In this scenario, when an electric current flows in a straight wire and then changes direction, it leads to changes in the magnetic field surrounding the wire. Let's break down the effects:
1. **Changes in the Magnetic Field**:
- When the current flows in one direction, it generates a magnetic field with a specific orientation around the wire.
- When the current changes direction, the magnetic field also changes its direction accordingly.
- The strength of the magnetic field may vary depending on the magnitude of the current flowing through the wire.
2. **What Stays the Same**:
- The shape of the magnetic field around the wire remains relatively consistent despite the change in the direction of the current.
- The relationship between the electric current and the magnetic field (as described by Ampere's law) remains constant.
To sum up, when the current in a straight wire changes direction, the orientation of the magnetic field around the wire also changes, while the overall shape and fundamental relationship between the current and the magnetic field stay the same.
