Question
Page 284: Current flowing through a coil induces a magnetic field. What will cause the coil to
spin?
spin?
Ask by Stuart Frazier. in the United States
Jan 22,2025
Upstudy AI Solution
Tutor-Verified Answer
Answer
A current in the coil creates a magnetic field that interacts with an external magnetic field, causing the coil to spin due to the resulting torque.
Solution
When an electric current flows through a coil, it generates a magnetic field around the coil due to the movement of charges (as described by Ampère’s Law). For the coil to spin, there must be an interaction between this induced magnetic field and an external magnetic field.
Here’s how it works:
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Magnetic Interaction: The induced magnetic field of the coil interacts with an existing external magnetic field (such as that from a permanent magnet or another coil).
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Lorentz Force and Torque: This interaction results in forces on different parts of the coil. According to the Lorentz force law, these forces create a torque on the coil because opposite sides of the coil experience forces in opposite directions.
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Rotation: The torque causes the coil to rotate. As the coil spins, it continuously adjusts to maintain alignment with the external magnetic field, leading to ongoing rotation as long as current flows through the coil.
This principle is fundamental in the operation of electric motors, where coils of wire rotate within magnetic fields to generate mechanical motion.
In summary:
A current-carrying coil experiences torque from its magnetic field interacting with an external magnetic field, and this torque causes the coil to spin.
A current-carrying coil experiences torque from its magnetic field interacting with an external magnetic field, and this torque causes the coil to spin.
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Simplify this solution The Deep Dive
When a current flows through a coil, it generates a magnetic field, but to make that coil spin, you need to introduce another magnetic field – usually from permanent magnets or another coil. By aligning these fields and then applying a mechanism to vary the current or the magnetic field, you create torque, causing the coil to rotate. This principle is fundamentally at work in electric motors!
A fascinating real-world application of this principle is found in everyday devices like ceiling fans and electric drills. These appliances contain motors where copper coils spin rapidly due to alternating current, efficiently converting electrical energy into mechanical energy. Just think about it next time you enjoy a cool breeze or drill a hole!
