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JAMB Physics 1993 Question 33

Question 33

Magnetism

A horizontal component of the earth's magnetic field and the magnetic field of a straight wire X carries current into the plane of a paper. Which of the following figures correctly illustrates the resultant magnetic field pattern in the horizontal plane?

Diagram for this question
  1. A.Figure A
  2. B.Figure B
  3. C.Figure C
  4. D.Figure D
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: A (Figure A)

Explanation

The circular field of the wire adds to the earth's straight field on one side and cancels it on the other, giving distorted loops near the wire and a neutral point on one side, as in figure A.