Fleming's Left Hand Rule and Right Hand Rule are two important principles in physics that help us understand the relationship between magnetic fields, electric currents, and forces. These rules are used in motors and generators, respectively, to determine the direction of force or motion when a current flows through a magnetic field.
1. Fleming's Left Hand Rule (For Electric Motors):
This rule is used to find the direction of force acting on a current-carrying conductor in a magnetic field. It helps us understand how electric motors work.
- Thumb: Represents the direction of force (motion of the conductor).
- First finger: Represents the direction of the magnetic field (from North to South).
- Second finger: Represents the direction of current (flow of positive charge).
How to use it:
- Stretch your left hand with the thumb, first, and second fingers at right angles to each other.
- If you know the direction of the magnetic field (first finger) and the direction of current (second finger), the direction of force (thumb) will point out.
2. Fleming's Right Hand Rule (For Electric Generators):
This rule helps determine the direction of induced current when a conductor moves through a magnetic field, which is how electric generators work.
- Thumb: Represents the direction of motion of the conductor (moving through the magnetic field).
- First finger: Represents the direction of the magnetic field (from North to South).
- Second finger: Represents the direction of the induced current (the current that is produced).
How to use it:
- Stretch your right hand with the thumb, first, and second fingers at right angles to each other.
- If you know the direction of motion (thumb) and the magnetic field (first finger), the direction of the induced current (second finger) can be determined.
Summary:
- Left Hand Rule: Used for motors, where you find the direction of the force.
- Right Hand Rule: Used for generators, where you find the direction of the induced current.
These rules make it easier to understand how motors and generators function in a magnetic field.