A long cylindrical conductor with large cross section carries an electric current distributed uniformly over its cross-section

Q. 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:

A. maximum at either ends of the conductor and minimum at the midpoint
B. maximum at the axis of the conductor
C. minimum at the surface of the conductor
D. minimum at the axis of the conductor
E. same at all points in the cross-section of the conductor

Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

1. B, C Only
2. E Only
3. A, D Only
4. D Only

Correct Answer: D Only

Solution

For a long cylindrical conductor carrying current uniformly distributed over its cross-section, the magnetic field inside the conductor varies with distance from the axis.

Using Ampere’s law, the magnetic field inside the conductor at a distance r from the axis is directly proportional to r:

B ∝ r

This means the magnetic field is zero at the axis of the conductor and increases linearly as we move away from the axis.

Hence, the magnetic field is minimum at the axis of the conductor and maximum at the surface.

Therefore, the correct statement is D only.

Updated for JEE Main 2026: This PYQ is important for JEE Mains, JEE Advanced and other competitive exams. Practice more questions from this chapter.

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