The figures show one or more metal wires sliding on fixed metal rails in a magnetic field. for each, determine if the induced current is clockwise, counterclockwise, or is zero

General
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the figures show one or more metal wires sliding on fixed metal rails in a magnetic field. for each, determine if the induced current is clockwise, counterclockwise, or is zero.

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The figures show one or more metal wires sliding on fixed metal rails in a magnetic field. For each scenario, let’s determine if the induced current is clockwise, counterclockwise, or zero.

To determine the direction of the induced current, we can apply Lenz’s law, which states that the direction of the induced current is such that it opposes the change in magnetic flux that produced it.

  1. Scenario 1: Wire Moving to the Right

    If a metal wire is moving to the right, it will experience a change in magnetic flux. According to Lenz’s law, the induced current will create a magnetic field opposing the increase in flux. This means the induced current will create a magnetic field pointing into the page, opposite to the direction of the increasing external magnetic field. To create such a field, the induced current must flow in a counterclockwise direction around the wire.

    Conclusion: The induced current is counterclockwise.

  2. Scenario 2: Wire Moving to the Left

    Similarly, if the wire is moving to the left, it will experience a decrease in magnetic flux. Lenz’s law dictates that the induced current will oppose this decrease by creating a magnetic field in the direction of the decreasing external field. Thus, the induced current will create a magnetic field pointing out of the page, aligning with the direction of the external magnetic field. To achieve this, the induced current must flow in a clockwise direction around the wire.

    Conclusion: The induced current is clockwise.

  3. Scenario 3: Wire Moving Perpendicular to Field Lines

    When a wire moves perpendicular to the magnetic field lines, there is no change in magnetic flux. Hence, there is no induced current according to Faraday’s law of electromagnetic induction.

    Conclusion: The induced current is zero.

In summary, when a wire moves parallel to the field lines, the induced current’s direction depends on the direction of the motion relative to the field lines. If the motion is perpendicular to the field lines, there is no induced current. These principles help in determining the direction of the induced current in each scenario involving a wire moving in a magnetic field.