Physics Review Question

Unit: Magnetism
Year: 1988 Question#: 34
Question: Electrons are moving to the right in the conductor represented in the diagram. What is the direction of the magnetic field above the wire at point P?



(1 ) into the page
(2 ) out of the page
(3 ) toward the top of the page
(4 ) toward the bottom of the page

What is this question really asking?




Explanation by: Melissa H.
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Answer 1
into the page

correct

This answer is correct because of the first hand rule. If the charge is negative, you need to use your left hand. The flow is to the right, so your thumb must point to the right. Once your hand is in the position, the magnetic field goes in the direction that your fingers are pointing, which is into the page at point P. return to top























Answer 2
out of the page

Incorrect

You might be using the wrong hand. Remember left for negative charges (electrons).
Thumb in the direction of the motion of the charge.
Fingers wrap around the wire in the direction of the magnetic field. return to top



























Answer 3
toward the top of the page

Incorrect

Remember left hand for negative charges (electrons).
Thumb in the direction of the motion of the charge.
Fingers wrap around the wire in the direction of the magnetic field. return to top


























Answer 4
toward the bottom of the page

Incorrect

Remember left for negative charges (electrons).
Thumb in the direction of the motion of the charge.
Fingers wrap around the wire in the direction of the magnetic field. return to top


























What's this question really asking?

This question is really asking if you know what the first hand rule is, and how to use it correctly. return to top