Force Between Parallel Wires

This demonstration shows the force between two parallel current carrying wires. Two wires are setup next to each other. When current passes through them it creates a magnetic field around them. Depending on the direction of the current and thus the direction of the magnetic field, the wires will either attract or repel.

* Equipment seen in the video may vary from equipment used in ND Demonstrations. See information and images below for ND equipment and setup.

Setup:

Place the power supply on the lab table. Connect both wires to the power supply. Connect the wires to the stand either so that the wires on the stand are parallel or antiparallel. Connect the webcam to the projector system. Set up the webcam to view the wires.

Press the button on the power supply and release it. The wires will attract or repel.

Notes:

Do not leave the current on or the wires will get hot.

Courses Used In:

• PHY 10320

• PHY 20435

• PHY 30220

Discussion and Polling Questions:

Coming Soon

Equipment Needed:

• High Current Power Supply

• Two Long Banana Cables

• Wooden Stand

• Webcam