A rectangular coil,with corners labeled ABCD,has length L and width w.It is placed between the poles of a magnet,as shown in the figure.If there is a current I flowing through this coil in the direction shown,what is the direction of the force acting on section CD of this coil?
A)perpendicular to and into the page
B)perpendicular to and out of the page
C)in the direction of the magnetic field
D)in the opposite direction of the magnetic field
E)The force is zero.

Question

A rectangular coil,with corners labeled ABCD,has length L and width w.It is placed between the poles of a magnet,as shown in the figure.If there is a current I flowing through this coil in the direction shown,what is the direction of the force acting on section CD of this coil? 
A)perpendicular to and into the page 
B)perpendicular to and out of the page 
C)in the direction of the magnetic field 
D)in the opposite direction of the magnetic field 
E)The force is zero.

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Using the right-hand rule, we can determine that the magnetic field lines between the poles of the magnet are directed from north to south. Since the current in section CD is perpendicular to the magnetic field lines, a force is exerted on it in a direction perpendicular to both the current and magnetic field. By the left-hand rule, this force is directed perpendicular to the page and out of the page. Therefore, the correct answer is B, perpendicular to and out of the page.

A Rectangular Coil,with Corners Labeled ABCD,has Length L and Width