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Secondary IV • 1yr.
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Hi! I'm unsure on where the compass's arrow should be facing on these bar magnets and solenoids. Is there a rule or instruction I can follow which will let me know where the arrow should point? Thanks!

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Explanations (1)

  • Explanation from Alloprof

    Explanation from Alloprof

    This Explanation was submitted by a member of the Alloprof team.

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    Team Alloprof • 1yr.

    Hi SweetScorpion2559,

    Thanks for your question!

    To begin the black tip of the arrow in the compass corresponds to the north end of the compass.

    Here's a picture representing the magnetic field of a straight magnet :

    image.png

    This image should help you visualize the direction of the magnetic field and you should be able to indicate the direction of the compass.

    Also, here's an image of the magnetic field when currents flow through wires :

    image.png

    With these clues about the magnetic fields, I'll let you attempt to place the compass on your own.

    I recommend giving a look to our concept sheet about magnetic fields around magnets, here's the link :

    I hope that helps and feel free to write us again !

    Anthony B.

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