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Motor Effect
2.5
0.5
0.25
90
Simulation
Measurements
About This Experiment
When a current-carrying conductor is placed in a magnetic field, it experiences a force given by F = BIL sin θ. This is the principle behind electric motors. The force is maximum when the conductor is perpendicular to the magnetic field (θ = 90°) and zero when parallel (θ = 0°).
Use the right-hand rule to determine force direction: point your fingers in the direction of the magnetic field, curl them toward the current direction, and your thumb points in the direction of the force. This relationship forms the basis of all electric motors and loudspeakers.