Physics Electromagnetism MDCAT 2018
PMDC Verified Question 44 of 58
Two long, parallel conductors which are free to move are arranged 1.0 cm apart. A steady current of 20 A flows in each of the conductor in the same direction. The conductors
A
Remain stationary
B
Move towards each other
C
Move away from each other
D
Move at right angles to each other
Tap any option to test your recall and reveal the step-by-step Propolis autopsy.

Propolis Cognitive Error Autopsy

Official Correct Choice:
Option B: Move towards each other
Concept:

When two parallel wires carry currents, they exert a magnetic force on each other. If the currents are in the same direction, they attract.

Formula:

$$ \frac{F}{L} = \frac{\mu_0 I_1 I_2}{2\pi d} $$

Solution:

  • The magnetic field created by one wire at the location of the other can be found using the right-hand rule.


  • Applying Fleming's left-hand rule (or \( \mathbf{F} = I(\mathbf{L} \times \mathbf{B}) \)) shows that the force on each wire points towards the other wire.


  • Because they are free to move, the attractive force will cause them to move towards each other.


Why other options are incorrect:

Option A ignores the existence of the magnetic force. Option C would happen if the currents were in opposite directions. Option D is physically impossible for parallel uniform fields.

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