What is created when both ends of a coiled wire are connected to an AC power source?

When both ends of a coiled wire are connected to an AC power source, a magnetic field is generated around the coil due to the alternating current flowing through the wire. This phenomenon is a fundamental principle of electromagnetism where an electric current produces a magnetic field.

In an AC circuit, the flow of current changes direction periodically, which results in a time-varying magnetic field. The relationship between electricity and magnetism is described by Faraday's law of electromagnetic induction, which explains how a changing magnetic field can induce voltage, but here we're focusing on the direct interaction of current and magnetism within the coiled wire itself.

This magnetic field can have various applications, including in electric motors, transformers, and inductors, where the interplay of magnetic fields and electrical currents is utilized to perform work or transfer energy. The presence of the magnetic field signifies that energy is being transferred, which is a key aspect of how many electrical devices operate.