Edexcel IGCSE Physics 6.8 current and magnetic fields
Practise current-field questions by describing compass deflection, planning Hall-probe measurements and testing graph relationships.
- Syllabus
- First assessment 2019
- Course
- Physics 4PH1
Exam points
- Explain why a plotting compass changes direction near a wire when current is switched on.
- Plan a Hall-probe investigation with distance varied and current kept controlled.
- Use graph readings to test whether field strength and distance fit a proposed relationship.
6.8 Current and magnetic fields question 1
The diagrams show some equipment that the physicist Ørsted used in an investigation in 1820.
Diagram 1 shows the position of eight compass needles around a wire with no current in the wire.
The compass needles line up with and show the direction of the Earth's magnetic field lines.
Diagram 2 shows the position of the same compass needles when a current is in the wire.
Explain why the compass needles turn when the current is switched on.
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