AMPÈRE’S LONGITUDINAL FORCES REVISITED

Abstract

Andre-Marie Ampère and Hermann Grassmann each proved the existence of transversal forces in electrodynamics. Nevertheless, even if they coincided on assuming the presence of forces perpendicular to the direction of current flow, only Ampère predicted also a longitudinal component of force. This fundamental disagreement has resulted in a long-lived discussion among many. The purpose of this thesis is to identify the experiments that account for or against the existence of the longitudinal forces in conductors. In order to achieve this, the effects of current on wires subjected to various strain conditions and material characteristics are explored by using COMSOL Multiphysics software. Also, an experimental set-up to get results using the NPS HCTF (High Current Test Fixture) is proposed.