Chapter - 2: Magnetostatics

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Institute for NET/JRF, GATE, IIT‐JAM, JEST, TIFR and GRE in PHYSICAL SCIENCES
Chapter - 2
Magnetostatics
The magnetic field at any point due to steady current is called as magnetostatic field.
2.1 Magnetic Force on Current Element
The magnetic force on a charge Q , moving with velocity v in a magnetic field B is,
( )
F mag = Q v × B . This is known as Lorentz force law.
In the presence of both electric and magnetic fields, the net force on Q would be:
[ ( )]
F = Q E + v× B
vΔ t
2.1.1 Current in a Wire
v
λ
P
A line charge λ traveling down a wire at a speed v constitutes a current I = λ v .
Magnetic force on a segment of current-carrying wire is,
( ) ( ) (
F mag = ∫ v × B dq = ∫ v × B λ dl = ∫ I × B dl . )
(
Since I and dl points in the same direction F mag = ∫ I dl × B = I ∫ dl × B) ( )
2.1.2 Surface Current Density
Flow
dl ⊥
K
When charge flows over a surface, we describe it by the surface current K .
dΙ
K= is the current per unit width-perpendicular to flow.
dl ⊥
Also K = σ v where is σ surface charge density and v is its velocity.
( )
Magnetic force on surface current F mag = ∫ v × B σ da = ∫ K × B da ( )
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2.1.3 Volume Current Density

J
da ⊥
Flow
When the flow of charge is distributed throughout a three-dimensional region, we describe
it by the volume current density J .
dΙ
J= is the current per unit area-perpendicular to flow.
da⊥
Also J = ρ v where ρ is volume charge density and v is its velocity.
( ) (
Magnetic force on volume current F mag = ∫ v × B ρ dτ = ∫ J × B dτ )
Current crossing a surface S is Ι = ∫ J ⋅da
S
Example: A wire ABCDEF (with each of side of length L ) bent as shown in figure and carrying a
current I is placed in a uniform magnetic induction B parallel to the positive y -direction.
Find the force experienced by the wire. Z
D
C B
F
E
A
B
X
Solution: FE and BA are parallel to magnetic induction B . Magnetic force on each of them will be
zero. DE and CB are perpendicular to B . They carry currents in opposite directions forces
on them will be equal in magnitude and opposite in direction. The net force due to these
portions of wire will be zero. Now force on side DC is F DC = ILBzˆ .

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Example: A semi–circular wire of radius R carries a current I and is placed in a uniform field B
acting perpendicular to the plane of the semi–circle. Calculate force acting on the wire.
Solution: Consider an element of length dl of the wire. dl B
The dF force on this element is obtained by Ι
dF dθ
dF = I(dl × B) = IdlBsin 900
θ
⇒ dF = I(Rdθ)B since dl = Rdθ A O B
R
π
F = ∫0 dFsin θ = 2IBR
(Horizontal component cancels only perpendicular component add up).

2.2 Continuity Equation
The total charge per unit time leaving a volume V is ∫ J .d a = ∫ ( ∇.J ) dτ .

V
Because charge is conserved, whatever flows out through the surface must come at the
expense of that remaining inside:
⎛ ∂ρ ⎞
∫ ( ∇.J )dτ = − dt ∫ ρ dτ = − ∫ ⎜⎝ ∂t ⎟⎠dτ .
d
V V V
(The minus sign reflects the fact that an outward flow decreases the charge left in V.) Since
this applies to any volume, we conclude that
∂ρ
∇⋅J = − .
∂t
This is the precise mathematical statements of local charge conservation.
Note: When a steady current flows in a wire, its magnitude I must be the same all along the
line; otherwise, charge would be piling up somewhere, and it wouldn't be a steady current.
∂ρ
Thus for magnetostatic fields = 0 and hence the continuity equation becomes:
∂t
∇⋅J = 0.

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2.3 Biot-Savart Law

The magnetic field of a steady line current is given by
μ I × Rˆ μ0 dl ' × Rˆ I •r
B (r ) = 0 ∫ R2 4π ∫ R 2
dl ′ = I
4π
R
N
where μ0 = 4π × 10−7 ( permeability of free space)
A2
For surface and volume current Biot-Savart law becomes: dI '
μ0 K (r ') × Rˆ μ J (r ') × Rˆ
Β( r ) =
4π ∫ R 2
da ' and Β(r ) = 0
4π ∫ R 2 dτ ' .
2.3.1 Magnetic Field due to Wire
Let us find the magnetic field a distance d from a long straight wire carrying a steady
current I.
P• •
θ θ1
R θ2
d
α
l' I
I dl '
Wire segment
In the diagram, (dl ′ × R)
ˆ points out of the page and has magnitude dl′ sinα = dl′cosθ
d d 1 cos 2 θ
Since l ′ = d tan θ ⇒ dl ′ = dθ ⇒ dl ' = dθ and d = R cos θ ⇒ =
cos 2 θ cos 2 θ R2 d2
μ I dl '× Rˆ μ0 I θ 2 cos 2 θ d
From Biot–Savart law: B (r ) = 0 ∫ = ∫θ × × cos θ dθ
4π R 2 4π 1 d 2
cos 2 θ
μ0 I θ 2 μ0 I
B= ∫ cos θ dθ = (sin θ 2 − sin θ1 )
4π d θ1 4π d
π π μ0 I ˆ
For Infinite wire: θ1 = − and θ 2 = ⇒B= φ
2 2 2π d

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Note:
1. Magnetic field a distance r from a long straight wire carrying a steady current I is
μ0 I
B= (sin θ 2 − sin θ1 ) .
4πr
2. Magnetic field a distance r from a infinite wire carrying a steady current I is:
μ0 I ˆ
B= φ.
2π r
3. Force (per unit length) of attraction between two long, parallel wires a distance d
apart, carrying currents I1 and I2 in same direction are:
μ 0 I1 I 2
f = .
2π d
4. If currents are in opposite direction they will repel with same magnitude.
2.3.2 Magnetic Field due to Solenoid and Toroid
The magnetic field of a very long solenoid, consisting of n closely wound turns per unit
length of a cylinder of radius R and carrying a steady current I is:
⎧ μ nI zˆ inside the solenoid
B=⎨ 0
⎩0 outside the solenoid.
Magnetic field due to Toroid is

⎧ μ0 NI ^
⎪+ φ for points inside the coil
B = ⎨ 2π r
⎪⎩0 for points outside the coil
where N is the total number of turns.

Example: Find the force of attraction between two long, parallel wires a distance d apart, carrying
current I1 and I2 in the same direction.
I1 I2
μ I
Solution: The field at (2) due to (1) is B = 0 1 (points into the page).
2π d v
μ I μ II
Force on (2) is F = I 2 × 0 1 ∫ dl ⇒ f = 0 1 2
2π d 2π d F B
Force per unit length is towards (1) and net force is attractive
Wire 1 Wire 2

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Example: Find the magnetic field a distance d above the center of a circular loop of radius R,
which carries a steady current I.
Solution: The field dB attributable to the segment dl ' as shown. As we integrate dl ' around the
loop, dB sweeps out a cone. The horizontal components cancel, and the vertical components
combine to give.
B
μ I dl '
B( z ) = 0 ∫ cos θ ; dl 'and rˆ are ⊥ r
4π r 2
dB z
θ
μ I cos θ μ I ⎛ cos θ ⎞ 90
B( z ) = 0
4π r 2
∫ dl ' = 0 ⎜
4π ⎝ r 2 ⎟ × 2π R ,
⎠
d r
μ I R 2
Thus B = 0 zˆ
2 ( R + d 2 )3 / 2
2
θ
μ0 I R
At the center of the circle B (0) = zˆ
2R d l′
Example: Find the force on a square loop placed as shown in figure, near an infinite straight wire.
Both the loop and the wire carry a steady current I .
I a
a
I d
Solution: The force on the two sides cancels.
μ0 I ⎛μ I ⎞ μ I 2a
At the bottom, B = ⇒ F = ⎜ 0 ⎟ Ia = 0 (up)
2π d ⎝ 2π d ⎠ 2π d
μ0 I μ0 I 2 a
At the top, B = ⇒F= (down)
2π (d + a ) 2π (d + a)
μ0 I 2 a 2
Thus Net Force = (up)
2π d (d + a)

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2.4 Ampere's Law

The magnetic field of an infinite wire is shown in the figure
(the current is coming out of the page). Let us find the integral of
B around a circular path of radius r, centered at the wire, is • B
μo I
∫ B ⋅ dl = ∫ 2π r dl = μ I . o
Notice that the answer is independent of r; that is because B decreases at the same rate as
the circumference increases. If we use cylindrical coordinates ( r , φ , z ) , with the current
μo I ˆ
flowing along the z axis, B= φ
2π r
In general we can write ∫ B ⋅ dl = μ I
0 enc
where I enc is the total current enclosed by the amperian loop.
Since ∫ B ⋅ dl = μ I
0 enc ⇒ ∫ (∇ × B).d a = μ0 ∫ J .d a ⇒ ∇ × B = μ0 J
Right hand Rule

Boundary line
If the fingers of your right hand indicate the
direction of integration around the boundary, Surface
then your thumb defines the direction of a

positive current.
Example: A steady current I flow down a long
J
cylindrical wire of radius a. Find the magnetic
field, both inside and outside the wire, if
(a) The current is uniformly distributed over the outside surface of the wire.
(b) The current is distributed in such a way that J is proportion to r, the distance from the
axis.
a
I

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⎧0 for r < a
⎪
Solution: (a) ∫ B.dl = B 2π r = μ0 I enc ⇒ B = ⎨ μ0 I
⎪⎩ 2πr ẑ for r > a
a a 2π ka3 3I
(b) J = kr , I = ∫0 Jda = ∫0 kr (2π rdr ) = ⇒k =
3 2π a3
⎧ μ Ir 2 ⎫
r r 2π kr 3
Ir 3 ⎫ ⎪ 0 3 φˆ for r < a ⎪
I enc = ∫0 Jda = ∫0 kr '× 2π r ' dr ' = = for r < a ⎪ ⎪ ⎪
3 a3 ⎬ ⇒ B = ⎨ 2π a ⎬
⎪ ⎪ μ0 I ˆ ⎪
I enc = I for r > a ⎭ ⎪⎩ 2π r φ for r > a ⎪
⎭
Example: Find the magnetic field of an infinite uniform surface current K = Kxˆ , flowing
over the x–y plane. z
Solution:
Sheet of current
Amperian loop
l
x
Since K = Kxˆ ⇒ B have no x-component because B is ⊥r to x-component i.e. in the
direction of ( K × Rˆ ) .
Also, B have no z-component: For y > 0 , B is along ẑ and for y < 0 , B is along − ẑ ,
thus field cancels each other.
⇒ B has only y-component:
For z > 0 , B points left ( − ŷ ) and for z < 0 , B point’s right ( ŷ ) .
Draw a rectangular amperian loop parallel to the yz plane and extending an equal distance
above and below the surface. Now apply ampere’s law, we find

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∫ B.dl = 2 Bl = μ0 I enc = μ0 Kl {One Bl from top segment, and the other from bottom}
⎧ − μ0 K ⎫
⎪⎪ 2 yˆ for z > 0 ⎪
μ0 K ⎪
B= ⇒B=⎨ ⎬
2 ⎪ μ0 K yˆ for z < 0 ⎪
⎩⎪ 2 ⎭⎪
Note: The field is independent of the distance from the plane, just like the electric field
of a uniform surface charge.
2.5 Magnetic Vector Potential A ()

Since ∇ ⋅ B = 0 ⇒ B = ∇ × A
For magnetostatic fields, ∇ ⋅ A = 0 and ∇ 2 A = − μ0 J
μ0 J ( r ')
If J goes to zero at infinity, A ( r )= ∫ dτ ' for volume current.
4π R
μ0 I 1 μ K
For line and surface currents, A ( r )= ∫ dl '; A ( r )= 0 ∫ R da '
4π R 4π
Example: What current density would produce the vector potential A = Kφˆ (where K is
a constant), in cylindrical coordinates ?
1 ∂ K
Solution: Aφ = K ⇒ B = ∇ × A = (rAφ ) zˆ = zˆ
r ∂r r
⎪⎧ ⎡ 1 ∂Az ∂Aφ ⎤ ⎡ ∂Ar ∂Az ⎤ ˆ 1 ⎡ ∂ ∂Ar ⎤ ⎪⎫

⎨∇ × A = ⎢ − ⎥ r
ˆ + ⎢ ∂z − φ + ⎢ ( rAφ ) − ⎥ zˆ ⎬
⎪⎩ ⎣ r ∂φ ∂z ⎦ ⎣ ∂r ⎥⎦ r ⎢⎣ ∂r ∂φ ⎥⎦ ⎪
⎭
1 1 ⎡ ∂ ⎛ K ⎞⎤ ˆ K ˆ K ˆ
Since J = (∇ × B) = ⎢ − ⎜ ⎟⎥ φ = φ⇒J= φ
μ0 μ0 ⎣ ∂r ⎝ r ⎠ ⎦ μ0 r 2
μ0 r 2

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2.6 Magnetostatic Boundary Condition (Boundary is sheet of current, K )

Just as the electric field suffers a discontinuity at a surface charge, so the magnetic field is
discontinuous at a surface current. Only this time it is the tangential component that
changes.
⊥
Bab ove l
Babove
||
K
K
⊥
B below
||
B below
∫ B.d a = 0
⊥ ⊥
Since ⇒ Babove = Bbelow
For tangential components

⎧ B.dl = μ0 I enc ⇒ Babove
⎪∫
||
− Bbelow
||
= μ0 K ( B is parallel to surface but ⊥ to K )
r
⎨
⎪⎩ ∫ B.dl = μ0 I enc ⇒ Babove = Bbelow
|| ||
( B is parallel to surface and along K )
( )
Thus the component of B that is parallel to the surface but perpendicular to the current is
discontinuous in the amount μ0 K . A similar amperian loop running parallel to the current
reveals that the parallel component is continuous. The result can be summarized in a single
formula: (
B above − B below = μ 0 K × nˆ )
where n̂ is a unit vector perpendicular to the surface, pointing “upward”.
Like the scalar potential in electrostatics, the vector potential is continuous across, a
boundary: Aabove = Abelow
For ∇. A = 0 guarantees that the normal component is continuous, and ∇ × A = B , in the

form ∫ A.dl = ∫ B.d a = φ
line S
( )
But the derivative of A inherits the discontinuity of B : ( )
∂ Aabove ∂ Abelow
− = − μ0 K .
∂n ∂n

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Example: (a) Find the magnetic vector potential at a distance r from an infinite straight wire
carrying a current I.
(b) Find the magnetic potential inside the wire, if it has radius R and the current is uniformly
distributed.
Solution: (a) A point in the same direction as I and is a function of r (the distance from
∂A ˆ μ0 I ˆ
the wire). In cylindrical coordinates A = A(r ) zˆ and B = ∇ × A = − φ= φ .
∂r 2π r
∂A μ I μ I ⎛r⎞
⇒ = − 0 ⇒ A(r ) = − 0 ln ⎜ ⎟ zˆ (Constant a is arbitrary)
∂r 2π r 2π ⎝ a ⎠
Verify that ∇ ⋅ A = 0 and ∇ × A = B
μ0 I μ0 Ir 2 μ Ir ˆ
(b) ∫ B.dl = B.2π r = μ0 I enc = μ0 J π r 2 = π r2 = ⇒B= 0 φ
πR 2
R2 2π R 2
∂Az ˆ ∂A μ I Ir μ I
B = ∇× A = − φ⇒ =− 0 ⇒ A = − 0 (r 2 − b 2 ) zˆ
∂r ∂r 2π R 2 4π R 2
where b is arbitrary constant.
μ I ⎛R⎞ μ I
A must be continuous at R, − 0 ln ⎜ ⎟ = − 0 ( R 2 − b2 ) , which means that we must
2π ⎝ a ⎠ 4π R 2
⎛R⎞ b2
pick a and b such that 2 ln ⎜ ⎟ = 1 − .
⎝a⎠ R2
Example: Find the vector potential of an infinite solenoid with n turns per unit length, radius R,
and current I.
Solution: Since ∫ A.dl = ∫ ( ∇ × A) .d a = ∫ B.d a = φ , where φ

line S S
is the flux of B through the loop in
question.
μ0 nI ˆ
∫ A.dl = A ( 2π r ) = ∫ B.d a = μ nI (π r ) ⇒ A = rφ , for r < R.
2
Inside solenoid: 0
line S
2
μ0 nI R 2 ˆ
Outside solenoid: A ( 2π r ) = ∫ B.d a = μ0 nI (π R 2 ) ⇒ A = φ , for r > R.
S
2 r

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2.7 Multiple Expansion of Vector Potential •

We can derive approximate formula for the vector
r
potential of a localized current distribution, valid at distant
R
P• θ′
points. We can always write the potential in the form of a
1 r′
power series in , where r is the distance to the point in
r
I d r ′ = dl ′
question. Thus we can always write
μ0 I ⎡1 ⎛3 1⎞ ⎤
A(r ) = ∫ (r ') ⎜⎝ 2 cos
1 1
⎢ r ∫ d l ' + r 2 ∫ r ' cos θ ' d l ' + r 3 θ '− ⎟d l ' + .........⎥
2 2
4π ⎣ 2⎠ ⎦
z
First term, monopole ⇒ ∫ dl ′ = 0 (no magnetic
monopole)
•
μ m × rˆ
Second term, dipole Adip ( r ) = 0 2 θ r
4π r
where m is the magnetic dipole moment: m

• y
m = I ∫ d a = I A where A is area vector
φ
μ m sin θ ˆ
Thus Adip ()
r = 0
4π r 2
φ
x
Hence
μ 1
()
B dip r = ∇ × A =
μ0m
4π r 3
2 (
cos θ r
ˆ + sin θθ
4π r ⎣
)
ˆ = 0 ⋅ 3 ⎡3 m ⋅ rˆ rˆ − m ⎤
⎦ ( )
Note: (a) When a magnetic dipole is placed in a uniform magnetic field ( B ), net force on
the dipole is zero and it experiences a torque τ = m × B .
(b) In non-uniform field, dipoles have net force F = ∇ m ⋅ B and torque τ = m × B . ( )

(c) Energy of an ideal dipole m in an magnetic field B is U = − m.B .
(d) Interaction energy of two dipoles separated by a distance r is
U=
1
4πε 0 r 3
[m ⋅ m − 3(m ⋅ rˆ)(m ⋅ rˆ)]
1 2 1 2

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Example: A phonograph record of radius R, carrying a uniform surface charge σ is rotating at

constant angular velocity ω. Find its magnetic dipole moment.
Solution: Magnetic moment of a ring of radius r and thickness dr is, dm = I π r 2 where
I = σ vdr = σ rω dr
R R πσω R 4 πσω R 4
⇒ m = ∫0 π r 2 × σω rdr = πσω ∫0 r 3dr = ⇒m= zˆ
4 4
Example: A spherical shell of radius R, carrying a uniform surface charge σ, is set
spinning at angular velocity ω. Find its Magnetic dipole moment.
Solution: The total charge on the shaded ring is z
dq = σ (2π R sin θ ) Rdθ ω R sin θ
2π Rdθ
Time for one revolution is dt =
ω
θ
dq
⇒Current in the ring I = = σω R 2 sin θ dθ dθ
dt
R
Area of the ring = π(R sin θ)2 , so the magnetic moment of the
ring is
dm = (σω R 2 sin θ dθ ) × π R 2 sin 2 θ
π 4 4π
m = σω R 4 ∫0 sin 3 θ dθ = π × σω R 4 ⇒ m = σω R 4 zˆ
3 3
2.8 Magnetisation M ( )
If a piece of magnetic material is examined on an atomic scale we will find tiny currents:
electrons orbiting around nuclei and electrons spinning about their axes.
For macroscopic purpose, these current loops are so small that we may treat them as
magnetic dipoles. Ordinarily they cancel each other out because of the random orientation
of the atoms. But when a magnetic field is applied, a net alignment of these magnetic
dipoles occurs, and medium becomes magnetically polarized, or magnetized.
( )
Magnetization M is magnetic dipole moment per unit volume.

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2.8.1 The Field of a Magnetized Object (Bound Currents)
Consider a piece of magnetized material with magnetization M . ( )

Then the vector potential of a single dipole m is given by ( ) R
•
μ0 m × Rˆ
A(r ) =
4π R 2 m dτ '
In the magnetized object, each volume element dτ ′ carries a
dipole moment M dτ ′ , so the total vector potential
μ0 M ( r ') × Rˆ
is A ( r ) =
4π ∫v
dτ '
R2
μ0 1 μ0 1
The equation can be written as A ( r ) = ∫ R ⎡⎣∇′ × M ( r ′)⎤⎦ dτ '+ 4π ∫ R ⎡⎣ M ( r ′) × d a′⎤⎦ .
4π v
The first term is like potential of a volume current
Jb = ∇ × M
while the second term is like potential of a surface current,
K b = M × nˆ
where n̂ is the normal to the unit vector.

With these definitions, the field of a magnetized object is
μ0 J b ( r ') K b ( r ')
A(r ) = ∫ dτ '+ ∫ da ' .
4π v
R R
This means the potential(and hence also the field) of a magnetized object is the same as
would be produced by a volume current J b = ∇ × M throughout the material, plus a surface
current K b = M × nˆ , on the boundary. We first determine these bound currents, and then
find the field they produce.

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Example: An infinitely long circular cylinder carries a uniform magnetization M parallel to its
axis. Find the magnetic field (due to M ) inside and outside the cylinder.
Solution: J b = ∇ × M = 0; K b = M × nˆ = Mzˆ × rˆ = M φˆ
The field is that of a surface current K b = Mφˆ , that is the case of a solenoid,
So the field outside is zero.
Field inside is: B=μ0 K b = μ0 M ⇒ B = μ0 M
Example: A long circular cylinder of radius R carries a magnetization M = Kr 2φˆ where
K is a constant; r is the distance from the axis. Find the magnetic field due to M , for
points inside and outside the cylinder.
1 ∂
Solution: J b = ∇ × M = (rKr 2 ) zˆ = 3Krzˆ and K b = M × nˆ = KR 2 (φˆ × rˆ) = − KR 2 zˆ
r ∂r
So the bound current flows up the cylinder, and returns down the surface.
R
( )
ITotal = ∫ J b da + ∫ Kb dl = ∫0 (3kr )2π rdr + − KR 2 × 2π R = 2π KR3 − 2π KR3 = 0 .
Outside point: I enc = 0 ⇒ B = 0

r
Inside point: B.2π r = μ0 I enc = μ0 ∫0 J b da = 2π K μ0 r 3 ⇒ B = μ0 Kr 2φˆ = μ0 M
2.9 The Auxiliary field ( H )

2.9.1 Ampere’s Law in in presence of Magnetic Materials
In a magnetized material the total current can be written as
J = J b + J f where J b is bound current and J f is free current.
⎛ B ⎞
∵ ∇ × B = μ0 J ⇒
μ0
1
(∇ × B ) = J = J ( )
+ J f = ∇ × M + J f ⇒ ∇ × ⎜⎜ − M ⎟⎟ = J f
b
⎝ μ0 ⎠
B
The quantity in parentheses is designated by the letter H and H = −M
μ0
⇒ ∇× H = J f
In integral form ∫ H ⋅ dl = I fenc where I fenc is the total free current passing through the
amperian loop.

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H plays a role in magnetostatic analogous to D in electrostatic: Just as D allowed us to

write Gauss's law in terms of the free charge alone, H permits us to express Ampere's law
in terms of the free current alone- and free current is what we control directly.
Note:
When we have to find B or H in a problem involving magnetic materials, first look for
symmetry. If the problem exhibits cylindrical, plane, solenoid, or toroidal symmetry, then
we can get H directly from the equation ∫ H ⋅ dl = I f enc .
Although this equation is valid for all the surfaces but it is useful for only symmetrical
surfaces.
2.9.2 Magnetic Susceptibility and Permeability
For most substances magnetization is proportional to the field H , ⇒ M = χ m H ,
where χ m is magnetic susceptibility of the material.
( )
⇒ B = μ 0 H + M = μ 0 (1 + χ m )H ⇒ B = μ H where μ = μ0 μr = μ0 (1 + χ m ) is permeability
of material.
2.9.3 Boundary Condition ( H )
The boundary between two medium is a thin sheet of free surface current K f .
The Ampere’s law states that

n̂
∫ S
H .dl = I free
⇒ H above − H below = K f × nˆ .
Since l 1
B
H= − M ⇒ ∇.H = −∇.M 2
μ0
since ∇.B = 0
Thus
Kf
H ⊥
above −H ⊥
below = −(M ⊥
above −M ⊥
below )

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Example: A current I flows down a long straight wire of radius a. If the wire is made of linear
material with susceptibility χ m , and the current is distributed uniformly, what is the
magnetic field a distance r from the axis? Find all the bound currents. What is the net bound
current following down the wire?
⎧ Ir ˆ
⎧ r2
⎪I 2 ; r < a ⎪⎪ 2π a 2 φ ; r < a
Solution: ∫ H ⋅ dl = I f enc ⇒ H .2π r = ⎨ a ⇒H =⎨
⎪I ;r > a ⎪ I φˆ ; r > a
⎩ ⎪⎩ 2π r
I
⇒ B = μ H = μ0 (1 + χ m ) H ⇒ J b = χ m J f ⇒ J b = χ m (same as I )
π a2
χm I
K b = M × nˆ = χ m M × nˆ ⇒ K b = (Opposite to I)
2π a
Total bound current I b = J b × π a 2 + K b × 2π a = χ m I − χ m I = 0

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MCQ (Multiple Choice Questions)

Q1. A conducting loop, carrying a current I, is placed in a uniform
y
magnetic field pointing into the plane of the paper as shown. The
B⊗
loop will have a tendency to
(a) contract x
(b) expand
(c) move towards positive x-axis
(d) move towards negative x-axis
Q2. A square loop is placed near an infinite straight wire as shown a
in figure. The loop and wire carry a steady current I 2 and I1 I2 a
respectively. Then the force acting on the square loop is:
μ0 I1 I 2 μ0 I1 I 2 I1
a
(a) (b)
2π a 4π a
μ0 I1 I 2 μ0 I1 I 2
(c) (d)
2π 4π
Ι
Q3. The wire loop PQRSP formed by joining two semicircular wires
of radii R1 and R2 carries a current I as shown in the figure. Then R2 Ι
the magnetic field B at the centre is R1
μ0 I ⎛ 1 1 ⎞ μ I⎛ 1 1 ⎞ S R Q
⎜⎜ − ⎟⎟ , outward (b) 0 ⎜⎜ − ⎟ , inward P
2 ⎝ R1 R2 ⎟⎠
(a)
2 ⎝ R1 R2 ⎠
μ0 I ⎛ 1 1 ⎞ μ I⎛ 1 1 ⎞
⎜⎜ − ⎟⎟ , outward (d) 0 ⎜⎜ − ⎟ , inward.
4 ⎝ R1 R2 ⎟⎠
(c)
4 ⎝ R1 R2 ⎠
Q4. The magnetic field at point P for the steady current configurations shown in figure is given
by Ι
R
P
Ι
μ I⎛ 2⎞ μ I⎛ 2⎞
(a) B = 0 ⎜1 + ⎟ (b) B = 0 ⎜1 + ⎟
R ⎝ π⎠ 2R ⎝ π ⎠
μ I⎛ 2⎞ μ I⎛ 2⎞
(c) B = 0 ⎜1 + ⎟ (d) B = 0 ⎜1 + ⎟
3R ⎝ π ⎠ 4R ⎝ π ⎠

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Q5. A uniform surface current is flowing in the positive y-direction over an infinite sheet lying
in the x-y plane. The direction of the magnetic field is:
(a) along − ẑ for z > 0 and along ẑ for z < 0
(b) along − x̂ for z > 0 and along x̂ for z < 0
(c) along ẑ for z > 0 and along x̂ for z < 0
(d) along x̂ for z > 0 and along − x̂ for z < 0
Q6. Which one of the following current densities J , can generate the magnetic vector
potential Α = ( y 2 xˆ + x 2 yˆ ) ?
(a) μ ( xxˆ + yyˆ ) (b) − μ ( xˆ − yˆ ) (c) − μ ( xˆ + yˆ ) (d) μ ( xxˆ − yyˆ )

2 2 2 2
0 0 0 0
Q7. Which of the following expressions for a vector potential A does not represent a uniform
magnetic field of magnitude B0 along the z-direction?
(a) A = (0, B0 x,0 ) (b) A = (− B0 y,0,0 )
⎛ B0 x B0 y ⎞ ⎛ B0 y B0 x ⎞
(c) A = ⎜ , ,0 ⎟ (d) A = ⎜ − , ,0 ⎟
⎝ 2 2 ⎠ ⎝ 2 2 ⎠
Q8. An infinitely long hollow cylinder of radius a carrying a surface charge density σ is rotated
about its cylindrical axis with a constant angular speed ω . Then the magnitude of vector
potential inside the cylinder at a distance r from its axis is:
1 1
(a) 2 μ0σ aω r (b) μ0σ aω r (c) μ0σ aω r (d) μ0σ aω r
2 4
Q9. An infinitely long hollow cylinder of radius a carrying a surface charge density σ is rotated
about its cylindrical axis with a constant angular speed ω . Then the magnitude of vector
potential outside the cylinder at a distance r from its axis is:
1
(a) 2 μ0σ aω r (b) μ0σ aω R 2
2r
1 1
(c) μ0σ aω r (d) μ0σ aω R 2
2 4r

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1 10
Q10. The magnetic field corresponding to the vector potential A = F × r + 3 r where F is a
4 r
constant vector, is
F F 30 30
(a) (b) − (c) F + r (d) F − r
2 2 r4 r4
Q11. An infinite solenoid with its axis of symmetry along the z-direction carries a steady current
I. The vector potential A at a distance r from the axis
(a) is constant inside and varies as r outside the solenoid
(b) varies as r inside and is constant outside the solenoid
1
(c) varies as r inside and as outside the solenoid
r
1
(d) varies as inside and as r outside the solenoid
r
Q12. At the interface between two linear dielectrics (with permeability μ1 and μ2), the magnetic
field lines bend, as shown in the figure. Assume that there
is no free current at the interface. The ratio μ1/μ2 is:
θ1
tan θ1 cos θ1 μ1
(a) tan θ (b) cos θ
2 2 μ2
sin θ1 cot θ1 θ2
(c) sin θ (d) cot θ .
2 2
Q13. Two identical square frames are made of the same conducting wire such that ABCD plane
is horizontal (with side AB in front) and ADEF plane is vertical, with side AD missing. The
same current I flow in the frame as shown in figure. The direction of the magnetic moment
E
vector will be
(a) vertical, upwards F
(b) vertical, downwards

D
(c) at 45o with the vertical, pointing upwards C
(d) at 45° with the vertical, pointing downwards A B

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Q14. How does the magnetic moment (M) of an electron moving in a Bohr orbit of radius rn in an
atom depend upon rn ?
(a) M is directly proportional to rn (b) M is directly proportional to rn
(c) M is directly proportional to 1/ rn (d) none of the above.

Q15. A current carrying loop is placed in a uniform magnetic field in four different orientations I,
II, III and IV. Arrange them in the decreasing order of potential energy.
I. n̂ II. B
B
n̂
B
n̂
n̂
III. IV. B
(a) I > III > II > IV (b) I > IV > II > III
(c) I > II > III > IV (d) III > IV > I > II
Q16. A long circular cylinder of radius R carries a magnetization M = kr 2φˆ where k is a
constant, r is the distance from the axis. Then the volume bound current and surface
bound currents are respectively
(a) 2π kR 3 , − 2π kR 3 (b) −2π kR3 , 2π kR 3
(c) π kR 3 , − π kR 3 (d) −π kR 3 , π kR 3
Q17. An infinitely long circular cylinder carries a uniform magnetization M = M zˆ parallel to its
( ) ( )
axis. Then the volume bound current J b and surface bound currents K b are respectively
(a) M φˆ, 0 (b) 0, M φˆ
(c) 2M φˆ, 0 (d) 0, 2M φˆ

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Q18. An infinitely long circular cylinder carries a uniform magnetization M = M zˆ parallel to its
axis. Then which of the following statement is not true:
( )
(a) the volume bound current J b is zero
(b) the surface bound currents ( K ) is M φˆ

b
(c) the magnetic field ( B ) inside the cylinder is μ M0
(d) the magnetic field ( B ) inside the cylinder is zero
NAT (Numerical Answer Type) C

Q19. A wire is given a shape ABCDE as shown in the figure given
below through which a steady current I flows. The magnetic field P
μ0 I r
at the centre P is α . Then the value of α is………..(upto D 90 o Β
r
Ι
two decimal point) Α
Ε
Q20. Current density in a cylindrical coordinate in certain region is given as
5 10
J = rˆ + 2 zˆ A / m 2 .
r (
r +1 )
The total current crossing the surface z = 3, r ≤ 6 in the ẑ direction is……….. A
Q21. Consider a constant magnetic field of B Tesla along the z direction. A square loop of side
length ( L ) meters is place in the field such that normal to the loop makes an angle of 60 0
to the z-axis, as shown in the figure. Then the value of the path integral ∫ A ⋅ dl in the units
of (Tesla m 2 ) is α BL2 . Then the value of α is ……….
60 o
ẑ

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Q22. A particle of charge q and mass m moves in a circular orbit of radius r with angular speed
ω. The ratio of the magnitude of its angular momentum to that of its magnetic moment is
m
α . Then the value of α is ……….
q
Q23. A small magnetic dipole is kept at the origin in the x-y plane. One wire L1 is located at
z = −a in the x-z plane with a current I flowing in the positive x direction. Another wire L2
is at z = + a in y-z plane with the same current I as in L1, flowing in the positive y-
direction. The angle φ made by the magnetic dipole with respect to the positive x-axis is
……….. ( in deg ree )
MSQ (Multiple Select Questions)

Q24. Which of the following expressions for a vector potential A represent a uniform magnetic
field of magnitude B0 along the z-direction?
(a) A = (0, B0 x,0) (b) A = (− B0 y,0,0)
⎛ B0 x B0 y ⎞ ⎛ B0 y B0 x ⎞
(c) A = ⎜ , ,0 ⎟ (d) A = ⎜ − , ,0 ⎟
⎝ 2 2 ⎠ ⎝ 2 2 ⎠
Q25. An infinitely long circular cylinder carries a uniform magnetization M = M zˆ parallel

to its axis. Then which of the following statements are true:
( )
(a) the volume bound current J b is zero
(b) the surface bound currents ( K ) is M φˆ

b
(c) the magnetic field ( B ) inside the cylinder is μ M

0
(d) the magnetic field ( B ) inside the cylinder is zero

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Q26. Two long parallel wires carrying current I1 and I2 in the same direction are placed a distance
d apart. Then which of the following statements are true:
μ0 I1I2
(a) the force per unit length on each wire is
2πd
μ0 I1I2
(b) the force per unit length on each wire is
4πd
(c) they attract each other
(d) they repel each other
Q27. For the steady current configurations shown in figure which of the following statements are
true:
μ I⎛1 1⎞ Ι
(a) The magnetic field at point P is B = 0 ⎜ − ⎟ b Ι
4 ⎝a b⎠
μ I⎛1 1⎞
(b) The magnetic field at point P is B = 0 ⎜ − ⎟ a
8 ⎝a b⎠
P
(c) Magnetic field points upward Ι
(d) Magnetic field points inward

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Solutions
MCQ (Multiple Choice Questions)
Ans. 1: (b)
Ans. 2: (d)
Solution: The force on the two sides cancels.
μ I ⎛μ I ⎞ μ II
At the bottom, B = 0 1 ⇒ F = ⎜ 0 1 ⎟ I2a = 0 1 2 (up)
2πa ⎝ 2πa ⎠ 2π
μ I ⎛μ I ⎞ μ II
At the top, B = 0 1 ⇒ F = ⎜ 0 1 ⎟ I2a = 0 1 2 (down)
4πa ⎝ 4πa ⎠ 4π
μ II
Thus Net Force = 0 1 2 (up)
4π
Ans. 3: (c)
Ans. 4: (d)
μ0 I
Solution: The two half lines are the same as one infinite line:
2π R
μ0 I
The half circle contributes:
4R
μ0 I ⎛ 2⎞
So B = ⎜1 + ⎟ (into the page)
4R ⎝ π ⎠
Ans. 5: (d)
Ans. 6: (c)
1 ( ) 2
Solution: B = ∇ × A = 2 ( x − y ) zˆ ⇒ J = μ ∇ × B = − μ ( xˆ + yˆ )
0 0
Ans. 7: (c)
Solution: B ≠ ∇ × A .
Ans. 8: (c)
Solution: Surface current K = σ v ⇒ K = σ aωφˆ , thus A = Aφφˆ
Magnetic field inside is ∫ B.dl = μ0 I enc ⇒ Bl = μ0 Kl ⇒ B = μ0 K ⇒ B = μ0σ aω zˆ
1
Since B = ∇ × A ⇒ ∫
line
A.dl = ∫ B.d a ⇒ A × 2π r = μ0σ aω × π r 2 ⇒ A =
S
2
μ0σ aω r

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Ans. 9: (b)
Solution: Surface current K = σ v ⇒ K = σ aωφˆ , thus A = Aφφˆ
Magnetic field inside is ∫ B.dl = μ0 I enc ⇒ Bl = μ0 Kl ⇒ B = μ0 K ⇒ B = μ0σ aω zˆ
1
Since B = ∇ × A ⇒ ∫
line
A.dl = ∫ B.d a ⇒ A × 2π r = μ0σ aω × π R 2 ⇒ A =
S
2r
μ0σ aω R 2
Ans. 10: (a)
Solution: B = ∇ × A =
1
[ ( ⎛
)] r ⎞
∇ × F × r + 10⎜ ∇ × 3 ⎟ . Since F is a constant vector, let
4 ⎝ r ⎠
xˆ yˆ zˆ
F = F0 ( xˆ + yˆ + zˆ ) , F × r = F0 F0 F0 = xˆ ( z − y )F0 − yˆ ( z − x )F0 + zˆ ( y − x )F0
x y z
xˆ yˆ zˆ
(
∇× F ×r =
∂
)
∂x
∂
∂y
∂
∂z
= xˆ[F0 + F0 ] − yˆ [− F0 − F0 ] + zˆ[F0 + F0 ] = 2 F0 ( xˆ + yˆ + zˆ )
(z − y )F0 (x − z )F0 ( y − x )F0
⇒
1
4
[ ( 1
2
)] F
2 r
r F
∇ × F × r = F0 (xˆ + yˆ + zˆ ) = , ∇ × 3 = 0 . Thus B = .
2
Ans. 11: (c)
Ans. 12: (a)
B1II
tan θ1 B ⊥ B II μ
Solution: = II 1 = 2II = 1 sin ce B1⊥ = B2⊥ , μ1 B1II = μ2 B2II
tan θ 2 B2 B1 μ2
B2⊥
Ans. 13: (c)
Ans. 14: (b)
evn ev r
Solution: M = IA = × π rn2 = n n since mvn rn = n ⇒ M ∝ vn rn ∝ n
2π rn 2
and rn = n 2 a0 ⇒ n ∝ rn ⇒ M ∝ rn

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Ans. 15: (b)

Solution: ∵U = − m.B = − mB cos θ
I. θ = 1800 ⇒ U = + mB , II. θ = 900 ⇒ U = 0
III. θ = Acute angle ⇒ U = −ve , IV. θ = Obtuse angle ⇒ U = + ve
Thus I > IV > II > III
Ans. 16: (a)
1 ∂
Solution: J b = ∇ × M =
r ∂r
( ( )
r.kr 2 ) zˆ = 3krzˆ and K b = M × nˆ = kR 2 φˆ × rˆ = − kR 2 zˆ
So the bound current flows up the cylinder, and returns down the surface.
R
Total volume bound current = ∫ J b .d a = ∫ J b da = ∫ ( 3kr ) 2π rdr = 2π kR 3
0
Total surface bound current = ∫ K b dl = −kR 2 × 2π R = −2π kR 3
Ans. 17: (b)

Solution: J b = ∇ × M = 0 , K b = M × nˆ = M ( zˆ × rˆ ) = M φˆ
Ans. 18: (d)

The field is that of a surface current K b = M φˆ , that is the case of a solenoid,

Field inside is: B = μ0 K b = μ0 M ⇒ B = μ0 M

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NAT (Numerical Answer Type)

Ans. 19: 0.38
μ0 I
θ μ0 I 2700 3μ0 I μI
B= × = × = = 0.38 0
2r 2π 2r 360° 8r r
Ans. 20: 113.38
⎡5 10 ⎤
Solution: I = ∫ J .da = ∫∫ ⎢ rˆ + 2 zˆ .rdrdφ zˆ
⎣r r + 1 ⎦⎥
2π
rdrdφ = 2π × ×10 ln ( b 2 + 1) ⇒ I = 10π ln ( 37 ) = 31.4 × 3.6 = 113.38 A
b 10 1
I =∫ ∫
0 0 r +1
2
2
Ans. 21: 0.5
∫ A ⋅ dl = ∫ ( ∇ × A).d a = ∫ B.d a = BA cos 60

1 1 2
Solution: 0
= B × L2 × = BL = 0.5 BL2
S S
2 2
Ans. 22: 2
q qω qω r 2 L m
Solution: M = IA = A= ×π r2 = and L = mvr = mr 2ω ⇒ =2
T 2π 2 M q
Ans. 23: 225
Solution: Magnetic field at z = 0 due to wire at z = −a is B = − Byˆ .
Magnetic field at z = 0 due to wire at z = + a is B = − Bxˆ .

Resultant magnetic field at z = 0 makes an angle of 45 0 with − x̂ and 225 0 with x̂ .

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MSQ (Multiple Select Questions)

Ans. 24: (a), (b) and (d)
Ans. 25: (a), (b) and (c)
The field is that of a surface current K b = M φˆ , that is the case of a solenoid,

Field inside is: B = μ0 K b = μ0 M ⇒ B = μ0 M
Ans. 26: (a) and (c)

μ I
Solution: The field at (2) due to (1) is B = 0 1 (points into the page). I2
2π d I1
μ I μ II v
Force on (2) is F = I 2 × 0 1 ∫ dl ⇒ f = 0 1 2
2π d 2π d
Force per unit length is towards (1) and net force is attractive F B
Ans. 27: (b) and (c) Wire 1 Wire 2

Solution: The straight segment produces no field at P.
μ I⎛1 1⎞
The two quarter circles give B = 0 ⎜ − ⎟ out of page.
8 ⎝a b⎠


Chapter - 2: Magnetostatics

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When charge flows over a surface, we describe it by the surface current K .

Also K = σ v where is σ surface charge density and v is its velocity.

2.1.3 Volume Current Density

Also J = ρ v where ρ is volume charge density and v is its velocity.

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(Horizontal component cancels only perpendicular component add up).

The total charge per unit time leaving a volume V is ∫ J .d a = ∫ ( ∇.J ) dτ .

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2.3 Biot-Savart Law

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Magnetic field due to Toroid is

where N is the total number of turns.

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Solution: The force on the two sides cancels.

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2.4 Ampere's Law

where I enc is the total current enclosed by the amperian loop.

Right hand Rule

then your thumb defines the direction of a

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2.5 Magnetic Vector Potential A ()

⎪⎧ ⎡ 1 ∂Az ∂Aφ ⎤ ⎡ ∂Ar ∂Az ⎤ ˆ 1 ⎡ ∂ ∂Ar ⎤ ⎪⎫

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2.6 Magnetostatic Boundary Condition (Boundary is sheet of current, K )

For tangential components

For ∇. A = 0 guarantees that the normal component is continuous, and ∇ × A = B , in the

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Verify that ∇ ⋅ A = 0 and ∇ × A = B

Solution: Since ∫ A.dl = ∫ ( ∇ × A) .d a = ∫ B.d a = φ , where φ

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2.7 Multiple Expansion of Vector Potential •

where m is the magnetic dipole moment: m

(b) In non-uniform field, dipoles have net force F = ∇ m ⋅ B and torque τ = m × B . ( )

(d) Interaction energy of two dipoles separated by a distance r is

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Example: A phonograph record of radius R, carrying a uniform surface charge σ is rotating at

dm = (σω R 2 sin θ dθ ) × π R 2 sin 2 θ

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2.8.1 The Field of a Magnetized Object (Bound Currents)

Consider a piece of magnetized material with magnetization M . ( )

The first term is like potential of a volume current

where n̂ is the normal to the unit vector.

would be produced by a volume current J b = ∇ × M throughout the material, plus a surface

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Example: A long circular cylinder of radius R carries a magnetization M = Kr 2φˆ where

Outside point: I enc = 0 ⇒ B = 0

2.9 The Auxiliary field ( H )

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H plays a role in magnetostatic analogous to D in electrostatic: Just as D allowed us to

For most substances magnetization is proportional to the field H , ⇒ M = χ m H ,

where χ m is magnetic susceptibility of the material.

The Ampere’s law states that

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MCQ (Multiple Choice Questions)

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(a) μ ( xxˆ + yyˆ ) (b) − μ ( xˆ − yˆ ) (c) − μ ( xˆ + yˆ ) (d) μ ( xxˆ − yyˆ )

(a) A = (0, B0 x,0 ) (b) A = (− B0 y,0,0 )

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(b) vertical, downwards

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