Directly below, the magnetic field lines circulate counterclockwise, and directly above, they circulate clockwise around the power line.
What is the direction of the magnetic field directly below and above a horizontal power line carrying current from east to west?
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To determine the direction of the magnetic field around a current-carrying conductor, you can use the right-hand rule. For a horizontal power line carrying current from east to west:
1. Below the Power Line (Directly Below):
If you extend your right thumb in the direction of the current (from east to west) and your four fingers in the upward direction, then your palm would be facing in the direction of the magnetic field. Therefore, the magnetic field directly below the power line would be pointing upward.
2. Above the Power Line (Directly Above):
If you extend your right thumb in the direction of the current (from east to west) and your four fingers in the downward direction, then your palm would be facing in the direction of the magnetic field. Therefore, the magnetic field directly above the power line would be pointing downward.
In summary, the magnetic field directly below the power line is upward, and directly above the power line, it is downward. This is based on the right-hand rule for determining the direction of the magnetic field around a current-carrying conductor.