Physics 2001 JAMB Past Questions - Question 46: The force or. a current carrying conductor in a magnetic field is greatest when the

Correct Answer

D

Explanation

The force on a current-carrying conductor in a magnetic field is greatest when the following conditions are met:

1. The current through the conductor is at its maximum: The greater the current flowing through the conductor, the stronger the magnetic field it generates and, consequently, the greater the force it experiences due to the external magnetic field.

2. The magnetic field is at its maximum strength: A stronger external magnetic field will exert a greater force on the current-carrying conductor. The force is directly proportional to the strength of the magnetic field.

3. The angle between the direction of the current and the direction of the magnetic field is 90 degrees (perpendicular): The force experienced by the conductor is greatest when the current and the magnetic field are at a right angle to each other. This is described by the right-hand rule, which shows that the force is maximized when the current is perpendicular to the magnetic field lines.

In summary, the force on a current-carrying conductor in a magnetic field is greatest when the current is at its maximum, the magnetic field is at its maximum, and the angle between the current and the magnetic field is 90 degrees.