Question !

• A current I flows in the positive y direction in an infinite wire; a current I also flows in the loop as shown in the diagram.

  • What is Fx, net force on the loop in the x-direction?

(a) Fx < 0

(b) Fx = 0

(c) Fx > 0

• Recall the B field falls off as 1/r from a current-carrying wire

• The force on another wire is proportional to B

• The top and bottom cancel

• The near one experiences a bigger force (attraction) compared to the further vertical wire (repulsion).

• Therefore, Fleft > Fright

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