ELECTRO-MAGNETISM

SYLLABUS

(iv) Magnetic effect of a current (principles only, laws not required);

electromagnetic induction (elementary); transformer.

Oersted’s experiment on the magnetic effect of electric current;

magnetic field (B) and field lines due to current in a straight wire (qualitative only),
right hand thumb rule – magnetic field due to a current in a loop.

Electromagnets: their uses; comparisons with a permanent magnet.

Fleming’s Left Hand Rule.

The DC electric motor – simple sketch of main parts (coil, magnet, split ring
commutators and brushes);
brief description and type of energy transfer (working not required).

Simple introduction to electromagnetic induction; frequency of AC in household

supplies,

Fleming’s Right Hand Rule.

AC Generator – Simple sketch of main parts, brief description and type of energy
transfer (working not required).

Advantage of AC over DC.

Transformer – its types, characteristics of primary and secondary coils in each type
(simple labelled diagram and its uses).

Magnetic effect of current

Whenever current flows through a conductor it produces magnetic field around it. This
property is called as magnetic effect of current.

Experimental set up of Oersted’s experiment

Rules for determination of direction of motion of a magnetic needle

SNOW rule
If current flows from South to North over a magnetic needle, then its north pole turns
towards the West.
Thus, if current flows from North to South over the magnetic needle, then its north pole
will point towards East, instead of west. (NSE)

Formation of lines of force due to magnetic effect of current

Characteristics of magnetic field produced due to magnetic effect of current

1. The magnetic field lines form concentric circles around the wire with their
centers lying on the wire.

2. The lines of force are concentrated near the conductor and they are rarefied
away from it.
(Strength of magnetic field goes on decreasing as we move away from the wire.)

3. These lines of force do not intersect each other.

4. The direction of the magnetic field is given by right hand thumb rule.

5. The plane of magnetic field is perpendicular to the conductor.

6. The magnetic field lines become denser if

i) the strength of current in the loop is increased.
ii) the number of turns in the loop are increased.

Note that the magnetic field at any point is the combined effect of the magnetic field
due to current in the wire and the magnetic field of the earth.

Right hand thumb rule:

If we hold the current carrying conductor in right hand such that the thumb points in the
direction of flow of current, then the fingers encircle the wire in the direction of the
magnetic field lines.
Factors affecting the strength of the magnetic field produced due to
magnetic effect of current

1. It increases with the increase in the strength of the current

through the conductor.

2. It increases with the increase in the number of turns of the coil.

Solenoid:

A conductor carrying current wound in the form of a coil such that the length of the coil
is greater than its diameter; is called as solenoid. It looks like a helical spring.

• When current flows through a solenoid, it behaves like a bar magnet.

• A solenoid with a soft iron piece as the core forms a strong electromagnet.

Electromagnet:
An electromagnet is a temporary strong magnet made from a piece of soft iron when
current flows in the coil wound around it.

Magnetic field due to cylindrical coil (or solenoid) carrying a current

(i) The magnetic field lines inside the solenoid are nearly straight and parallel to the axis
of solenoid.

(ii) The magnetic field line becomes denser (i.e., a strong magnetic field is obtained) on
increasing the current in the solenoid.

(iii) The magnetic field is increased, if the number of turns in the solenoid of given length
is increased.

(iv) The magnetic field is also increased, if a soft iron core is placed along
the axis of solenoid. The soft iron intensifies the magnetic field of the
solenoid since soft iron has a high magnetic permeability.

To find the polarity at the ends of an electromagnet/solenoid: CLOCKRULE

Clockrule states that while facing the coil if the direction of current in the coil is
clockwise then that end will behave as South Pole and if the direction of the current is
anticlockwise then that end will behave like North Pole.
Application: Electric bell

Electric bell works on the principle of magnetic effect of current.

It converts electrical energy to magnetic energy to mechanical
energy to sound energy.

Working: Electric bell has following parts:

(i) U-shape electromagnet
(ii) Soft iron armature
(iii) Metal strip and contact screw
(iv) Hammer and gong

When the switch (key) is pressed the circuit is completed and the U shape
electromagnet acquires magnetic properties. Soft iron armature gets attracted towards
the magnet and the hammer hammers the gong. At the same time the contact between
the screw and the metal strip is broken. The current stops flowing through the circuit
and the magnet loses its magnetic properties. Due to spring action the soft iron
armature comes back to its original position. Once again there is contact between the
screw and the metal strip. This continuous make and break circuit helps the hammer to
strike the gong continuously.

→ Which makes the circuit complete again.

Note:

1. Soft iron armature is used as it loses its magnetic property easily (temporary
magnetism) so that it does not remain in contact with the magnet continuously
due to permanent magnetism.

2. Soft iron forms stronger magnet.

3. The direction of winding is made up of silver cadmium alloy for better

conductivity and to prevent oxidation and melting of the tip.

4. For sending current in the coil, the source must be the d.c. source. With an a.c.
source although the soft iron core gets magnetized as long the current is passed,
but its polarity at the end changes times in each second.

Similarities between a current carrying solenoid and a bar magnet

(1) The magnetic field lines of a current carrying solenoid are similar to the magnetic
field lines of a bar magnet. Thus, a current carrying solenoid behaves just like a bar
magnet.

(2) A current carrying solenoid when suspended freely, will set itself in the north-south
direction exactly in the same manner as a bar magnet does.
(3) A current carrying solenoid also acquires the attractive property of a magnet. If iron
filings are brought near the solenoid, it attracts them when current flows through the
solenoid.

Dissimilarities between a current carrying solenoid and a bar magnet

(i) The magnetic field strength due to a solenoid can be altered by altering the current in
it, while the magnetic field strength of a bar magnet cannot be changed.

(ii) The direction of magnetic field due to a solenoid can be reversed by reversing the
direction of current in it, but the direction of magnetic field of a bar magnet cannot be
changed.

Way of increasing the magnetic field of an electromagnet.

The magnetic field of an electromagnet (I or U-shaped) can be increased by the

following two ways:
(i) By increasing the number of turns of winding in the solenoid, and
(ii) By increasing the current through the solenoid.

Advantages of an electromagnet over a permanent magnet

(1) The strength of the magnet can be easily adjusted by changing the strength of the
current.
(2) The polarities can be easily changed by reversing the direction of the current.
(3) As the magnetism is temporary the loading and unloading of magnetic objects
becomes easier in the industries.
(4) They can be easily stored without the requirement of magnetic keepers.

Uses of electromagnet

(1) It is used in an electric bell, electric fans and relays (indirect switches)
(2) Electric motor and generators
(3) For separating iron from a physical mixture
(4) In the formation of artificial magnets
(5) For removing small pieces of iron from an eye (specially for the workers in mines)

Comparison of an electromagnet with a permanent magnet

Electromagnet Permanent magnet

1. It is made of soft iron. 1. It is made of steel.

2. It produces the magnetic field so long as current 2. It produces a permanent

flows in its coils i.e., it produces the temporary magnetic field.
magnetic field.
 3. The magnetic field strength can be changed. 3. The magnetic field strength
cannot be changed.

4. The electromagnet of very strong field can be 4. The permanent magnets are
made. not so strong.

5. The polarity of an electromagnet can be reversed. 5. The polarity of a permanent

magnet cannot be reversed.

6. It can easily be demagnetised by switching off the 6. It cannot be easily

current. demagnetised.

Mechanical effect of current

Whenever a conductor carrying current is placed normally in a magnetic field, it
experiences certain mechanical force. This effect is called mechanical effect of current.
The direction of force experienced is given by Fleming’s left hand rule i.e.

Stretch the forefinger, middle finger and the thumb of your left hand
mutually perpendicular to each other. If the forefinger indicates the
direction of magnetic field and the middle finger indicates the direction of
current, then the thumb will indicate the direction of motion of conductor
(i.e., force on conductor).

Factors affecting the force (torque) experienced by the conductor

The mechanical force (Lorentz force) experienced is:

1. Directly proportional to the strength of current through the conductor (I)

2. Directly proportional to the strength of the magnetic field (B)

3. Directly proportional to the length of the conductor (ℓ)

4. It depends upon the angle between the direction of the magnetic field and the
direction of the current (for 90° the force experienced is maximum and for 0° the
force is minimum i.e., zero)

Thus from 1, 2, and 3:

F ∝ IBℓ

∴ F = KIBℓ where K is a constant.

∴ F = IBℓ (where K = 1)

Also, B = F / (Iℓ) so that the S.I. unit of magnetic field is N A⁻¹ m⁻¹. It is also named as
tesla (T).
 Application of the mechanical effect of current
D.C. Motor:
An electric motor is a device which converts the electrical energy into the mechanical
energy.

Principle: It works on the principle of mechanical effect of current.

Whenever an electric current is passed through a conductor placed normally in a
magnetic field, a force acts on the conductor as a result of which the conductor begins
to move and thus mechanical energy (or work) is obtained.

An electric motor is used in gadgets like fan, mixer, grinder etc.

It has the following parts.

(i) Horse shoe magnet

Between the two poles of this magnet a coil is suspended and this
magnet provides magnetic field for the coil to experience a
deflecting couple when the current flows through it. The ends are
made circular to create a radial magnetic field so that the plane of
the coil is always parallel to the magnetic field i.e. the angle
between the arm of the coil and magnetic field is 90° and the force
experienced is maximum.

(ii) Armature coil

When the current flows through this coil it experiences couple due to mechanical effect
of current. Therefore coil rotates. Soft iron core is introduced at the center of the coil to
intensify the magnetic field.

(iii) Split ring commutator

The ends of the coil are connected to two split rings S₁ & S₂. Two carbon brushes B₁ & B₂
are pressed against these split rings.
When the coil rotates the split rings alternately come in contact with the two brushes
and changes the direction of the current through the coil periodically i.e. after every
180° rotation. This helps the coil to rotate in one direction.
(if the direction of the current through the coil is not changed the coil will oscillate
instead of rotating.)

(iv) Brushes B₁ & B₂

Since the carbon brushes are pressed against split rings the coil can freely rotate and
prevent the twisting of wire.
Factors affecting the speed of rotation of coil

It is directly proportional to
(a) the strength of the current through the coil (I)
(b) the strength of the magnetic field (B)
(c) the area of the coil (A)
(d) the number of the turns in the coil (n)

Note:

(1) The deflecting couple on the coil of the motor is maximum when the plane of coil is
parallel to the direction of magnetic field, while the deflecting couple is zero (or
minimum) when the plane of the coil is perpendicular to the magnetic field.

(2) If the direction of only current or only magnetic field is changed through 180°, then
the direction of force changes through 180°.

(3) If the direction of both the current and the magnetic field is changed through 180°,
then the direction of force remains the same.

ELECTROMAGNETIC INDUCTION
Electromagnetic induction is the phenomenon in which an e.m.f is induced
in the coil if there is a change in the magnetic flux linked with the coil.

Faraday’s Law [Law of electromagnetic induction]

1. Whenever there is a change in the magnetic flux linked with a

conductor an e.m.f is induced across the ends of the conductor.

2. The rate of change of magnetic flux is directly proportional to the induced e.m.f
across the conductor (magnetic flux is the total number of magnetic field lines of
magnet passing through the coil).

Faraday’s Law in equation form:

ε = ΔΦ / Δt × N where,

ε = The emf induced in a coil in volts (V)

ΔΦ = the change of Magnetic Flux lines passing through the surface (A) enclosed by the
coil in weber (Wb)
Δt = Rate of Change in seconds (s) and N = number of coils.

The direction of the induced e.m.f is given by Fleming’s Right hand Rule or Lenz’s law.
Fleming’s Right hand Rule:
Stretch the first finger, the middle finger and the thumb of right
palm mutually perpendicular to each other such that the first finger
indicates the direction of the magnetic field, thumb indicates the
direction of the conductor, then the direction of the middle finger
indicates the direction of the current flowing in the conductor.

Lenz’s Law
The direction of the induced e.m.f is such that it opposes the
causes producing it.
Lenz law is based on law of conservation of energy.

Factors affecting the magnitude of induced e.m.f.

For a given coil and magnet, it depends on the following two factors:
(i) Directly proportional to the change in the magnetic flux, and
(ii) Inversely proportional to the time in which the magnetic flux changes.
(iii) Directly proportional to the number of turns in secondary coil.

Note:
The direction of induced e.m.f during the increase in the magnetic flux is opposite to the
direction of induced e.m.f during the decrease in the magnetic flux.
 A.C. GENERATOR
It’s a device which converts mechanical energy into electrical energy.
A.C. generator works on the principle of electromagnetic induction where a coil is
rotated in a magnetic field. Due to rotation, the magnetic flux linked with the coil
changes and therefore an e.m.f. is induced between the ends of the coil. It consists of
the following parts.

1. Shaped field magnet:

This magnet provides strong magnetic field for electromagnetic
induction.

2. Armature coil:
It is wound on an aluminum rectangular frame. At the center of the
coil there is a cylinder soft iron core which intensifies the magnetic
field of the coil is fixed between the two poles of the field magnet such that it can rotate
about a fixed axis. When the coil rotates, magnetic flux linked with the coil changes and
e.m.f. is induced across the ends of the coil.

3. Slip Ring commutator:

The two ends of the coils are connected to two slip rings and two carbon brushes are
pressed against these slip rings. Across these brushes output A.C. e.m.f. is received.
Slip ring helps to alter the direction of current after every 180° rotation.

Note:
In the diagram alongside importance is given to the alignment of coil and the magnitude
of induced emf (not on slip rings and carbon brushes).

Factors on which the induced e.m.f. in an A.C. generator depends

1. Directly proportional to the speed of rotation.

2. Directly proportional to the area of cross section of

the coil.

3. Directly proportional to the strength of the magnetic

field.

4. Directly proportional to the number of turns of the

coil.

Distinction between an A.C. generator and D.C. motor

A.C generator D.C motor

 1. A generator is a device which 1. A d.c. motor is a device which converts
converts mechanical energy into electrical energy into mechanical energy
electrical energy.

2. A generator works on the principle 2. A d.c. motor works on the principle of force
of electromagnetic induction. acting on a current carrying conductor
placed normally in a magnetic field.

3. In a generator, the coil is rotated in 3. In a d.c. motor, the current from a d.c.
a magnetic field so as to produce source flows in the coil placed in a magnetic
electric current. field due to which the coil rotates.

4. A generator makes use of two 4. A d.c. motor makes use of two parts of a
separate coaxial slip rings. slip ring (i.e. split rings) which act as a
commutator.

Similarity between an A.C. generator and a D.C. motor

Both in an a.c. generator and D.C. motor, a coil rotates in a magnetic field between the
pole pieces of a powerful electromagnet.
Both have carbon brushes
In both there is also a transformation of energy from one form to another

Distinction between D.C and A.C

Direct current (d.c.) Alternating current (a.c.)

1. It is the current of constant 1. It is the current of magnitude varying with

magnitude. time

2. It flows in one direction in the 2. It reverses its direction while flowing in a

circuit. circuit.

3. It is obtained from a cell (or 3. It is obtained from a.c generator and

battery) mains.

Note:

1. The magnitude of induced e.m.f becomes maximum when the magnetic flux
linked with the coil reduces to zero from its maximum value. This happens when
the plane of coil lies in direction of the magnetic field. (Parallel)

2. The magnitude of induced e.m.f becomes zero when the magnetic flux linked
with the coil is maximum. This happens when the plane of coil is normal to the
magnetic field.
 3. The magnitude of alternating current changes continuously with time in a
periodic manner.

TRANSFORMER
It works on the principle of electromagnetic induction.
A transformer is device by which the amplitude of an alternating e.m.f be increased or
decreased.

Turns ratio (n):

The ratio of the number of turns in the secondary coil to the number of turns in the
primary coil is called turns ratio.

Turns ratio n = (Number of turns in secondary coil Ns) / (Number of turns in primary coil
Np)

The magnitude of e.m.f induced in the secondary coil depends on the following two
factors:

(i) The ratio of the number of turns in the secondary coil to the number of turns in the
primary coil (i.e., turns ratio), and
(ii) The magnitude of e.m.f applied in the primary coil.

Types of Transformers

(a) Step up Transformer:

In this transformer primary coil is thicker than the secondary as there is greater current
flowing through the primary coil.

Transformer has three main parts

1. Primary coil

2. Secondary coil

3. Soft iron laminated core

In this transformer low A.C input e.m.f across primary coil is raised to high output A.C
e.m.f. The current flowing through the primary coil produces magnetic field around it
and the secondary coil is present in the magnetic field of the primary. Since the
direction and amplitude of the current in the primary changes, the direction of the
magnetic field produced by it also changes. This changes the magnetic flux linked with
the secondary coil and induces e.m.f which is directly proportional to the number of
turns of the coil.

Since the number of turns of the secondary coil are greater, higher e.m.f is induced
across secondary.
(b) Step down transformer:
In this transformer secondary coil is thicker than the primary as there is greater current
flowing through the secondary coil.

Transformer has three parts

1. Primary coil

2. Secondary coil

3. Soft iron Laminated core

In this transformer high A.C e.m.f across primary coil is lowered across secondary. The
current flowing through the primary coil produces magnetic field around it and the
secondary coil is present in the magnetic field of the primary coil. Since the direction
and the amplitude of the current in the primary changes, the direction of the magnetic
field produced by it also changes. This changes the magnetic flux linked with the
secondary coil and induces electro motive force (e.m.f.) which is directly proportional to
the number of turns of the coil.

Since the numbers of turns of the secondary coil are less, low e.m.f. is induced across
secondary.

Distinction between the step-up and step-down transformers

Step-up transformer Step-down transformer

1. It increases the a.c. voltage and 1. It decreases the a.c. voltage and
decreases the current. i.e. Es > Ep and Is < increases the current. i.e. Es < Ep and Is
Ip > Ip

2. The turns ratio Ns / Np > 1 i.e. it has 2. Its turns ratio Ns / Np < 1 i.e. it has less
more number of turns in the secondary number of turns in the secondary coil
coil than in the primary coil. than in the primary coil

3. The wire of primary coil is thicker than 3. The wire of secondary coil is thicker
that in the secondary coil. than that in the primary coil

4. Uses: At power generating station, with 4. Uses: At power substation with night
X-ray tubes, television, etc. electric bulb, radio sets for valve heaters,
transistors, etc.

Energy loss in a transformer

1. Due to the formation of eddy currents in the core.

Laminated core helps to reduce the formation of eddy currents in the core
 2. Due to the magnetic hysteresis (certain amount of electrical energy is used to
magnetize the soft iron core)
The soft iron core minimizes hysteresis loss of energy in the core.

3. It is lost due to the heating (resistance) of either primary or secondary coils

(Copper Loss)
It is minimized by taking a thicker wire for the coil where there is greater current
flowing through it.
The wire of primary coil is made thicker in step up transformer and the wire of
secondary coil is made thicker in step down transformer

4. Magnetic field link loss

A closed core gives a closed path for the magnetic field lines and therefore
almost all the magnetic field lines caused due to current in the primary coil
remain linked with the secondary coil and loss of energy is avoided.

Advantages of A.C. e.m.f for transformers

1. In A.C. supply e.m.f can be increased or decreased to any desired value and thus
there will be change in magnetic flux linked with the secondary coil whereas in a
D.C. supply there will be no change in magnetic flux linked with the secondary
coil.

2. For power transmission A.C. is preferred to D.C.

At higher voltage for the same power to be transmitted the current in the
transmission wire is less and this reduces the loss of electrical energy in the form
of heat and reduces the cost of transmission. (H = I²Rt)

Use of step-up transformers:

(i) In transmission of electric power at the power generating station to step up the
voltage.
(ii) With television,
(iii) With wireless sets, and
(iv) With X-ray tubes to provides a high accelerating voltage.

Use of step-down transformers:

(i) With electric bells,

(ii) With mobile phones, computers, etc., and
(iii) At the power sub-stations to step-down the voltage before its distribution to the
consumer.
 QUESTIONS
1. How is the magnetic field due to a straight current-carrying wire affected if
current in the wire is (a) decreased, (b) reversed?
Answer
(a) The magnetic field will decrease on decreasing the current

(b) If the direction of current is reversed, the direction of the magnetic field is also
reversed.

2. State a law, which determines the direction of the magnetic field around a
current-carrying wire.
Answer
The direction of the magnetic field around a current-carrying wire is determined by the
right-hand thumb rule. It states that if we hold the current-carrying conductor in our
right hand such that the thumb points in the direction of flow of current, then the fingers
encircle the wire in the direction of the magnetic field lines.

3. A straight wire lying in a horizontal plane carries a current from north to south.
(a) What will be the direction of the magnetic field at a point just underneath it?
(b) Name the law used to arrive at this answer in part (a).

Answer
(a) The direction of the magnetic field at a point just underneath is towards east.

(b) The name of the law is the right-hand thumb rule.

4. A wire, bent into a circle, carries a current in (a) an anticlockwise direction (b) a
clockwise direction. What polarity does this face of the coil exhibit?
Answer
(a) The face of the coil exhibit north polarity

(b) The face of the coil exhibit south polarity

5. What is the direction of the magnetic field at the centre of a coil carrying current
in (i) the clockwise (ii) the anticlockwise direction?
Answer
(i) The direction of the magnetic field at the centre of a coil carrying current in the
clockwise direction is along the axis of the coil inwards.
(ii) The direction of the magnetic field at the centre of a coil carrying current in the
anticlockwise direction is along the axis of the coil outwards.

6. The diagram shows a spiral coil wound on a hollow cardboard tube AB. A
magnetic compass is placed close to it. Current is switched on by closing the key.
(a) What will be the polarity at the ends A and B?
(b) How will the compass needle be affected? Give a reason.

Answer
(a) The polarity at the end A is the north pole and at the end B is the south pole.
(b) The north pole of the compass needle will deflect towards West

Reason: End A of the coil behaves like north pole which repels the north pole of the
compass needle towards the west.

7. State two ways by which the magnetic field due to a current-carrying solenoid
can be made stronger.
Answer
The magnetic field due to a current-carrying solenoid can be made stronger by following
ways:
(i) By increasing the number of turns of winding in the solenoid and
(ii) By increasing the current through the solenoid

8. (a) What name is given to a cylindrical coil of diameter less than its length?
(b) If a piece of soft iron is placed inside the coil mentioned in part (a) and current is
passed in the coil from a battery, what name is then given to the device so
obtained?
(c) Give one use of the device mentioned in part (b).

Answer
(a) A cylindrical coil of diameter less than its length is solenoid.
(b) Electromagnet is the name of the device obtained.
(c) Electromagnet is used in electric bell.
9. The diagram in the figure shows a coil wound around a soft iron bar XY.
(a) State the polarity at the end X and Y as the switch is pressed.
(b) Suggest one way of increasing the strength of electromagnet so formed.

Answer
(a) The polarity at the end X – north pole and at Y – south pole
(b) By reducing the resistance of the circuit by means of the rheostat to increase the
current in the coil.

10. What is an electromagnet? Name two factors on which the strength of the
magnetic field of an electromagnet depends and state how it depends on the
factors stated by you.
Answer

An electromagnet is a temporary strong magnet made by passing current in a coil

wound around a piece of soft iron. It is an artificial magnet.
The strength of the magnetic field of an electromagnet depends on:
(i) By increasing the number of turns of winding in the solenoid and
(ii) By increasing the current through the solenoid.

11. Figure shows the current flowing in the coil of wire wound around the soft iron
horseshoe core.
(a) State the polarities developed at the ends A and B.
(b) How will the polarity at the ends A and B change on reversing the direction of
current?
(c) Suggest one way increase the strength of magnetic field produce.

Answer
(a) At the end A – south pole and at end B – north pole
(b) Polarities get reversed. A will become north pole and B will become south pole
(c) By increasing the current

12. State two advantages of an electromagnet over a permanent magnet.

Answer
(i) An electromagnet can produce a strong magnetic field
(ii) By changing the current in its solenoid, the strength of the magnetic field of an
electromagnet can easily be changed

13. State three differences between an electromagnet and a permanent magnet.

Answer

Electromagnet Permanent Magnet

1. Electromagnets are made up of soft iron Permanent magnets are

made up of steel

2. Polarity of electromagnets can be reversed Permanent magnets have

fixed polarity

3. Strength of electromagnets can be increased or Permanent magnets have

decreased by changing electric current fixed strength

14. How is the working of an electric bell affected, if alternating current be used
instead of direct current?
Answer
If an a.c. source is used in place of the battery, the core of electromagnet will get
magnetised, but the polarity at its ends will change. Since the attraction of the armature
does not depend on the polarity of the electromagnet, the bell will still ring on pressing
the switch.

15. Multiple choice question

Question: 1
The presence of the magnetic field at a point can be detected by:
(a) A strong magnet
(b) A solenoid
(c) A compass needle
(d) A current-carrying wire
Answer
The presence of a magnetic field at a point can be detected by a compass needle

Question: 2
On reversing the direction of current in a wire, the magnetic field produced by it:
(a) Gets reversed in direction
(b) Increases in strength
(c) Decreases in strength
(d) Remains unchanged in strength and direction

Answer
On reversing the direction of current in a wire, the magnetic field produced by it gets
reversed in direction

Question: 3
In an electric motor, the energy transformation is:
(a) From electrical to chemical
(b) From chemical to light
(c) From mechanical to electrical
(d) From electrical to mechanical

Answer
(d)
In an electric motor, the energy transformation is from electrical to mechanical.

16. Define Lorentz force and name the three factors on which the magnitude of
force on a current carrying conductor placed in a magnetic field depends and state
how the force depends on the factors stated by you.

Answer
Lorentz force is the force experienced by a current carrying conductor when placed in a
magnetic field in a direction other than the direction of magnetic field.

The factors on which the magnitude of the force on a current-carrying conductor placed
in a magnetic field depends directly are as follows:
(i) On strength of magnetic field B
(ii) On current I in the conductor
(iii) On length L of conductor

17. State condition in each case for the magnitude of the force on a current-
carrying conductor placed in a magnetic field is (a) zero, (b) maximum
Answer
(a) Force will be zero when the current in the conductor is in the direction of the
magnetic field

(b) When current in a conductor is normal to the magnetic field

18. Name and state the law which is used to determine the direction of the force on
a current-carrying conductor placed in a magnetic field.
Answer
Fleming’s left-hand rule: Stretch the forefinger, central finger and the thumb of your left
hand mutually perpendicular to each other. If the forefinger indicates the direction of
the magnetic field and the central finger indicates the direction of current, then the
thumb will indicate the direction of motion of the conductor.

19. State the unit of magnetic field in terms of the force experienced by a current-
carrying conductor placed in a magnetic field.
Answer
The unit of magnetic field in terms of the force experienced by a current-carrying
conductor placed in a magnetic field is Newton/ampere × meter (or N A⁻¹ m⁻¹).

Note: SI unit of magnetic induction is tesla.

20. What is an electric motor? State its principle.

Answer
An electric motor is a device which converts electrical energy into mechanical energy.

Principle: An electric motor (dc motor) works on the principle that when an electric
current is passed through a conductor placed normally in a magnetic field, a force acts
on the conductor as a result of which the conductor begins to move and thus
mechanical energy is obtained.

21. State two ways by which the speed of rotation of an electric motor can be
increased
Answer
The speed of rotation of an electric motor can be increased by the following ways:
(i) By increasing the strength of the current in the coil
(ii) By increasing the number of turns in the coil
22. State Faraday’s laws of electromagnetic induction.
Answer
Faraday formulated the following two laws of electromagnetic induction:

(i) Whenever there is a change in magnetic flux linked with a coil, an e.m.f. is induced.
The e.m.f induced lasts so long there is a change in the magnetic flux linked with the
coil.

(ii) The magnitude of e.m.f. induced is directly proportional to the rate of change of
magnetic flux linked with the coil. If magnetic flux changes at a constant rate, a steady
e.m.f. is produced.

23. State two factor on which the magnitude of induced e.m.f in a coil depend
Answer
The magnitude of induced e.m.f. in a coil depends on the following two factors:
(i) On the rate of change of magnetic flux with each turn, and
(ii) On the number of turns in the coil.

24. (a) What kind of the energy change takes place when a magnet is moved
towards a coil having a galvanometer between its ends? (b) Name the
phenomenon.

Answer
(a) When a magnet is moved towards a coil having a galvanometer between its ends
then mechanical energy changes to electrical energy.
(b) The phenomenon is known as electromagnetic induction.

25. State Fleming’s right-hand rule.

Fleming’s right-hand rule: Stretch the thumb, central finger and forefinger of your right
hand mutually perpendicular to each other. If the forefinger indicates the direction of
the magnetic field and the thumb indicates the direction of motion of the conductor,
then the central finger will indicate the direction of induced current.

What is Lenz’s law?

According to Lenz’s law, the direction of induced e.m.f. (or induced current) is such that
it opposes the cause which produces it.

26. Explain how Lenz’s law shows the conservation of energy in electromagnetic
induction.
Answer
It shows that the mechanical energy spent in doing work against the opposing force
experienced by the moving magnet is transformed into the electrical energy due to
which current flows in the solenoid. Thus Lenz’s law is based on the law of conservation
of energy.

27. The diagram shows a coil of several turns of copper wire near a magnet NS. The
coil is moved in the direction of the arrow shown in the diagram.

(i) In what direction does the induced current flow in the coil?
(ii) Name the law used to arrive at the conclusion in part (i).
(iii) How would the current in coil be altered if
(a) the coil has twice the number of turns,
(b) the coil was made to move three times faster?

Answer
(i) The North pole generates when the coil is moved in the direction of the magnet and
current starts flowing from A to B
(ii) Lenz’s law
(iii) (a) Current is directly proportional to the number of turns. Hence, the current
becomes twice.
(b) Current becomes thrice

28. The diagram shows a fixed coil of several turns connected to a centre zero
galvanometer G and a magnet NS which can move in the direction shown in the
diagram.

(a) Describe the observation in the galvanometer if

(i) the magnet is moved away rapidly,
(ii) the magnet is kept stationary after it has moved into the coil,
(iii) the magnet is then rapidly pulled out of the coil.
(b) How would the observation in (i) of part (a) change if a more powerful magnet is
used?

Answer:
(a) (i) The direction of deflection remains constant in the galvanometer if the magnet is
moved away rapidly
(ii) The deflection becomes zero, if the magnet is kept stationary after it has moved into
the coil
(iii) The deflection again occurs in the opposite direction, if the magnet is rapidly pulled
out of the coil

(b) The deflection is increased

29. Name and state the principle of a simple a.c. generator. What is its use

Answer
An A.C. generator works on the principle of Faraday’s law of electromagnetic induction

Statement: In a generator, if a coil is rotated in a magnetic field, then due to rotation,

the magnetic flux linked with the coil changes and therefore an e.m.f. is induced
between the ends of the coil. Thus a generator acts as a source of current in an external
circuit containing load when connected between the ends of its coil.

Use: A.C. generator is used to supply power or electricity to a device that requires
alternating current.

30. State (i) two dis-similarities, and (ii) two similarities between a D.C. motor and
an A.C. generator.

Answer

Two dissimilarities

AC generator DC motor

1. A generator is a device which 1. A d.c. motor is a device which converts

converts the mechanical energy into the electrical energy into the mechanical
the electrical energy energy

2. A generator works on the principle of 2. A d.c. motor works on the principle of

electromagnetic induction force acting on a current-carrying
conductor placed in a magnetic field
Similarities between AC generator and DC motor

1. In both a coil is rotated between two poles of a magnet

2. In both energy is transformed from one form to another

 PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTIONS
SUBJECTIVE TYPE QUESTIONS

2 Marks Questions

Q.1. A copper conductor is placed over two stretched copper wires whose ends are connected
to a D.C. supply as shown in the diagram.

(a) What should be the magnetic poles at the points A and B lying on either side of the
conductor to experience the force in the upward direction? [ICSE 2023]

(b) Name the law used to find these polarities.

Q.2.(i) Why does a current carrying freely suspended solenoid rest along a particular
direction? [ICSE 2015]

(ii) State the direction in which it rests.

Q.3. State two advantage of an electromagnet over a permanent magnet. [ICSE 2018, 2006,
2002]

Q.4. Name three factors on which the magnitude of force on a current carrying conductor
placed in a magnetic field depends and state how does the force depend on the factors. [OEB

Q. 5.

A compass needle is placed near a current carrying wire. State your observations in the
following cases, and give reason for the same in each case:

(a) Magnitude of electric current in the wire is increased.

(b) The compass needle is displaced away from the wire. [OEB]

3 Marks Questions

Q. [Link] diagram given shows a current carrying loop or a circular coil passing through a
sheet of cardboard at the points M and N. The sheet of cardboard is sprinkled uniformly
with iron filings.
(i) Copy the diagram and draw an arrow on the circular coil to show the direction of
current flowing through it.

(ii) Draw the pattern of arrangement of the iron filings when current is passed through
the loop. [ICSE 2012]

Q. 2.(a) Write the special name given to the coil AB which has many circular turns of
insulated copper wire.

(b) List two factors on which the strength of the magnetic field produced by AB depends.

(c) What is the effect of placing an iron core in the coil AB? [OEB]

Q. [Link] the magnetic effects of current with the help of an activity along with
labelled diagram. [OEB]

Q. 4.(a) Shruti draws magnetic field lines close to the axis of a current carrying circular
loop. As she moves away from the center of circular loop, she observes that the lines
keep on diverging. Explain the reason for her observation.

(b) Write two properties of magnetic field lines. [OEB]

Q. [Link] diagram shows a coil wound around a U shape soft iron bar AB.

(i) What is the polarity induced at the ends A and B when the switch is pressed?

(ii) Suggest one way to strengthen the magnetic field in the electromagnet.

(iii) What will be the polarities at A and B if the direction of current is reversed in the
circuit?

(i) What is the polarity induced at the ends A and B when the switch is pressed?

(ii) Suggest one way to strengthen the magnetic field in the electromagnet.

(iii) What will be the polarities at A and B if the direction of current is reversed in the
circuit?

4 Marks Questions

Q. [Link] diagram below shows a cardboard on which iron filings are kept. A wire bent in
the form of a loop is seen passing through the cardboard. When current flows through it
the iron filings arrange themselves as shown below.
(a) State the polarities of the battery at A and B.

(b) State the effect on the magnetic field if an iron rod is held along the axis of the coil.

(c) State one way to:

1. Change the polarity of the coil.

2. Decrease the strength of the magnetic field around the coil. [ICSE 2023]

Q. 2.(i) State two ways by which the magnetic field of a solenoid can be made stronger.

(ii) What material is used for making the armature of an electric bell? Give reason for
using this material. [OEB]

Q. [Link] is solenoid? Why do we usually keep its diameter small in comparison to its
length?

Q. [Link] diagram below shows a magnetic needle kept just below the conductor AB
which is kept in North-South direction.

(i) What is the polarity induced at the ends A and B when the switch is pressed?

(ii) Suggest one way to strengthen the magnetic field in the electromagnet.

(iii) What will be the polarities at A and B if the direction of current is reversed in the
circuit? [ICSE 2018]

4 Marks Questions

Q. 1. The diagram below shows a cardboard on which iron filings are kept. A wire bent in
the form of a loop is seen passing through the cardboard. When current flows through it
the iron filings arrange themselves as shown below.

(a) State the polarities of the battery at A and B.

(b) State the effect on the magnetic field if an iron rod is held along the axis of the coil.

(c) State one way to:

1. Change the polarity of the coil.

 2. Decrease the strength of the magnetic field around the coil. [ICSE 2023]

Q. 2.(i) State two ways by which the magnetic field of a solenoid can be made stronger.

(ii) What material is used for making the armature of an electric bell? Give reason for
using this material. [OEB]

Q. [Link] is solenoid? Why do we usually keep its diameter small in comparison to its
length?

Q. [Link] diagram below shows a magnetic needle kept just below the conductor AB
which is kept in North-South direction.

(i) In which direction will the needle deflect when the key is closed?

✔ SUBJECTIVE TYPE QUESTIONS

2 Marks Questions

Q. 1. A transformer is used to change a high alternating e.m.f. to a low alternating e.m.f.

of the same frequency.

(a) Identify the type of transformer used for the above purpose.

(b) State whether the turns ratio of the above transformer is = 1 or > 1 or < 1. [ICSE
Specimen Paper 2024]

Q. 2. State the energy change which takes place when a magnet is moved inside a coil
having a galvanometer at its ends. Name this phenomenon. [OEB]

Q. 3. Why do birds fly off a high tension wire when the current is switched ON? [OEB]

Q. 4. A magnet kept at the centre of two coils A and B is moved to and fro as shown in
the diagram. The two galvanometers show deflection.

State with a reason whether: x > y or x < y. [x and y are magnitudes of deflection.] [ICSE
2019]

3 Marks Questions

Q. 1.(i) State two factors on which the strength of an induced current depends.

(ii) State Lenz’s Law. [OEB]

Q. 2. State and explain Fleming’s right hand rule for the direction of induced current.
[OEB]

Q. 3.(a) State the Faraday’s laws of electromagnetic induction.

(b) Name one electrical device which works on this principle. [ICSE Specimen Paper
Sem-2, 2021-22]

Q. 4. Write the difference between the step up and step-down transformers and their
uses. [OEB]

4 Marks Questions

Q. 1.A magnet is released along the axis of a copper coil as shown in the diagram.

(a) State the polarity at the top end of the coil when the magnet leaves the coil.

(b) The direction of the current is from A to B when magnet enters the coil. What will be
the direction of the current when the magnet leaves the coil?

(c) Name the law which can be used to determine the direction of the induced current in
the coil.

(d) State one way to increase the magnitude of the induced current in the coil. [ICSE
Specimen Paper 2024]

Q. [Link] the energy conversion, principle and construction of generator. [OEB]

Q. [Link] diagram below shows an insulated copper wire wound around a hollow card
board cylindrical tube. Answer the questions those follow:

(a) What are the magnetic poles at A and B when the key K is closed?

(b) State two ways to increase the strength of the magnetic field in this coil without
changing the coil. [OEB]
Q. [Link] the diagram given below:

(i) What will you observe when:

(1) the magnet is dropped into the coil,
(2) the number of turns of the coil is increased?

(ii) What will be the direction of current flowing through the coil when the magnet is
dropped in (clockwise or anti-clockwise)?

(iii) State the law which explains this observation. [ICSE Specimen Paper, 2017]

✔ OBJECTIVE TYPE QUESTIONS

A. Multiple Choice Questions

Q. 1. If the strength of the current flowing through a wire is increased, the strength of the
magnetic field produced by it: [ICSE 2023]

(a) decreases
(b) increases
(c) Remains same
(d) first increases then decreases

Q. 2. The diagram below shows a free conductor AB kept in a magnetic field and is
carrying current from A to B. (To avoid confusion complete path of the circuit is not
shown.) The direction of the force experienced by the conductor will be: [ICSE
Specimen Paper Sem-2, 2021-22]
(a) Up
(b) Down
(c) Towards N
(d) Towards S

Q. 3. The following figures show the direction of magnetic field lines due to a straight
current carrying wire. Which of the following statements is correct? [OEB]

(a) Directions of magnetic field lines are correctly shown in both the figures.
(b) Directions of magnetic field lines should be in the same directions in both the
figures.
(c) In figure - I, direction of magnetic field lines should be clockwise.
(d) In figure - II, direction of magnetic field lines should be anti-clockwise.

Q. 4. Current is flowing in a circular loop. Which of the following statement is incorrect?

[OEB]

(a) Looking at the face of the loop if the current flows in anti-clockwise direction then
that face has south polarity. If the current flows in clockwise direction then that face has
north polarity.
(b) Near the centre of the loop the magnetic field lines are nearly parallel.
(c) Magnetic field lines become denser if the current in the loop is increased.
(d) At the centre the magnetic field lines are along the axis of the loop and normal to the
plane of the loop.

Q. 5. The presence of a magnetic field at a point can be detected by [OEB]

(a) A bar magnet

(b) A solenoid
(c) A current carrying loop
(d) A compass needle

Q. 6. P and Q are two straight wires carrying currents of same magnitude in the direction
perpendicular to the paper inward.

Magnetic field at O (mid point of the line joining P and Q) is [OEB]

(a) 0
(b) Sum of the magnetic fields produced by the current carrying wires P and Q
(c) Product of the magnetic fields produced by the current carrying wires P and Q
(d) None of the above

Q. [Link] direction of force acting on a current carrying conductor placed in a magnetic

field is obtained by

(a) Fleming’s left hand rule

(b) Fleming’s right hand rule
(c) Right hand thumb rule
(d) All of the above [OEB]

Q. [Link] the ____ pole of a magnet is brought close to one end of a solenoid, then the
end of the solenoid near the magnet becomes ____ pole and this is according to ____
law. [OEB]

(a) South, South, Lenz’s

(b) South, South, Faraday’s
(c) South, North, Lenz’s
(d) South, North, Faraday’s

Q. [Link]’s Law is based on the law of conservation of

(a) force
(b) charge
(c) mass
(d) energy [ICSE Specimen Paper 2023]

Q.10. The diagram below shows a magnet moved near a coil along its axis. Which of the
diagram shows correct flow of current during this motion? (ICSE Specimen Paper Sem-
2, 2021-22)
✔ CASE BASED QUESTIONS
Multiple Choice Questions

1. Read the below text and answer the questions those follow:

The two ends of a solenoid is connected to a centre zero galvanometer. A bar magnet is
moved back and forth.

Now answer the following questions. [OEB]

Q. 1. The bar magnet moves towards the solenoid. The polarity developed at the two
ends of the solenoid are

Q. 2. The bar magnet moves away from the solenoid. The polarity developed at the two
ends of the solenoid are

Q. [Link] the bar magnet is placed stationary very close to the solenoid the
galvanometer:

(a) Shows a steady deflection to indicate that there is a flow of a steady induced current
in the solenoid.
(b) Shows a fluctuating deflection to indicate that there is a flow of a fluctuating induced
current in the solenoid.
(c) Shows no deflection to indicate that there is no flow of induced current in the
solenoid.
(d) None of the above

Q. [Link] deflection of the galvanometer may be increased by

(a) moving the magnet rapidly

(b) using a bar magnet of greater strength
(c) by increasing the number of turns and area of the solenoid
(d) All of the above

II. Read the below text and answer the questions those follow:

Electromagnet is a temporary magnet. Generally d.c. is used to activate an

electromagnet. If a 50 Hz alternating voltage source is used the polarity interchanges 50
times a second. [OEB]
Q. [Link] is fabricated by winding insulated copper wire on a piece of

(a) Steel
(b) Soft iron
(c) Aluminium
(d) Any one of the above

Q. [Link] electromagnets are available in

(a) U shape
(b) I shape
(c) E shape
(d) Both U and I shape

Q. [Link] alternating voltage source is used to activate an electromagnet

(a) The strength of the magnetic field fluctuates

(b) The polarity of the electromagnet interchanges at fixed intervals
(c) The electromagnets become too hot
(d) Both (a) and (c)

Q. [Link] of the following electromagnets will be a stronger one?

(a) Electromagnet of figure-I.

(b) Electromagnet of figure-II
(c) Both will have the same strength
(d) None of the above

Subjective Question

I. Read the below text and answer the questions those follow:

We all use mobile chargers to charge our mobile phones, by connecting to ac sockets in
our house hold electrical circuits. [OEB]
Q. [Link] is the principle behind the working of this above device?

Q. [Link] type of transformer is used to make it?

Q. [Link] is the turns ratio of the transformer type used in battery charger?

Q. [Link] the difference between the different types of transformers.