The magnetic effect of current is a key principle in electromagnetism that explains how an electric current creates a magnetic field. First identified by Hans Christian Oersted in 1820, this phenomenon is crucial for grasping the connection between electricity and magnetism. When electric current passes through a conductor, it produces a surrounding magnetic field.
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When an electric current transfers through a straight conductor, it generates a magnetic field around it, which is invisible but can be detected with a magnetic compass. Increasing the current causes greater deflection of the compass needle. The magnetic field lines form concentric circles centred on the wire and lie in a plane perpendicular to its length. The field strength is stronger near the conductor and weakens with distance from it.
The Right-Hand Thumb Rule identifies the direction of the magnetic field around a current-carrying conductor. To use it:
A solenoid is a coil consisting of numerous circular loops of insulated copper wire wound closely in a cylindrical shape. One end acts as the magnetic north pole and the other as the south pole. Inside the solenoid, the magnetic field lines are parallel and straight, indicating a uniform magnetic field throughout its interior.
It dictates the force direction on a current-carrying conductor in a magnetic field.
(Session 2025 - 26)