Solution Found!
A horizontal current-carrying wire, free to move in
Chapter 15, Problem 26Q(choose chapter or problem)
Problem 26Q
A horizontal current-carrying wire, free to move in Earth's gravitational field, is suspended directly above a parallel, current-carrying wire, (a) In what direction is the current in the lower wire? (b) Can the lower wire be held in stable equilibrium due to the magnetic force of the upper wire? Explain.
Questions & Answers
QUESTION:
Problem 26Q
A horizontal current-carrying wire, free to move in Earth's gravitational field, is suspended directly above a parallel, current-carrying wire, (a) In what direction is the current in the lower wire? (b) Can the lower wire be held in stable equilibrium due to the magnetic force of the upper wire? Explain.
ANSWER:
Step 1 of 3
(a)
Using the right hand rule we can know the direction of the current in the lower wire.
If the fingers are stretched in the direction of the current and curl the fingers such that they point the direction of the magnetic field lines, then the magnetic force is exerted in the direction of the thumb.