JEEVA VELU INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL

(Affiliated to CBSE, New Delhi, Affiliation No. 1930303) Velu

Nagar, Mathur, TIRUVANNAMALAI – 606 603 Phone:-
04175–294 517 / 98433 81199 / [email protected]

PHYSICS
CHAPTER-4
MOVING CHARGES AND
MAGNETISM

CLASS-XII
(2025 – 2026)
 Chapter - 4
Moving Charges And Magnetism
When a current is passed through a conductor magnetic field are produced around the
conductor. This effect is called magnetic effect of electric current and this was first observed by
the scientist H.C. Oersted in 1820.
He observed that a tiny magnetic needle placed above or below a straight conductor gets
deflected when a current is passed through the conductor. The direction of deflection of the
needle is given by Ampere’s Swimming Rule.
“If a swimmer is imagined to swim along the conductor in the direction of current, facing
the needle, then the north pole of the needle is deflected to his left”.
Magnetic Force
Static charges produce an electric field, while current or moving charges produce
magnetic field (B).
The electric field experiences a force F = qE
2 1 q
F= q (∴ E = )
4π𝝴0r2 4π𝝴0 r2
Just as static charges produce an electric field, conductors carrying currents or moving charges
produce magnetic field, denoted as B̅→ in the space around them. The magnetic field disappears as
soon as the current is switched off or the charges stop moving, it means that a moving charge is a
source of both electric field E̅→and magnetic field B̅ →.
Force on a Charged Particle Moving in a Magnetic Field
A charged particle moving in a magnetic field experiences a force due to interaction between the
magnetic field produced round the charge and the applied magnetic field. z
Consider a positive charge q moving in a magnetic field B̅→with
F̅→
a velocity v̅→in a direction making an angle θ with the direction of field.
The force F̅→is directly proportional to v cos θ B̅→
o y
(i) The magnitude of the magnetic field applied v sin θ θ
v̅→
(ii) The magnitude of the charge x
(iii) The velocity in a direction perpendicular to the direction of the field
i.e F α Bqv Sin θ
F = kBqv Sin θ
Where k = proportionality constant = 1
F = Bqv Sin θ
In vector form F̅→= q (v̅ → x B̅ →)

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Definition of Magnetic Field ( B )
We have F = Bqv Sin θ
If q = 1, v = 1 and θ = 900 then F = B
“The magnetic field at a point is numerically equal to the force on a unit positive
charge moving through the point in a direction perpendicular to the field with unit
velocity”.
The SI unit is tesla ( T ) or weber / m2 ( wb/m2 )
If q = 1 C, v = 1 ms-1, F = 1 N, θ = 900 then B = 1 T
“The magnetic field at a point is said to be 1 T, if 1C of charge moving through the
point at right angles to the field with a velocity of 1 ms-1 experiences a force of 1 N”.

Fleming’s Left Hand Rule

“The first three fringes of the left hand are stretched so that they are mutually
perpendicular to each other, the fore finger is along the direction of the magnetic field, the
middle finger is along the direction of current then thumb indicates the direction of the force on
the current carrying conductor”.
Note: Fleming‟s left hand rule is also called as motor rule.
Fleming‟s right hand rule is also called as generator rule.
Lorentz Force
“The force experienced by a charged particle moving in space where both electric and magnetic
fields exists is called Lorentz force”.
Consider a point charge q moving with a velocity „v‟ in the presence of both electric and
magnetic fields then the force is
F = q [E + v B]
F = Felectric + Fmagnetic
Magnetic Force on a Current Carrying Conductor
Consider a straight rod carrying current I in a cross-sectional area A and length l. Let n be the
number density of mobile charge carries in magnetic fields B. Let Vd be the average drift
velocity of mobile charge carriers with force.
∴ F = (nAl) qVd x B
F = JAl x B (∴ nqVd = J)
I
F=BIl (∴ = J)
A

For a wire of arbitrary shape F = Σ Idl x B

In vector form F̅→= I (𝑙→ x B̅→)

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 Moving Charges and Magnetism

Motion in a Magnetic Field xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

When a charged particle having a charge q moves inside a magnetic x x x x x x x xv x x x x x x x
field B with a velocity v, it experiences a force F̅→= q ( v̅→x B̅→). xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
x x x x x x xF xFx xrx x x x x
→
When v̅→is perpendicular to, the force F̅ on the charged particle acts x x x x x x x x xFx x x x x x
v F
as the centripetal force and makes it to move along circular path. x x x x x x x x x x x x vx x x
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
Let m be the mass of charged particle and r be the radius of the
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
circular path.
2
q ( v̅→x B̅→) = mv
r

v and B are at right angles

2
qvB = mv
r

The time period of circular motion of the charged particle is

2πr
T=
v
2π mv
T=
v Bq
2πm
T=
Bq

Angular frequency w = 2π
T

This is also called as cyclotron frequency.

Motion in combined electric and magnetic fields
Velocity Selector y

Force in presence of magnetic and electric fields

E
F = q [E + v B] ... (1) FE
F = FE + FB
Consider that electric and magnetic fields are perpendicular to B x
v
each other and also perpendicular to the velocity of particle,
We have FE = qE = qE 𝚥̂ z FB
FB = q V B
FB = q ( V 𝚤̂ x B 𝑘̂ )
FB = - q V B 𝚥̂
(1) ⟹ F = q ( E – V B ) 𝚥̂

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 Moving Charges and Magnetism

If we adjust the value of E and B such that magnitude of the two forces are equal, then total force
on the charge is zero and that charge will move in the fields undeflected. This happens when
qE=qVB
V=E
B

The above condition can be used to select a charged particle of particular velocity from charges
moving with different speeds is called Velocity Selector.
Cyclotron
It is a machine used to accelerate positively charged ions or particles like protons, deuterons,
alpha particles etc., to high energies. It was invented by Lawrence and Livingston in 1934 to
study nuclear structure. In cyclotron charged particles move in both electric and magnetic fields
which are perpendicular to each other. The magnetic field makes the charged particles to move
in circular paths and the electric field accelerates the charged particles.
Principle: Frequency of motion of charged particles is independent of the radius of the circular
path and energy.
Construction
The cyclotron consists of two hollow
semicircular disc like metal containers D1 and
D2 which are called Dees. A source of
positive ions or positively charged particles is
located near the midpoint of the gap between
the Dees. The Dees are insulated from each
other and enclosed inside another vacuum
chamber. The Dees are connected to a
powerful high frequency AC oscillator. The
electric field is produced in the gap between
the Dees. Inside the Dees electric field is zero
or potential is constant. The whole apparatus
is taken in a magnetic field.
Working and theory
Positive ion to be accelerated is produced at P. Electric field changes sign alternately. Therefore
the particle is accelerated by the electric field which increases the energy of the particle. The
increase in energy increases the radius of the circular path. Hence the path is a spiral one.
Time period of revolution is T = 1
𝗎𝔀

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 Moving Charges and Magnetism
2πm 1
=
Bq 𝗎𝔀
Bq
υc =
2πm

This frequency is called Cyclotron frequency.

When the frequency of applied voltage is equal to cyclotron frequency is called resonance.
We have
mv
r=
Bq
qBr
v=
m
2B2r2
hence K.E = 1 mv2 = 1 m q
2 2 m2

Uses of Cyclotron
• It is used to bombard nuclei with energetic particles.
• It is used to implant ions into solids.
• It is used to modify the properties of a material by bombarding it with the accelerated
charged particles.
• It is used to synthesize new materials.
• It is used in hospitals to produce radioactive substances.
Current element:- A small portion of current carrying conductor is called Current Element.
Biot-Savart Law [Laplace law]
Statement:- The magnetic field produced at a point because of a current element is directly
proportional to the
(i) Strength of the current ( I )
(ii) Length of the current element ( dl )
(iii) Sine of the angle between the current element and the line joining the point.
(iv) Inversely proportional to the square of the distance between the point and the current
element.
Explanation: from statement we have
dB α I
dB α dl
dl θ dB α Sin θ
R P
dB α R12
I
I d𝑙 Sin θ
∴ dB α R2

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 Moving Charges and Magnetism
I d𝑙 Sin θ
dB = k R2

Where k = proportionality constant = μo = 10-7 Hm-1 or 10-7 Tm A-1

4π
μo
dB = ( ) I d𝑙 Sin θ
4π R2

Expression for the Magnetic Field at a Point on the Axis of a Circular Current Loop
Consider a circular coil of radius R and n be the number of turns. Let I be the current flowing
through the coil. Let P be a point at a distance x from the centre of the coil. To find magnetic
field at point P, imagine two diametrically opposite current elements each of length dl at A and B
o μ I d𝑙 Sin θ
From Laplace law dB = ( ) 2 ... (1)
4π R

A dl dB Cos α
Y Q dB

R r
α
θ α dB Sin α
I o x α X
P dB1 Sin α
α
R
Y1
Q1 dB1
dB1 Cos α
B

The magnetic field at point P due to current element at A is θ = 900 and R = r

oμ I d𝑙
∴ (1) ⟹ dB = ( ) 2 ... (2) acting along PQ
4π r

The magnetic field at point P due to current element at B is θ = 900 and R = r

μ
o I d𝑙
∴ (1) ⟹ dB1 = ( ) 2 ... (3) acting along PQ1
4π r

From equation (2) and (3) dB = dB1

The point P is resolved into two components along vertical (dB Cos α and dB1 Cos α) and
horizontal (dB Sin α and dB1 Sin α) components. Vertical components cancel each other whereas
horizontal components added each other.
∴ the resultant magnetic field because of current elements A and B at P is given by
dBR = dB Sin α + dB1 Sin α
dBR = 2dB Sin α (∴dB1 = dB)
The total magnetic field at point P because of entire loop is
B = Σ dBR

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 Moving Charges and Magnetism

B = Σ 2dB Sin α
μ I d𝑙
B = Σ 2( o) Sin α
4π r2
μo 2 I Zd𝑙
B=( ) Sin α
4π r2

But Σ dl = 1 x circumference = 1 x 2πR = πR

2 2

From triangle POA Sin α = 𝑅

𝑟
μo 2IπR 𝑅
∴B=( ) 2
4π r 𝑟
μo 2 I π R 2
B=( ) ... (4)
4π r3

From triangle POA r2 = R2 +x2

1
r = (R2 + 𝑥2)2
3
cubing r3 = (R2 + 𝑥2)2
2
∴ (4) ⟹
4π (R2+𝑥2)2

μ 2 n I π R2
For n turns B = ( o) 3
4π (R2 2)2
+𝑥
μ 2nIπ
at the centre x = 0 ∴ B = ( o)
4π R

Ampere's Circuital Law

Statement: The line integral of the magnetic field (∮ B̅ →. 𝑑̅̅̅̅̅→𝑙) around any closed curve enclosing an
area is equal to μ0 times the net current (I) through the area bounded by the curve.
Consider a closed plane curve with current I passing
through the closed curve. The boundary is made up of a number of
small elements each of length dl.
Tangential component of magnetic field is multiplied to the current element dl (B dl).
All such products are added together, which forms an integral ∮ B̅ →. 𝑑̅̅̅̅̅→𝑙
From statement we have ∮ B. d𝑙 = μ0I
But dl = 2πr
∴ B 2πr = μ0I
μoI
B=
2πr

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 Moving Charges and Magnetism

From the above equation

1. The magnitude of the magnetic field at every point on a circle of radius r is the same. It
means the magnetic field due to current through a straight conductor of infinite length has
cylindrical symmetry.
2. The direction of the magnetic field at every point on the circle is tangential to it. The
lines of constant magnitude of magnetic field form concentric lines. These lines are
called magnetic field lines. Thus the magnetic field lines form closed paths without a
starting point or ending point.
3. Even though the wire carrying current is of infinite length, the magnetic field at non-zero
distance is not infinite. Since B α 1
, the magnetic field B decreases as distance r
𝑟

increases.
4. The expression for magnetic field due to current in a straight wire provides theoretical
support to Oersted‟s experiments.
The direction of the magnetic field due to current in a straight conductor can be found
using the right hand rule.
Right hand rule: If we hold the wire in the right hand, the thumb is along the direction of
current then the folded finger gives the direction of magnetic field.
Solenoid
It consists of a long insulating wire closely wound in the form of helix. Each turn of wire in the
solenoid can be regarded as circular loop. The length of wire is large compared to its diameter.

Magnetic field due to QR and SP path is zero because they are perpendicular to the axis
of solenoid. Since RS is outside the solenoid, the magnetic field is zero.
The line integral of magnetic field induction B̅→over the closed path PQRS is

∮ B̅→. d̅̅ →𝑙 = ∮ B̅→. d̅̅ →𝑙 = BL

PQRS PQ
From ampere‟s circuital law
∮ B̅→. d̅̅ →𝑙 = μ0 x total current through rectangle PQRS
PQRS
∮ B̅→. d̅̅ →𝑙 = μ0 x number of turns in rectangle x current
PQRS
BL = μ0nLI
B = μ0nI

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 Moving Charges and Magnetism

Toroid
It is a hollow circular ring on which a large number of turns of a wire are closely wound.
Consider Three Amperian loops 1, 2 and 3
having radii r1, r2 and r3 respectively
shown by dotted lines so that P, S and Q
lie on them. Magnetic field along loop 1 is
zero because the loop encloses no current.
Magnetic field along the loop 3 is zero
because the current coming out of the
paper is cancelled exactly by the current going out of it.
Magnetic field at S (along loop 2) From Ampere‟s law,
∴B (2πr) = μ0 NI

Expression for Force between Two Parallel Conductors Carrying Currents

Consider two infinitely long straight and parallel conductors X and
I1 I2
Y of length L each separated by a distance„d‟. Let I1 and I2 be the
B1
currents in the conductors. The two conductors produce magnetic
F2 F1
fields due to currents in each conductor and each conductor is in the
B2 magnetic field of the other.
d The magnetic field at Y due to X is
X Y μ0I1
B1 =
2πd

The force experienced by Y placed in a magnetic field B1 is given by

F1 = B1I2L Sin θ
F1 = B1I2L (∴ θ = 900)
F1 = μ0I1 I2L ... (1)
2πd

Similarly the force experienced by the X is F2 = μ0I2 I1L ... (2)

2πd

From equation (1) and (2) F1 = F2 = F

μ0I1I2L
∴F=
2πd
F = Fl = μ0I1I2 Fl = force per unit length
L 2πd

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 Moving Charges and Magnetism

Definition of Ampere

We have Fl = μ0I1I2
2πd

If I1 = I2 = 1 A and d = 1 m, μ0 = 4π x 10-7
Then Fl = 2 x 10-7 Nm-1
“ one ampere is that current when flowing though each of the two parallel uniform infinitely long
conductors placed at a distances of one meter to each other in free space or vacuum repel or
attract each other with a force of 2 x 10-7 Nm-1 of their lengths”.
Note:
i. If the current flowing is in the same direction then the force is attractive.
ii. If the current flowing is in the opposite direction then the force is repulsive.
Torque on Current Loop
Case 1: Torque on a Rectangular Current Loop in a Uniform Magnetic Field
From the diagram No force is exerted by the
magnetic field on the arms AD and BC because they
are parallel to the magnetic field.
The force along AB is F1 = IbB Sin θ
F1 = IbB ( ∴ θ = 900 )
The force along CD is F2 = IbB Sin θ
F2 = IbB ( ∴ θ = 900 )
Net force on the loop is zero.
The torque on the loop rotates the loop in anti-clockwise direction
F2
Torque τ = F1 a + F2 a
2 2

τ= IbB a + IbB a
2 2
a/2 a/2
τ = 2IbB a
2

τ = I(ab)B
m
τ = IAB
for n turns τ = nIAB F1
where a = length of the rectangular coil
b = breadth of the rectangular coil
A = ab = area of the coil

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 Moving Charges and Magnetism

Case 2: Plane of the loop is not along the Magnetic Field, but makes Angle with it.

Angle between the field and the normal is θ. Forces on BC and DA are equal and opposite and
they cancel each other as they are collinear.
Force on AB is F1 and force on CD is F2.
F1 = F2 = IbB
Magnitude of torque on the loop as in the figure:
∴ τ = F1 a Sin θ + F2 a Sin θ
2 2

τ= IbB a Sin θ + IbB a Sin θ

2 2

τ = 2IbB a Sin θ
2

τ = I(ab)B Sin θ
τ = IAB Sin θ ( ∴ ab =A )
for n turns τ = nIAB Sin θ
but nIA = m magnetic moment of current
∴τ=mxB
Circular Current Loop as a Magnetic Dipole
The magnetic field on the axis of a circular loop of radius R carrying a current I is given by
2 I π R2
B = (𝜇𝑜) 3
4𝜋 (R2 2)2
+𝑥

But x >> R
𝜇
𝑜 2IπR 2
B = ( ) 𝑥3
4𝜋

But πR = A
2

𝜇
𝑜 2IA
∴ B = ( ) 𝑥3
4𝜋

But IA = m
𝑜 2m𝜇
∴ B = ( ) 𝑥3
4𝜋
1 2P
This equation is similar to electric dipole along the axis E=
4π𝝴0 𝑥3

The electric field due to an electric dipole and magnetic field due to a circular loop are
both inversely proportional to cube of the distance and they are in the same direction.

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 Moving Charges and Magnetism

Magnetic Dipole Moment of a Revolving Electron

An electron of charge e revolves in a path of radius r having a uniform
angular velocity w. The current due to motion of electron is
I=e
t

Where, t is period of revolution of electron t = 2πr

v

∴I= 𝑒v
2πr

Magnetic moment of an atom μl = IA

μl = 𝑒v A
2πr

But A = πr2
2
𝑒vπr 𝑒vr
μl = 2πr
= 2

Electron is moving in anti-clockwise direction. It is equivalent to a current in the clockwise

direction. Hence the direction of the magnetic moment is into the plane of the paper.
𝑒vr
∴ μl =
2

Multiply and divide by me

μl = e ( mev r) = eL ...(1)
2me 2me

where me is the mass of electron and L = mevr is the magnitude of the angular momentutm.
In vector form
e
̅μ̅→
̅ =- L̅→
L 2me

The –ve sign indicates that the direction of ̅μ̅ ̅ L̅→ is opposite to that of L̅→since electron is –vely
charged.
μL e
∴ = is called Gyromagnetic ratio. Its value is 8.8 x 1010 C kg-1.
L 2me

According to Bohr atom model L= nh

2π
nh nhe
(1) ⟹ μl = e ( )=
2me 2π 4πme
-34
If n = 1, h = 6.625 x 10 J-s, e = 1.6 x 10-19 C and me = 9.1 x 10-31 kg
1 x 6.625 x 10−34 x 1.6 x 10−19
Then μl = 4 x 3.14 x 9.1 x 10−31

(μl)min = 9.27 x 10-24 Am2

This value is called Bohr Magneton

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 Moving Charges and Magnetism

Moving Coil Galvanometer

It is a device which is used to measure very small values of current in the order of 10-10 A
to 10-12 A accurately.
Principle: Its working is based on the fact that when a current carrying coil is placed in a
magnetic field, it experiences a torque. TH
Phosphor – bronze wire
Construction
M Concave mirror
S R

N S

P Q
Phosphor – bronze
hair spring
T1 T2

• It consists of a rectangular coil PQRS suspended in between two pole pieces of magnets.
It is suspended by Torsion head by means of Phosphor – Bronze wire with a concave
mirror.
• The two pole pieces of the magnet are made concave. The bottom of the coil is connected
to Phosphor – Bronze hair spring and then to terminal T1. The torsion head is connected
to the terminal T2.
• A hollow cylinder is placed inside the coil to make the magnetic field strong and radial.
Working
When current is passed through a coil a new magnetic field is produced around the coil,
as a result there is an interaction between permanent magnetic field and newly produced
magnetic field and the coil deflects. By measuring the amount of deflection, the amount of the
current flowing through the coil can be calculated.
Theory Moving Coil Galvanometer
TH Consider a rectangular coil PQRS of „n‟ turns of
M insulated copper wire. Let „l‟ be the length and „b‟ be the
S R
breadth of the coil suspended in a uniform magnetic field B.
F let I be the current flowing through the coil.
l The horizontal sides of the coil PQ and RS do not
F
b B experience any mechanical force since they are parallel to
the field
P I Q

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 Moving Charges and Magnetism

The force experienced by any one of the vertical side QR or SP is

F = nBIl Sin θ
F = nBIl (∴ θ = 900)
According to Fleming‟s left hand rule, the direction of the forces experienced by the vertical
sides is equal and opposite and constitutes a couple called torque.
Torque = force x perpendicular distance
τ = nBIl x b
τ = nBIA (∴ l x b = A)
When the coil deflects the Phosphor – Bronze wire twist as a result the couple produced in the
wire called Torsional couple is given by
CT = kθ
For equilibrium position of coil, the two couples must be equal i.e τ = CT
nBIA = kθ
kθ
I=
nBA

k = G called galvanometer constant

But nBA
We have V = IR
V= kθ R
nBA

Current Sensitivity: It is defined as the deflection in 1 mm on a scale placed 1 m from the

galvanometer when a current of 1 μA flows through the coil.

Voltage Sensitivity: The amount of deflection per unit voltage difference between the terminals
of a moving coil galvanometer is called voltage sensitivity.

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 Moving Charges and Magnetism

Conversion of Galvanometer into an Ammeter

Ammeter is an instrument used to measure the
current in terms of ampere and always connected in
series with the circuit.
To convert a galvanometer into an ammeter a
shunt (low resistance) is connected in parallel with
the galvanometer. This modification of a
galvanometer is called ammeter.
In parallel circuit potential difference is same
∴ p.d across G = p.d across S
Ig G = ( I – Ig ) S

I − Ig

Note: The resistance of an ideal ammeter is zero.

Conversion of Galvanometer into a Voltmeter

Volt meter is an instrument used to measure voltage in
terms of volt. It is always connected in parallel with the
circuit.
To convert a galvanometer into a voltmeter a high resistance is connected in series with the
galvanometer. This modification of a galvanometer is called voltmeter.
Form ohm‟s law V = IR
V = Ig ( G + R )

Note: The resistance of an ideal voltmeter is infinity.

List of formulas
2 2 2 2
q B r 𝜇 2nIπR
(4𝜋𝑜) 𝜇 2nIπ θ nBA
F = Bqv Sin θ K.E = B= 3 B = ( 𝑜) =
2m (R2+𝑥2)2 4𝜋 R V kR

𝜇𝑜𝐼 μ0I1I2 kθ
F = BIl B=
2𝜋𝑟
Fl =
2πd
τ = nIAB Sin θ I=
nBA
mv 𝜇 I d𝑙 Sin θ 2πr nhe IgG V
r=
Bq
dB = ( 𝑜) T= μl = B = μ0nI S= R= -G
4𝜋 R2 v 4πme I − Ig Ig

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 Moving Charges and Magnetism

Questions
1. Give the SI unit of magnetic field.
2. State Fleming‟s left hand rule.
3. What is meant by velocity Selector?
4. Give the theory of cyclotron
5. State and explain Biot - Savart law.
6. Obtain an expression for torque on a rectangular current loop in a uniform magnetic field.
7. Obtain an expression for torque on a Plane of the loop is not along the Magnetic Field.
8. Obtain an expression for magnetic dipole moment of a revolving electron.
9. Give the theory of moving coil galvanometer.
10. Explain with circuit diagram how to convert galvanometer into an voltmeter. (March-17
(3m), July-17 (3m))
11. What is a cyclotron? Draw its schematic labeled diagram. (M.Q.P-I (3m), September-
2020 (3m))
12. Use Biot Savart‟s law to derive the expression for magnetic field on the axis of circular
current loop. (M.Q.P-I (5m), March-14 (5m), March-15 (5m), March-17 (5m), March-
18 (5m), March-19 (5m))
13. The frequency of revolution of a charged particle circulating at right angles to a magnetic
field is independent of the speed of the charge. Explain. (M.Q.P-II(2m))
14. Write the expression for the force acting on a moving charge in a uniform magnetic field.
Using this, discuss the nature of the trajectory of the charged particle in it. (M.Q.P-
II(3m))
15. Derive the expression for force between two parallel conductors carrying currents. Hence
define ampere. (M.Q.P-II (5m), July-15 (5m), March-16 (5m), July-16 (5m), July-17
(5m), July-18 (5m), March-2020 (5m))
16. What is the nature of force between two parallel conductors carrying currents in same
direction? (March-14 (1m), July-14(1m))
17. Write three uses of Cyclotron. (March-14 (3m), July-14(2m), March-18 (1m))
18. State Ampere‟s circuital law and represent it mathematically. (July-14(2m))
19. Give an expression for force acting on a charge moving in magnetic field and explain the
symbols. When does the force become maximum? (July-14(3m))
20. State Ampere‟s circuital law. (March-15 (1m), June-19 (1m), September-2020 (1m))
21. Explain with circuit diagram how to convert galvanometer into an ammeter. (March-15
(3m), June-19 (3m), September-2020 (3m))

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 Moving Charges and Magnetism

22. A charged particle enters an electric field in the direction of electric field. What is the
nature of the path traced by it? (July-15 (1m))
23. State Ampere‟s circuital law. Using it, derive the expression for magnetic field at a point
due to a long current carrying conductor. (July-15 (3m), March-18 (3m))
24. What is a cyclotron? (March-16 (1m))
25. What is a toroid? Mention an expression for magnetic field at a point inside a toroid.
(March-16 (2m))
26. When will the magnetic force on a moving charge be maximum in magnetic field? (July-
16 (1m), June-19 (1m))
27. A galvanometer having a coil of resistance 12 Ω gives full scale deflection for a current
of 4 mA. How can it be converted into a voltmeter of range 0 to 24 V? (July-16 (2m))
28. What is Lorentz force? (July-17 (1m))
29. Define current sensitivity of a galvanometer. (July-18 (1m))
30. Write the expression for cyclotron frequency and explain the terms. (July-18 (2m))
31. Write the expression for force experienced by a straight conductor of length 𝑙→ carrying a
steady current I, moving in a uniform external magnetic field B̅ →. (July-18 (1m))
32. Write the expression for force acting on a moving charge in a magnetic field. (March-19
(1m))
33. Write the expression for force per unit length between two straight parallel current
carrying conductors of infinite length. Hence define SI unit of current „ampere‟. (March-
19 (3m))
34. Draw a neat labelled diagram of Cyclotron. (June-19 (2m))
35. Mention an expression for the magnetic field produced at the centre on the axis of a
current carrying solenoid and explain the terms. (June-19 (2m))
36. In a region, an electric field E̅→ = 5 x 103 NC-1 and a magnetic field of B̅→ = 0.1 k̂ T are
applied. A beam of charged particles are projected along X-direction. Find the velocity of
charged particles which move undeflected in this crossed fields. (March-2020 (2m))
37. Give the principle of cyclotron and draw the neat labeled schematic diagram of cyclotron.
(March-2020 (3m))
38. When does the force experienced by a straight current carrying conductor placed in a
uniform magnetic field become (a) maximum (b) minimum? (September-2020 (2m))

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 Moving Charges and Magnetism

Problems
1. A circular coil of mean diameter 0.12 m has 20 turns. A current of 1 A is flowing through
it. Calculate
(a) The magnetic field at a point on the axis 0.08 m away from the centre.
(b) The magnetic field at the centre of the coil.
𝜇
𝑜 2nIπR 2
Solution: D = 0.12 (a) B = ( ) 3
4𝜋 (R2+𝑥2)2

0.12 10−7 x 2 x 3.14 x 20 x 1 x (0.06)2

r= 2 = 0.06 m B= 2 2 3
((0.08) +(0.06) )2

n = 20 B = 4.52 x 10-5 T
𝑜 𝜇 2nIπ
I=1A (b) B = ( )
4𝜋 R
10−7 x 2 x 3.14 x 20 x 1
d = 0.08 m B=
0.06

B = 20.93 x 10-5 T
2. A current that flows through a conductor of length 0.1 m bent into the form of an arc of a
circle of radius 0.02 m to produce a magnetic field of 5 x 10-6 T at its centre.
𝑜 𝜇 I d𝑙 Sin θ
Solution: dl = 0.1 m, r = 0.02 m dB = ( ) 2
4𝜋 R
−7 x I x 0.1 x sin 900
dB = 5 x 10-6 T, I = ? 5 x 10-6 = 10
(0.02)2

θ = 900 I = 0.2 A
3. Find the magnitude of magnetic induction at a point 0.06 m from the centre and long the
axis of a circular coil carrying current if 2 A also calculate the magnitude of magnetic
induction at the centre of the coil.
Given: number of turns in the coil = 20,
mean radius of the coil = 0.05 m.
𝜇
𝑜 2nIπR 2
Solution: B= ( ) 3
4𝜋 (R2+𝑥2)2

10−7 x 2 x 3.14 x 20 x 2 x (0.05)2 0.648 x 10−7 0.648 x 10−7

B= 3
= 3
= 1 3
((0.05)2 +(0.06)2 )2 (0.0061)2 [(0.0061)2]

B = 13.6 X 10-5 T
B = (𝜇𝑜) 2 n I π
4𝜋 R
10−7 x 2 x 3.14 x 20 x 2
B=
0.05

B = 50.24 x 10-5 T

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 Moving Charges and Magnetism

4. In an atom, an electron encircles in a path of radius 5.1 x 10-11 m producing a magnetic

field of 13.4 tesla at the centre of the orbit. Given the charge on electron to be 1.6 x 10-19
C. Calculate the frequency of the electron in its orbit.
𝜇
𝑜 2πI
Solution: r = 5.1 x 10-11 m B = (4𝜋) R
𝜇
𝑜 2I e
B = 13.4 T B = (4𝜋) R
( T)
10−7 x 2 x 3.14 x −11
1.6 x 10−19 1
e = 1.6 x 10-19 C 13.4 = 5.1 x 10 xf (f = )
T
5.1 x 10−11 x 13.4
f=? f=
1.0048 x 10−25

d = 0.08 m f = 68.34 x 1014 Hz

5. The dimensions of a suspended coil galvanometer of 500 turns are 3 cm and 2 cm
respectively. The coil is suspended in a uniform field of 0.6 T. By using a suspension
fiber of couple per unit twist 2 x 10-6 Nm/rad. Calculate the torque experienced by the
coil. When a current of 1 μA is passed through the coil and also calculate the deflection
produced in it.
Solution: n = 500 turns τ = nIAB
A = 3 x 10-2 x 2 x 10-2 τ = 500 x 0.6 x 1 x 10-6 x 6 x 10-4
B = 0.6 T τ = 1.8 x 10-7 Nm

K = 2 x 10-6 Nm rad-1 Kθ
I = nBA
τ=? θ = InBA
K
1 x 10−6 x 500 x 0.6 x 6 x 10−4
I = 1 x 10-6 A θ=
2 x 10−6

θ=? θ = 9 x 10-2 radians

0.09 x 180
θ= = 50 91
3.14

6. A galvanometer coil of 0.04 m x 0.03 m with 1000 turns is suspended vertically in a field
of 5 x 10-2 T. find the couple/unit twist of the suspension fiber, if a current of 2.326 x 10-6
A produces a deflection of 80.
Solution: A = 0.04 x 0.03 = 12 x 10-4 m2 I= Kθ
nBA

n = 1000 K = nBAI
θ
1000 x 5 x 10−2 x 12 x 10−4 x 2.326 x 10−6
B = 5 x 10-2 T K=
0.1395

K=? K = 1 x 10 Nm rad-1
-6

θ = 80 = 8 x 3.14 = 0.1395 rad

180

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 Moving Charges and Magnetism

7. A galvanometer of resistance 100 Ω requires 0.05 A for full scale deflection. How do you
convert it into an ammeter of range 0.25 A.
IgG
Solution: G = 100 Ω S=
I − Ig

Ig = 0.05 A S = 0.05 x 100

0.25−0.05

I = 0.25 A S = 25 Ω
∴ The resistance of 25 Ω must be connected in parallel with galvanometer to convert it
into ammeter.
8. A galvanometer of resistance 40 Ω has 30 divisions on its scale and takes 1 μA for two
scale divisions deflection. How do you convert it into an ammeter to read up to 0 – 15
mA.
Solution: for deflection of 2 division I = 1 μA
For deflection of 1 division I = 1 μA
2

For deflection of 30 division Ig = 30 x 1 = 15 μA

2
IgG
S=
I − Ig

15 x 10−6 x 40
S=
15 x 10−3− 15 x 10−6
600 x 10−6
S=
15000 x 10−6− 15 x 10−6

S = 0.04 Ω
∴ The resistance of 0.04 Ω must be connected in parallel with galvanometer to convert it
into ammeter.
9. A galvanometer of resistance 50 Ω gives full scale deflection for a current of 25 mA.
How will you convert it into voltmeter to read a potential difference from 0 – 250 V.
Solution: G = 50 Ω R= V -G
Ig

Ig = 25 x 10-3 A R= 250
- 50
25 x 10−3

V = 250 V R = 10000 – 50
R = 9950 Ω
∴ A resistance of 9950 Ω must be connected in series with a galvanometer to convert it
into voltmeter of given range.
10. A galvanometer of resistance 75 Ω across a current of 15 mA when a resistance of 9925
Ω is connected in series. Find the range of potential difference.
Solution: G = 75 Ω R= V -G
Ig

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 Moving Charges and Magnetism

Ig = 15 x 10-3 A V = (R + G) Ig
R = 99250 Ω V = (9925 + 75) 15 x 10-3
V = 150 V
11. A Galvanometer coil has resistance of 70 Ω and measures a potential difference of 140 x
10-6 V for full scale deflection. How do you convert it into a voltmeter to read 100 mV?
Solution: V = IR R= V -G
Ig

100 x 10−3
I=V R= - 70
R 2 x 10−6
Vg 140 x 10−6 R = 50000 - 70
Ig = =
G 70

Ig = 2 x 10-6 A R = 49930 Ω
∴ A resistance of 49930 Ω must be connected in series with a galvanometer to convert it
into voltmeter of given range.
12. Two long parallel conductors separated by a distance of 0.12 m carrying the current in
the same direction. If the current through them are 8 A and 10 A then what is the
force/unit length on any one due to the other and mention its nature.

Solution: d = 0.12 m Fl = μ0I1I2

2πd
4 x 3.14 x 10−7 𝑥 8 𝑥 10
I1 = 8 A Fl = 2 x 3.14 x 0.12

I2 = 10 A Fl = 1.33 x 10-4 Nm-1

Fl = ? The force is attractive force.
13. A long horizontal rigidly supported wire m carries a current of 120 A. How far above M
should a second wire N carrying 30 A current and of mass/unit length of 0.005 kg m -1 be
placed so that it is supported by the magnetic repulsion between the two. Given g = 9.8
ms-2.
Solution: I1 = 120 A F = μ0I1I2
𝑙 2πd
mg 4π x 10−7 x 120 x 30
I2 = 30 A =
𝑙 2πd
−7
m = 0.005 kg m-1 0.005 x 9.8 = 7200 x 10
𝑙 d
−7
g = 9.8 ms-2 d= 7200 x 10
0.049

d=? d = 14.69 x 10-3 m

14. A proton of charge 1.6 x 10-19 C is moving with a velocity of 50 ms-1 experience a force
of 20 N in a magnetic field of strength 5 x 1018 T. Find the angle made by the proton with
the direction of field.
Solution: q = 1.6 x 10-19 C F = Bqv Sin θ

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 Moving Charges and Magnetism

V = 50 ms-1 Sin θ = Bqv

F

20
F = 20 N θ = Sin-1( )
5 x 1018 x 1.6 x 10−19 x 50

B = 5 x 1018 T θ = Sin-1(0.5)
θ=? θ = 300
15. A current loop of area 20 x 10-4 m2 carrying a current of 0.2 A is placed at an angle of 600
with a magnetic field of strength 4 x 10-2 T. Calculate the torque exerted on it.
Solution: A = 20 x 10-4 m2 τ = BIA sin θ
I = 0.2 A, θ = 600 τ = 4 x 10-2 x 0.2 x 20 x 10-4 sin 600
B = 4 x 10-2 T τ = 16 x 10-6 x 0.8660
τ=? τ = 13.856 x 10-6 Nm
16. What is the radius of the path of an electron (mass 9.1 x 10-31 kg and charge 1.6 x 10-19
C) moving at a speed of 3 x 107 m/s in a magnetic field of 6 x 10-4 T perpendicular to it?
What is its frequency? Calculate its energy in keV. (1 eV = 1.6 x 10-19 J)

Solution: r=? r = mv
Bq
9.1 x 10−31 x 3 x 107
V = 3 x 107 m/s r=
6 x 10−4 x 1.6 x 10−19

B = 6 x 10-4 T r = 0.284 m
f=? T = 2πr
v
3 x 107
E=? f=1= v
=
T 2πr 2 x 3.14 x 0.284

f = 16.82 M Hz
E = 1 mv2
2

E = 1 x 9.1 x 10-31 x (3 x 107)2

2

E = 4.095 x 10-16 J
4.095 x 10−16
E=
1.6 x 10−19

E = 2559 eV = 2.559 keV

17. A solenoid of length 0.5 m has a radius of 1 cm and is made up of 500 turns. It carries a
current of 5 A. What is the magnitude of the magnetic field inside the solenoid?
Solution: The number of turns per unit length is n = 500 = 1000 turns
0.5

B = μ0nI
B = 4 x 3.14 x 10-7 x 1000 x 5
B = 6.28 x 10-3 T

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 Moving Charges and Magnetism

18. A cyclotron‟s oscillator frequency 1s 10 MHz. What should be the operating magnetic
field for accelerating protons? If the radius of its dees is 60 cm, what is the kinetic energy
(in Mev) of the proton beam produced by the accelerator? [e = 1.6 x 10-19 C, Mp = 1.67 x
10-27 kg, 1 ev = 1.6 x 10-19 J]

Solution: υ = 10 x 106 Hz B = 2 πqm ν

2 x 3.14 x 1.67 x 10−27 x 10 x 106
B=? B=
1.6 x 10−19

r = 60 x 10-2 m B = 0.655 T
K.E = ? V=rω
V = r (2πυ) = 60 x 10-2 x 2 x 3.14 x 10 x 106
V = 3.768 x 107 ms-1
K.E = ½ mV2
K.E = 0.5 x 1.67 x 10-27 (3.678 x 107)2
K.E = 1.1855 x 10-12 J
1.1855 x 10−12
K.E =
1.6 x 10−19

K.E = 7.4 x 106 eV

19. A galvanometer having a coil of resistance 12 Ω gives full scale deflection for a current
of 4 mA. How can it be converted into a voltmeter of range 0 to 24 V? (July-16 (2m))
Solution: G = 12 Ω R= V -G
Ig

Ig = 4 x 10-3 A R= 24
- 12
4 x 10−3

V = 24 V R = 6000 – 12
R = 5988 Ω
∴ A resistance of 5988 Ω must be connected in series with a galvanometer to convert it
into voltmeter of given range.
20. In a region, an electric field E̅→ = 5 x 103 NC-1 and a magnetic field of B̅→ = 0.1 k̂ T are
applied. A beam of charged particles are projected along X-direction. Find the velocity of
charged particles which move undeflected in this crossed fields. (March-2020 (2m))
3
Solution: V = E = 5 x 10 = 5 x 104 ms-1
B 0.1

Page 23