A flat circular wire loop lies in a horizontal plane on a table and carries current in a counterclockwise direction when viewed from above.At this point,the earth's magnetic field points to the north and dips below the horizontal.Which side of the coil tends to lift off of the table due to the magnetic torque on the loop?
A)the north side
B)the east side
C)the south side
D)the west side
E)The entire loop lifts straight up.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The magnetic field of the Earth is directed downward at an angle below the horizontal. The current loop produces a magnetic field that is perpendicular to the plane of the loop. The interaction between the two magnetic fields produces a torque on the loop that tends to align the loop with the Earth's magnetic field. The side of the loop that is closest to the north pole of the Earth will experience a force upward, while the side of the loop that is closest to the south pole of the Earth will experience a force downward. This will cause the loop to rotate until it is aligned with the Earth's magnetic field, with the south side of the loop facing up.

A Flat Circular Wire Loop Lies in a Horizontal Plane