Verified Solution Science Magnetic Effects of Electric Current

Two parallel wires carry current in the same direction. What type of force exists between them, and why?

4 views 1 helpful Updated Jul 2, 2026
Solution ✔ Verified
  • ARepulsive force, because their magnetic fields add up between them.
  • BAttractive force, because their magnetic fields cancel out between them.
  • CRepulsive force, because their magnetic fields cancel out between them.
  • DAttractive force, because their magnetic fields add up between them.
Explanation

When currents flow in the same direction, the magnetic fields produced by the wires are in opposite directions in the region between them, leading to a weaker net field between them compared to the outer regions. This difference in magnetic pressure causes an attractive force, pulling them together.

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