Magnetism and electromagnetismQuestion 861 of 1506

What is the shape of the magnetic field around a straight conductor that carries current?

It runs parallel to the conductor.
It circles the conductor, at right angles to the current.
It points straight away from the conductor.
It exists only at the ends of the conductor.

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Correct answer: It circles the conductor, at right angles to the current.

The field made by current is perpendicular to the direction of flow and encircles the wire.

Source: Lessons in Electric Circuits I: DC (Kuphaldt), 14.2: Electromagnetism

Questions last reviewed: 18 October 2026

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