A long cylindrical conductor with large cross section carries an electric current distributed uniformly over its cross-section. Magnetic field due to this current is: Choose the correct answer from the options given below:
- B, C Only
- E Only
- A, D Only
- D Only
Answer
(4) D Only
Solution
By Ampere's circuital law for a uniform current I in a conductor of radius R:
Inside (r < R): B = 0 I r2 R2 r
Outside (r R): B = 0 I2 r
B = 0 on the axis and B is maximum at the surface.
A: For a long conductor the field does not change along its length — incorrect.
B: Field is zero (minimum), not maximum, at the axis — incorrect.
C: Field is maximum at the surface — incorrect.
D: Field is minimum (zero) at the axis — correct.
E: Field varies with r inside — incorrect.
D only
Answer: (4)