Q.A straight wire carrying a current of 12 A is bent into a semi-circular arc of radius 2.0 cm as shown in Fig. 4.11(a). Consider the magnetic field B at the centre of the arc.
Concept understanding — Magnetic Force Balance
Magnetic Force Balance
When a current-carrying wire or coil sits in a magnetic field, it feels a force F=BILsinθ (or, for a point charge, F=qvBsinθ). On its own that force just pushes the conductor - but in many real situations the push is deliberately set up to CANCEL another force, so the whole system sits in equilibrium. That equilibrium condition - magnetic force balanced against weight, against another wire's magnetic force, or against a mechanical counterweight - is what "magnetic force balance" means, and it is also historically how the ampere itself was defined.
The balance condition
Whenever a conductor is in equilibrium under a magnetic force and one other force, the two must be equal and opposite:
BILsinθ=Fother
Solving this equation for whichever quantity is unknown (B, I, L, or the other force) is the entire skill in this class of problem - the only new step, beyond the force law itself, is correctly identifying what the magnetic force is opposing.
Case 1: a wire suspended against gravity
A straight horizontal wire of mass m and length l, carrying current I, can be held up ("floated") in mid-air by a horizontal magnetic field perpendicular to it. The upward magnetic force must equal the downward weight:
BIl=mg⟹B=Ilmg
For example, a 200g, 1.5m wire carrying 2A needs B=(2)(1.5)(0.2)(9.8)≈0.65T to stay suspended.
Case 2: two wires balancing each other
Two long parallel wires carrying currents I1,I2 exert a force per unit length on each other of 2πdμ0I1I2 (attractive if the currents run the same way, repulsive if opposite). If one wire is free to move, this magnetic force can itself balance that wire's weight:
2πhμ0I2L=mg⟹h=2πmgμ0I2L
This is exactly how a "current balance" apparatus works, and historically it is how the ampere was defined: the current that, flowing in two infinite parallel wires one metre apart, produces a force of exactly 2×10−7N per metre of length.
Case 3: balancing on a beam
A current-carrying coil arm hanging from one pan of a beam balance feels an extra force F=NBIl when only that arm sits in an external field. Re-balancing the beam means adding a mass m so that mg=NBIl.
Always check which length enters the formula - for a coil of N turns the force multiplies by N; for a single suspended straight wire it doesn't.
The direction of the magnetic force (via the right-hand rule on IL×B) has to already point the right way to oppose the other force - check direction FIRST, before solving the magnitude equation, or you may set up a balance condition that is physically backwards.
Why this differs from the general force law
The formula F=BILsinθ is common to every problem here - but "magnetic force balance" problems are specifically the ones where the magnetic force is set exactly equal to something else (gravity, another wire's force, a beam's counterweight) so the system sits still. It is this equilibrium framing, not the force law by itself, that defines the concept, and what distinguishes it from the general force-on-a-current topic.
Balancing the magnetic force on a current-carrying conductor against gravity or another wire's force is a classic numerical application from the NCERT Class 12 Physics chapter on moving charges and magnetism, tested in CBSE boards and JEE Main. Students searching "force on a current carrying conductor in magnetic field numericals class 12" will find this equilibrium-condition approach, including the historical current-balance definition of the ampere, matches the NCERT treatment.
Why this formula?
Magnetic Force Balance: Why the Key Formulas Hold
The Magnetic Force Balance describes when the magnetic force on a charged particle or current-carrying conductor is exactly balanced by another force (gravity, electric force, or tension). Let's build the reasoning step-by-step.
1. The Core Idea: What Does "Balance" Mean?
A force balance means the net force on an object is zero:
Fnet=0
For magnetic forces we use the Lorentz force law:
- On a moving charge: Fm=q(v×B)
- On a current-carrying wire: Fm=I(L×B)
When this is balanced by another force (say gravity Fg=mg):
Fm+Fother=0
2. Case 1: Charged Particle in Crossed Fields (Velocity Selector)
A charged particle moves perpendicular to both electric field E and magnetic field B.
- Electric force: Fe=qE (along E)
- Magnetic force: Fm=q(v×B) (perpendicular to both v and B)
For straight-line motion (no deflection), the two forces must cancel:
qE=qvB⇒v=BE
Key insight: Only particles with this exact speed pass undeflected — this is how velocity selectors work in mass spectrometers.
3. Case 2: Current-Carrying Wire Balanced by Gravity
A horizontal wire carrying current I sits in a perpendicular magnetic field B, suspended by strings.
The magnetic force on a straight wire is Fm=ILBsinθ; for a wire perpendicular to the field (θ=90∘), Fm=ILB. Setting this equal to the weight Fg=mg for equilibrium:
ILB=mg
Key insight: This balance lets you measure B if I, L, and m are known — the principle behind a current balance experiment.
4. Case 3: Circular Motion of a Charged Particle
A charged particle moving perpendicular to a uniform magnetic field has the magnetic force supply the centripetal force:
qvB=rmv2⇒r=qBmv
Key insight: The radius depends on momentum (mv) and charge-to-mass ratio — this is why cyclotrons and mass spectrometers work.
5. Quick Summary
| Situation | Balanced Forces | Key Formula |
|---|---|---|
| Velocity selector | qE vs qvB | v=E/B |
| Current balance | ILB vs mg | ILB=mg |
| Circular motion | qvB vs mv2/r | r=mv/(qB) |
Every formula follows the same recipe: identify all forces, set the vector sum to zero (or to ma), and solve along the direction of interest. Because the magnetic force is always perpendicular to both velocity/current and field, getting the direction right matters as much as the magnitude.
The key idea is that the magnetic field at the centre of a current-carrying arc depends only on the arc's angle and radius, while straight segments along the radial line contribute zero field.
Reasoning:
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Straight segments: For a straight wire, the magnetic field at a point on its extension is zero because the angle between the current element and the position vector is 0∘ or 180∘, making sinθ=0. Here, both straight segments lie along radii to the centre, so their contribution is zero.
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Semicircular arc: The field at the centre of a full circular loop is Bloop=2Rμ0I. A semicircle subtends an angle π radians (half of 2π), so its contribution is half that of a full loop: Bsemi=21⋅2Rμ0I=4Rμ0I.
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Direction and comparison: The field direction is given by the right-hand rule -- perpendicular to the plane of the arc. For a semicircle, the field resembles that of a full loop in direction and in depending on I/R, but differs in magnitude (half) because only half the loop contributes.
-
Reversal of arc: If the arc bulges downward instead of upward (Fig. 4.11b), the current direction along the arc reverses relative to the centre. The magnitude remains 4Rμ0I, but the field direction reverses (into the page instead of out, or vice versa).
- Zero;
- magnitude is half that of a full loop, direction same as for a full loop;
- magnitude unchanged, direction reversed.
The magnetic field at the centre of a current-carrying semicircular arc comes only from the curved part -- the straight segments contribute zero field because their lines of action pass through the centre. The semicircle gives half the field of a full circular loop, and flipping the arc simply reverses the field direction.
Why the Biot–Savart Law?
The Biot–Savart law tells us that a current element dl produces a magnetic field dB at a point given by
dB=4πμ0r2Idl×r^
where r^ points from the element to the observation point. The key geometric insight: if the current element lies along the line joining it to the observation point, the cross product dl×r^ is zero -- that element contributes nothing.
For the centre of a circular arc, every straight segment that points radially toward or away from the centre has dl parallel (or antiparallel) to r^, so its contribution vanishes. Only the curved part, where dl is perpendicular to r^, produces a field.
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Straight segments: zero contribution
In Fig. 4.11(a), the wire enters horizontally from the left, bends into a semicircle bulging upward, then continues horizontally to the right. At the centre of the semicircle, both straight segments lie along radii -- the left segment points directly toward the centre, the right segment points directly away from it. For any element on these straight parts, dl is exactly along r^ (or opposite), so dl×r^=0. Hence the magnetic field from the straight segments is zero.
Watch outA common mistake is to think the straight segments contribute like infinite wires. But the Biot–Savart law cares about the direction from element to point, not the overall wire shape. Here the centre lies exactly on the line of the straight segments -- the field from those segments is identically zero.
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Semicircle vs. full circular loop
For a full circular loop of radius R carrying current I, the field at the centre is
Bloop=2Rμ0I
directed perpendicular to the plane of the loop (right-hand rule).
For a semicircular arc, every current element dl on the curved part is perpendicular to r^ (since r^ points radially inward to the centre), and the magnitude of dl×r^ is just dl. Integrating over the semicircle (half the circumference, πR) gives
Bsemi=4πR2μ0I∫semicircledl=4πR2μ0I(πR)=4Rμ0I
Bsemicircle=4Rμ0I
This is exactly half the field of a full circular loop. The direction is the same as for the full loop -- perpendicular to the plane of the arc, following the right-hand rule.
Resemblance: Both produce a field perpendicular to the plane of the current, with magnitude proportional to I/R.
Difference: The semicircle gives exactly half the magnitude because only half the current elements contribute.
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Flipping the arc -- Fig. 4.11(b)
In Fig. 4.11(b), the wire is bent so the semicircle bulges downward instead of upward. The straight segments still lie along radii through the centre, so their contribution remains zero. The curved part still has the same radius and carries the same current -- the integration is identical. The magnitude of B is unchanged: B=μ0I/(4R).
What changes is the direction. Using the right-hand rule: for the upward bulge (a), current flows left-to-right along the arc, and the field points into the page. For the downward bulge (b), the current direction along the arc is reversed relative to the centre, so the field points out of the page. The magnitude is the same; only the sign flips.
TipThink of the semicircle as half a loop. Flipping the arc is like flipping the loop over -- the field reverses direction but keeps the same strength.
- The magnetic field due to the straight segments is zero.
- The semicircle gives half the field of a full circular loop (B=μ0I/4R), with the same perpendicular direction.
- Flipping the arc reverses the field direction but leaves the magnitude unchanged.
Method: Zero-Contribution Segments + Fraction-of-a-Loop for Biot-Savart Arcs
This method solves any "magnetic field at the centre of a bent/arc-shaped wire" problem by splitting the wire into pieces that contribute nothing and pieces that contribute a known fraction of the full-loop field.
Steps
Step 1: Check every straight segment for radial alignment
The Biot-Savart law gives dB∝dl×r^. Whenever a straight segment lies along the line joining it to the point where you want B (it points directly toward or away from that point), dl is parallel or antiparallel to r^, so the cross product -- and hence the field from that segment -- is exactly zero. Scan the wire's geometry first and eliminate every such segment before doing any integration.
Step 2: Identify the curved portion and its subtended angle
For the remaining curved part (a full circle, a semicircle, a quarter-circle, etc.), every element dl is perpendicular to r^, so the whole element contributes. The field of a full circular loop of radius R at its centre is the reference value:
Bloop=2Rμ0I
An arc subtending angle ϕ (out of 2π) contributes that same fraction of the full-loop field:
Barc=2πϕ⋅2Rμ0I
Step 3: Apply the direction via the right-hand rule, then track reversal
Curl the right-hand fingers in the direction of current flow around the arc; the thumb gives the field direction (into or out of the plane). If the arc's curvature is later reversed (bulging the other way) while the current path is unchanged, the magnitude from Steps 1-2 stays the same, but the current now circulates the opposite way around the same centre, so only the direction flips.
Applying to this problem: here ϕ=π (a semicircle), so Bsemi=21⋅2Rμ0I=4Rμ0I, and the straight segments contribute zero by Step 1.
Showing the 12 most recent of 17 on this concept.
- TG EAPCET 2026Set eng-2026-05-10-AN1 markMCQQ.Two long straight parallel wires P and Q carrying currents of 10A and 20A respectively in the same direction are placed in air with a separation of 10cm between them. Another long straight wire R carrying a current of 5A in the opposite direction is placed between the wires P and Q and parallel to them at a distance of 5cm from wire Q. Then the magnitude of the net force acting on wire R per unit length is (A) 6×10−4 Nm−1 (B) 2×10−4 Nm−1 (C) 4×10−4 Nm−1 (D) 8×10−4 Nm−1
›Reveal solutionSolution
R sits midway between P and Q. Both P and Q repel R (opposite currents), but from opposite sides, so the forces subtract: net =4×10−4−2×10−4=2×10−4 N m−1.
Setup
- Wire P: IP=10 A; Wire Q: IQ=20 A (same direction), separation 10 cm.
- Wire R: IR=5 A in the opposite direction, placed between them at 5 cm from Q — hence also 5 cm from P (exactly midway).
Force per unit length between two parallel wires:
LF=2πdμ0I1I2,2πμ0=2×10−7
Force on R due to P (d=0.05 m):
LFP=0.05(2×10−7)(10)(5)=2×10−4 N m−1
Opposite currents ⇒ repulsion, pushing R away from P (toward Q).
Force on R due to Q (d=0.05 m):
LFQ=0.05(2×10−7)(20)(5)=4×10−4 N m−1
Opposite currents ⇒ repulsion, pushing R away from Q (toward P).
Net force: the two are anti-parallel, so they subtract:
LFnet=4×10−4−2×10−4=2×10−4 N m−1
✓Final answerLFnet=2×10−4 N m−1 — option (B).
- TG EAPCET 2026Set eng-2026-05-11-FN1 markMCQQ.A long solenoid having 15 cm circumference and 70 turns per metre is carrying a current of 2A. The magnetic field inside the solenoid at a distance 1 cm from the surface and the magnetic field outside the solenoid respectively are (A) 0,1.76×10−4 T (B) 8.8×10−3 T,0 (C) 1.76×10−4 T,0 (D) 0,8.8×10−3 T
›Reveal solutionSolution
For an ideal solenoid, the magnetic field is uniform inside and zero outside. The given circumference is irrelevant because the field depends only on turns per metre and current. Inside: B=μ0nI=1.76×10−4 T; outside: B=0. The correct option is (C).
The key concept is the magnetic field of an ideal solenoid. An ideal solenoid is infinitely long and tightly wound, so the field lines are parallel inside and zero outside. The field inside is uniform and given by B=μ0nI, where n is the number of turns per unit length and I is the current. The circumference given (15 cm) is a red herring — it does not affect the field magnitude inside or outside for an ideal solenoid.
-
Identify the relevant parameters.
- Turns per metre: n=70 turns/m
- Current: I=2 A
- Permeability of free space: μ0=4π×10−7 T⋅m/A
- The distance from the surface (1 cm) is irrelevant for an ideal solenoid — inside, the field is uniform everywhere; outside, it is zero everywhere.
-
Compute the magnetic field inside the solenoid.
Using B=μ0nI:
B=(4π×10−7)×70×2
First, 70×2=140.
Then 4π×10−7×140=560π×10−7=5.6π×10−5.
Using π≈3.1416, 5.6×3.1416≈17.593, so
B≈1.7593×10−4 T≈1.76×10−4 T.
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Determine the magnetic field outside the solenoid.
For an ideal solenoid, the field outside is exactly zero. This holds regardless of distance from the surface, as long as we are outside the windings.
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Match with the options.
Inside: 1.76×10−4 T, outside: 0. This matches option (C).
Watch outA common mistake is to think the circumference matters — it does not for an ideal solenoid. The field depends only on turns per unit length, not on the total number of turns or the solenoid’s diameter.
TipThe phrase “at a distance 1 cm from the surface” is a distractor. In an ideal solenoid, the field is uniform across the entire cross-section inside, so any point inside gives the same value.
✓Final answerThe correct option is (C).
ANSWER: C
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- TG EAPCET 2026Set ap-2026-05-05-FN1 markMCQQ.A long horizontal straight wire P carrying a current of 120 A is fixed and another horizontal straight wire Q of linear mass density 1.2×10−2 kg m−1 is placed 2.5 cm below wire P. If the wire Q remains suspended in equilibrium in air, then the current through it is (Acceleration due to gravity =10 ms−2) (A) 225 A (B) 75 A (C) 250 A (D) 125 A
›Reveal solutionSolution
The key idea is that the magnetic force per unit length on wire Q due to wire P must exactly balance the weight per unit length of wire Q. Using the formula for force between parallel currents, the required current in Q is found to be 125 A.
The problem is about two parallel current-carrying wires. When two long straight wires carry currents, they exert a magnetic force on each other — attractive if the currents are in the same direction, repulsive if opposite. Here, wire Q is suspended below wire P and remains in equilibrium, meaning the net force on it is zero. The only forces acting on Q are its weight (downward) and the magnetic force from P (which must be upward to balance). So the magnetic force must be repulsive, implying the currents in P and Q are in opposite directions. But the question only asks for the magnitude of the current.
The magnetic force per unit length between two parallel wires separated by distance d, carrying currents I1 and I2, is given by:
Fm=2πdμ0I1I2
where μ0=4π×10−7 Tm/A.
For wire Q to be in equilibrium, this upward magnetic force per unit length must equal the downward weight per unit length of Q.
Let’s work through it step by step.
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Identify the given data
Current in wire P: IP=120 A
Linear mass density of wire Q: λ=1.2×10−2 kg/m
Separation: d=2.5 cm=2.5×10−2 m
Acceleration due to gravity: g=10 m/s2
μ0=4π×10−7 Tm/A
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Write the equilibrium condition
Weight per unit length of Q: w=λg
Magnetic force per unit length on Q: Fm=2πdμ0IPIQ
For equilibrium: Fm=w
So:
2πdμ0IPIQ=λg
- Solve for IQ Rearranging:
IQ=μ0IP2πdλg
Substitute the values:
IQ=(4π×10−7)×1202π×(2.5×10−2)×(1.2×10−2)×10
Simplify step by step. Cancel π:
IQ=4×10−7×1202×2.5×10−2×1.2×10−2×10
Multiply numerator: 2×2.5=5, so 5×1.2=6, and 6×10−2×10−2×10=6×10−3
Denominator: 4×10−7×120=480×10−7=4.8×10−5
So:
IQ=4.8×10−56×10−3=4.86×102=1.25×100=125 A
Watch outA common mistake is to forget converting cm to m, or to misplace the factor of 2π in the force formula. Always check units carefully.
TipNotice that the π cancels neatly because μ0 contains 4π. This is a typical simplification in such problems — keep an eye out for it.
✓Final answerThe current through wire Q is 125 A, which corresponds to option (D).
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- TG EAPCET 2025Set eng-2025-05-02-FN1 markMCQQ.A solenoid of length 50 cm and radius 10 cm has two closely wound layers of windings 100 turns each. If a current of 2.5 A is passing through the windings, the magnetic field (in 10−4 T) at a point 5 cm from the axis is (A) 2π (B) 31.4 (C) 4π (D) Zero
›Reveal solutionSolution
The key idea is that inside an ideal solenoid the magnetic field is uniform and axial, independent of radial distance from the axis. For a solenoid with two layers of 100 turns each, total turns = 200, length = 0.5 m, current = 2.5 A. The field at any interior point (including 5 cm from axis) is B=μ0nI=4π×10−4 T, which matches option (C).
Concept & Intuition
The magnetic field inside a long, tightly wound solenoid is nearly uniform and directed along its axis. This is because the field contributions from each turn add constructively inside, while outside they cancel. The standard formula B=μ0nI (where n = turns per unit length) applies for points well inside the solenoid, far from the ends. The radial position (here 5 cm from axis) does not matter as long as it is inside the solenoid — the field is the same everywhere inside. The radius of the solenoid (10 cm) is given only to confirm that the point at 5 cm is indeed inside.
Step-by-step reasoning
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Identify the relevant parameters
- Length of solenoid: L=50 cm=0.5 m
- Radius: R=10 cm=0.1 m
- Two layers, each with 100 turns → total turns N=200
- Current: I=2.5 A
- Point of interest: 5 cm from axis (inside the solenoid, since 5 cm < 10 cm)
-
Compute turns per unit length
n=LN=0.5200=400 turns per meter
- Apply the formula for the magnetic field inside an ideal solenoid
B=μ0nI
where μ0=4π×10−7 T⋅m/A.
- Substitute the numbers
B=(4π×10−7)×400×2.5
First compute 400×2.5=1000.
Then B=4π×10−7×1000=4π×10−4 T.
- Interpret the result The problem asks for the field in units of 10−4 T. So B=4π×10−4 T means the numerical value is 4π in those units. This corresponds to option (C).
Watch outA common mistake is to think the field depends on radial distance inside the solenoid, like in a straight wire. But inside a solenoid, the field is uniform — only near the ends does it vary. Also, do not forget to multiply by the number of layers: two layers of 100 turns each give 200 total turns.
TipIf the point were outside the solenoid (beyond the radius or beyond the ends), the field would be nearly zero. Here, 5 cm is well inside the 10 cm radius, so the full interior field applies.
✓Final answerThe correct option is (C).
ANSWER: C
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- TG EAPCET 2025Set eng-2025-05-03-AN1 markMCQQ.An alpha particle moving with certain speed towards east enters a uniform magnetic field directed vertically up. The alpha particle will then move in (A) vertical circular path with the same speed (B) horizontal circular path with the same speed (C) vertical circular path with increased speed (D) vertical circular path with decreased speed
›Reveal solutionSolution
The key idea is that the magnetic force is always perpendicular to velocity, so it changes only direction, not speed. For an alpha particle moving east in a vertical magnetic field, the force is horizontal, causing a horizontal circular path at constant speed. The correct option is (B).
The relevant concept is the magnetic force on a moving charge:
F=q(v×B)
This force is always perpendicular to both velocity and magnetic field. Because it does no work, the particle’s speed remains constant. The direction of the force determines the plane of the circular motion.
Let’s work through it step by step:
-
Identify the directions
- The alpha particle moves east (say, along the positive x-axis).
- The magnetic field is vertically up (say, along the positive z-axis).
- The charge of an alpha particle is positive (q=+2e).
-
Find the direction of the magnetic force
Use the right-hand rule for v×B:
- Point fingers east (velocity), curl them upward (field), thumb points north (positive y-direction).
- Since the charge is positive, the force is exactly in that direction. So the force is horizontal (north), not vertical.
-
Determine the motion’s plane
- The force is perpendicular to velocity, so it acts as a centripetal force.
- The velocity is east, the force is north — both are horizontal.
- Therefore, the particle moves in a horizontal circle (in the east–north plane).
- The magnetic field is vertical, so the circle lies in the horizontal plane.
-
Check the speed
- Magnetic force does no work (it’s always perpendicular to displacement), so speed remains constant.
- Hence, the motion is uniform circular motion in a horizontal plane.
Watch outA common mistake is to think the force is vertical because the field is vertical. But the cross product v×B gives a direction perpendicular to both, so here it’s horizontal.
TipIf the velocity were exactly parallel to the field, there would be no force at all. Here they are perpendicular, giving maximum force and a perfect circle.
✓Final answerThe correct option is (B).
ANSWER: B
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- TG EAPCET 2025Set eng-2025-05-03-FN1 markMCQQ.An alpha particle moving with certain speed towards east enters a uniform magnetic field directed vertically up. The alpha particle will then move in (A) vertical circular path with decreased speed (B) horizontal circular path with the same speed (C) vertical circular path with increased speed (D) vertical circular path with the same speed
›Reveal solutionSolution
The key is that the magnetic force is always perpendicular to velocity, so it does no work and speed stays constant; using the right-hand rule, the force is horizontal, so the path is a horizontal circle. The correct option is (B).
The relevant concept is the magnetic force on a moving charge:
F=q(v×B)
This force is always perpendicular to both the velocity and the magnetic field. Because it’s perpendicular to velocity, it does no work — so the speed of the particle never changes. The force only changes the direction of motion, causing circular motion in the plane perpendicular to the magnetic field.
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Identify the directions
- The alpha particle (positive charge, q=+2e) moves east. Let’s call east the +x direction.
- The magnetic field is directed vertically up. That’s the +z direction (if we take up as positive z).
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Apply the right-hand rule for magnetic force
For a positive charge, the force is in the direction of v×B.
- v points east (+x), B points up (+z).
- Cross product: x^×z^=−y^ (south). So the force is initially toward the south (horizontal, perpendicular to both east and up).
-
Determine the plane of motion
Since the force is always perpendicular to B, the motion stays in the plane perpendicular to the field. The field is vertical, so the perpendicular plane is horizontal. The particle will move in a horizontal circular path.
-
Check the speed
Magnetic force does no work (it’s always perpendicular to displacement), so the speed remains constant. The alpha particle moves with the same speed throughout.
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Eliminate other options
- (A) and (C) and (D) all mention “vertical circular path” — but the force is horizontal, so the circle is horizontal, not vertical.
- (A) says “decreased speed” — false, speed is constant.
- (C) says “increased speed” — false.
- (D) says “vertical circular path” — false.
Watch outA common mistake is to think the force is vertical because the field is vertical. But the force is perpendicular to both velocity and field — here that gives a horizontal force.
TipRemember: magnetic force only changes direction, never speed. So any option mentioning speed change is automatically wrong.
✓Final answerThe correct option is (B).
ANSWER: B
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- TG EAPCET 2025Set eng-2025-05-04-AN1 markMCQQ.A proton moving with a velocity of 8×105 ms−1 enters a uniform magnetic field normal to the direction of the magnetic field. If the radius of the circular path of the proton in the magnetic field is 8.3 cm, then the magnitude of the magnetic field is (Charge of proton =1.6×10−19 C and mass of the proton =1.66×10−27 kg) (A) 500 mT (B) 100 mT (C) 200 mT (D) 400 mT
›Reveal solutionSolution
The magnetic force provides the centripetal force for circular motion, so equating qvB=rmv2 gives B=qrmv. Substituting the given values yields B=0.1 T=100 mT, which corresponds to option (B).
The key idea is that when a charged particle moves perpendicular to a uniform magnetic field, the magnetic force acts as a centripetal force, causing the particle to move in a circle. The radius of that circle depends on the particle's mass, charge, speed, and the field strength. By equating the two forces, we can solve directly for the magnetic field.
- Identify the relevant physics For a charge q moving with speed v perpendicular to a uniform magnetic field B, the magnetic force is FB=qvB. This force is always perpendicular to the velocity, so it does no work but instead changes the direction of motion — exactly what is needed for circular motion. The centripetal force required to keep a mass m moving in a circle of radius r is Fc=rmv2. Setting them equal gives:
qvB=rmv2
Cancel one factor of v (since v=0):
qB=rmv
So the magnetic field magnitude is:
B=qrmv
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Convert all quantities to SI units
- Velocity: v=8×105 m/s (already SI)
- Radius: r=8.3 cm=8.3×10−2 m
- Charge: q=1.6×10−19 C
- Mass: m=1.66×10−27 kg
-
Plug in the numbers
B=(1.6×10−19)(8.3×10−2)(1.66×10−27)(8×105)
First compute the numerator:
1.66×8=13.28⇒13.28×10−22=1.328×10−21
(since 10−27×105=10−22)
Now the denominator:
1.6×8.3=13.28⇒13.28×10−21=1.328×10−20
(since 10−19×10−2=10−21)
So:
B=1.328×10−201.328×10−21=0.1 T
- Convert to millitesla 0.1 T=100 mT.
Watch outA common mistake is to forget to convert the radius from cm to m. Using r=8.3 (instead of 0.083) would give B=0.001 T=1 mT, which is not among the options — a clear sign something is off.
TipNotice that the numbers 1.66 and 1.6 are very close, and 8 and 8.3 are also close. This often means the calculation simplifies nicely — here the numerator and denominator both become 1.328×10−21 and 1.328×10−20, giving a clean factor of 0.1.
✓Final answerThe correct option is (B).
ANSWER: B
- TG EAPCET 2024Set eng-2024-05-09-AN1 markMCQQ.Two charged particles A and B of masses m and 2m, charges 2q and 3q respectively moving with same velocity enter a uniform magnetic field such that both the particles make same angle (<90∘) with the direction of the magnetic field. Then the ratio of the pitches of the helical paths of the particles A and B is (A) 4:3 (B) 3:2 (C) 3:4 (D) 2:3
›Reveal solutionSolution
The pitch of a helix in a magnetic field depends only on the parallel velocity component and the cyclotron frequency; since both particles have the same velocity and angle, the pitch ratio equals the inverse ratio of their masses, giving 4:3.
The key concept is that when a charged particle enters a uniform magnetic field at an angle, its velocity splits into two components: one parallel to the field (constant) and one perpendicular (causing circular motion). The pitch is the distance traveled along the field direction in one full cyclotron period. Since the parallel velocity is the same for both particles (same speed and same angle), the pitch ratio reduces to the ratio of their cyclotron periods, which is simply the ratio of their masses.
- Write the pitch formula. The pitch P of a helical path is given by
P=v∥⋅T
where v∥=vcosθ is the velocity component parallel to the magnetic field, and T is the cyclotron period.
- Express the cyclotron period. The cyclotron period for a particle of mass m and charge q in a magnetic field B is
T=qB2πm.
This comes from the angular frequency ω=mqB.
- Combine to get pitch in terms of given quantities.
P=(vcosθ)⋅qB2πm.
Notice that v, θ, and B are the same for both particles.
- Find the ratio for particles A and B. For particle A: mA=m, qA=2q →
PA=2qB2πmvcosθ=qBπmvcosθ.
For particle B: mB=2m, qB=3q →
PB=3qB2π(2m)vcosθ=3qB4πmvcosθ.
- Compute the ratio PA:PB.
PBPA=3qB4πmvcosθqBπmvcosθ=4/31=43.
So PA:PB=3:4.
TipA faster way: Since P∝qm (all other factors cancel), the ratio is mB/qBmA/qA=(2m)/(3q)m/(2q)=2/31/2=43.
Watch outA common mistake is to forget that the charge also affects the period — students sometimes take only mass into account, leading to the wrong ratio 1:2.
✓Final answerThe correct option is (C).
ANSWER: C
- TG EAPCET 2024Set eng-2024-05-11-FN1 markMCQQ.A straight wire carrying a current of 22 A is making an angle of 45∘ with the direction of uniform magnetic field of 3 T. The force per unit length on the wire due to the magnetic field is (A) 4 Nm−1 (B) 8 Nm−1 (C) 6 Nm−1 (D) 3 Nm−1
›Reveal solutionSolution
The force per unit length on a current-carrying wire in a magnetic field is given by F/L=IBsinθ. Substituting I=22A, B=3T, and θ=45∘ gives F/L=6N/m, so the correct option is (C).
The key concept here is the magnetic force on a current-carrying wire in a uniform field. The force depends not only on the current and field strength but also on the angle between the wire and the field — only the component of the current perpendicular to the field experiences the force. This is captured by the cross product F=IL×B, whose magnitude is ILBsinθ.
Let’s work through it step by step.
- Recall the formula for magnetic force on a straight wire. For a wire of length L carrying current I in a uniform magnetic field B, the magnitude of the force is
F=ILBsinθ
where θ is the angle between the direction of the current and the magnetic field.
The force per unit length is then
LF=IBsinθ.
-
Identify the given values.
- Current, I=22 A
- Magnetic field, B=3 T
- Angle, θ=45∘
-
Compute sin45∘.
sin45∘=22
- Plug into the formula.
LF=(22)×3×22
- Simplify step by step. Multiply the numerical parts:
22×22=22×2=2
(since 2×2=2).
Then multiply by 3:
LF=2×3=6 N/m
TipNotice that 22×22=2 exactly — the 2 factors cancel neatly. This is a common pattern when θ=45∘: the sin and any 2 in the current often simplify.
Watch outA classic mistake is to forget the sinθ factor and just multiply I and B, getting 62≈8.5 N/m, which isn’t even among the options. Always check the angle!
Thus, the force per unit length is 6 N/m.
✓Final answerThe correct option is (C).
ANSWER: C
- TG EAPCET 2023Set ap-2023-05-10-FN1 markMCQQ.Two long straight parallel conductors are 2 cm apart and carry currents of 5 A and 10 A in opposite directions. The force per unit length of each conductor is (A) 5×10−6 Nm−1 (B) 5×10−4 Nm−1 (C) 2×10−6 Nm−1 (D) 5×10−8 Nm−1
›Reveal solutionSolution
When two parallel conductors carry currents in opposite directions, they repel each other. The force per unit length is calculated using the formula F/L=μ0I1I2/(2πd), which gives a value of 5×10−4 Nm−1.
The fundamental concept here is that a current-carrying wire produces a magnetic field around it. When another current-carrying wire is placed within this magnetic field, it experiences a magnetic force. This is a direct consequence of the Lorentz force law.
For two long, straight, parallel conductors:
- One conductor (say, wire 1) carrying current I1 creates a magnetic field in the space around it. The magnetic field lines form concentric circles around the wire.
- The second conductor (wire 2) carrying current I2 is situated in this magnetic field. Since wire 2 is carrying a current, its moving charges interact with the magnetic field produced by wire 1, resulting in a force on wire 2.
- Crucially, the force on wire 1 due to the magnetic field of wire 2 will be equal in magnitude and opposite in direction to the force on wire 2 due to the magnetic field of wire 1, as per Newton's third law.
The direction of the force depends on the relative direction of the currents:
- If the currents are in the same direction, the wires attract each other.
- If the currents are in opposite directions, the wires repel each other. In this problem, the currents are in opposite directions, so the conductors will repel each other. The question asks for the magnitude of the force per unit length.
The magnitude of the force per unit length (F/L) between two long, straight, parallel conductors carrying currents I1 and I2 separated by a distance d is given by:
LF=2πdμ0I1I2
where μ0 is the permeability of free space, with a value of 4π×10−7 Tm/A.
›Proof
Derivation of the formula
- Consider a long straight wire (wire 1) carrying current I1. The magnetic field B1 produced by this wire at a perpendicular distance d from it is given by Ampere's law: B1=2πdμ0I1 The direction of B1 can be found using the right-hand thumb rule.
- Now, consider a second long straight wire (wire 2) carrying current I2, placed parallel to wire 1 at a distance d. Wire 2 is immersed in the magnetic field B1 produced by wire 1.
- The force F2 experienced by a length L of wire 2 due to the magnetic field B1 is given by the Lorentz force law for a current-carrying conductor: F2=I2(L×B1) Since wire 2 is parallel to wire 1, and the magnetic field B1 circles wire 1, the current L in wire 2 is perpendicular to the magnetic field B1 at the location of wire 2. Therefore, the angle between L and B1 is 90∘, and sin90∘=1.
- The magnitude of the force on length L of wire 2 is: F2=I2LB1
- Substitute the expression for B1: F2=I2L(2πdμ0I1)
- The force per unit length (F/L) on wire 2 is then: LF2=2πdμ0I1I2 By symmetry and Newton's third law, the force per unit length on wire 1 due to wire 2 is equal in magnitude.
Now, let's apply this formula to the given problem.
-
Identify the given values:
- Current in the first conductor, I1=5 A
- Current in the second conductor, I2=10 A
- Distance between the conductors, d=2 cm
- Permeability of free space, μ0=4π×10−7 Tm/A
-
Convert units to SI:
The distance d must be in meters.
d=2 cm=2×10−2 m
-
Substitute the values into the formula:
LF=2πdμ0I1I2
LF=2π×(2×10−2 m)(4π×10−7 Tm/A)×(5 A)×(10 A)
- Perform the calculation:
LF=4π×10−24π×10−7×50
The $4\pi$ terms cancel out:LF=10−210−7×50
LF=50×10−7×102
LF=50×10−5 Nm−1
Expressing this in standard scientific notation:LF=5×10−4 Nm−1
- Compare with options: The calculated value 5×10−4 Nm−1 matches option (B).
✓Final answerThe force per unit length of each conductor is 5×10−4 Nm−1.
- TG EAPCET 2023Set eng-2023-05-14-AN1 markMCQQ.A current carrying loop is placed in a uniform magnetic field ‘B’ in different orientations I, II, III and IV as shown in the figure. The correct order of decreasing potential energy is (n^- unit vector normal to the plane of the loop) (A) I, III, II, IV (B) I, II, III, IV (C) I, IV, II, III (D) III, IV, I, II
›Reveal solutionSolution
Use U=−mBcosθ: energy falls monotonically as the angle between n^ and B shrinks from 180∘ to 0∘. Ranking the four pictures by that angle gives I, IV, II, III — option (C).
The concept first
A current loop of area A carrying current I behaves like a tiny bar magnet with magnetic moment
m=IAn^,
where n^ is the unit normal fixed by the right-hand rule from the current sense. In an external field the loop stores orientational potential energy
U=−m⋅B=−mBcosθ.
Why the minus sign? Because a magnet wants to line up with the field. Aligned (θ=0) is the state of lowest energy, U=−mB — stable equilibrium. Anti-aligned (θ=180∘) is the state of highest energy, U=+mB — unstable equilibrium (nudge it and it flips). Perpendicular is exactly halfway: U=0, and this is where the torque τ=mBsinθ is largest.
The key monotonic fact: as θ decreases from 180∘ to 0∘, cosθ increases, so U=−mBcosθ decreases steadily. Ranking energy is therefore just ranking the angle θ, from biggest to smallest.
Step-by-step
1. Orientation I. n^ points left, B points right — they lie on the same line, opposite senses: θ=180∘.
UI=−mBcos180∘=+mB(maximum possible).
2. Orientation IV. n^ points up-and-to-the-left while B points right — an obtuse angle (between 90∘ and 180∘). So cosθ<0 and
0<UIV<mB.
It sits below I but above the perpendicular case.
3. Orientation II. n^ points straight down, B straight right: θ=90∘.
UII=−mBcos90∘=0.
4. Orientation III. Here n^ is tilted so that it makes an acute angle with B (it leans towards the field direction). Then cosθ>0 and
UIII=−mBcosθ<0,
the lowest of the four — this loop is closest to the stable, aligned orientation.
5. Assemble the ranking (largest → smallest).
UI=+mB>UIV>0>=UII=0>UIII<0
I, IV, II, III
✓Final answerThe correct order of decreasing potential energy is I, IV, II, III, so the correct option is (C).
ANSWER: C
- TG EAPCET 2022Set eng-2022-07-18-AN1 markMCQQ.Assertion (A) : The magnetic field lines are continuous and form closed loops. Reason (R) : Magnetic monopole does not exist. The correct option among the following is (A) (A) is true, (R) is true and (R) is the correct explanation for (A) (B) (A) is true, (R) is true but (R) is not the correct explanation for (A) (C) (A) is true but (R) is false (D) (A) is false but (R) is true
›Reveal solutionSolution
Both statements are true, and the non-existence of magnetic monopoles is the direct cause of the closed-loop nature of magnetic field lines (Gauss's law for magnetism). Option (A).
The concept first
Compare the two fields:
- Electric field. Charges come singly. A field line starts on a positive charge and ends on a negative one, so Gauss's law reads ∮E⋅dS=ε0qenc — a net flux exists whenever a charge is enclosed.
- Magnetic field. Despite long searches, an isolated magnetic pole has never been observed. Cut a bar magnet in half and each piece is again a complete dipole with its own N and S. Consequently Gauss's law for magnetism is
∮SB⋅dS=0(equivalently ∇⋅B=0)
for every closed surface.
Step-by-step
- Is the Reason true? Yes — no magnetic monopole has ever been detected; magnetic sources are always dipoles (current loops or spins). (R) is true.
- Is the Assertion true? Yes. Whatever magnetic field lines you draw — around a bar magnet, a solenoid, a straight current-carrying wire — they never terminate. Outside a bar magnet they run N → S; inside the magnet they continue S → N, completing the loop. Around a wire they are perfect circles. (A) is true.
- Does (R) explain (A)? This is the key step. A field line can only begin at a source or end at a sink of flux. ∇⋅B=0 says there are no sources or sinks of B anywhere — and that equation is nothing other than the statement "magnetic monopoles do not exist". With no place to begin and no place to end, a line has only one option: to close on itself. So the absence of monopoles is exactly why the lines form continuous closed loops.
- Therefore both are true and (R) is the correct explanation of (A).
✓Final answer(A) and (R) are both true and (R) correctly explains (A), so the correct option is (A).
ANSWER: A
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