A student performs an experiment to study the magnetic effect of curre...
Magnetic Effect of Current
The experiment conducted by the student demonstrates the fundamental principles of electromagnetism, specifically the magnetic field generated by a current-carrying conductor.
1. Deflection of the Compass and Distance from the Conductor
- The student observes that the degree of deflection increases when the compass is moved away from the conductor. This observation is counterintuitive and may require clarification.
- The magnetic field strength around a straight conductor decreases with distance. However, if the compass is positioned too close to the conductor, it might be influenced more by the Earth's magnetic field, resulting in minimal deflection.
- When the compass is moved away, it becomes more responsive to the magnetic field created by the current, leading to a greater degree of deflection.
2. Deflection of the Compass and Current Magnitude
- The student notes that the degree of deflection increases with an increase in current through the conductor. This is consistent with the principles of electromagnetism.
- According to Ampere's Law, the magnetic field strength (B) around a straight conductor is directly proportional to the current (I) flowing through it, represented by the equation \( B \propto I \).
- Therefore, as the current increases, the magnetic field strength around the conductor also increases, resulting in a greater deflection of the compass needle.
Conclusion
The student's observations align with established electromagnetic principles. Moving the compass away from the conductor allows it to detect the magnetic field more effectively, while increasing the current enhances the magnetic field strength, thereby increasing the compass deflection.
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