by other wires that don't concern us).

Part A: What is the force on this wire assuming the solenoid's field points due east?

Part B: to the east; to the north; to the south or to the west

Homework Equations

B = mu(0) * (N/L) * I
F= I * L * B

The Attempt at a Solution

I was able to use the (relevant) equations to find the answer for Part A. It was: F = 0.19 N. However, I'm having trouble figuring out the directions of certain fields. I know there are things like the right hand rule; but I can't seem to conceptualize a 3D visual of how it works; in my head. Please help!

 

[BruceW]

The rule is that for a flow of positive charges, if your index finger points in the direction of current, and if your middle finger points in the direction of magnetic field, then your thumb will give the direction of the force.

It is electrons which flow through a wire, which are negatively charged, so the direction of the force will be made opposite to the rule above (if you're using the true current). But if you use conventional current, then the original rule applies.

In either case, the force will be exactly perpendicular to both the magnetic field and the current.

 

[IHave]

Thanks, I think I have a better grasp on the concept. So for this problem the force points to the south.

 

[BruceW]

Yes, that's right.
Unless specified otherwise, 'current' usually means 'conventional current'. (Which is what I assume they meant in this question).