e&m.jpg (12862 bytes)

PLOTTING MAGNETIC LINES OF FORCE:
A CURRENT CARRYING WIRE (Straight Wire)


EQUIPMENT
    redball.gif (326 bytes) Blue Power Supply (Max = 12 volts, high Amps)
    redball.gif (326 bytes) Straight Wire Model
    redball.gif (326 bytes) Iron Filings



NARRATIVE
         The magnetic field of a current carrying wire may be plotted with iron filings.Using the Demonstration table overhead projector, connect the straight wire model to the blue power supply using no more than 12 VDC. Sprinkle iron filings on the model while tapping it. The filings will form circular paths around the wire. Do not leave the power supply on longer than it takes to establish the lines of force as the wire gets very hot very quickly.