Magnetic Effect of a Current
Physics: Cambridge International GCSE Supplement, topic 4.13.1
The Magnetic Effect of a Current
Any electric current produces a magnetic field.
Magnetic field lines
- The magnetic field lines created by current are shown above in the image.
- The magnetic field lines are circles around a single conducting wire.
Strength of magnetic field
- The strength of the field depends on the size of the current and the distance away from the wire.
Right hand grip
- The direction of the field lines depends on the direction of the current.
- Grip the wire with your right hand, with the thumb pointing in the direction of the conventional current.
- Your fingers curled around the wire will point in the direction of the magnetic field.
Test yourself on Magnetic Effect of a Current
The direction of magnetic field lines can be found using the...
Is this diagram of the magnetic effect of a current correct or incorrect?
Is this diagram of the magnetic effect of a current correct or incorrect?