Question

In a current carrying conductor, if the direction of magnetic field and that of the current are mutually perpendicular to each other, then the force acting on the conductor will be

• A. perpendicular to both
• B. perpendicular to direction of current
• C. perpendicular to direction of field.
• D. none

Answer 1

Answer: (A)

perpendicular to both

A current-carrying conductor, when placed in a magnetic field, experiences a force. If the direction of the field and that of the current are mutually perpendicular to each other, then the force acting on the conductor will be perpendicular to both and will be given by Flemings left-hand rule. This is the basis of an electric motor. An electric motor is a device that converts electric energy into mechanical energy.