AIIMS2019Physics-Magnetism

AIIMS 2019 Physics Magnetic Force MCQ Question

Type: MCQ-conceptual-Medium-Class 12

A semi circular arc of radius r and a straight wire along the diameter, both are carrying same current i. Find out magnetic force per unit length on the small element P, which is at the centre of curvature.

Question diagram
A

μ₀i²/4r

B

μ₀i²/2r

C

μ₀i²/r

D

2μ₀i²/r

Correct Answer

Option A

Detailed Explanation

To find the magnetic force per unit length on the small element P at the center of curvature, we consider the contributions from both the semi-circular arc and the straight wire. The magnetic field at point P due to the semi-circular arc carrying current ii is given by B=μ0i4rB = \frac{μ₀i}{4r}, while the straight wire contributes a field of B=μ0i2rB = \frac{μ₀i}{2r}. The net magnetic field at point P is the vector sum of these contributions, leading to a force per unit length on the element due to the wire's field acting on the arc's current, resulting in F/L=μ0i24rF/L = \frac{μ₀i²}{4r}, which corresponds to option A.

Options B, C, and D are incorrect as they miscalculate the contributions or do not account for the correct vector nature of the magnetic fields from both current-carrying elements.

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