Activity 12.2 — Magnetic Field around a Current-Carrying Conductor

NCERT Activity 12.2: Observe the magnetic field produced by a current-carrying straight conductor using iron filings and verify the right-hand thumb rule.

How To Perform

1

Set Up the Wire

Insert a straight wire through cardboard and connect to a battery.

2

Switch On Current

Pass current upward and observe concentric circular field lines.

3

Reverse Current

Reverse the current direction and observe the change in field direction.

4

Apply Right-Hand Rule

Verify Maxwell's right-hand thumb rule for field direction.

⚠️ Safety Notes

  • Do not touch the wire while current is flowing — it may get hot.
  • Use a low-voltage battery to keep current within safe limits.