What is Flemming's Left Hand Rule and How Does it Relate to Current Flow?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around Flemming's Left Hand Rule and its relation to current flow, particularly in the context of conventional current versus electron flow. Participants explore the implications of these rules in electromagnetism and circuit theory, as well as the historical context of their development.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants assert that Flemming's Left Hand Rule represents the direction of conventional current, not electron flow.
  • There is a repeated emphasis that conventional current is used throughout electromagnetism and circuits, with electron current mentioned only when specified.
  • Participants discuss the relationship between the direction of current flow in a conducting rod and the movement of electrons, noting that electron flow is opposite to conventional current.
  • One participant cautions against introducing electron concepts into basic electrical discussions, suggesting it may lead to confusion.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree that Flemming's rules refer to conventional current, but there is some contention regarding the relevance of electron flow in basic electrical matters. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the implications of introducing electron concepts.

Contextual Notes

Participants acknowledge that Flemming's rules were developed before the discovery of electrons, which may affect how these concepts are understood in modern contexts.

Hannah7h
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For Flemming's left hand rule, your second finger represents the direction of flow of current (in the current carrying wire perpendicular to a magnetic field), so does the direction of the current show the direction of flow of electrons or does it show the direction of the conventional current (the flow of positive charge)- when talking about Flemming's left hand rule.
 
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It is always the conventional current.
 
cnh1995 said:
It is always the conventional current.

Ok, so for Flemming's right hand rule does it also represent conventional current?
 
Hannah7h said:
Ok, so for Flemming's right hand rule does it also represent conventional current?
Yes. Everywhere in electromagnetism and circuits, conventional current is used. If electron current is used, it is mentioned specifically.
 
cnh1995 said:
Yes. Everywhere in electromagnetism and circuits, conventional current is used. If electron current is used, it is mentioned specifically.

Ok so in a question about electromagnetic induction, say it says 'state the direction of the flow of current in a conducting rod' you would use Flemming's right hand rule to determine that
But then say it said 'state the direction of movement of an electron in a conducting rod'- it would be in the opposite direction to the flow of current?
 
Hannah7h said:
it would be in the opposite direction to the flow of current?
Yes. Electron current is opposite to the conventional current.
 
cnh1995 said:
Yes. Electron current is opposite to the conventional current.

ahh ok I see thanks!
 
Mr Flemming had not heard of electrons when he came up with his rules. Avoid introducing electrons into basic electrical matters. They are bound to confuse you except when thermionic devices are involved. You have no option in that case.
 
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