Magnetic force just like any other force, is a vector quantity. That means a magnetic field which is represented by magnetic field lines has both magnitude and direction.
In the experiment that you have just performed, the direction of deflection of the compass needle depends on the position of the needle and the direction of current. Use the magnifying lens to magnify and observe the images below;
The experiment indicates that the magnetic field pattern forms concentric circles around a conductor.
The direction of the magnetic field is the direct that the North pole of the compass needle would deflect if placed at that point.
In the next activity, you are going to learn how you can deduce the direction of the magnetic field by use of Fleming's right hand grip rule.
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