In a certain region, magnetic field is directed vertically downward. If a plane flies due South, which part of the plane will be negatively charged?

Correct answer: D. Right wingtip

  • A. Front part
  • B. Back part
  • C. Left wingtip
  • D. Right wingtip

Explanation

To determine which part of the plane will be negatively charged, we apply the right-hand rule. Point your fingers in the direction of the plane's velocity (South) and curl them toward the direction of the magnetic field (downward). Your thumb will then point toward the East, indicating the direction of the force acting on positive charges.Since electrons are negatively charged, they will be pushed in the opposite direction (West). Therefore, the right wingtip of the plane will accumulate negative charge due to this force.Other options are incorrect because the front, back, and left wingtip of the plane do not align with the force direction affecting negative charges, which ultimately leads to the right wingtip being the only area where a negative charge accumulates.

Written and checked by , contributorLast updated
Report an error

The more specific you are, the faster it gets fixed. A source beats an opinion.

Prefer email? [email protected]

About Electromagnetism

Magnetic flux density and magnetic flux describe the strength of a magnetic field and the field passing through a surface. A charged particle moving through a magnetic field experiences a force perpendicular to its velocity and may follow circular or helical motion, depending on the angle between velocity and field.

Practise Electromagnetism

1,176 free Electromagnetism MCQs from Physics, each with the correct answer and an explanation. Unlimited attempts, no account needed.

Discussion

Stuck on an option, or know a faster way to get there? Ask or explain it here.

No comments yet. Be the first to explain this one.

Exams that ask Physics questions like this

Physics is on 16 papers prepared for on TestUstad, and all of them draw the same bank, so this question is worth knowing for every one of them.

More Electromagnetism questions