How Do You Determine Magnetic Force Direction When Fields Aren't Perpendicular?

In summary, the direction of magnetic force is determined by the right-hand rule, where the thumb represents the direction of the force, the fingers represent the direction of the magnetic field, and the palm represents the direction of the current. This force can either attract or repel objects depending on their polarity, and it is strongest at the poles of a magnet. The direction of the force can also be affected by the strength of the magnetic field and the amount of current flowing through a wire. Overall, understanding the direction of magnetic force is crucial in various applications such as electromagnets, motors, and generators.
  • #1
member 392791
Hello, I know about the right hand rule, but I get confused when velocity and magnetic field are not perpendicular to each other, then how do I determine the direction of the magnetic force? Can I not use the right hand rule?
 
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  • #2
You can still use the RH rule for direction. The magnitude just gets multiplied by sin(theta).
 
  • #3
It is the component of the velocity at right angles to the field that experienses the force.
The component parallel to the field does not experience any force
 

Related to How Do You Determine Magnetic Force Direction When Fields Aren't Perpendicular?

1. What is the direction of magnetic force?

The direction of magnetic force is the direction in which a magnetic field will exert a force on a moving charged particle or a current-carrying wire. It is perpendicular to both the direction of the magnetic field and the direction of the moving particle or current.

2. How is the direction of magnetic force determined?

The direction of magnetic force is determined by the right-hand rule, which states that if you point your right thumb in the direction of the current or moving particle, and your fingers in the direction of the magnetic field, then your palm will face in the direction of the magnetic force.

3. Can the direction of magnetic force be changed?

Yes, the direction of magnetic force can be changed by changing either the direction of the current or the direction of the magnetic field. In addition, the strength of the magnetic force can also be changed by altering the magnitude of the current or the strength of the magnetic field.

4. What factors affect the direction of magnetic force?

The direction of magnetic force is affected by the direction and strength of the magnetic field, as well as the direction and magnitude of the current or moving particle. The distance between the magnetic field and the current or particle can also affect the direction of the force.

5. How is the direction of magnetic force used in practical applications?

The direction of magnetic force is used in many practical applications, such as in electric motors and generators, where it is used to convert electrical energy into mechanical energy and vice versa. Magnetic force is also used in particle accelerators, MRI machines, and magnetic levitation trains.

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