Two current carrying wires are placed next to each other and anti-parallel currents are allowed to flow. Is the magnetic force between the wires attractive or repulsive?

Consider the first wire on the left with current running up (arbitrary choice). By the 1st right hand rule, the magnetic field anywhere on the right will be into the page. By the 2nd right hand rule, the force is to the left, so repulsive.

Answered by Physics tutor

2001 Views

See similar Physics A Level tutors

Related Physics A Level answers

All answers ▸

Define the moment of a couple


Using Fermat's Principle explain why it makes sense for light be refracted when crossing from one medium into another that has a different refractive index.


Why do atoms larger than iron release energy when they undergo fission?


An aeroplane lands on the runway with a velocity of 50 m/s and decelerates at 10 m/s^2 to a velocity of 20 m/s. Calculate the distance travelled on the runway.


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning