When a DC flows through a wire, does the electric field vary?

AI Thread Summary
When direct current (DC) flows through a wire, the electric field does not vary in the same way as it does with alternating current (AC). A changing electric flux is necessary to produce a magnetic field, but in a DC circuit, the electric field remains constant. The magnetic field around a conductor carrying current is generated by the motion of electrons, which creates a steady magnetic field. Therefore, while the electric field is stable in a DC scenario, the movement of charge carriers is responsible for the associated magnetic field. Understanding this relationship is crucial for comprehending electromagnetic principles.
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When a DC flows through a wire, does the electric field vary?
If a changing electric flux produces a magnetic field, then electric field will have to vary constantly, right?
If that's not the case, then what produces a magnetic field around a conductor carrying current?
 
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uzair_ha91 said:
When a DC flows through a wire, does the electric field vary?
If a changing electric flux produces a magnetic field, then electric field will have to vary constantly, right?
If that's not the case, then what produces a magnetic field around a conductor carrying current?

Yes, that is correct.

The motion of the electrons is what causes the magnetic field to appear.
 

Thread 'Why measure the speed of light in one direction?'

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