Question

Draw a labelled diagram to show the pattern of magnetic field lines produced due to a current carrying straight conductor. Mark on it the direction of current in the conductor and the direction of magnetic field lines.

Answer 1

The magnetic field produced by a current-carrying straight conductor is circular and concentric around the conductor. The direction of the magnetic field lines can be determined using the right-hand thumb rule: if the right-hand thumb points in the direction of the current, the curled fingers show the direction of the magnetic field.

In the diagram above, the magnetic field lines are shown as concentric circles around the conductor, with the direction of current marked. The direction of the magnetic field is shown using arrows around the conductor.