AP Physics C: Electricity & Magnetism 12.1 Magnetic Fields Questions

Interpret measured magnetic fields and magnetic-dipole behavior using field direction, fixed background contributions, current reversal, and uniform-field symmetry.

Syllabus
Effective Fall 2024
Course
AP Physics C: Electricity & Magnetism

Exam points

  • infer a fixed ambient magnetic-field contribution from the intercept of experimental data
  • predict how a measured field changes when the current-generated contribution reverses direction
  • distinguish magnetic-dipole alignment from the zero net force on a compass in a uniform field

Question 1

[Maximum number: 2]
Figure for Question 1 — AP Physics C: Electricity & Magnetism

A solenoid is used to generate a magnetic field. The solenoid has an inner radius a, length ℓ\ell, and N total turns of wire. A power supply, not shown, is connected to the solenoid and generates current I, as shown in the figure on the left above. The x-axis runs along the axis of the solenoid. Point P is in the middle of the solenoid at the origin of the x y z-coordinate system, as shown in the cutaway view on the right above. Assume ℓ≫a\ell \gg a.

One of the students notes that the horizontal component of the magnetic field of Earth is 2.5×10−5 T2.5 \times 10^{-5} \mathrm{~T}.

Is there evidence from the graph that the horizontal orientation of the solenoid affects the measured values for B ? Yes No
Justify your answer.

Would the horizontal orientation of the solenoid affect the calculated value for RSR_{S} ? Yes No
Justify your answer.

Figure for Question 1 — AP Physics C: Electricity & Magnetism

A thin conducting loop of radius b and resistance RLR_{L} is placed concentric with the solenoid, as shown above. The current in the solenoid is decreased from I to zero over time Δt\Delta t.

Question 2

[Maximum number: 1]

A compass needle is in a uniform magnetic field B with its north-seeking pole pointing in the direction of the field. The net magnetic force on the compass needle is

A

in the direction of B

B

in the direction of -B

C

perpendicular to the plane determined by B\mathbf{B} and the needle

D

in the same plane as B and the needle, but perpendicular to the needle

E

zero

Figure for Question 2 — AP Physics C: Electricity & Magnetism
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