How can we demonstrate the magnetic effect using a compass and wire?

You can demonstrate the magnetic effect by passing an electric current through a wire placed near a compass.

To begin with, gather the necessary materials: a compass, a battery, a piece of wire, and some electrical tape. The compass is a simple device that uses Earth's magnetic field to indicate the direction of magnetic north. The wire will be used to create a magnetic field when an electric current is passed through it.

Start by connecting one end of the wire to the positive terminal of the battery. Secure it with electrical tape to ensure a good connection. Then, place the compass near the wire but not too close to the battery. Now, connect the other end of the wire to the negative terminal of the battery. As soon as the circuit is complete, an electric current will flow through the wire.

Observe the compass needle. When the current is flowing, the compass needle will deflect from its original position pointing towards the Earth's magnetic north. This is because the electric current flowing through the wire creates a magnetic field around the wire. This magnetic field interacts with the magnetic field of the compass causing the needle to move.

The direction of the needle's deflection depends on the direction of the current flow. If you reverse the connections to the battery, the current will flow in the opposite direction and the compass needle will deflect in the opposite direction. This demonstrates the right-hand rule of electromagnetism, which states that if you point your right thumb in the direction of the current, your fingers will curl in the direction of the magnetic field.

This simple experiment effectively demonstrates the magnetic effect of an electric current. It shows that an electric current can create a magnetic field, and this field can interact with other magnetic fields, such as that of a compass. It also provides a practical demonstration of the right-hand rule, a fundamental principle in the study of electromagnetism.