Physics Electromagnetism MDCAT 2012
PMDC Verified Question 52 of 58
Two long straight parallel wires held vertically, have equal but opposite currents as shown in the figure. Which of the following effect will be observed?

Wire 1 (I ↑) Wire 2 (I ↓) Repulsive Force (F)
A
Magnetic field at 'X' is stronger than that at 'Y' and 'Z'
B
Magnetic field at 'X', and 'Z' are same
C
Magnetic field at 'X' is weaker than that at Z
D
Magnetic field at 'X' is weaker than that at out, stronger than that at 'Z'
Tap any option to test your recall and reveal the step-by-step Propolis autopsy.

Propolis Cognitive Error Autopsy

Official Correct Choice:
Option A: Magnetic field at 'X' is stronger than that at 'Y' and 'Z'
Concept:

When two parallel wires carry currents in opposite directions, the magnetic fields generated by each wire reinforce one another in the space between them and partially cancel out in the regions outside them.

Formula:

$$ B_{\text{net}} = B_1 + B_2 \quad \text{(in between)} $$

Solution:

  • Let 'X' be the region directly between the two wires, and 'Y' and 'Z' be the regions outside.


  • Using the Right-Hand Rule, the field lines from both wires point in the same direction in region 'X', adding together constructively.


  • In regions 'Y' and 'Z', the field vectors from the two wires point in opposite directions, leading to a destructive superposition.


  • Therefore, the net magnetic field at 'X' is strictly stronger than at 'Y' and 'Z'.


Why other options are incorrect:

Options B, C, and D violate the superposition principle by falsely assuming the fields cancel between the wires or claiming the external fields are stronger.

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