17.3 Turning Effect on a Current-Carrying Coil in a Magnetic Field
When a rectangular coil carrying current is placed in a magnetic field, it experiences forces on its opposite sides. Since the current flows in opposite directions on these sides, the forces are equal in magnitude but opposite in direction. These forces form a couple, which produces a turning effect or torque, causing the coil to rotate.
lightbulbWhen a current-carrying coil is placed in a magnetic field, it experiences a couple of forces that makes the coil rotate. This is the working principle of an electric motor.