Q.A long solenoid with 15 turns per cm has a small loop of area 2.0 cm2 placed inside the solenoid normal to its axis. If the current carried by the solenoid changes steadily from 2.0 A to 4.0 A in 0.1 s, what is the induced emf in the loop while the current is changing?
Concept understanding — Mutual Inductance
Mutual Inductance: From Intuition to Definition
Imagine you have two separate coils of wire placed near each other. You connect one coil to a battery — current starts flowing through it. Now, something strange happens in the other coil, which isn't connected to anything: a voltage appears across its ends. That voltage can even light a small bulb for an instant.
This is mutual inductance in action. One circuit "feels" the changing current in another circuit, even though they are not physically connected.
The Core Intuition
The key idea is changing magnetic fields. When current flows through a coil, it creates a magnetic field around it. If that current changes (increases or decreases), the magnetic field also changes. This changing field reaches the second coil. And a changing magnetic field, by Faraday's law, induces an electromotive force (emf) in any nearby conductor.
So mutual inductance is simply: how effectively a change in current in one coil induces a voltage in another coil.
Mutual inductance only works when the current is changing. A steady DC current produces a steady magnetic field, which induces nothing in the second coil. That's why the bulb lights only for an instant when you first connect the battery — the current is rising from zero.
The Precise Definition
Let's formalise this. Consider two coils: coil 1 and coil 2. Let I1 be the current in coil 1. This current produces a magnetic flux Φ21 through coil 2 (the flux from coil 1 that passes through coil 2).
The mutual inductance M (also written M21) is defined as the constant of proportionality between the current I1 and the flux it produces in coil 2:
Φ21=MI1
Similarly, if current I2 flows in coil 2, it produces a flux Φ12 through coil 1:
Φ12=MI2
The mutual inductance M is the same for both directions. M21=M12=M. This is a fundamental symmetry property.
Now, by Faraday's law, the induced emf in coil 2 due to a changing current in coil 1 is:
E2=−dtdΦ21=−MdtdI1
And the induced emf in coil 1 due to a changing current in coil 2 is:
E1=−MdtdI2
The negative sign is Lenz's law — the induced emf opposes the change that produced it.
Units
The SI unit of mutual inductance is the henry (H), named after Joseph Henry. From the definition:
1H=1AV⋅s=1AWb
One henry means that a current change of 1 ampere per second induces an emf of 1 volt in the other coil.
What Determines Mutual Inductance?
M depends on:
- Geometry: size, shape, number of turns of both coils
- Relative position: how close they are and how they are oriented
- Core material: if a magnetic material (like iron) is present, M increases dramatically
For two coaxial solenoids of length l, with N1 and N2 turns, and cross-sectional area A, the mutual inductance is:
M=lμ0N1N2A
where μ0 is the permeability of free space.
Mutual inductance is not the same as self-inductance. Self-inductance (L) relates the flux produced by a coil to its own current. Mutual inductance relates flux in one coil to current in a different coil. They are related by M=kL1L2, where k (between 0 and 1) is the coupling coefficient.
A Simple Way to Remember
Think of mutual inductance as magnetic coupling. Two coils share magnetic field lines. The more field lines from coil 1 that pass through coil 2, the larger the mutual inductance. If the coils are far apart or perpendicular, M is nearly zero. If they are wound on the same iron core, M is large.
The induced voltage in the second coil is proportional to how fast the current changes in the first coil — not to the current itself. That's why transformers work with AC (alternating current) but not with steady DC.
Mutual inductance between two coils, and its role in transformers, is a core topic in the NCERT Class 12 Physics chapter on electromagnetic induction, tested through both conceptual and numerical CBSE board and JEE Main questions. Anyone searching "mutual inductance formula and definition class 12 physics" will find this flux-linkage-based explanation matches the standard NCERT derivation.
Why this formula?
Mutual Inductance: Why the Formula Holds
Mutual inductance is a beautiful example of Faraday's Law in action — it describes how a changing current in one coil can induce an EMF in a nearby coil, without any direct electrical connection.
1. The Core Idea: Flux Linkage
Imagine two coils, Coil 1 and Coil 2, placed close together.
- When a current I1 flows in Coil 1, it creates a magnetic field B1.
- Some of the magnetic field lines from Coil 1 pass through Coil 2.
- The total magnetic flux through Coil 2 due to I1 is called the mutual flux:
Φ21=flux through Coil 2 due to current in Coil 1
Key insight: For a fixed geometry (coils not moving), the mutual flux is directly proportional to the current I1:
Φ21∝I1
Why? Because B1 itself is proportional to I1 (Biot–Savart law), and the area of Coil 2 is fixed. So:
Φ21=M21I1
where M21 is the mutual inductance (a constant depending on coil shapes, sizes, turns, and relative positions).
2. Why the EMF Formula Arises
Now, if I1 changes with time, then Φ21 changes with time. By Faraday's Law, a changing flux induces an EMF in Coil 2:
E2=−dtdΦ21
Substitute Φ21=M21I1:
E2=−M21dtdI1
That's the key formula. The negative sign (Lenz's law) tells us the induced EMF opposes the change in flux.
3. Symmetry: M12=M21
If we reverse the situation — current I2 in Coil 2 induces flux Φ12 in Coil 1 — we get:
Φ12=M12I2
and
E1=−M12dtdI2
A deep result from energy conservation (or from the reciprocity theorem in electromagnetism) shows:
M12=M21=M
So we simply call it M, the mutual inductance between the two coils.
4. The Complete Formula Set
| Quantity | Expression | Why? |
|---|---|---|
| Mutual flux (Coil 2 due to Coil 1) | Φ21=MI1 | Proportionality from Biot–Savart |
| Induced EMF in Coil 2 | E2=−MdtdI1 | Faraday's Law |
| Mutual flux (Coil 1 due to Coil 2) | Φ12=MI2 | Symmetry |
| Induced EMF in Coil 1 | E1=−MdtdI2 | Faraday's Law |
5. Physical Intuition (Exam-Ready)
- Mutual inductance M measures how strongly a change in current in one coil "feels" in the other coil.
- Unit: Henry (H) — same as self-inductance.
- Dependence: M depends on:
- Number of turns in each coil (N1,N2)
- Area of coils
- Distance between them
- Orientation (alignment of axes)
- Magnetic permeability of the medium
Example: Two coaxial solenoids — M=μ0N1N2A/l (for ideal case). The derivation follows from Φ21=N2B1A and B1=μ0N1I1/l.
6. Common Exam Pitfall
Don't confuse mutual inductance with self-inductance:
- Self-inductance L: EMF induced in the same coil due to its own changing current.
- Mutual inductance M: EMF induced in a different coil.
Formula to remember:
E2=−MdtdI1
Always check which current is changing and which coil experiences the EMF.
Final Takeaway
The formula E2=−MdtdI1 is not magic — it's Faraday's Law applied to the proportional relationship between mutual flux and current. Understand that proportionality, and you own the concept.
Concept: Mutual Inductance — a changing current in the solenoid produces a changing magnetic flux through the loop, inducing an emf.
Step 1: Magnetic field inside the solenoid
B=μ0nI, where n=15 turns/cm =1500 turns/m.
Step 2: Flux through the loop
Φ=BA=μ0nIA, with A=2.0 cm2=2.0×10−4 m2.
Step 3: Induced emf
E=−dtdΦ=−μ0nAdtdI.
Here dtdI=0.14.0−2.0=20 A/s.
Step 4: Substitute values
μ0=4π×10−7 T m/A, so
E=(4π×10−7)(1500)(2.0×10−4)(20).
Compute:
4π×10−7×1500=6π×10−4
Multiply by 2.0×10−4 gives 1.2π×10−7
Multiply by 20 gives 2.4π×10−6 V.
The induced emf is 7.54×10−6 V (or 2.4π μV).
The induced emf is found using Faraday’s law: the changing current in the solenoid produces a changing magnetic flux through the loop. The result is 7.54×10−6 V.
The key here is mutual inductance — the solenoid’s magnetic field links the small loop, and when the solenoid current changes, the flux through the loop changes, inducing an emf. You don’t need the mutual inductance coefficient explicitly; you can compute the flux directly because the field inside a long solenoid is uniform and given by B=μ0nI, where n is the number of turns per unit length.
Let’s work through it step by step.
- Find the magnetic field inside the solenoid. For an ideal long solenoid, the field is uniform along the axis and given by
B=μ0nI
where μ0=4π×10−7 T m/A, n is the number of turns per metre, and I is the current.
Here, n=15 turns per cm=1500 turns per metre.
So at any instant, B=(4π×10−7)×1500×I=6π×10−4×I tesla.
- Compute the magnetic flux through the small loop. The loop is placed normal to the solenoid’s axis, so the field is perpendicular to its area. Flux is
Φ=BA
where A=2.0 cm2=2.0×10−4 m2.
Thus
Φ=(6π×10−4I)×(2.0×10−4)=1.2π×10−7I
in webers.
- Find the rate of change of flux. The current changes steadily from 2.0 A to 4.0 A in 0.1 s, so
dtdI=0.14.0−2.0=20 A/s
Since Φ is proportional to I,
dtdΦ=(1.2π×10−7)×dtdI=1.2π×10−7×20=2.4π×10−6 Wb/s
- Apply Faraday’s law. The induced emf in the loop is
E=−dtdΦ
The magnitude is
∣E∣=2.4π×10−6≈7.54×10−6 V
A common mistake is to forget converting units: turns per cm to turns per metre, and cm² to m². Also, the loop’s area is small, so the flux is tiny — the induced emf is in the microvolt range, which is physically reasonable.
You could also solve this using mutual inductance M=μ0nA for the loop-solenoid system, then E=MdI/dt. Try it: M=(4π×10−7)(1500)(2.0×10−4)=1.2π×10−7 H, and dI/dt=20, giving the same result.
The induced emf in the loop is 7.54×10−6 V.
Method: Faraday's Law of Electromagnetic Induction (via Mutual Inductance)
We use the mutual inductance approach — the induced emf in the loop depends on the rate of change of current in the solenoid and the mutual inductance between them.
Steps
1. Find the number of turns per unit length of the solenoid
Given: 15 turns per cm
Convert to SI units:
n=15 turns/cm=15×100=1500 turns/m
2. Magnetic field inside the solenoid
For an ideal long solenoid, the field inside is uniform and given by:
B=μ0nI
where μ0=4π×10−7 T m/A.
3. Magnetic flux through the small loop
The loop is placed normal to the axis, so the flux is:
Φ=B⋅A=μ0nIA
Area A=2.0 cm2=2.0×10−4 m2
4. Induced emf from Faraday's Law
E=−dtdΦ=−μ0nAdtdI
5. Calculate the rate of change of current
Current changes from 2.0 A to 4.0 A in 0.1 s:
dtdI=0.14.0−2.0=20 A/s
6. Substitute values
E=(4π×10−7)(1500)(2.0×10−4)(20)
7. Simplify step-by-step
- 4π×10−7×1500=6π×10−4
- 6π×10−4×2.0×10−4=12π×10−8
- 12π×10−8×20=240π×10−8
E=240π×10−8 V
8. Final result
E=7.54×10−6 V
(using π≈3.14)
The magnitude of the induced emf is 7.54 μV.
Here are the common mistakes students make on this Mutual Inductance problem, and how to avoid each.
1. Forgetting to convert units correctly
The Mistake:
Using 15 turns per cm directly as n=15 in the formula B=μ0nI, without converting to turns per metre.
Why it’s wrong:
The SI unit of μ0 is T m/A, so n must be in turns per metre. Using turns per cm gives a result off by a factor of 100.
How to avoid:
Always write the conversion step explicitly:
n=15 turns/cm=15×100=1500 turns/m.
2. Using the wrong formula for magnetic field inside a solenoid
The Mistake:
Using B=μ0nI for a finite solenoid or using B=μ0NI/L but confusing N (total turns) with n (turns per unit length).
Why it’s wrong:
For a long solenoid, the field is uniform and given by B=μ0nI. If you use total turns N, you must also use the correct length L.
How to avoid:
- Identify that “long solenoid” means B=μ0nI is valid.
- If given turns per unit length, use n directly.
- If given total turns N and length L, use n=N/L.
3. Confusing area units
The Mistake:
Plugging A=2.0 cm2 directly into the flux formula without converting to m2.
Why it’s wrong:
1 cm2=10−4 m2, so 2.0 cm2=2.0×10−4 m2. Using cm² gives an emf that is 10,000 times too large.
How to avoid:
Convert all areas to m2 before calculation:
A=2.0 cm2=2.0×10−4 m2.
4. Misapplying Faraday’s law sign convention
The Mistake:
Writing E=−dtdϕ and then reporting the emf as negative without stating the direction, or ignoring the sign entirely.
Why it’s wrong:
The question asks for “induced emf” — usually the magnitude is expected unless direction is specifically asked. A negative sign without explanation can lose marks.
How to avoid:
- If only magnitude is asked, give the absolute value: ∣E∣=−dtdϕ=dtdϕ.
- If direction is asked, use Lenz’s law separately.
5. Using the wrong time interval
The Mistake:
Using Δt=0.1 s but taking the change in current as 4.0 A−2.0 A=2.0 A correctly, but then dividing by the wrong time (e.g., using 0.1 s as the time for one turn).
Why it’s wrong:
The time interval is for the entire current change, not per turn.
How to avoid:
Write clearly:
dtdI=0.14.0−2.0=0.12.0=20 A/s.
6. Forgetting that flux links the loop only once
The Mistake:
Multiplying the flux by the number of turns of the solenoid (1500) when calculating emf in the loop.
Why it’s wrong:
The small loop has only one turn. The solenoid’s turns create the field, but the induced emf is in the loop, not in the solenoid.
How to avoid:
- Flux through the loop: ϕ=B⋅A (one turn).
- Induced emf: E=−dtdϕ (no extra factor of N for the loop).
7. Mixing up mutual inductance and self-inductance
The Mistake:
Using M=μ0n1n2Al or similar formula for mutual inductance, then calculating emf as MdtdI, but getting the geometry wrong.
Why it’s wrong:
Here, the mutual inductance is simply M=μ0nA (for the loop inside the solenoid), but students often overcomplicate.
How to avoid:
- For a small loop inside a long solenoid: M=μ0nA.
- Then E=MdtdI directly.
- Or compute B, then ϕ, then emf — both give the same answer.
Quick checklist to avoid all mistakes
| Step | What to check |
|---|---|
| 1 | Convert n to turns/metre |
| 2 | Convert A to m² |
| 3 | Use B=μ0nI (long solenoid) |
| 4 | Flux ϕ=BA (one turn loop) |
| 5 | dtdI=ΔtΔI |
| 6 | E=dtdϕ (magnitude) |
| 7 | Final answer in volts, with correct units |
Final answer for this problem:
∣E∣=μ0nAdtdI=(4π×10−7)(1500)(2.0×10−4)(20)≈7.54×10−6 V
Showing the 12 most recent of 17 on this concept.
- COMEDK 2026Set 2026-A1 markMCQQ.When a current of 2.5 A passes through the primary coil of a transformer of 200 number turns, the magnetic flux linked with the secondary coil having 400 turns is 600×10−6 T m2. Find the induced emf in the secondary coil, when the current in the primary coil increases at a rate of 0.2As−1 (A) 1.92×10−2V (B) 1.92×10−4V (C) 0.92×10−4V (D) 0.92×10−2V
›Reveal solutionSolution
The induced emf in the secondary coil is found using mutual inductance, which relates the flux in the secondary to the current in the primary. The result is 1.92×10−2V, corresponding to option (A).
The key concept here is mutual inductance. When the current in the primary coil changes, it changes the magnetic flux through the secondary coil. By Faraday’s law, this changing flux induces an emf in the secondary. The mutual inductance M links the two coils: it tells us how much flux in the secondary is produced per unit current in the primary. Once we know M, the induced emf is simply M times the rate of change of primary current.
Let’s work through it step by step.
-
Understand the given data
- Primary current: Ip=2.5A (steady value, used to find flux linkage)
- Primary turns: Np=200
- Secondary turns: Ns=400
- Flux linked with secondary at that current: Φs=600×10−6T m2
- Rate of change of primary current: dtdIp=0.2A/s We need the induced emf in the secondary.
-
Find the mutual inductance M
Mutual inductance is defined by:
NsΦs=MIp
Here, NsΦs is the total flux linkage in the secondary due to the primary current Ip. So:
M=IpNsΦs=2.5400×600×10−6
Calculate:
400×600=240000,so 240000×10−6=0.24
Then:
M=2.50.24=0.096H
- Apply Faraday’s law for the secondary emf The induced emf in the secondary is:
Es=−MdtdIp
(The negative sign indicates direction; we care about magnitude here.)
So:
∣Es∣=0.096×0.2=0.0192V
In scientific notation:
0.0192=1.92×10−2V
- Match with the options The value 1.92×10−2V corresponds to option (A).
TipA common mistake is to use the number of primary turns in the flux linkage formula. Remember: the flux given is already linked with the secondary coil, so you multiply by secondary turns Ns, not primary turns.
Watch outDo not confuse the steady current (2.5 A) with the rate of change (0.2 A/s). The steady current is only used to find M; the induced emf depends only on the rate of change of current.
✓Final answerThe correct option is (A).
ANSWER: A
-
- COMEDK 2026Set 2026-M1 markMCQQ.An AC generator having 400 turns and an area of cross section of 2×10−3 m2 rotates with an angular speed of 200πrads−1 in a uniform magnetic field of strength 0.4 T . The generator is connected to the primary of an ideal transformer having 500 turns in the primary and 2000 turns in the secondary. The secondary is connected to a 400Ω resistive load. What is the rms current in the secondary of the transformer? Assume, the transformer is ideal and the resistance of the coil is negligible (A) 2.84 A (B) 14.2 A (C) 1.41 A (D) 28.4 A
›Reveal solutionSolution
Working from the generator's peak emf through the transformer's turns ratio to the secondary current gives about 1.42 A, matching option (C) (1.41 A).
Step-by-step solution
- Peak emf of the generator.
E0=NBAω=400×0.4×(2×10−3)×200π=64π V≈201.06 V
- RMS voltage at the primary.
Vrms,primary=2E0=264π≈142.17 V
- RMS voltage at the secondary. Turns ratio Ns/Np=2000/500=4:
Vrms,secondary=142.17×4≈568.69 V
- RMS current through the 400 Ω load.
Irms=400568.69≈1.42 A
TipKeep track of the 2 conversion carefully — the generator formula NBAω gives the peak emf, which must be divided by 2 before applying the transformer's turns ratio (voltages, not just peak values, scale directly with turns ratio).
✓Final answerThe correct option is (C): approximately 1.41 A.
- COMEDK 2025Set 2025-A1 markMCQQ.A current of 2 A is passed through the primary coil. The total flux linked with the secondary coil, which is closely wound over the primary is 2000×10−6 weber. What is the induced emf in the secondary if the current through the primary increases at a rate of 0.2As−1 ? (A) 2×10−4V (B) 4×10−4V (C) 1×10−4V (D) 8×10−4V
›Reveal solutionSolution
The induced emf in the secondary is found using mutual inductance: M=IpΦs and then Es=MdtdIp. The result is 2×10−4V, so the correct option is (A).
The key idea here is mutual inductance. When current changes in the primary coil, the magnetic flux through the secondary changes, inducing an emf. The mutual inductance M links the flux in the secondary to the current in the primary: Φs=MIp. Once we know M, the induced emf is simply Es=MdtdIp. No need for complicated integration — just direct proportionality.
Let’s work through it step by step.
- Find the mutual inductance M. The total flux linked with the secondary coil when the primary carries a steady current Ip=2A is given as Φs=2000×10−6Wb. By definition, Φs=MIp, so
M=IpΦs=22000×10−6=1000×10−6=1×10−3H.
- Use Faraday’s law for the secondary. The induced emf in the secondary is
Es=−MdtdIp.
(The sign indicates direction; we care about magnitude here.)
The rate of change of current is dtdIp=0.2A/s.
- Calculate the magnitude of the induced emf.
∣Es∣=M⋅dtdIp=(1×10−3)×(0.2)=0.2×10−3=2×10−4V.
Watch outA common mistake is to forget that the given flux is already the total flux linked with the secondary, not flux per turn. Using it directly as Φs is correct — no need to multiply by number of turns again.
TipNotice that the steady current value (2 A) is only used to find M. The induced emf depends only on the rate of change of current, not on the steady value itself.
✓Final answerThe correct option is (A).
ANSWER: A
- COMEDK 2025Set 2025-A1 markMCQQ.The ratio of the number of turns of the primary coil to the secondary coil of an ideal transformer is 5:1. The primary is connected to 220 V supply. What is the output power of the transformer if the output resistance is 11Ω ? (A) 1760 W (B) 1100 W (C) 176 W (D) 100 W
›Reveal solutionSolution
For an ideal transformer, the voltage ratio equals the turns ratio, so the secondary voltage is 44 V. With an 11 Ω load, the output power is P=V2/R=442/11=176 W. The correct option is (C).
The key idea is that an ideal transformer conserves power and has a voltage ratio exactly equal to its turns ratio. Once we know the secondary voltage, the output power is simply the power dissipated in the load resistor.
1. Understand the turns ratio and voltage relationship
For an ideal transformer, the ratio of primary voltage Vp to secondary voltage Vs equals the ratio of primary turns Np to secondary turns Ns:
VsVp=NsNp
Here, Np:Ns=5:1, so NsNp=5. The primary is connected to 220 V, so:
Vs220=5⇒Vs=5220=44 V
2. Determine the output power
The output power is the power dissipated in the load resistor R=11 Ω connected to the secondary. Using the formula P=RV2:
P=11(44)2=111936=176 W
3. Check consistency with ideal transformer properties
In an ideal transformer, input power equals output power (no losses). The primary current would be Ip=P/Vp=176/220=0.8 A, and the secondary current Is=Vs/R=44/11=4 A. The turns ratio also gives IsIp=NpNs=51, which matches 0.8/4=0.2. Everything is consistent.
Watch outA common mistake is to forget that the voltage ratio is directly the turns ratio for an ideal transformer, not the inverse. Another pitfall is using the primary voltage to compute power directly — the load is on the secondary side, so you must use the secondary voltage.
TipYou can also find the output power by first finding the secondary current: Is=Vs/R=44/11=4 A, then P=Is2R=16×11=176 W. Either way gives the same result.
✓Final answerThe correct option is (C).
ANSWER: C
- COMEDK 2025Set 2025-E1 markMCQQ.A power transmission line feeds input power at 2200 V to a step-down transformer with its primary windings having 2000 turns. The output power is delivered at 220 V by the transformer. If the current in the primary of the transformer is 2 A and its efficiency is 80%, the output current would be: (A) 32 A (B) 8 A (C) 16 A (D) 4 A
›Reveal solutionSolution
The key is to use the transformer’s power relationship, accounting for efficiency: output power = efficiency × input power. Input power is 2200V×2A=4400W, so output power is 0.8×4400=3520W. At 220 V output, current is 3520/220=16A. The correct option is (C).
Concept & Intuition
A transformer changes voltage and current, but the ideal transformer conserves power (ignoring losses). Real transformers have efficiency η<1, meaning output power is a fraction of input power. Here, we are given primary voltage, current, turns, and efficiency — but the turns ratio is actually a red herring because we already have the primary current and voltage directly. The output voltage is given, so we can find output current from the power balance: Pout=η×Pin, and Pout=Vout×Iout.
Step-by-step solution
- Find input power Input power to the transformer is simply the product of primary voltage and primary current:
Pin=Vp×Ip=2200V×2A=4400W.
- Account for efficiency Efficiency η=80%=0.8 means only 80% of input power is delivered as output power:
Pout=η×Pin=0.8×4400=3520W.
- Relate output power to output current Output is at Vs=220V, so:
Pout=Vs×Is⇒Is=VsPout=2203520=16A.
- Check the turns ratio (optional sanity check) The turns ratio is Np:Ns=2000:? but we don’t need it because output voltage is given. However, note that for an ideal transformer Vs/Vp=Ns/Np, so Ns=(220/2200)×2000=200 turns. The ideal current ratio would be Is/Ip=Np/Ns=10, giving Is=20A — but efficiency reduces it to 16A. This confirms our result is plausible.
Watch outA common mistake is to use the turns ratio directly to find output current without considering efficiency, yielding 20 A — which is not among the options, but might tempt a student to pick 16 A as the closest. The correct path is to use power, not just turns.
TipWhenever efficiency is given, always go through power: Pout=ηPin. The turns ratio is only directly useful for voltage or current in an ideal (100% efficient) transformer.
✓Final answerThe correct option is (C).
ANSWER: C
- COMEDK 2025Set 2025-M1 markMCQQ.A long solenoid has 400 turns. When a current of 100 A is passed through it, the resulting magnetic flux linked with each turn of the solenoid is 4 mWb . The self-inductance of the solenoid is (A) 1.6 mH (B) 16 mH (C) 16 H (D) 0.16 mH
›Reveal solutionSolution
Self-inductance is the ratio of total flux linkage to current. Here, total flux linkage = (400 turns) × (4 mWb) = 1.6 Wb, and current = 100 A, so L=1.6/100=0.016H=16mH. The correct option is (B).
The key concept is self-inductance — it measures how much magnetic flux a coil “links” with itself per unit current. For a solenoid, the total flux linkage (flux through one turn times the number of turns) is directly proportional to the current. The constant of proportionality is L.
Why this approach works:
We are given the flux per turn and the number of turns, so we can find the total flux linkage. Then, using the definition L=INΦ, we get the inductance directly — no need for geometry or permeability.
-
Identify the given quantities
- Number of turns: N=400
- Current: I=100A
- Magnetic flux through each turn: Φ=4mWb=4×10−3Wb
-
Compute the total flux linkage
Flux linkage λ=NΦ=400×(4×10−3)=1.6Wb (or weber-turns).
This is the total magnetic flux “linking” the entire solenoid.
-
Apply the definition of self-inductance
L=Iλ=100A1.6Wb=0.016H
- Convert to millihenries 0.016H=16×10−3H=16mH
Watch outA common mistake is to use the flux per turn directly as the total flux linkage, forgetting to multiply by N. That would give L=4×10−3/100=4×10−5H=0.04mH, which is not among the options — but it’s a trap.
TipAlways check units: flux in mWb must be converted to Wb (×10⁻³), and the result in H can be expressed in mH (×10³). The numbers 400 and 4 combine nicely to 1.6, then divided by 100 gives 0.016 H = 16 mH.
✓Final answerThe correct option is (B).
ANSWER: B
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- KCET 2024Set D-21 markMCQQ.A coil having 9 turns carrying a current produces magnetic field B1 at the centre. Now the coil is rewound into 3 turns carrying same current. Then the magnetic field at the centre B2= ——— (A) 9B1 (B) 9B1 (C) 3B1 (D) 3B1
›Reveal solutionSolution
The wire length is fixed (it's REWOUND, not re-supplied), so fewer turns means a proportionally bigger radius per turn — and field at the centre depends on both N and r.
Step 1 — Field at the centre of a coil.
B=2rμ0NI
Step 2 — Conserve the wire length.
Total wire length ℓ=N⋅2πr stays constant when rewinding, so r∝N1.
Step 3 — Substitute.
B=2rμ0NI∝1/NN=N2
Step 4 — Apply the ratio.
Going from N1=9 to N2=3 (a factor of 3 decrease):
B1B2=(N1N2)2=(31)2=91
✓Final answerThe new field is 9B1 — option (A).
- KCET 2024Set D-21 markMCQQ.In the figure, a conducting ring of certain resistance is falling towards a current carrying straight long conductor. The ring and conductor are in the same plane. Then the (A) Induced electric current is zero (B) Induced electric current is anticlockwise (C) Induced electric current is clockwise (D) Ring will come to rest
›Reveal solutionSolution
As the ring falls, the magnetic flux through it changes, inducing a current. The induced current is clockwise, and the ring does not come to rest — it continues to fall. The correct option is (C).
The key here is Lenz's law and the geometry of the magnetic field around a long straight current-carrying wire. The wire carries a steady current (say upward, by convention), so its magnetic field circles around it. In the plane of the ring and wire, the field lines are perpendicular to the radial direction — they go into or out of the page depending on which side of the wire you're on.
Let’s set the scene: the wire is vertical, carrying current upward. To the right of the wire (where the ring is), the magnetic field points into the page. As the ring falls downward, it moves through a region where the field strength changes — it gets stronger as it gets closer to the wire.
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Magnetic flux through the ring
The field is into the page, so the flux through the ring is negative (or positive, depending on sign convention — what matters is the change). As the ring falls, it moves closer to the wire, so the field strength at every point of the ring increases. Hence the magnitude of the flux (into the page) increases.
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Lenz’s law — opposing the change
Lenz’s law says the induced current will create its own magnetic field that opposes the change in flux. Since the flux into the page is increasing, the induced field must point out of the page to oppose that increase.
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Direction of induced current
To produce a field out of the page inside the ring, the induced current must be clockwise (right-hand rule: curl your fingers in the direction of current, thumb points in the direction of the field inside the loop). Clockwise current gives an outward field.
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Is the induced current zero?
No — the flux is clearly changing, so there is an induced emf and hence a current. Option (A) is wrong.
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Will the ring come to rest?
The ring experiences a magnetic force due to the induced current interacting with the wire’s field. That force is upward (opposing the motion — Lenz again), but it does not bring the ring to rest unless it exactly balances gravity. In general, the ring will accelerate downward at less than g, but it does not stop. Option (D) is false.
Watch outA common mistake is to think the induced current is anticlockwise because the field is into the page and increasing — but Lenz’s law says the induced field opposes the increase, not the existing field. So the induced field must be opposite to the original field direction.
✓Final answerThe correct option is (C) — the induced electric current is clockwise.
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- COMEDK 2024Set 2024-A1 markMCQQ.A transformer has 400 turns in its primary winding and 800 turns in its secondary winding. The primary voltage is 20 V and the load in the secondary is 4 ohm. The current in the primary, assuming it to be an ideal transformer, is (A) 40 A (B) 20 A (C) 4 A (D) 2 A
›Reveal solutionSolution
Ideal transformer conserves power. The 1:2 turns ratio steps voltage up to Vs=40 V, so Is=10 A, and the primary current steps up inversely to 20 A — option (B).
For an ideal transformer the turns ratio fixes the voltage ratio and, by power conservation, the inverse current ratio.
- Secondary voltage from the turns ratio (Np=400, Ns=800, Vp=20 V):
Vs=VpNpNs=20×400800=40 V.
- Secondary current through the 4 Ω load:
Is=RVs=440=10 A.
- Primary current from power conservation VpIp=VsIs:
Ip=VpVsIs=2040×10=20 A.
Equivalently, the current ratio is the inverse of the turns ratio: Ip=IsNpNs=10×2=20 A.
✓Final answerPrimary current Ip=20 A — option (B).
- COMEDK 2024Set 2024-E1 markMCQQ.A transformer of 100% efficiency has 200 turns in the primary and 40000 turns in the secondary. It is connected to a 220 V main supply and secondary feeds to a 100 KΩ resistance. The potential difference per turn is (A) 11 V (B) 18 V (C) 25 V (D) 1.1 V
›Reveal solutionSolution
Potential difference per turn is the same for both windings of an ideal transformer, V/N=220/200=1.1 V/turn.
For a transformer NpVp=NsVs, so the emf induced per turn is identical in the primary and secondary.
Primary: NpVp=200220=1.1 V per turn.
Check via secondary: Vs=VpNpNs=220×20040000=44000 V, and NsVs=4000044000=1.1 V per turn. The 100kΩ load does not affect the volt-per-turn value.
✓Final answerThe correct option is (D) — 1.1 V
- COMEDK 2024Set 2024-M1 markMCQQ.A transformer which steps down 330 V to 33 V is to operate a device having impedance 110Ω. The current drawn by the primary coil of the transformer is : (A) 0.3 A (B) 0.03 A (C) 3 A (D) 1.5 A
›Reveal solutionSolution
The key idea is that for an ideal transformer, power in the primary equals power in the secondary. Using the turns ratio from the voltage step-down, we find the secondary current, then the primary current. The result is 0.03 A.
Concept & Intuition
A transformer doesn’t create power — it transfers it. If it steps voltage down, it must step current up (for an ideal, lossless transformer). The ratio of voltages equals the ratio of turns, and the ratio of currents is the inverse. Here, we know the secondary voltage and the load impedance, so we can find the secondary current. Then, using the voltage ratio, we find the primary current.
Step-by-step solution
- Find the turns ratio from the voltage step-down. The primary voltage is Vp=330 V, the secondary voltage is Vs=33 V. For an ideal transformer:
VsVp=NsNp
So the turns ratio is
NsNp=33330=10
This means the primary has 10 times the turns of the secondary.
- Find the secondary current using Ohm’s law. The load impedance is Z=110 Ω connected across the secondary.
Is=ZVs=11033=0.3 A
- Relate primary and secondary currents. For an ideal transformer, the power in equals power out:
VpIp=VsIs
Therefore,
Ip=VpVs⋅Is=33033×0.3=101×0.3=0.03 A
Alternatively, using the turns ratio directly:
IsIp=NpNs=101⇒Ip=100.3=0.03 A
Watch outA common mistake is to think that because voltage steps down, current also steps down — but it’s the opposite. Power conservation forces current to step up when voltage steps down.
TipNotice that the load impedance is 110 Ω and the secondary voltage is 33 V, giving a nice round 0.3 A. The primary current is simply one-tenth of that.
✓Final answerThe correct option is (B).
ANSWER: B
- COMEDK 2024Set 2024-M1 markMCQQ.Select the unit of the coefficient of mutual induction from the following. (A) volt. second / ampere (B) weber. ampere (C) ampere / weber (D) volt. ampere / second
›Reveal solutionSolution
The coefficient of mutual induction (mutual inductance) has units of henry, which is equivalent to volt·second per ampere; thus the correct choice is (A).
The concept here is mutual inductance — a measure of how effectively a change in current in one coil induces an electromotive force (emf) in a nearby coil. The defining equation is:
E2=−MdtdI1
where E2 is the induced emf (in volts), I1 is the current in the first coil (in amperes), and t is time (in seconds). Rearranging gives:
M=−dI1/dtE2
So the units of M are volts divided by (amperes per second), i.e., volt·second per ampere. This combination is called the henry (H). Now let’s check each option.
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Option (A): volt·second / ampere
This matches exactly the derived unit. So (A) is correct.
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Option (B): weber·ampere
A weber is the unit of magnetic flux (volt·second). Multiplying by ampere gives volt·second·ampere, which is not the same as volt·second/ampere. So (B) is wrong.
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Option (C): ampere / weber
This is the reciprocal of the correct unit. It would correspond to 1/M, not M. So (C) is wrong.
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Option (D): volt·ampere / second
This simplifies to volt·ampere/second = watt (power), not inductance. So (D) is wrong.
TipA quick sanity check: the henry is often remembered as “volt·second per ampere” — exactly option (A). Also, note that 1 henry = 1 weber/ampere, so weber/ampere is another valid form, but that’s not listed here.
Watch outA common mistake is to confuse “weber/ampere” (which is correct for inductance) with “weber·ampere” (option B). The dot vs. slash makes all the difference.
✓Final answerThe correct option is (A).
ANSWER: A
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