What is meant by magnetic effect of electric current? Who discovered it?

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Detailed Solution

The magnetic effect of electric current means a current-carrying conductor creates a magnetic field around it, and it was discovered by Hans Christian Ørsted in 1820.

Core idea

Whenever electric charge flows in a wire, a magnetic field forms in concentric circles around the wire.
The field’s direction follows the right-hand thumb rule.
Field strength rises with current and falls with distance from the wire.

Ørsted’s discovery

Ørsted noticed a compass needle deflects when placed near a live wire.
This linked electricity and magnetism and birthed electromagnetism.
It led to electromagnets, motors, generators, relays, and transformers.

Applications

Electromagnets: Iron core boosts the field for cranes and MRI.
Electric motor: Magnetic forces on current loops produce torque.
Transformer: Changing current in one coil induces voltage in another.
Induction devices: Mics, speakers, induction cooktops.

Item	Statement
Right-hand thumb rule	Thumb along current; curled fingers show magnetic field direction.
Straight wire field	B = μ₀I / (2πr)
Solenoid field (center)	B ≈ μ₀nI (air core)

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