A student in Barbados investigates the magnetic field pattern around a solenoid carrying current. She places plotting compasses at various points around the energized solenoid. What will the plotting compasses reveal about the magnetic field?

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Question

A student in Barbados investigates the magnetic field pattern around a solenoid carrying current. She places plotting compasses at various points around the energized solenoid. What will the plotting compasses reveal about the magnetic field?

Accepted Answer

The field pattern is similar to that of a bar magnet — Award 1 mark for identifying the bar magnet pattern. B is correct because a current-carrying solenoid produces a magnetic field pattern identical to a bar magnet, with field lines emerging from one end (north pole) and entering the other (south pole). A is incorrect because the field inside is actually stronger and uniform. C is incorrect as this describes the field around a straight wire, not a solenoid. D is incorrect because there is a strong, uniform field inside.

Answer

The field lines form concentric circles around the solenoid

Answer

The field inside the solenoid is weaker than outside

Answer

There is no magnetic field inside the solenoid

Answer

The field pattern is similar to that of a bar magnet

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