The magnetic dipole moment of a current-carrying loop of wire is in the positive z direction.If a uniform magnetic field is in the positive x direction the magnetic torque on the loop is:
A)zero
B)in the positive y direction
C)in the negative y direction
D)in the positive z direction
E)in the negative z direction

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The magnetic torque on a current-carrying loop in a magnetic field is given by the vector product $\vec{\tau} = \vec{\mu} \times \vec{B}$, where $\vec{\mu}$ is the magnetic dipole moment and $\vec{B}$ is the magnetic field. Given $\vec{\mu}$ is in the positive z direction and $\vec{B}$ is in the positive x direction, the cross product points in the positive y direction, indicating the direction of the magnetic torque.

The Magnetic Dipole Moment of a Current-Carrying Loop of Wire