A 34-m length of wire is stretched horizontally between two vertical posts. The wire carries a current of 68 A and experiences a magnetic force of 0.16 N. Find the magnitude of the earth's magnetic field at the location of the wire, assuming the field makes an angle of 72.0° with respect to the wire.

7.28×10⁻⁵ T

Explanation:

Applying,

F = BILsin∅ Equation 1

Where F = magnetic force, B = earth's magnetic field, I = current flowing through the wire, L = Length of the wire, ∅ = angle between the field and the wire.

make B the subject of the equation

B = F/ILsin∅ Equation 2

From the question,

Given: F = 0.16 N, I = 68 A, L = 34 m, ∅ = 72°

Substitute these values into equation 2

B = 0.16/(68×34×sin72°)

B = 0.16/(68×34×0.95)

B = 0.16/2196.4

B = 7.28×10⁻⁵ T