Two insulated current-carrying straight wires of equal length are arranged in the lab so that Wire A carries a current northward and Wire B carries a current eastward, the wires crossing at their midpoints separated only by their insulation. Which of the statements below is true?
A) There are no forces in this situation.
B) The net force on Wire B is southward.
C) There are forces, but the net force on each wire is zero.
D) The net force on Wire A is westward.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The magnetic fields created by each wire exert forces on the other wire, but due to symmetry and equal currents, the net force on each wire is zero.

Two Insulated Current-Carrying Straight Wires of Equal Length Are Arranged