The figure shows three long,parallel,current-carrying wires.The current directions are indicated for currents I₁ and I₃.The arrow labeled F represents the net magnetic force acting on current I₃.The three currents have equal magnitudes.What is the direction of the current I₂? A) into the picture (in the direction opposite to that of I₁ and I₃) B) horizontal to the right C) vertically upward D) vertically downward E) out of the picture (in the same direction as I₁ and I₃)

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

According to the right-hand rule, the net magnetic force acting on current I₃ is directed into the picture. Since the current I₁ flows upward and the current I₃ flows downward, the current I₂ must flow in the opposite direction to produce a net magnetic force into the picture. Therefore, the current I₂ should flow into the picture, which is option A.

The Figure Shows Three Long,parallel,current-Carrying Wires