For a loop of current-carrying wire in a uniform magnetic field the potential energy is a minimum if the magnetic dipole moment of the loop is:
A)in the same direction as the field
B)in the direction opposite to that of the field
C)perpendicular to the field
D)at an angle of 45 ° to the field
E)none of the above

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The potential energy of a current-carrying loop in a uniform magnetic field is minimized when the magnetic dipole moment of the loop is aligned in the same direction as the magnetic field. This configuration minimizes the torque and energy of the system.

For a Loop of Current-Carrying Wire in a Uniform Magnetic