Magnetic Force on a Current-Carrying Wire Calculator
Calculate the force on a current-carrying wire in a magnetic field
Amperes (A)
Millitesla (mT)
Meters (m)
Degrees - angle between wire and magnetic field (90° = perpendicular)
How to Use This Calculator
Enter Current
Enter the current flowing through the wire in amperes.
Enter Magnetic Field
Enter the magnetic field strength in millitesla (mT). For Earth's field, use approximately 0.05 mT.
Enter Length and Angle
Enter wire length in meters and angle between wire and magnetic field (90° for perpendicular).
Get Force
Click calculate to see the magnetic force on the wire.
Formula
F = I × L × B × sin(θ)
Where:
- F = Force (N)
- I = Current (A)
- L = Wire length (m)
- B = Magnetic field strength (T)
- θ = Angle between wire and magnetic field (degrees)
Example:
Current = 5 A, B = 100 mT, Length = 1 m, Angle = 90°
F = 5 × 1 × 0.1 × sin(90°) = 5 × 0.1 × 1 = 0.5 N
About Magnetic Force on Wire Calculator
The Magnetic Force on a Current-Carrying Wire Calculator calculates the force experienced by a wire carrying electric current when placed in a magnetic field. This force is perpendicular to both the current direction and the magnetic field direction, following the right-hand rule.
When to Use This Calculator
- Physics Education: Learn about magnetic forces and Lorentz force
- Motor Design: Calculate forces in electric motors
- Educational Purposes: Understand electromagnetic forces
Why Use Our Calculator?
- ✅ Accurate Calculations: Uses correct magnetic force formula
- ✅ Easy to Use: Simple interface
- ✅ Free Tool: No registration required
- ✅ Educational: Includes formulas and examples
Common Applications
Electric Motors: The force on current-carrying wires in magnetic fields is the fundamental principle behind electric motors. This force creates torque that rotates the motor.
Physics Education: This demonstrates the Lorentz force law and the relationship between electric current, magnetic fields, and force.
Tips for Accurate Results
- Enter magnetic field in millitesla (mT)
- Enter current in amperes
- 90° angle gives maximum force
- 0° or 180° angle gives zero force (parallel)
- Force direction follows right-hand rule
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the right-hand rule?
Point your right thumb in the direction of current, fingers in the direction of magnetic field. Your palm faces the direction of force. This determines the force direction on the wire.
What happens at different angles?
At 90° (perpendicular), force is maximum. At 0° or 180° (parallel), force is zero. Force is proportional to sin(θ), so it varies with angle.
How is this used in motors?
In electric motors, current-carrying wires in magnetic fields experience force. This force creates torque, causing the motor to rotate. The principle is fundamental to all electric motors.