A cylindrical conductor of radius R is carrying a constant current. The plot of the magnitude of the magnetic field B with the distance d from the centre of the conductor, is correctly represented by the figure :
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Answer
(3) [figure]
Solution
The current I is uniformly distributed over the cross-section. Apply Ampere’s circuital law to a circle of radius d:
Inside (d < R): B(2 d) = 0 I d2 R2
B = 0 I d2 R2, i.e. B d (straight line through the origin)
At the surface (d = R): B = 0 I2 R (maximum)
Outside (d > R): B(2 d) = 0 I
B = 0 I2 d, i.e. B 1d
B rises linearly up to R and then decreases, as in figure (3).
Answer: (3)