Questions Based on NCERT/Part - 1 [Physics]

Electric Charge & Fields

1.

(a)

Explain the meaning of the statement 'Electric charge of a body is quantized'.

(b)

Why can one ignore quantization of electric charge when dealing with macrocopic, i.e. large scale
charges?

SOLUTION :
(a)

The electric charge of a body is quantized means that the charge on a body can occur in some integral values
only. Charge on any body is the integral multiple of charge on an electron because the charge of an electron
is the elementary charge in nature. The on any body can be expressed by the formula q ne where,
n = number of electrons transferred and e = charge on one electron
The cause of quantization is that only integral number of electrons can be transferred from one body to other.

(b)

We can ignore the quantization of electric charge when dealing with macroscopic charges because the
charge on one electron is 1.6 1019 C in magnitude, which is very small as compared to the large scale
change.

2.

When a glass rod is rubbed with a silk cloth, charges appear on both. A similar phenomenon is observed with
many other pair of bodies. Explain how this observation is consistent with the law of conservation of charge.
SOLUTION :
According to the law of conservation of charge, "charge can neither be created nor be destroyed but can be transferred
from one body to another body".
Before rubbing the two bodies they both are neutral i.e, the total charge of the system is zero. When the glass rod is
rubbed with a silk cloth, the charge appears on both glass rod and the silk cloth. Some electrons from glass rod attain
positive charge (due to loss of electrons) and silk cloth attains same negative charge (due to gain of electrons).
Again the total charge of the system is zero i.e., the charge before rubbing is same as the charge after rubbing. This is
consistent with the law of conservation of charge. Here, we can also say that changes can be created only in equal and
unlike pairs.

3.

(a)

An electrostatic field line is a continuous curve. That is, a field line cannot have sudden breaks.
Why not?

(b)

Explain why two field lines never cross each other at any point?

SOLUTION :

4.

(a)

An electrostatic field line represents that actual path travelled by a unit positive charge in an electric field. If
the line have sudden breaks it means the unit positive test charge jumps from one place to another which is
not possible. It also means that electric field becomes zero suddenly at the breaks which is not possible. So,
the field line cannot have any sudden breaks.

(b)

If two field lines cross each other, then we can draw two tangents at the point of
intersection which indicates that (as tangent drawn at any point on electric line of
force gives the direction of electric field point) there are two directions of electric
field at a particular point, which is not possible at the same instant. Thus, two field
lines never cross each other at any point.

The given figure shows tracks of three charged

particles in a uniform electrostatic field. Given the
signs of the three charges. Which particle has the
highest charge to mass ratio ?
SOLUTION :
We know that a positively charged particle is attracted towards the negatively charged plate and a negatively charged
particle is attracted towards the positively charged plate.

Here, particle 1 and particle 2 are attracted towards positive plate that means particle 1 and particle 2 are negatively
charged. Particle 3 is attracted towards negatively charged plate so it is positively charged. As the deflection in the
path of a charged particle is directly proportional to the charge/mass ratio.
q
m
Here, the deflection in particle 3 is maximum, so the charge to mass ratio of particle 3 is maximum.
y

5.

(a)

A conductor A with a cavity as shown in Fig. (a) is given a charge Q. Show that the entire charge
must appear on the outer surface of the conductor.

(b)

Another conductor B with charge q is inserted into

the cavity keeping B insulated from A. Shown that
the total charge on the outside surface of A is Q + q
[Fig. (b)]

(c)

A sensitive instrument is to be shielded from the

strong electrostatic field in its environment.
Suggest a possible way.
SOLUTION :
(a)

As we know the property of conductor that the net electric field inside a charged conductor is zero,
i.e., E = 0
Now let us choose a Gaussian surface lying completely inside the conductor enclosing the cavity. So, from
Gauss's theorem
q

E. dS 0
As

E=0
q
0
0
q=0

That means the charge inside the cavity is zero. Thus, the entire charge Q on the conductor must appear on
the outer surface of the conductor.
(b)

As the conductor B carrying a charge +q inserted in the cavity, the charge q is induced on the metal
surface of the cavity and then charge + q induced on the outside surface of the conductor A. Initially the
outer surface of A has a charge Q and now it has a charge + q induced, so the total charge on the outer
surface of A is Q + q.

(c)
6.

To protect any sensitive instrument from electrostatic field, the sensitive instrument must be put in the
metallic cover. This is known as electrostatic shielding.

A hollow charged conductor has a tiny hole cut into its surface. Show that the electric field in the hole is

n , where n is the unit vector in the outward normal direction and is the surface charge density near
2 0
the hole.
SOLUTION :
Surface charge density near the hole = . Unit vector = n (normal directed outwards).
Let P be the point on the hole. The electric field at Point P closed to the surface of conductor, according to Gauss's
theorem,
q

E . dS 0
q

ds q ds where, dS area

where, q is the charge near the hole.

dS
EdS cos
0

Angle between electric field and area vector is 0

Eds

dS
0

( q / dS q dS where, dS = area)

0

E
n
0
E

This electric field is due to the filled up hole and the field due to the rest of the charged conductor. The two fields
inside the conductor are equal and opposite. So, there is no electric field inside the conductor. Outside the conductor,
1

the electric field at P due to each part = E
n
2
2 0
7.

(a)

Consider an arbitrary electrostatic field configuration. A small test charge is placed at a null point
(i.e., where, E = 0) of the configuration. Show that the equilibrium of the test charge is necessarily
unstable.

(b)

Verify this result for the simple configuration of two charges of the same magnitude and sign placed a
certain distance apart.

SOLUTION :
(a)

Let us consider that initially the test charge is in the stable equilibrium. When the test charge is displaced
from the null point (where, E = 0) in any direction, it must experience a restoring force towards the null
point.
This means that there is a net inward flux through a closed surface around the null point. According to the
Gauss's theorem, the net electric flux through a surface net enclosing any charge must be zero. Hence, the
equilibrium is not stable.

(b)

8.

The middle point of the line joining two like charges is a null point. If
we displace at test charge slightly along the line, the restoring force
try to bring the test charge back to the centre. If we displace the test
charge normal to the line, the net force on the test charge takes it
further away from the null point. Hence, the equilibrium is not stable.

A polythene piece rubbed with wool is found to have a negative charge of 3 107 C .
(a)

Estimate the number of electrons transferred (from which to which)?

(b)

Is there a transfer of mass from wool to polythene?

SOLUTION :
Given charge on polythene = 3 10 7 C
(a)

The charge on an object is given by q ne

The number of electrons transferred n

()

Total charge q

()

Charge of electron e
3 10 7

1.6 10

19

1.875 1012

Thus, the number of electrons transferred is 1.875 1012 . Electrons will be transferred from wool to
polythene because polythene attains the negative charge that means it gains the electrons.
(b)

As the electrons are transferred from wool to polythene, the mass is also transferred because along with the
charge each electron will also carry its mass.
The number of electrons transferred = 1.875 1012
The mass of one electron = 9.1 10 31 kg
Mass transferred from wool to polythene
= Number of electrons Mass of one electron
= 1.875 1012 9.1 1031 1.8 10 18 kg
Thus, 1.8 10 18 kg mass transferred from wool to polythene.

9.

Careful measurement of the electric field at the surface of a black box indicates that the net outward flux
through the surface of the box is 8.0 103 N m2 / C .
(a)

What is the net charge inside the box?

(b)

If the net outward flux through the surface of the box were zero, could you conclude that there were
no charges inside the box? Why not?

SOLUTION :
Using the concept of Gausss theorem,
(a)

Given, Net outward flux

Charge
q

q 0 8.854 1012 103

0
0

From Gausss theorem q 0.07 10 6 C 0.07 C

The flux is outward hence the charge is positive in nature.
(b)

Net outward flux = 0

Then, we can conclude that the net charge inside the box is zero, i.e., the box may have either zero charge or
have equal amount of positive and negative charges. It means we cannot conclude that there is no charge
inside the box.

10.

Which among the curves shown in figures cannot possibly represent electrostatic field lines?

SOLUTION :
(a)

According to the properties of electric lines of force, the lines should be always perpendicular to the surface
of a conductor as they starts or they ends. Here, some of the lines are not perpendicular to the surface, thus it
cannot represent the electrostatic field lines.

(b)

According to the property of electrostatic field lines, they never start from negative charge, here some of the
lines start from negative charge. So, it cannot represent the electrostatic field lines.

(c)

As the property of electric field lines that they start outwards from positive charge. Hence, it represent the
electrostatic field lines.

(d)

By the property of electric field lines, two electric field never intersect each other.

(e)

By the property of electric field lines that they are not in the form of closed loops. Here, the lines from closed
loop, so it does not represent the electric field lines.

Electrostatic Potential & Capacitance

1.

1
QE , where Q is the
2
charge on the capacitor and E is the magnitude of electric field between the plates. Explain the origin of the
factor 1/2
Show that the force on each plate of a parallel plate capacitor has a magnitude equal to

SOLUTION :
Let the distance between the plates be increased by a very small distance x . The force on each plate is F.
The amount of work done in increasing the separation by x
= Force Increased distance
= F . x

. . . . .(i)

Increase in volume of capacitor = Area of plates Increased distance

A .x

Energy
Volume
Energy = u Volume = u . A. x

u = Energy density =

As

. . . .(ii)

Energy = Work done

F . x u . A.x

[From Eqs. (i) and (ii) ]

u. A

0E2 . A
2

1
V2
0 . 2 . A
2
d

A
V 1
0 .V
d
d 2

1
V

2
u 2 0 E and E d

0A

CV q
C
d

1
1
E.C.V QE
2
2

1
in the force can be explained by the fact that the field is zero inside the conductor and outside the
2
E
conductor, field is E. So, the average value of the field i.e.,
contributes to the force against which the plates are
2
moved.

The factor of

2.

Describe schematically the equipotential surfaces corresponding to :

(a)

a constant electric field in the Z-direction,

(b)

a field that uniformly increases in magnitude but remains in a constant (say, Z) direction,

(c)

a single positive charge at the origin and

(d)

a uniform grid consisting of long equally spaced parallel charged wires in a plane.

SOLUTION :

3.

(a)

As the constant electric field in the Z-axis direction, the equipotential surfaces are normal to the field,
i.e., in X-Y plane. The equipotential surfaces are equidistant from each other.

(b)

As the electric field increases in the direction of

Z-axis, the equipotential surface is normal to Z-axis
i.e., in X-Y plane and they become closer and closer
as the field increases.

(c)

As a single positive charge placed at origin, the

equipotential surfaces are concentric circles with
origin at centre

(d)

The shape of equipotential surfaces changes

periodically and they are distant from each other.
They are parallel to grid itself.

(a)

The top of the atmosphere is at about 400 kV with respect to the surface of the earth, corresponding to
an electric field that decreases with altitude. Near the surface of the earth, the field is about 100 V/m.
Then why do we not get an electric shock as we step out of our house into the open? (Assume the house
to be a steel cage so there is no field inside).

(b)

A man fixes outside his house one evening a 2m high insulating slab carrying on its top a large
aluminium sheet of area 1 m2. Will he get an electric shock, if he touches the metal sheet next
morning?

(c)

The discharging current in the atmosphere due to the small conductivity of air is known to be 1800 A
on an average over the globe. Then why does the atmosphere not discharge itself completely in due
course and become electrically neutral? In other words, what keeps the atmosphere charged?

(d)

What are the forms of energy into which the electrical energy of the atmosphere is dissipated during a
lighting?

(Hint : The earth has an electric field of about 100 V/m at its surface in the downward direction, corresponding to a
surface charge density = 109 C / m2 . Due to the slight conductivity of the atmosphere upto about 50 km (beyond
which it is good conductor), about + 1800 C is pumped every second into the earth as a whole. However, the earth,
does not get discharged since thunderstorms and lighting occurring continually all over the globe pump an equal
amount of negative charge on the earth).
SOLUTION :

4.

(a)

As our body and the earth both are conducting in nature, so our body and earth form an equipotential
surface. As we goes out into the open air from our house, the original equipotential surfaces of open air
charged keeping our body and ground at the same potential. So, we do not get any shock. As our house is a
steel cage i.e., it is protected by electric field or there is electrostatic shielding for our house.

(b)

Yes, the man gets an electric shock, if he touches the metal sheet next morning because the atmospheric
currents charge the sheet and thus its potential raises and we get a shock.

(c)

The atmosphere does not discharge itself completely in due course because our atmosphere is charged by
thunderstorms and also discharge due to the small conductivity of air.

(d)

The electrical energy of the atmosphere is dissipated during a lightning in the form of heat, sound and light
energy.

Answer the following problems carefully :

(a)
Two large conducting spheres carrying charges Q1 and Q2 are brought close to each other. Is the
magnitude of electrostic force between them exactly given by Q1Q2 / 4 0 r 2 , where r is the distance
(b)
(c)

between their centres?

If Coulombs law involved 1/r3 dependence (instead of 1/r2 ), would Gausss law be still true?
A small test charge is released at rest at a point in an electrostatic field configuration. Will it travel
along the field line passing through that point?

(d)
(e)
(f)
(g)

What is the work done by the field of a nucleus in a complete circular orbit of the electron? What if
the orbit is elliptical?
We know that electric field is discontinuous across the surface of a charged conductor. Is electric
potential also discontinuous there?
What meaning would you give to the capacitance of a single conductor?
Guess a possible reason why water has a much greater dielectric constant (= 80) that say, mica (= 6).

SOLUTION :
(a)

As the two large conducting spheres carrying charges Q1 and Q2 are brought close to each other, are brought
close to each other, the charge distribution is not uniform and the electrostatic force which is given by
Q1Q2
4 0 r 2

is not valid. It is valid for only uniform charge distribution.

1

(b)

No, Gausss law cannot be true. It is true only if the Coulombs law involved

(c)

If the electric field lines are straight then the direction of acceleration on the test charge is same as that of
electric field and test charge move along the field lines.

r2

dependence.

If the electric field lines are curved, then the direction of acceleration charge at each point and the test charge
do not move along the field lines.

5.

(d)

As we know that the electrostatic force is conservative in nature, i.e., the work done is independent of path
traveled. Hence, if the path is circular or elliptical, then always the work done is zero.

(e)

No, the electric potential is always continuous, if the electric field is discontinuous.

(f)

If there is a single conductor that means the second conductor is placed at infinity.

(g)

Water has greater dielectric constant then mica because the shape of water molecule is unsymmetrical and it
has permanent dipole moment.

Find the equation of equipotentials for an infinite cylinder of radius r0, carrying charge of linear density .
SOLUTION :
There is an infinite cylinder of radius r0 and having linear charge density . Assume a Gaussian surface of radius
r and length l.

According of Gausss theorem,

q

E .dS 0
l

E.dS 0

( q l )
( Angle between E and dS is zero.)

E dS E . 2 rl
E

l
0

2 0 r

[where ( 2 rl ) is area of the curved surface of the cylinder.]

. . . .(i)

If the radius is r0 , we find the potential difference at distance r from the line consider the electric field. According to
the formula of potential gradient,
r

V( r ) V( r )
0

E . dr
r0

V( r ) V( r )
0

20 r . dr

(angle between E and dr is zero.)

r0

2 0

dr

. loge r r
0
r
2 0
r0

loge r loge r0
2 0

. log e r0 log e r
2 0
r

. log 0
r
2 0
2 0

V V( r )
0
( r )
2 0

V V( r )
0
( r )

r
loge 0
r
r
loge
r0

2 0

r
e
r0

V V
( r0 )
( r )

2 0

V V
( r0 )
( r )
This is the equation of required equipotential surfaces.
r r0 e

6.

A capacitor is made of two circular plates of radius R each, separated by a distance d R . The capacitor is
connected to a constant voltage. A thin conducting disc of radius r R and thickness t r is placed at a
centre of the bottom plate. Find the minimum voltage required to lift the disc, if the mass of the disc is m.
SOLUTION :
There are two circular plates of radius R and they are separated by a distance d.
They are connected to a voltage V. Radius of small disc = r
Thickness of disc = t
Mass of the disc = m
As the disc of radius r is in touch with the bottom plate of radius R,
the entire plate becomes an equipotential surface.
Let the amount of charge transferred to the disc be q
The electric field on the disc =

Potential Difference V

Distance
d

. . . .(i)

Charge q = Capacitance Voltage

q CV 0

r2
A
; = 0
. . . .(ii)
.V
.V
d
d
(where, A is area of disc of radius r and distance between plates is d.)

Force on the disc F = Charge Electric field

q
0

V
d

r 2V V
.
d
d

F 0 r 2

From Eq.

. . . .(ii)

V2

. . . .(iii)
d2
If the disc is lifted up, then its weight is balanced by the electrostatic force.
mg = F
mg 0 r 2

V2

mgd 2

0 r 2

V2

. . . .(iii)

d2

mgd 2

0 r 2

Thus, the minimum voltage required to lift the disc is

mgd 2

0 r 2

7.

Two metal spheres, one of radius R and the other of radius 2R,
both have same surface charge density . They are brought in
contact and separated. What will be new surface charge densities
on them ?
SOLUTION :
Radius of sphere A = R
Surface charge density on sphere A
Radius of sphere B = 2R
Surface charge density on sphere B
Before contact, the charge on sphere A is

Q1 = Surface charge density Surface area

. 4 R 2

. . . .(i)

Before contact, the charge on sphere B is

Q2 = Surface charge density Surface area

2

Q2 . 4 ( 2 R ) . 16 R 2 . . . .(ii)

Let after the contact, the charge on A is Q1 and the charge on B is Q2 . According to the conservation of charge, the
before contact is equal to charge after contact.

Q1 Q2 Q1 Q2 .Putting the values of Q1 and Q2 from Eqs. (i) and (ii), we get
Q1 Q2 4 R 2 16 R 2

20 R 2

. . . .(iii)

As they are in contact. So, they have same potential.

Q
1
Potential on sphere A is VA
. 1
4 0 R
1
Q
Potential on sphere B is VB
. 2
4 0 2 R
Q
Q
1
1
. 1
. 2
4 0 R
4 0 2 R

VA VB

So,

Q1 Q2

R
2R
Putting the value of Q2 in Eq. (iii), we get

2Q1 Q2

Q1 2Q1 20 R 2
3Q1 20 R 2

20
40
R 2 and Q2
R2
3
3
Let the new charge densities be 1 and 2 .
Q1
20 R2
5
1

2
2
3
4 R
3.4 R
Q1

2
2

Q2
4 ( 2 R )

40 R 2
3 4 4 R

0
16 3

10
5

43 6

Thus, the surface charge densities on spheres after contacting are

5
5
and
3
6

8.

(a)

(b)

Show that the normal component of electrostatic field has a discontinuity from one side of a charged
where, n is a unit vector normal to the surface at a
surface to another given by ( E2 E1 ) n
0
point and is the surface charged density at that point. (The direction of n is form side 1 to side 2).
Hence, show that just outside a conductor, the electric field is n 0
Show that the tangential component of electrostatic field is continuous from one side of charged
surface to another. [Hint : for (a), use Gausss law. For (b) use the fact that work done by electrostatic
field on a closed loop is zero.]

SOLUTION :
(a)

Let AB be a charged surface having two sides as marked in the figure. A cylinder enclosing a small area S
of the charged surface is the Gaussian surface.

According to Gausss theorem, total flux linked with the surface

S
0

or

I A1 . dS III Eq . dS

S A .dS 0

S
0

as 90

cos 90 0

or

E1 S n1 E2 . S n1
S
0

where E1 + E2 are the electric fields through circular cross sections of cylinder all II and III respectively.

or
E1 . n1 E2 . n 2
or
E1 . n 2 E2 .n 2
n1 n 2
0
0

( )

or

( E2

E1 ) . n 2
0

or

( E2

E1 ) . n

( n 2 n = unit vector from side 1 to side 2.)

. . . . (i)

Hence proved.
It is clear from the figure that E1 lies inside the conductor. Also we know that the electric field inside the conductor is
zero.

E1 = 1
Thus from Eq. (i)

E 2 . n
0
or
or
(b)

( E2 . n ) . n 0 n

n
0

electric field just outside the conductor =
n
0
or

E2

( n . n 1)
Hence proved.

The tangential component of electrostatic field is continuous from

one side of a charged surface to another, we use that the work done
by electrostatic field on a closed loop is zero.
Let ABA be a charged surface in the field of a point charge q lying
at origin. Let rA and rB be its positive vectors at points A and B
respectively.
Let E be electric field at point P, thus E cos is the tangential
component of electric field E.

E . d 1 Edl . / cos ( E cos ) dl

To prove that E cos is continuously from one to another side of the charge surface, we have to find the
value of

AaBba E .d1 . If it comes to be zero then we can say that tangential component of E is continuous.
B

E . d1

1
1
1

q .

4 0 rA rB
B

and

E . d1 4 0 q . rB
B

rA

AaBbA E . d1 E.d1 E.d1

A

1
1
1
1
1

.q .

4 0
r
r
r
r
B
B
A
A
=0
Hence proved.

9.

A long charged cylinder of linear charged density is surrounded by a hollow co-axial conducting cylinder.
What is the electric field in the space between the two cylinder?
SOLUTION :
Let there be a long charged cylinder A of linear charge density ,
length l and radius a. Now, one more hollow co-axial cylinder B of
same length l and radius b surrounds the cylinder A(b > a)
The charge on cylinder A q l
Total charge = Linear charge density Length
This charge spreads uniformly on A and a charge q is induced on
B. Let E be the electric field produced in the space between the two
cylinders. Consider a Gaussian cylindrical surface of radius r between
the two given cylinders.
Electric flux linked with the Gaussian surface

E E . dS E . dS cos 0 E dS E 2 rl

[As angle between the direction of electric field and area vector is zero]
According to Gausss theorem,

E 2 rl

q
0

E 2 rl

l
0

11.

2 0 r

Two charged conducting spheres of radii a and b are connected to each other by a wire. What is the ratio of
electric fields at the surfaces of the two spheres? Use the result obtained to explain why charge density on the
sharp and pointed ends of a conductor is higher than on its flatter portions.
SOLUTION :
As the two conducting spheres are connected to each other by a wire, the charge always flows from higher potential
to lower potential till both have same potential.

Capacitance of sphere (1),

C1 4 0b
Capacitance of sphere (2),

C2 4 0b

. . . . .(i)

Charge Q1 on C1.
Q1 = C1V
Charge Q2 on C2,

. . . . .(ii)
Q2 = C2V

Where V, is the same potential on both the spheres.

Q1 C1

Q2 C2

[From Eqs. (i) and (ii)]

Putting the values of C1 and C2, we get :

4 0 a a
Q1

Q2
4 0 b b
Q1 a

Q2 b

. . . . .(iii)

Charge density on sphere (1),

1
1

Charge
Surface area
Q1
4 a 2

Charge density on sphere (2),

2
2
or

Charge
Surface area

1 b 2 Q1 b 2 a

.
2 a 2 Q2 a 2 b

Q2
4 b 2

1 b

2 a

[From Eq. (iii)]

. . . .(iv)

The ratio of electric field on both spheres

b
E1 1

E2 2
a

[From Eq. (iv)]

As charge density is inversely proportional to radius.

Thus, for flatter portions, the radius is more and at pointed ends radius is less, thus the charge density is more at
pointed or sharp ends.
12.

An electrical technician requires a capacitance of 2 F in a circuit across a potential difference of 1 kV. A large
number of 1 F capacitors are available to him each of which can withstand a potential difference of not more than
400 V. Suggest a possible arrangement that requires the minimum number of capacitors.
SOLUTION :
The required capacitance C 2 F Potential difference
V = 1kV = 1000V
Capacitance of each capacitor

C1 1 F

and it can

withstand a potential difference of V1 400V Let the n

capacitors are connected in series and there are m rows of
such capacitors.
As the potential difference across each row is 1000V.
So, the potential difference across each capacitor

1000
n

Minimum number of capacitor that must be connected in

series in a row are

1000
400
n

n = 2.5
Here n is the number of capacitors, so it should be a wholes number. If we take n = 2, then potential difference across
each capacitor is 500 V. Here according to question a capacitor can bear only 400 V, so they So, the capacitance of
each row (in series)
1
1 1 3

C 1 1 1

1
3

According to question, the total capacitance required is 2 F . So,

m
2
3

Thus, the total number of capacitor = m n 3 6 18 So, 1 F capacitors are connected that of 6 rows having 3
capacitors in each row.

Current Electricity
1.

Answer the following questions :

(a)

A steady current flows in a metallic conductor of non - uniform cross - section. Which of these quantities is
constant along the conductor : current, current density, electric field and drift speed?

(b)

Is Ohm's law universally applicable for all conducting elements? If not, give examples of elements which do
not obey Ohm's law.

(c)

A low voltage supply from which one needs high currents must have very low internal resistance. Why?

(d)

A High Tension (HT) supply of (say) 6 kV must have a very large internal resistance. Why?

SOLUTION :
(a)

(b)

2.

Current does not depend on area of conductor, so current remains constant. Current density is inversely
1

proportional to area of cross - section, J , electric field and drift speed also depend on area
A

1
1

E A and vd A . So, current density, electric field and drift speed do not remain constant as area

changes.
No, Ohm's law is not universally applicable for all conducting elements. Vacuum tubes, semiconductors,
diodes, transistors, and electrolytes are the examples of elements which do not obey Ohm's law.

V
, as lesser
r

(c)

For very high current, the internal resistance should be low by according to the formula I max

(d)

be the value of r(internal resistance) more is the current.

A high tension supply must have a very large internal resistance because if the circuit is shorted the internal
resistance is not large enough than current drawn will exceed the safe limit and will cause the damages.

Choose the correct alternative.

(a)

Alloys of metals usually have (greater / less) resistivity than that of their constituent metals.

(b)

Alloys usually have much (lower / higher) temperature coefficients of resistance than pure metals.

(c)

The resistivity of the allow manganin is nearly (independent of increases) rapidly with increase of
temperature.

(d)

The resistivity of a typical insulator (e.g., amber) is greater than that of a metal by a factor of the
order of (1022/1023).

SOLUTION :

3.

(a)

The resistivity of alloys of metals usually have greater resistivity than that of their constituent metals.

(b)

Alloys usually have much lower temperature coefficients of resistance than pure metals.

(c)

The resistivity of the alloy managing is nearly independent of increases of temperature because the
coefficient of resistance is very low and its resistivity is quite large.

(d)

The resistivity of a typical insulator (mica and amber) is greater than that of a metal by a factor of the order
of 1022. Because insulator has maximum resistivity in comparison to metals and alloys.

The relaxation time is nearly independent of applied field E whereas it changes significantly with
temperature T, first fact is (in part) responsible for Ohms law whereas the second fact leads to variation of P
with temperature. Elaborate why?
SOLUTION :
The relaxation time depends on the velocity of electrons or ions. As we know that an application of electric field, it
affects the velocities of electrons as they move in particular direction. But on the application of electric field, the
speed of electrons differ by 1 mm/s which is very small and thus it is an insignificant effect. As we change the
temperature T, the velocity of electrons changes by large amount as 100 m/s. Thus, it an significant effect that
relaxation time changes with change in temperature.

4.

AB a is potentiometer wire (see figure). If the value of R is increased, in which direction will the balance point
J shift?

SOLUTION :
As the value of R increased, the current flowing in the circuit will decrease. And the potential gradient i.e., potential
drop per unit length also decreases so that the balance length will increase. Thus, J will shift towards B.
5.

(a)

In a meter bridge, the balance point is found to be at 39.5 cm from the end A, when the resistor Y is of
12.5 . Determine the resistance of X. Why are the connections between resistors in a Wheatstone or
meter bridge made of thick copper strips?

(b)

Determine the balance point of the bridge above, if X and Y are interchanged.

(c)

What happens, if the galvanometer and cell are interchanged at the balance point of the bridge?
Would the galvanometer show any current?

SOLUTION :
(a)

Balance point from end A,

l = 39.5 cm
Resistance of resistor Y 12.5
Resistance of resistor X = ?

According to the condition of balanced Wheatstone bridge

X
l

Y 100 1
X

l
.Y
100 l

39.5 12.5
8.16
100 39.5

The resistance of resistor X is 8.16

In meter bridge, the resistance at the connections is not taken in the consideration thats why the connections
between resistors in a Wheatstone bridge or meter bridge made of thick copper strips because more is the
1

thickness, lesser be the resistance as R

A

So due to thick copper stripes, the resistance at the connections becomes minimum.

6.

(b)

It X and Y are interchanged, then the balance length will also interchanged. Thus, balance length becomes
100 39.5 = 60.5 cm

(c)

If the galvanometer and cell are interchanged at the balance point of the bridge, The galvanometer shows no
deflection.

The earths surface has a negative surface charge density of 109 C / m 2 . The potential difference of 400 kV
between the top of the atmosphere and the surface results (Due to the low conductivity of the lower
atmosphere) in a current of only 1800 A over the entire globe. If there were no mechanism of sustaining
atmospheric electric field, how much time (roughly) would be required to neutralize the earths surface?
(This never happens in practice because there is a mechanism to replenish electric charges, namely the
continual thunderstorms and lighting in different parts of the globe. Radius of earth = 6.37 106 m)
SOLUTION :

Given, radius of earth R 6.37 106 m

Negative surface charge density 109 C / m 2
Potential difference V = 400 kV = 400 103 V
Current on the globe I = 1800 A
Surface area of earth

A 4 R 2 4 3.14 6.37 106

= 509.64 1012 m2
Change on earth surface Q = Area of earth surface
Surface charge density
12

Q A 509.64 10

10

509.64 103 C

What know that Q 11

Time required to neutralize earths surface t

Q 509.64 103

I
1800

T = 283.1 s or t = 4 min 43 s
Thus, the time required to neutralize the earths surface is 283.1 s
7.

Two wires of equal length, one of aluminum and the other of copper have the same resistance. Which of the
two wires is lighter? Hence, explain why aluminum wires are preferred for overhead power cables?
( Al 2.63 108 m Cu 1.72 188 m . Relative density of Al = 2.7 of Cu = 8.9)
SOLUTION :
Parameters for aluminum are as follows :
Length I Al l , density d Al 2.7 and area AAI A1
Parameters for copper are as follows :
Length ICu = l, density dCu = 8.9 and area ACu = A2.
Let resistivity of aluminium is Al and the resistivity of copperis Cu
l
A
Resistance of aluminium wire

Using the relation R

R Al Al .

I Al
2.63 108 l

AAl
A1

. . . .(i)

Mass of aluminium wire

mAl AAl l Al d Al A1 l 2.7 . . . .(ii)

Resistance of copper wire
RCu Cu

lCu
1.72 108 l

. . . .(iii)
ACu
A2

Mass of copper wire

mCu ACu lCu dCu A2 l 8.9 . . . .(iv)
According to the question, the resistance of aluminium wire is same the resistance of copper wire.
i.e.,
RAl = RCu
2.63 108 l 1.72 108 l

A1
A2

[From Eqs. (i) and (iii)]

A1
2.63
or

A2 1.72
From Eqs. (ii) and (iv), we get :
mAl
A l 2.7
1
mCu
A2 l 8.9

m Al
2.63 2.7

mCu 1.72 8.9

[From Eq. (v)]

mCu
2.16
mAl
Here, we conclude that the copper wires are 2.16 times heavier than aluminium. Now, we see that for equal lengths
and resistances, aluminium wire is lighter than copper wire, so aluminium wire due to its lesser mass is used for
overhead power cables. Because a heavy cable may break or drown due to its higher mass of weight.

or

8.

Figure shows a potentiometer with a cell of 2.0 V and internal resistance 0.40
marinating a potential drop across the resistor wire AB. A standard cell which
maintains a constant emf of 1.02 V (for moderate currents upto a few mA) gives a
balance point at 67.3 cm length of the wire. To ensure very low currents drawn
from the standard cell, a very high resistance of 600 k is put in series with it,
which is shorted close to the balance point. The standard cell is then replaced by
a cell of unknown emf and the balance point found similarly, turns out to be at
82.3 cm length of wire.
(a)
What is the value of ?
(b)

What purpose does the high resistance of 600k.

(c)

Is the balance point affected by this high resistance?

(d)

Is the balance point affected by the internal resistance of the driver cell?

(e)

Would the method work in the above situation, if the driver cell of the potentiometer had an emf of
1.0V instead of 2.0 V?

(f)

Would the circuit work well for determining an extremely small emf, say of the order of a few mV
(such as the typical emf of a thermocouple)? If not, how will you modify the circuit?

SOLUTION :
(d)

Yes, but since the drop across the internal resistance is small therefore the change is very small and hence
can be neglected (rest parts you can solve yourself)

Moving Charges & Magnetism

1.

For a circular coil of radius R and N turns carrying current I, the magnitude of the magnetic field at a point on
its axis at a distance x from its centre is given by B
(a)
(b)

0 IR 2 N
2( x 2 R2 )3 / 2

Show that this reduces to the familiar result for field at the centre of the coil.
Consider two parallel co-axial circular coils of equal radius R and number of turns N, carrying equal
currents in the same direction and separated by a distance R. Show that the field on the axis around
the mid-point between the coils is uniform over a distance that is small as compared to R, and is given

0 NI
(approximately)
R
[Such an arrangement to produce to produce a nearly uniform magnetic field over a small region is known as
Helmholtz coil]
by B 0.72

SOLUTION :
(a)

Given, magnetic field at distance x

0 NIR2

2 x2 R2

3/ 2

To get the magnetic field at the centre of coil, we put x = 0 (distance x from the centre of coil at its axis)

(b)

The magnetic field at the centre B

0 IR 2 N

2R3
This result is same as the magnetic field due to current loop at its centre.
Radius of two parallel co-axial coil = R, number of turns = N and current = I (same direction)

Let the mid-points between the coils is at point O and P be the point around the mid-point O.
Suppose, the distance between OP = d which is very less than R (d << R)
For magnetic field at point P due to coil A
BA

0
.
4

2 nIR 2

(O

AP

R2

3/ 2

0
0 NIR 2
NI .R2
.

3/ 2
3/ 2
2
2

R2

2
2
2
2

Rd

4
2

2
As according to the question d << R, so neglect terms d .

BA

0 NIR 2
5R 2

2
Rd
4

0 NIR 2

3/ 2

5R 2
2

3/ 2

R d 4
1

5R 2

3/ 2

3 / 2

4d

o NIR 2 1
5 R

. . . . .(i)
3/ 2
5R 2
2

The direction of BA is along POB according to the Maxwells right hand rule.

OB P d
2

The magnetic field at point P due to coil B

For the coil B,

BB 0 .
4

2 NIR2

(O P
B

R2

3/ 2

0
2 NIR 2
.
3/ 2
2
2

2
d R

0 NIR 2

R2

2
d 2 Rd R 2
4

4d

0 nIR 2 1
5 R

3/ 2
5R 2
2

3/ 2

3 / 2

[Neglect term d2]

The direction of magnetic field BB is towards POB.

So, the resultant magnetic field at P due to coil A and coil B is :
3 / 2
3 / 2
0 . NIR 2
4d
4d

3/ 2
5 R
5 R

5 R2

B BA BB

Now, use binomial theorem and neglect higher power as d << R.

B

0 NIR 2
R 2
2
4

3/ 2

3 4d
3 4d

1 2 5R 1 2 5 R

0 NIR 2 . 43 / 2
2 R3 53 / 2

4

5

3/ 2

0 NI 4
2 R 5

3/ 2

NI 2
2 0 NI
NI
. 0

( 4 )3 / 2 0.72 . 0
3/ 2
2R
R
(5 ) 2 R

2.

Answer the following questions :

(a)

A magnetic field that varies in magnitude from point to point but has a constant direction (east to
west) is set up in a chamber. A charged particle enters the chamber and travels undeflected along a
straight path with constant speed. What can you say about the initial velocity of the particle?

(b)

A charged particle enters an environment of a strong and non-uniform magnetic field varying from
point to point both in magnitude and direction, and comes out of it following a complicated trajectory
would its final speed equal to initial speed, if it suffered no collisions with the environment?

(c)

An electron travelling west to east enters a chamber having a uniform electrostatic field in north to
south. Specify the direction in which a uniform magnetic field should be set up to prevent the electron
from deflecting its straight line path.

SOLUTION :
(a)

The magnetic field is in constant direction from east to west. According

to the question, a charged particle travels undeflected along a straight
path with constant speed. It is only possible, if the magnetic force
experienced by the charged particle is zero.
The magnitude of magnetic force on a moving charged particle in a magnetic field is given by F = qv
Bsin(where is the angle between v and B). Here = F = 0, if and only if sin = 0 (as v 0, q 0, B 0).
This indicates the angle between the velocity and magnetic field is 0 or 180 .

(b)

Yes, the final speed be equal to its initial speed as the magnetic force acting on the charged particle only
changes the direction of velocity of charged particle but cannot change the magnitude of velocity of charged
particle.

(c)

As the electric field is from North to south that means the plate in
north is positive and in south is negative. Thus, the electrons
(negatively charged) attract towards the positive plate that means
move towards north. If we want that there is no deflection in the path
of electron the magnetic force should be in south direction.
By F e ( v B ) the direction of velocity is west to east,
the direction of force is towards south, by using, by using the
Flemings left hand rule, the direction of magnetic field (B) is
perpendicularly inwards to the plane of paper.

3.

A magnetic field of 100 G (1G = 104T) is required which is uniform in a region of linear dimension about
10 cm and area of cross-section 103m2. The maximum current carrying capacity of a given coil of wire is 15A
and the number of turns per unit length that can be wound round a core is at most 1000 turns/m. Suggest some
appropriate design particulars of a solenoid for the required purpose. Assume the core is not ferromagnetic.
SOLUTION :
Magnetic field B = 100 G = 100 104 T = 102 T

Maximum current I = 15A, n = 1000/m

Here, the product of nI is 8000 so.

To design the solenoid, let we find the product of

current and number of turns in the solenoid.

Current I = 8A

The magnitude of magnetic field B 0 nI

2

or

4.

nI

B
10

0 4 3.14 107

nI = 7961 = 8000(approx.)

And number of turns n = 1000

The other design is I = 10A and n = 800 / m. This
is the most appropriate design as the requirement.

A magnetic field using Helmholtz coils (described in Q. 16) is uniform in a small region and has a magnitude of
0.75 T. In the same region, a uniform electrostatic field is maintained in a direction normal to the common axis
of the coils. A narrow beam of (single species) charged particle as accelerated through 15 kV enters this region
in a direction perpendicular to both the axis of the coils and the electrostatic field. If the beam remains
undeflected when the electrostatic field is 9 105 V/m make a simple guess as to what the beam contain. Why
is the answer not unique?

SOLUTION :
Given, the magnitude of magnetic field B = 0.75 T,
Potential difference, V = 15 kV = 15 103 V
Electric field, E = 9 105 V/m
Let q be the charge and m be the mass of the particles and the velocity acquired by the particles is v as they are
accelerated by potential difference 15 kV.
The energy due to the potential difference gives the kinetic energy to the particle.
1
. . . .(i)
qV mV 2
2
As the charge particle is not deflected as magnetic and electric field apply. That means the force due to the magnetic
force is balanced by the force due to electric field.

qE q ( v B )
E
B
Putting this value in equation (i), we get :

or

qE q v B

or

or

9 105
e
E2

4.8 107 C / kg
2
m 2vB 2
2 15000 ( 0.75 )

1 E
m eV
2 B

The value of e/m corresponds to the deuterons, so the particles are deuteron ions. The value of e/m also corresponds
to He++ and Li+++. So, the particles may be deuteron, He++ or Li+++.

5.

A uniform magnetic field of 1.5 T exists in a cylindrical region of radius 10.0 cm, its direction parallel to the
axis along east to west. A wire carrying current of 7.0 A in the north to south direction passes through this
region. What is the magnitude and direction of the force on the wire if,
(a)

The wire intersect the axis?

(b)

The wire is turned from N-S to northeast-northwest direction?

(c)

The wire in the N-S direction is lowered from the axis by a distance of 6.0 cm?

SOLUTION :
(a)

Uniform magnetic field B = 1.5 T

Radius = 10.0 cm = 0.1 m
Current in the wire I = 7.0 A
The magnitude of force on the wire
F = I (I B)
= IlB sin 90
(Angle between l and B is 90 and the length of wire is equal to the diameter of the cylindrical region.)

Force on the wire, F I 2r B 7 2 0.1 1.5 2.1N

According to Flemings left hand rule, the direction of force is vertically inwards to the plane of paper.

(b)

F = 2.1 N

Now, we take the component of length of wire.

The horizontal component experiences no force as B
is parallel to length
The vertical component
Y = Diameter of the cylinder
So force F Ilb sin 90

7 0.1 1.5 2 1 2.1 N

According to the Flemings left hand rule, the direction of force is perpendicularly inwards to the plane of
paper
(c)

Let the wire is shifted by 6 cm and the position of wire is CD

OC = 6cm
OD = 10 cm
DE = EC = x
In ODE,

OD2 = OE2 + DE2

100 = 36 + DE2
DE2 = 64

or

DE = 8 cm
l = CD = 2DE = 16 cm = 0.16 m

Magnitude of force F I ( I B ) 7 ( 0.16 1.5 sin 90 )

= 1.68 N
According to Flemings left hand rule, the direction of force is vertically downwards to the paper.
6.

A circular coil of 20 turns and radius 10 cm is placed in a uniform magnetic field of 0.10 T normal to the plane
of the coil. If the current in the coil is 5.0 A, what is the (a) total torque on the coil, (b) total force on the coil,
(c) average force on each electron in the coil due to the magnetic field?
(The coil is made of copper wire of cross-sectional area 105m2 and free electron density in copper is given to be
about 1029 /m3)
SOLUTION :
Given, number of turns n = 20
Radius of circular coil r = 10 cm = 0.1 m

The angle between the area vector and magnetic field is 0

Current in the coil I = 5.0 A

(a)

Torque on the coil nIAB sin

2

= 20 5 ( 0.1) 0.1 sin 0

sin 0 0
(b)

The forces on the planar loop are in pairs i.e., the forces on two opposite sides are equal and opposite to each
other and on the other two opposite sides, it is same. Thus, the total force on the coil is zero

( F1 F2

(c)

and F3 F4 )

Number density of electrons N = 1029/m3.

Area of cross-section of copper wire.
A = 105m2
The magnitude of magnetic force
F = e(vd B)

I = neAVd

I
neA

vd

F e.

I
. B sin 90
NEA
0.1 5

10

10

29

25
N = 5 10

SELECTED NCERT EXEMPLER PROBLEMS

1.

Show that a force that does no work must be a velocity dependent force.
SOLUTION :
As we know that work dW = F.dl ( dl = vdt)
According to question dW = 0,

2.

F.v = 0

Here, force depends on the velocity from the

above condition, the angle between F and v is
90 . If v changes its direction with F, then F
should also change so that the above condition
remains satisfied.

Two long wires carrying currents I1 and I2 are arranged as shown in figure. One carrying current I1 is along
the X-axis. The other carrying current I2 is along a line parallel to Y-axis, given by x = 0 and z = d. Find the
force exerted at point O2 because of the wire along the X- axis.
SOLUTION :
Here, first we have to find the direction of magnetic field at point O2
due to the wire carrying current I1. Use Maxwells right hand rule,
the direction of magnetic field at point O2 due to current I1 is along
Y -axis.
Here, the wire at point O2 is placed along Y axis. Now, by the
formula
F I 2 (l B)
(Angle between l and B is 0 both are in Y-axis)

F = IlBsin 0 = 0
So, the force exerted at point O2 because of wire along X axis is zero.

Magnetism & Matter

1.

Answer the following questions regarding earths magnetism

(a)
A vector needs three quantities for its specification. Name the three independent quantities
conventionally used to specify the earths magnetic field.
(b)
The angle of dip at a location in southern India is about 18. Would you expect a greater or smaller
dip anle in Britain? (read once)
(c)
If you made a map of magnetic field lines at Melbourne in Australia, would the lines seem to go into
the ground or come out the ground?(read once)
(d)
In which direction would a compass free to move in the vertical plane point to, if located right on the
geomagnetic north or south pole?
(e)
The earths field, it is claimed, roughly approximates the field due to a dipole of magnetic moment
8 1022 J / T located at its center.

(f)

Geologists claim that besides the main magnetic N S poles, there are several local poles on the
earths surface oriented in different directions. How is such a thing possible at all?

SOLUTION :
(a)

Magnetic declination, angle of dip, horizontal component of earths magnetic field.

(b)

Greater in Britain (it is about 70), because Britain is closer tothe magnetic north pole.

(c)

Field lines of B due to the earths magnetism would seem tocome out of the ground.

(d)

A compass is free to move in a horizontal plane, while the earths field is exactly vertical at the magnetic
poles. So the compass can point in any direction there.

(e)

Use the formula for field B on the normal bisector of a dipole ofmagnetic moment m,
m
BE 0
4r 3

Take m = 8 1022 J T1, r = 6.4 106

m; one gets B = 0.3 G, which checks with the order of magnitude of the observed field on the earth.
(f)

Why not? The earths field is only approximately a dipole field.

Local N-S poles may arise due to, for instance, magnetized mineral deposits

2.

Answer the following questions : (Read once)

(a)

The earths magnetic field varies from point to point in space.

Does it also change with time? If so, on what time scale does it change appreciably?

(b)

The earths core is known to contain iron. Yet geologists do not regard this as a source of the earths
magnetism. Why?

(c)

The charged currents in the outer conducting regions of the earths core are thought to be responsible
for earths magnetism. What might be the source of energy of these currents?

(d)

The earth may have even reversed the direction of its field several times during its history of 4 to 5
billion yr. How can geologists know about the earths field in such distance past?

(e)

The earths field departs from its dipole shape substantially at large distances (greater than about
30000 km). What agencies may responsible for this distortion?

(f)

Interstellar space has an extremely weak magnetic field of the order of 1012 T. Can such a weak field
be of any significant consequence? Explain.

[Note Q.2 is meant mainly to arouse your curiosity. Answers to some questions above are tentative or
unknown. Brief answers wherever possible are given at the end. For details, you should consult a good text on
geomagnetism.]
SOLUTION :

(a)
(b)
(c)
(d)
(e)

(f)

3.

Yes, it does change with time. Time scale for appreciable change is roughly a few hundred years. But even
on a much smaller scale of a few years, its variations are not completely negligible.
Because molten iron (which is the phase of the iron at the high temperatures of the core) is not
ferromagnetic.
One possibility is the radioactivity in the interior of the earth. But nobody really knows. You should consult
a good modern text on geomagnetism for a proper view of the question.
Earths magnetic field gets weakly recorded in certain rocks during solidification. Analysis of this rock
magnetism offers clues to geomagnetic history.
At large distances, the field gets modified due to the field of ions in motion (in the earths ionosphere). The
latter is sensitive to extra-terrestrial disturbances such as, the solar wind.
mv
, an extremely minute field bends charged particles in a circle of very large
eB
radius. Over a small distance, the deflection due to the circular orbit of such large R. may not be noticeable,
but over the gigantic interstellar distances, the deflection can significantly affect the passage of charged
particles, for example, cosmic rays.

From the relation R

A short bar magnet placed with its axis at 30 with a uniform external magnetic field at 0.25 T experiences a
torque of magnitude equal to 4.5 102 J. What is the magnitude of magnetic moment of the magnet?
SOLUTION :
Given, uniform magnetic field B = 0.25 T
The magnitude of torque 4.5 10

4.5 102 M 0.25 sin 30

Angle between magnetic moment and magnetic

field 30

4.5 102
0.25 sin 30

4.5 102 2
0.25 1

sin 30 2

0.36 J / T

Torque experienced on a magnet placed in

external magnetic field
M B

MB sin
4.

Thus, the magnitude of magnetic moment of the

magnet is 0.36J/T.

( A B AB sin )

A short bar magnet of magnetic moment m = 0.32 J/T is placed in a uniform magnetic field of 0.15 T. If the bar
is free to rotate in the plane of the field, which orientation would correspond to its (a) stable and (b) unstable
equilibrium? What is the potential energy of the magnet in each case?
SOLUTION :
Given, magnetic moment of magnet m = 0.32 J/T

Thus, for the stable equilibrium the potential

The magnitude of magnetic field B = 0.15 T

(a)
For stable equilibrium, the angle between
magnetic moment (m) and magnetic field
(B) is 0

energy is 4.8 102 J

( In this position, it will be in a

direction parallel to magnetic field thus
no torque will act on it.)

The potential energy of the magnet

U = m.B
= mB cos
( A .B AB cos )
0.32 0.15 cos 0

4.8 102 J

(b)

For the unstable equilibrium, the angle

between the magnetic moment and
magnetic field is 180 . ( In this
position it will be in a direction
perpendicular to magnetic field thus
maximum torque will act on it.)

180
Potential energy of the magnet
U mB cos 180
0.32 0.15 ( 1) 4.8 10 2 J

Thus, for the unstable equilibrium the

potential energy is 4.8 102 J

5.

A closely wound solenoid of 800 turns and area of cross-section 2.5 10 4 m 2 carries a current of 3.0 A.
Explain the sense in which the solenoid acts like a bar magnet. What is its associated magnetic moment?
SOLUTION :
Given, number of turns n = 800

As a current passes through a solenoid, a magnetic

field is produced. By the use of Maxwells right
hand rule, the magnetic field is along the axis of
the solenoid. Using the formula of magnetic
moment
M = nIA

Area of cross-section of solenoid

A 2.5 104 m 2

M = nI A 800 3 2.5 104

Current through solenoid I = 3A

= 0.6 J/T along the axis of the solenoid

6.

If the solenoid is Q. 5 is free to turn about the vertical direction and a uniform horizontal magnetic field of
0.25 T is applied, what is the magnitude of torque on the solenoid when its axis makes an angle of 30 with the
direction of applied field?
SOLUTION :
Given, magnetic field B = 0.25T
Angle between magnetic
magnetic field 30
From the Q. 5, we get
Magnetic moment M = 0.6 J/T

moment

MB sin 0.6 0.25 sin 30

and

the
0.6 0.25

1
2

0.075 N m

Thus, the magnitude of torque on the solenoid is

Torque acting on the solenoid when it is placed at an angle with 0.075
the magnetic
N m. field.

7.

A bar magnet of magnetic moment 1.5 J/T lies aligned with the direction of a uniform magnetic field of 0.22T.
(a)

What is the amount of work required by an external torque to turn the magnet so as to align its
magnetic moment : (i) normal to the field direction (ii) opposite to the field direction?

(b)

What is the torque on the magnet in case (i) and (ii) ?

SOLUTION :
Given, magnetic moment of magnet M = 1.5 J/T
Uniform magnetic field B = 0.22T
(a) (i)

Angle 1

( The magnet lies aligned in the direction of field)

and 2 90

( The magnet is to be aligned normal to the field direction)

Work done in rotating the magnet from angle `1 to angle 2

W MB(cos 2 cos1 ) 1.5 0.22(cos 90 cos 0) = 0.33 J

(ii)

Angle 1 0 and 2 180

( Magnet is to be aligned opposite to the direction of field)

Work done MB(cos 2 cos 1 ) 1.5 0.22(cos 180 cos 0) 0.66 J

(b)

Using the formula of torque MB sin

(i)

90 (when magnetic moment normal to the field)

1.5 0.22 sin 90 0.33 N m

(ii) 180 (when magnetic moment opposite to the field)

1.5 0.22 sin 180 0

8.

A closely wound solenoid of 2000 turns and area of cross-section 1.6 104 m 2 , carrying a current of 4.0 A, is
suspended through its centre allowing it to turn in a horizontal plane.
(a)
What is the magnetic amount associated with the solenoid?
(b)

What are the force and torque on the solenoid, if a uniform horizontal magnetic field of 7.5 10 2 T
is set up at an angle of 30 with the axis of the solenoid?

SOLUTION :
Given, number of turns n = 2000
Area of cross-section A 1.6 104 m2
Current I = 4A
(a)

Magnetic moment associated with solenoid

M nIA 2000 4 1.6 104 1.28 J/T

(b)
The force (net) on the solenoid is zero,
because two equal and opposite forces
(on each of its
poles) one acting, but their
lines of action are parallel so they form a
couple thus a torque (no force) is
applied on it.

Torque on the solenoid MB sin

1.28 7.5 102 sin 30

1.28 7.5 102

4.8 102 N m

1
2

(Given 30 )

9.

A circular coil of 16 turns and radius 10 cm carrying a current of 0.75 A rests with its plane normal to an
external field of magnitude 5.0 10 2 T . The coil is free to turn about an axis in its plane perpendicular to the
filed direction. When the coil is turned slightly and released, it oscillates about its stable equilibrium with a
frequency of 2.0/s. What is the moment of inertia of the coil about its axis of rotation?
SOLUTION :
Given, number of turns of circular coil n = 16
f

Radius of circular coil r = 10 cm = 0 .1 m

Current I = 0.75 A

Where I = Moment of inertia of the coil.

2

Magnetic field B 5.0 10 T

Squaring on both the sides, we get :

Frequency f = 2/s

f2

M nIA 16 0.75 ( 0.1)

1
4

Magnetic moment of the coil,

2

16 0.75 3.14 * 0.1 0.1

0.377 J / T

MB
4 2 f 2

MB
I

0.377 5 102
4 3.14 3.14 2 2

1.2 104 kg m 2

Thus, the moment of inertia of the coil is

Frequency of oscillation of the coil

10.

M B
I

1
2

1.2 104 kg m 2

A magnetic needle free to rotate in a vertical plane parallel to the magnetic meridian has its north tip pointing
down at 22 with the horizontal. The horizontal component of the earths magnetic field at plane is known to
be 0.35 G. Determine the magnitude of the earths magnetic field at the place.
SOLUTION :
Given, angle of dip 22
Or
Horizontal component of the earths magnetic
field H = 0.35G
Let the magnitude of the earths magnetic field at
the place is R.
Using the formula,

11.

H
0.35
0.35

0.38G
cos cos 22 0.9272

Thus, the value of the earths magnetic field at that

place of 0.38G

H R cos

At a certain location in Africa, a compass points 12 west of the geographic north. The north tip of the
magnetic needle of a dip circle placed in the plane of magnetic meridian points 60 above the horizontal.
The horizontal component of the earths field is measured to be 0.16G. Specify the direction and magnitude of
the earths field at the location.
SOLUTION :
Given, angle of direction

12 west
Angle of dip 60
Horizontal component of earths magnetic field
H = 0.16 G
Let the magnitude of earths magnetic field at that place is R.
Using the formula, H R cos
Or

H
0.16
0.16 2

0.32G 0.32 104 T

cos cos 60
1

The earths magnetic field lies in a vertical plane 12 west of geographical meridian at angle 60 above the
horizontal.
12.

A short bat magnet has magnetic moment of 0.48J/T. Given the direction and magnitude of the magnetic field
produced by the magnet at a distance of 10 cm from the centre of the magnet on (a) the axis, (b) the equatorial
lines (normal bisector) of the magnet.
SOLUTION :

Given, magnetic moment of bar magnet M = 0.48 J/T

Distance from the centre of magnet d = 10 cm = 0.1 m
(a)

When the point lies on the axial line.

Magnetic field at point P

2M
B 0.
4 d 3

107 2 0.48

( 0.1)

0.96 104 T

The direction of magnetic field is along the direction of magnetic moment. We know that the direction of
magnetic moment is from S to N pole. Thus, the direction of magnetic field is from S to N pole of the
magnet.
(b)

Use the formula of magnetic field due to a

Short bar magnet on its equatorial line.
Magnetic field at point P

0 M
0.48
.
107
0.48 10 4 T
3
4 d 3
( 0.1)

The direction of magnetic field on equatorial line is opposite to the direction of magnetic moment. So, the
direction of magnetic field is from N to S pole of the magnet.
13.

A short bar magnet placed in a horizontal plane has its axis aligned along the magnetic north-south direction.
Null points are found on the axis of the magnet at 14 cm from the centre of the magnet. The earths magnetic
field at the place is 0.36 G and the angle of dip is zero. What is the total magnetic field on the normal bisector
of the magnet at the same distance at the null-point (i.e., 14cm) from the centre of the magnet? (At null points,
field due to a magnet is equal and opposite to the horizontal component of earths magnetic field.)
SOLUTION :
Distance of the null point from the centre of
magnet
d = 14 cm = 0.14 m
The earths magnetic field where the angle of dip
is zero, is the horizontal component of earths
magnetic field
i.e.,

B1

. . . .(i)

m
B
H
B2 0 .
1
. . . .(ii)
4 d 3
2
2
The direction of magnetic field on equatorial line
at this point (as given in question)
B B2 H

0 2 m
.
4 d 3

This magnetic field is equal to the horizontal

component of earths magnetic field.

2m
B1 0 .
H
4 d 3

On the equatorial line of magnet at same distance

(d) magnetic field due to the magnet

H = 0.36 G

Initially, the null points are on the axis of the

magnet. We use the formula of magnetic field on
axial line (consider that the magnet is short in
length).

14.

i.e.,

H
H
2

3
H 0.36 = 0.54 G
2
2

The direction of magnetic field is in the direction

of earths field.

If the bar magnet in Q. 13 is turned around by 180, where will the new null points be located?
SOLUTION :
When the bar magnet is turned by 180 , then the
null points
So, magnetic field on the equatorial line at
distance d is :

m
B 0 .
. . . .(i)
4 d 3
From the Q. 13

0 2 m
.
H . . . .(ii)
4 d 3
From equations (i) and (ii) we get :

Magnetic field B1

Or

0 m
2m
.
0.
3
4 d
4 d 3
1
2

d
d3

15.

Or

d 3

Or

d 3 (14 )

2
2

14

( 2)1 / 3

(d = 14 cm)

Thus, the null points are located on the equatorial

line at a distance of 11.1 cm.

11.1 cm

A short bar magnet of magnetic moment 5.25 102 J / T is placed with its axis perpendicular to the earths
field direction. At what distance from the centre of the magnet, the resultant field is inclined at 45 with
earths field on (a) its normal bisector and (b) its axis. Magnitude of the earths field at the place is given to be
0.42 G. Ignore the length of the magnet in comparison to the distance involved.
SOLUTION :
Given, magnetic moment m 5.25 102 J / T
Let the resultant magnetic field is Bnet. It makes an angle of 45 with Be.

Be 0.42G 0.42 10 4 T

(a)

At normal bisector
Let r is the distance between axial line and point P.
The magnetic field at point P, due to a short magnet

0 m
.
4 r 3

. . . .(i)

The direction of B is along PA, i.e., along N pole to S pole.

According to the vector analysis,
tan 45

Or

B sin 90
B cos 90 Be

B
Be

B = Be
0.42 10 4
0.42 104

r3

0 m
.
4 r 3
10 7 5.25 102

5.25 10 9
0.42 10 4

r3

12.5 105

r = 0.05 m
r = 5 cm
Or
(b)

When point lies on axial line

Let the resultant magnetic field Bnet makes an angle 45 from Be.
The magnetic field on the axial line of the magnet at distance of r from the centre of magnet
B

0 2m
.
4 r 3

(S to N)

Direction of magnetic field is from S to N

According to the vector analysis
tan 45
1

or

B
Be

Be B

B sin 90
B cos 90 Be

0.42 104

or

0.42 10 4

r3

0 2m

4
r3
107 2 5.25 102

109 2 5.25
0.42 10

r = 0.063 m
16.

r3
4

or

2.5 105

6.3 cm

Answer the following questions:

(a)

Why does a paramagnetic sample display greater magnetization (for the same magnetising field) when
cooled?

(b)

Why is diamagnetism, in contrast, almost independent of temperature?

(c)

If a toroid uses bismuth for its core, will the field in the core be (slightly) greater or (slightly) less than
when the core is empty?

(d)

Is the permeability of a ferromagnetic material independent of the magnetic field? If not, is it more for
lower or higher fields?

(e)

Magnetic field lines are always nearly normal to the surface of a ferromagnet at every point. (This fact
is analogous to the static electric field lines being normal to the surface of a conductor at every point.)
Why?

(f)

Would the maximum possible magnetisation of a paramagnetic sample be of the same order of
magnitude as the magnetization of a ferromagnet?

SOLUTION :

17.

(a)

The tendency to disrupt the alignment of dipoles (with the magnetising field) arising from random thermal
motion is reduced at lower temperatures.

(b)

The induced dipole moment in a diamagnetic sample is always opposite to the magnetising field, no matter
what the internal motion of the atoms is.

(c)

Slightly less, since bismuth is diamagnetic.

(d)

No, as it evident from the magnetisation curve. From the slope of magnetisation curve, it is clear that m is
greater for lower fields.

(e)

Proof of this important fact (of much practical use) is based on boundary conditions of magnetic fields (B
and H) at the interface of two media. (When one of the media has >> 1, the field lines meet this medium
nearly normally.) Details are beyond the scope of this book.

(f)

Yes. Apart from minor differences in strength of the individual atomic dipoles of two different materials, a
paramagnetic sample with saturated magnetisation will have the same order of magnetisation. But of course,
saturation requires impractically high magnetising fields.

Answer the following questions:

(a)

Explain qualitatively on the basis of domain picture the irreversibility in the magnetisation curve of a
ferromagnet.

(b)

The hysteresis loop of a soft iron piece has a much smaller area than that of a carbon steel piece. If the
material is to go through repeated cycles of magnetisation, which piece will dissipate greater heat
energy?

(c)

A system displaying a hysteresis loop such as a ferromagnet is a device for storing memory?
Explain this statement.

(d)

What kind of ferromagnetic material is used for coating magnetic tapes in a cassette player, or for
building modern computer?

(e)

A certain region of space is to be shielded from magnetic fields. Suggest a method.

SOLUTION :
(a)

To explain qualitatively the domain picture of the irreversibility in the magnetization curve of a ferromagnet,
we draw the hysteresis curve for ferromagnetic substance. We can observe that the magnetization persists
even when the external field is removed. This gives the idea of irreversibility of a ferromangnet.

(b)

Carbon steel piece, because heat lost per cycle is proportional to the area of hysteresis loop.

18.

(c)

Magnetisation of a ferromagnet is not a single-valued function of the magnetising field. Its value for a
particular field depends both on the field and also on history of magnetisation (i.e., how many cycles of
magnetisation it has gone through, etc.). In otherwords, the value of magnetisation is a record or memory of
its cycles of magnetisation. If information bits can be made to correspond to these cycles, the system
displaying such a hysteresis loop can act as a device for storing information.

(d)

Ceramics (specially treated barium iron oxides) also called ferrites.

(e)

Surround the region by soft iron rings. Magnetic field lines will be drawn into the rings, and the enclosed
space will be free of magnetic field. But this shielding is only approximate, unlike the perfect electric
shielding of a cavity in a conductor placed in an external electric field.

A telephone cable at a place has four long straight horizontal wires carrying a current of 1.0 A in the same
direction east to west. The earths Magnetic field at the place is 0.39 and angle of dip is 35. The magnetic
declination is nearly zero. What are the resultant magnetic fields at points 4.0 cm below the cable?
SOLUTION :
Below the cable:

tan 1

Rh 0.39 cos 35 0.2

Rv
62
Rh

Above the cable:

= 0.12 G

Rh 0.39 cos 35 0.2 = 0.52 G

R
19.

Rv = 0.224 G

Rh2 Rv2 0.25 G

A sample of paramagnetic salt contains 2.0 1024 atomic dipoles each of dipole moment 1.5 1023 J T.
The sample is placed under a homogeneous magnetic field of 0.64 T, and cooled to a temperature of 4.2 K.
The degree of magnetic saturation achieved is equal to 15%. What is the total dipole moment of the sample for
a magnetic field of 0.98 T and a temperature of 2.8 K? (Assume Curie)
SOLUTION :
Initially, total dipole moment
0.15 1.5 10
4.5 J T

23

4.5 ( 0.98 / 0.84 ) ( 4.2 / 2.8 )

2.0 10

24

7.9 J T 1

Use Curies Law m B/T to get the final dipole

moment
20.

The magnetic moment vectors s and l associated with the intrinsic spin angular momentum S and orbital
angular momentum l, respectively, of an electron are predicted by quantum theory (and verified
experimentally to a high accuracy) to be given by:
s e / m ) S , l e / 2m ) l
Which of these relations is in accordance with the result expected classically? Outline the derivation of the
classical result.
SOLUTION :

Of the two, the relation l e / 2m 1is in

accordance with classical physics. It follows easily
from the definitions of l and 1 :

l IA ( e / T ) r 2
2 r 2
T
where r is the radius of the circular orbit which the
electron of mass m and charge (e) completes in
time T. Clearly, l / l e / 2m. Since charge of the
l m r m

electron is negative (= e), it is easily seen that

and l are anti-parallel, both normal to the plane of
the orbit. Therefore,
ms

1 ( e / 2m )1.

Note

/ S in contrast to l / l is e/m, i.e.,twice the

classically expected value. This latter result

(verified experimentally) is an outstanding
consequence of modern quantum theory and
cannot be obtained classically.