Exam - Friendly Fleming's Left Hand Rule Tool

Firstly, Fleming's Left Hand rule is used to determine the direction of the force felt by a charged particle when it is moving perpendicularly through a magnetic field.

This can be used to predict what direction a current carrying wire will move when in a magnetic field (e.g.: in motors), amongst other things. For more information on the motor effect, I suggest visiting this site.

Usually:

1. The direction the thumb is pointing = the direction of the force felt by the charged particle

2. The direction the first finger is pointing = the direction of the magnetic field, from N to S

3. The direction the second finger is pointing = the direction of conventional current, from +VE to -VE

In class and in my physics exams, I have found myself struggling to bend each finger at 90* to each other, to the humor of my classmates and teacher. So, I decided to create a tool to make my life easier, which can hopefully help you out too.

Obviously, you can just use your fingers - but wouldn't a special tool be a little more fun instead? If you're feeling very extra you could 3D print a design using this same concept.

2-3 items distinct items of stationary that can all clip together to form an x, y and z axis.

You need to connect your stationary to form an x, y and z axis configuration as seen in the diagram. Label each part to represent each variable (mentally, or you can use a small piece of tape).

Now that you have your tool, align the appropriate axis to the 2 variables given to you to find the 3rd missing one.

This may require you to rotate the tool, but should be easier than awkwardly twisting your elbow and wrist about.

It can also be used for the right hand rule (if you relabel the axis accordingly) and should be exam friendly if exam compliant stationary is used.