大象传媒

Uses of magnetism - Higher - OCR GatewayFleming's left-hand rule

Electromagnetism is caused by the magnetic fields around wires carrying an electric current. The induced magnetic field of a wire can interact with other nearby magnets, producing a force.

Part of Physics (Single Science)Magnetism and magnetic forces

Fleming's left-hand rule

The force on a given length of wire in a increases when:

  • the current in the wire increases
  • the strength of the magnetic field increases

For any given combination of current and magnetic field strength, the force is greatest when the direction of the current is 90掳 to the direction of the magnetic field. There is no force if the current and magnetic field are parallel to each other.

The direction of the force can be found using Fleming鈥檚 left-hand rule.

Left hand, thumb, forefinger, second finger at 90 degrees with arrows. Thumb shows direction of movement. Forefinger shows field (north to south). Second finger shows current positive to negative.

Hold your thumb, forefinger and second finger at right angles to each other:

  • the thumb shows the direction of the motor effect force on the conductor carrying the current
  • the forefinger is lined up with magnetic field lines pointing from north to south
  • the second finger is lined up with the current pointing from positive to negative

Question

In which direction will this wire feel a force?

A bar magnet in an angular 'U' sort of shape. The N and S poles are marked. There is a wire running through and round the magnet, with arrows indicating direction of current.