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ICSE Class 10 Physics Question 64 of 136

Electro-magnetism — Question 8

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Question 8

A copper wire is held between the poles of a magnet. There is a switch provided to reverse the current in the wire. Also, the polarity can be changed. In how many directions can the force act on the wire?

A copper wire is held between the poles of a magnet. There is a switch provided to reverse the current in the wire. Also, the polarity can be changed. In how many directions can the force act on the wire? Force, Concise Physics Solutions ICSE Class 10.
Answer

According to Fleming’s Left Hand Rule, the direction of force on a current-carrying conductor placed in a magnetic field depends on:

  • Forefinger → Direction of magnetic field (from North to South)
  • Middle finger → Direction of current
  • Thumb → Direction of the force (motion) on the wire

In this case:

  • The current in the wire can flow in 2 directions (forward or reversed using the switch).
  • The magnetic field can also be in 2 directions (from North to South or South to North, depending on polarity).

So, the force on the wire can act in:

2 (current directions) x 2 (field directions) = 4 different directions

Thus, the force on the wire can act in 4 possible directions.