Chapter 29: Problem 63
At a certain location in the Philippines, Earth's magnetic field of \(39 \mu \mathrm{T}\) is horizontal and directed due north. Suppose the net field is zero exactly \(2.0 \mathrm{~cm}\) above a long, straight, horizontal wire that carries a constant current. What are the (a) magnitude and (b) direction of the current?
Short Answer
Step by step solution
Understand the Problem
Use Biot-Savart Law
Set Up Equation for Zero Net Field
Solve for the Current \( I \)
Calculate the Current
Determine the Direction of the Current
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Key Concepts
These are the key concepts you need to understand to accurately answer the question.
Biot-Savart Law
- \( \mu_0 \) is the permeability of free space, valued at \( 4\pi \times 10^{-7} \; \text{Tm/A} \).
- \( I \) is the current flowing through the wire.
- \( r \) is the perpendicular distance from the wire to the point of interest.
Right-Hand Rule
- Point your thumb in the direction of the current flow.
- Curl your fingers naturally around the wire.
- Your fingers now point in the direction of the magnetic field loops circling the wire.
Earth's Magnetic Field
- The magnetic field strength in the exercise is given as \(39 \mu \mathrm{T}\).
- It is important to note that this field affects all magnetic and electromagnetic activities on Earth.