Magnetic Field Around A Straight Conductor, Loop, and Solenoid (coil)
Channel: bobthefish
Date: 2012-10-23

The magnetic field around the conductor is all around it but we represent it with lines here and there. It would realistically be better represented with a cloud that is more dense where the field is stronger and fainter where the field is weaker but then we wouldn't be able to indicate the direction of the field.

The magnetic field at any point follows the right hand curl rule. Imagine grabbing the conductor (wire) with your right hand with your thumb in the direction of the grey arrow on the conductor. Your fingers curl in the direction of the magnetic field. These effects combine when the conductor is looped or coiled, leading to an overall field that is very strong through the centre of the loop or coil.