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In the figure below, there is a current I flowing in a counterclockwise directio

ID: 2260542 • Letter: I

Question

In the figure below, there is a current I flowing in a counterclockwise direction in a square loop of wire that is in the plane of the paper. If the magnetic field B is toward the right, and if each side of the loop has length L, what is the net magnetic force acting on the loop?

In the figure below, there is a current I flowing in a counterclockwise direction in a square loop of wire that is in the plane of the paper. If the magnetic field B is toward the right, and if each side of the loop has length L, what is the net magnetic force acting on the loop?

Explanation / Answer

The force on a current carrying conductor of length L in mag. field B is given by

F=iLxB

So force on top and bottom arms=0 as current flows in same directionas B. So cross procuct is 0.

Force (on right arm)=iLB (into the plane)

Force (on left arm)=iLB (out of the plane)

So net F=0 (as they are in opp. directions)