Rules of Thumb in Calculating Magnetic Force
A magnetic field is created by the movement of electric charges through metal. The existence of a magnetic field creates a real force that influences its surroundings. This force depends on the direction of the current and the field (the direction of the field lines) and their intensity. There are a few simple rules for determining the direction of this force. In fact, you can see it simply by using your hand. The video demonstrates the force and shows how to identify its direction.
Play Video
Search online to find out what is the “Lorentz force”. Select the correct answer:
A force that acts in a void.
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A force that acts in an electric current.
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The force on an electric charge in motion in a magnetic field.
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Electric force.
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Select the correct answer: What made the paper move, first upwards and then downwards?
A change in the direction of the electric current.
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A change in the intensity of the electric current.
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The magnetic field changed.
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The wind.
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Select the correct answer: In the system shown, what determined the intensity of the force created?
The angle of the electric current and the magnetic field.
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Swapping the magnetic poles.
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The intensity cannot change.
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Using a negative or positive current.
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Select the correct answer: In the right hand rule, what does the thumb represent? How does the rule change for a negative versus a positive current?
The thumb indicates the direction of the magnetic field; the rule does not change.
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The thumb indicates the direction of the current; the rule changes by using the right hand for a positive current and the left hand for a negative current.
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The thumb indicates the direction of the magnetic field; the rule changes by using the right hand for a positive current and the left hand for a negative current.
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The thumb indicates the direction of the current; the rule changes by using the left hand for a positive current and the right hand for a negative current.
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Select the correct answer: What happens if you place the aluminum foil in parallel to a magnetic field?
Changing the foil’s direction bears no significance
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A force will not act.
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The current will not go through the foil.
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The force acting is the strongest one.
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Electricity and Magnetism: The Right Hand Rule – an interactive video
Play VideoActivity Overview
Students will learn through this video about the Lorentz (or electromagnetic) force and will see what is its effect on an electric charge moving in a magnetic field. Students will also learn about the “right hand rules,” which help inferring the direction of the force. Students will need some prior knowledge of electricity and magnetism to be able to answer the questions in the video.
current, electric charge, electric field, magnetic field, forces, motion
Knowledge building
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