Problem 1: (Due Feb 26) The above shows two scenarios. The first one shows a pos
ID: 3308301 • Letter: P
Question
Problem 1: (Due Feb 26) The above shows two scenarios. The first one shows a positive charge q moving to the right with constant velocity v. According to the magnetic force law this will create a circular magnetic field which will deflect the needle of the compass to align with the magnetic field. The second scenario switches to a frame where the charge is at rest and the compass moves in the opposite direction. According to Einstein one cannot use electromagnetic laws to distinguish betweern two constant velocity frames. So the compass needle must still align in the same direction However with the charge at rest there is no magnetic field, so how is this possible?? You only need provide a qualitative argument as a solution. No calculations are necessary!Explanation / Answer
The charge is at rest in its own reference frame. but from the frame of reference of the compass, the charge is in motion and hence a current is observed which creates a magnetic field.