Right Hand Rules

Okay so today we learned about two different right hand rules to determine properties of a magnet.

Right-Hand Rule #1 (RHR #1) (for conductors)

1. Utilizing the conventional current theory, place your hand so that your thumb follows the direction of the current. (negative side)

2. Curl your fingers following the curvature of the magnet.

3. The direction your curled fingers point indicates the direction the magnetic field around the conductor.

Right-Hand Rule #2 (RHR #2) (for coiled electromagnets)

1. Conventional current moves from positive to negative.

2. Place your hand around the coiled electromagnet with your fingers pointing the same direction as the current flow.

3. The direction your thumb is pointing indicates the north end of the electromagnet (N).