What happens to the direction of the force on a current-carrying condu...
According to Fleming's left-hand rule, if the direction of the current is reversed while keeping the magnetic field unchanged, the direction of the force on the conductor is also reversed.
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What happens to the direction of the force on a current-carrying condu...
Understanding the Force on a Current-Carrying Conductor
When a current-carrying conductor is placed in a magnetic field, it experiences a force due to the interaction of the magnetic field and the electric current. The direction of this force can be determined using the right-hand rule.
Effect of Reversing Current Direction
- When the direction of the current in the conductor is reversed, the flow of electric charge also reverses.
- According to the right-hand rule, if you point your thumb in the direction of the current and your fingers in the direction of the magnetic field, the direction your palm pushes represents the direction of the force.
Key Points on Force Direction
- If the current is reversed while the magnetic field remains unchanged, the thumb (representing current) will now point in the opposite direction.
- Consequently, the palm will push in the opposite direction as well, indicating that the force on the conductor also reverses.
Conclusion
- Therefore, the correct answer to the question is: The direction of the force is reversed (Option B).
- The magnitude of the force remains constant, as it depends on the current, magnetic field strength, and length of the conductor, which are unchanged in this scenario.
In essence, reversing the current direction leads to a reversal of the force direction while maintaining its magnitude, reinforcing the foundational principles of electromagnetism.
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