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 \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 a\ell \gg a.

One of the students notes that the horizontal component of the magnetic field of Earth is 2.5×105 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
All question bank results loaded