The pattern of the magnetic field around a straight conductor is determined by the right-hand rule. The magnetic field forms concentric circles around the conductor, and the direction of these circles depends on the direction of the current flow.
What determines the pattern of the magnetic field generated by a current through a straight conductor?
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The pattern of the magnetic field generated by a current through a straight conductor is determined by the right-hand rule. As the electric current flows through the conductor, it creates a magnetic field around it. The field lines form concentric circles, with the conductor at the center. The direction of these circles is determined by the right-hand rule: if the thumb points in the direction of the current, the curled fingers indicate the direction of the magnetic field. This rule establishes the circular pattern, influencing the magnetic field’s orientation and strength as one moves around the straight current-carrying conductor.