R
Rishtaara
Science · Class 12

Magnetic Effects of Current

Learn Magnetic Effects of Current with notes, examples, and practice questions.

3 sections15–25 min read6 MCQs · 2 examples

Chapter Overview

Moving charges and currents create magnetic fields. Biot-Savart and Ampere's laws give B fields; forces on charges and currents follow Lorentz force.

Field & Force

Lorentz force

F⃗ = q(v⃗×B⃗) ; F = BIL sin θ (wire)

Long straight wire

B = μ₀I/(2πr)

Solenoid

B = μ₀nI (interior)

Circular loop centre

B = μ₀I/(2R)

Moving Coil Galvanometer

  • Torque τ = NIAB sin θ
  • Converted to ammeter (shunt) or voltmeter (series R)
  • Current sensitivity vs voltage sensitivity

Solved Examples

Step-by-step solutions — read each step before checking the final answer.

Force on wire

I=2A, L=0.5m, B=0.4T, perpendicular.

  1. 1F=BIL=0.4N

Answer

0.4 N

Field at distance

Wire I=10A, r=0.05m.

  1. 1B=μ₀I/(2πr)≈4×10⁻⁵ T

Answer

≈ 4×10⁻⁵ T

Key Points to Remember

  • Right-hand rule for direction
  • Parallel currents attract if same direction
  • Earth's field ~10⁻⁵ T

Exam Tips

  • Use Fleming's left-hand rule for force
  • Draw field patterns for loops and solenoids

Formula Cheat Sheet

Quick reference — NCERT board exam formulas

Magnetic Field & Force

  • Lorentz force:F⃗ = q(v⃗×B⃗)
  • Force on wire:F = BIL sin θ
  • Long straight wire:B = μ₀I/(2πr)
  • Solenoid:B = μ₀nI (interior)
  • Circular loop (centre):B = μ₀I/(2R)
  • Galvanometer torque:τ = NIAB sin θ

Practice MCQs — Magnetic Effects of Current

Test your understanding with topic-wise multiple choice questions. Explanations appear after each answer.

Question 1 of 6Score: 0/0

Unit of magnetic field B: