What happens to the magnetic field lines when the electric current is increased?

Prepare for the NCEA Level 2 Physics Exam. Study with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question has hints and explanations. Get ready for your exam!

When the electric current in a conductor is increased, the strength of the magnetic field generated around it also increases. This is a direct consequence of Ampère's circuital law, which states that the magnetic field strength around a current-carrying conductor is proportional to the amount of current flowing through it. As the current increases, more magnetic field lines are produced, and these lines become denser, meaning they are closer together. This density is visually represented by the closer spacing of the magnetic field lines around the conductor, indicating a stronger magnetic field.

In summary, increasing the current results in a stronger magnetic field, represented by a greater density of the magnetic field lines surrounding the conductor.

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