Question

A square loop, carrying a steady current \( I \), is placed in a horizontal plane near a long straight conductor carrying a steady current \( I \), at a distance \( d \) from the conductor as shown in figure. The loop will experience:

• A. a net repulsive force away from the conductor
• B. a net torque acting upward perpendicular to the horizontal plane
• C. a net torque acting downward normal to the horizontal plane
• D. a net attractive force towards the conductor

Hint:

When a current-carrying loop is placed near a straight conductor, the magnetic interaction leads to torque and possibly force on the loop depending on the configuration.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: The magnetic field due to a long current-carrying conductor acts perpendicular to the plane of the square loop.
Step 2: Since the current in the square loop is perpendicular to the magnetic field, the loop will experience a torque that will attempt to align the loop with the magnetic field, which is directed downward.

Final Answer: \[ \boxed{\text{a net torque acting downward normal to the horizontal plane}} \]