PHYSICS

HIGHER SECONDARY
SECOND YEAR
VOLUME - I
Revised based on the recommendation of the
Textbook Development Committee

Untouchability is a sin

Untouchability is a crime

Untouchability is inhuman

TAMILNADU TEXTBOOK
CORPORATION
COLLEGE ROAD, CHENNAI - 600 006
c Government of Tamilnadu
First edition - 2005
Revised edition - 2007
CHAIRPERSON
Dr. S. GUNASEKARAN
Reader
Post Graduate and Research Department of Physics
Pachaiyappa’s College, Chennai - 600 030
Reviewers
P. SARVAJANA RAJAN S. RASARASAN
Selection Grade Lecturer in Physics P.G. Assistant in Physics
Govt.Arts College Govt. Hr. Sec. School
Nandanam, Chennai - 600 035 Kodambakkam, Chennai - 600 024

S. KEMASARI
Selection Grade Lecturer in Physics
GIRIJA RAMANUJAM
P.G. Assistant in Physics
Queen Mary’s College (Autonomous)
Govt. Girls’ Hr. Sec. School
Chennai - 600 004
Ashok Nagar, Chennai - 600 083
Dr. K. MANIMEGALAI
Reader in Physics P. LOGANATHAN
The Ethiraj College for Women P.G. Assistant in Physics
Chennai - 600 008 Govt. Girls’ Hr. Sec. School
Tiruchengode - 637 211
G. SANKARI Namakkal District
Selection Grade Lecturer in Physics
Meenakshi College for Women
Kodambakkam, Chennai - 600 024 Dr. N. VIJAYAN
Principal
G. ANBALAGAN Zion Matric Hr. Sec. School
Lecturer in Physics Selaiyur
Aringnar Anna Govt. Arts College Chennai - 600 073
Villupuram.
Dr. HEMAMALINI RAJAGOPAL
Authors Senior Scale Lecturer in Physics
Queen Mary’s College (Autonomous)
S. PONNUSAMY Chennai - 600 004
Asst. Professor of Physics
S.R.M. Engineering College
S.R.M. Institute of Science and Technology
(Deemed University)
Kattankulathur - 603 203

Price : Rs.
This book has been prepared by the Directorate of School Education on behalf of
the Government of Tamilnadu

This book has been printed on 60 G.S.M paper

Printed by offsetat:
 Preface
The most important and crucial stage of school education is the
higher secondary level. This is the transition level from a generalised
curriculum to a discipline-based curriculum.
In order to pursue their career in basic sciences and professional
courses, students take up Physics as one of the subjects. To provide
them sufficient background to meet the challenges of academic and
professional streams, the Physics textbook for Std. XII has been reformed,
updated and designed to include basic information on all topics.
Each chapter starts with an introduction, followed by subject matter.
All the topics are presented with clear and concise treatments. The
chapters end with solved problems and self evaluation questions.
Understanding the concepts is more important than memorising.
Hence it is intended to make the students understand the subject
thoroughly so that they can put forth their ideas clearly. In order to
make the learning of Physics more interesting, application of concepts in
real life situations are presented in this book.
Due importance has been given to develop in the students,
experimental and observation skills. Their learning experience would
make them to appreciate the role of Physics towards the improvement
of our society.
The following are the salient features of the text book.
N The data has been systematically updated.
N Figures are neatly presented.
N Self-evaluation questions (only samples) are included to sharpen
the reasoning ability of the student.
While preparing for the examination, students should not
restrict themselves, only to the questions/problems given in the self
evaluation. They must be prepared to answer the questions and
problems from the text/syllabus.
– Dr. S. Gunasekaran
Chairperson

III
 SYLLABUS (180 periods)

UNIT – 1 ELECTROSTATICS (18 periods)

Frictional electricity, charges and their conservation; Coulomb’s
law – forces between two point electric charges. Forces between
multiple electric charges – superposition principle.
Electric field – Electric field due to a point charge, electric field
lines; Electric dipole, electric field intensity due to a dipole –behavior
of dipole in a uniform electric field – application of electric dipole in
microwave oven.
Electric potential – potential difference – electric potential due to
a point charge and due a dipole. Equipotential surfaces – Electrical
potential energy of a system of two point charges.
Electric flux – Gauss’s theorem and its applications to find field
due to (1) infinitely long straight wire (2) uniformly charged infinite
plane sheet (3) two parallel sheets and (4) uniformly charged thin
spherical shell (inside and outside)
Electrostatic induction – capacitor and capacitance – Dielectric
and electric polarisation – parallel plate capacitor with and without
dielectric medium – applications of capacitor – energy stored in a
capacitor. Capacitors in series and in parallel – action of points –
Lightning arrester – Van de Graaff generator.

UNIT - 2 CURRENT ELECTRICITY (11 periods)

Electric current – flow of charges in a metallic conductor – Drift
velocity and mobility and their relation with electric current.
Ohm’s law, electrical resistance. V-I characteristics – Electrical
resistivity and conductivity. Classification of materials in terms of
conductivity – Superconductivity (elementary ideas) – Carbon resistors
– colour code for carbon resistors – Combination of resistors – series
and parallel – Temperature dependence of resistance – Internal
resistance of a cell – Potential difference and emf of a cell.
Kirchoff’s law – illustration by simple circuits – Wheatstone’s
Bridge and its application for temperature coefficient of resistance
measurement – Metrebridge – Special case of Wheatstone bridge –
Potentiometer – principle – comparing the emf of two cells.
Electric power – Chemical effect of current – Electro chemical
cells Primary (Voltaic, Lechlanche, Daniel) – Secondary – rechargeable
cell – lead acid accumulator.

IV
 UNIT – 3 EFFECTS OF ELECTRIC CURRENT (15 periods)
Heating effect. Joule’s law – Experimental verification.
Thermoelectric effects – Seebeck effect – Peltier effect – Thomson
effect – Thermocouple, thermoemf, neutral and inversion
temperature. Thermopile.
Magnetic effect of electric current – Concept of magnetic field,
Oersted’s experiment – Biot-Savart law – Magnetic field due to an
infinitely long current carrying straight wire and circular coil –
Tangent galvanometer – Construction and working – Bar magnet as an
equivalent solenoid – magnetic field lines.
Ampere’s circuital law and its application.
Force on a moving charge in uniform magnetic field and electric
field – cyclotron – Force on current carrying conductor in a uniform
magnetic field, forces between two parallel current carrying conductors
– definition of ampere.
Torque experienced by a current loop in a uniform magnetic
field-moving coil galvanometer – Conversion to ammeter and voltmeter
– Current loop as a magnetic dipole and its magnetic dipole moment
– Magnetic dipole moment of a revolving electron.

UNIT – 4 ELECTROMAGNETIC INDUCTION AND

ALTERNATING CURRENT (14 periods)
Electromagnetic induction – Faraday’s law – induced emf and
current – Lenz’s law.
Self induction – Mutual induction – Self inductance of a long
solenoid – mutual inductance of two long solenoids.
Methods of inducing emf – (1) by changing magnetic induction
(2) by changing area enclosed by the coil and (3) by changing the
orientation of the coil (quantitative treatment) analytical treatment
can also be included.
AC generator – commercial generator. (Single phase, three
phase).
Eddy current – Applications – Transformer – Long distance
transmission.
Alternating current – measurement of AC – AC circuit with
resistance – AC circuit with inductor – AC circuit with capacitor - LCR
series circuit – Resonance and Q – factor: power in AC circuits.

V
 UNIT–5 ELECTROMAGNETIC WAVES AND WAVE OPTICS
(17 periods)
Electromagnetic waves and their characteristics –
Electromagnetic spectrum, Radio, microwaves, Infra red, visible, ultra
violet – X rays, gamma rays.
Emission and Absorption spectrum – Line, Band and continuous
spectra – Flourescence and phosphorescence.
Theories of light – Corpuscular – Wave – Electromagnetic and
Quantum theories.
Scattering of light – Rayleigh’s scattering – Tyndal scattering –
Raman effect – Raman spectrum – Blue colour of the sky and reddish
appearance of the sun at sunrise and sunset.
Wavefront and Huygen’s principle – Reflection, Total internal
reflection and refraction of plane wave at a plane surface using
wavefronts.
Interference – Young’s double slit experiment and expression for
fringe width – coherent source - interference of light. Formation of
colours in thin films – analytical treatment – Newton’s rings.
Diffraction – differences between interference and diffraction of
light – diffraction grating.
Polarisation of light waves – polarisation by reflection –
Brewster’s law - double refraction - nicol prism – uses of plane
polarised light and polaroids – rotatory polarisation – polarimeter

UNIT – 6 ATOMIC PHYSICS (16 periods)

Atomic structure – discovery of the electron – specific charge
(Thomson’s method) and charge of the electron (Millikan’s oil drop
method) – alpha scattering – Rutherford’s atom model.
Bohr’s model – energy quantisation – energy and wave number
expression – Hydrogen spectrum – energy level diagrams – sodium and
mercury spectra - excitation and ionization potentials. Sommerfeld’s
atom model.
X-rays – production, properties, detection, absorption, diffraction
of X-rays – Laue’s experiment – Bragg’s law, Bragg’s X-ray
spectrometer – X-ray spectra – continuous and characteristic X–ray
spectrum – Mosley’s law and atomic number.
Masers and Lasers – spontaneous and stimulated emission –
normal population and population inversion – Ruby laser, He–Ne laser
– properties and applications of laser light – holography

VI
 UNIT – 7 DUAL NATURE OF RADIATION AND MATTER –
RELATIVITY (10 periods)
Photoelectric effect – Light waves and photons – Einstein’s photo
– electric equation – laws of photo – electric emission – particle nature
of energy – photoelectric equation – work function – photo cells and
their application.
Matter waves – wave mechanical concept of the atom – wave
nature of particles – De–Broglie relation – De–Broglie wave length of
an electron – electron microscope.
Concept of space, mass, time – Frame of references. Special
theory of relativity – Relativity of length, time and mass with velocity
– (E = mc2).

UNIT – 8 NUCLEAR PHYSICS (14 periods)

Nuclear properties – nuclear Radii, masses, binding energy,
density, charge – isotopes, isobars and isotones – Nuclear mass defect
– binding energy. Stability of nuclei-Bain bridge mass spectrometer.
Nature of nuclear forces – Neutron – discovery – properties –
artificial transmutation – particle accelerator
Radioactivity – alpha, beta and gamma radiations and their
properties, α-decay, β-decay and γ-decay – Radioactive decay law – half
life – mean life. Artificial radioactivity – radio isotopes – effects and
uses Geiger – Muller counter.
Radio carbon dating – biological radiation hazards
Nuclear fission – chain reaction – atom bomb – nuclear reactor
– nuclear fusion – Hydrogen bomb – cosmic rays – elementary
particles.

UNIT – 9 SEMICONDUCTOR DEVICES AND THEIR APPLICATIONS

(26 periods)
Semiconductor theory – energy band in solids – difference
between metals, insulators and semiconductors based on band theory
– semiconductor doping – Intrinsic and Extrinsic semi conductors.
Formation of P-N Junction – Barrier potential and depletion
layer. – P-N Junction diode – Forward and reverse bias characteristics
– diode as a rectifier – zener diode. Zener diode as a voltage regulator
– LED.

VII
 Junction transistors – characteristics – transistor as a switch –
transistor as an amplifier – transistor biasing – RC, LC coupled and
direct coupling in amplifier – feeback amplifier – positive and negative
feed back – advantages of negative feedback amplifier – oscillator –
condition for oscillations – LC circuit – Colpitt oscillator.
Logic gates – NOT, OR, AND, EXOR using discret components –
NAND and NOR gates as universal gates – integrated circuits.
Laws and theorems of Boolean’s algebra – operational amplifier –
parameters – pin-out configuration – Basic applications. Inverting
amplifier. Non-inverting amplifier – summing and difference
amplifiers.
Measuring Instruments – Cathode Ray oscillocope – Principle –
Functional units – uses. Multimeter – construction and uses.

UNIT – 10 COMMUNICATION SYSTEMS (15 periods)

Modes of propagation, ground wave – sky wave propagation.
Amplitude modulation, merits and demerits – applications –
frequency modulation – advantages and applications – phase
modulation.
Antennas and directivity.
Radio transmission and reception – AM and FM –
superheterodyne receiver.
T.V.transmission and reception – scanning and synchronising.
Vidicon (camera tube) and picture tube – block diagram of a
monochrome TV transmitter and receiver circuits.
Radar – principle – applications.
Digital communication – data transmission and reception –
principles of fax, modem, satellite communication – wire, cable and
Fibre - optical communication.

VIII
 EXPERIMENTS (12 × 2 = 24 periods)
1. To determine the refractive index of the material of the prism by
finding angle of prism and angle of minimum deviation using a
spectrometer.
2. To determine wavelengths of a composite light using a diffraction
grating and a spectrometer by normal incidence method (By
assuming N).
3. To determine the radius of curvature of the given convex lens
using Newton’s rings experiment.
4. To find resistance of a given wire using a metre bridge and hence
determine the specific resistance of the material.
5. To compare the emf’s of two primary cells using potentiometer.
6. To determine the value of the horizontal component of the magnetic
induction of the earth’s magnetic field, using tangent galvanometer.
7. To determine the magnetic field at a point on the axis of a circular
coil.
8. To find the frequency of the alternating current (a.c) mains using
a sonometer wire.
9. (a) To draw the characteristic curve of a p-n junction diode in
forward bias and to determine its forward resistance.
(b) To draw the characteristic curve of a Zener diode and to
determine its reverse breakdown voltage.
10. To study the characteristics of a common emitter NPN transistor
and to find out its input, output impedances and current gain.
11. Construct a basic amplifier (OP amp) using IC 741 (inverting, non
inverting, summing).
12. Study of basic logic gates using integrated circuits NOT, AND, OR,
NAND, NOR and EX-OR gates.

IX
 CONTENTS

Page No.

1 Electrostatics 1

2 Current Electricity 53

3 Effects of Electric Current 88

4 Electromagnetic Induction

and Alternating Current 134

5 Electromagnetic Waves and

Wave Optics 178

Logarithmic and other tables 228

(Unit 6 to 10 continues in Volume II)

X
 1. Electrostatics

Electrostatics is the branch of Physics, which deals with static

electric charges or charges at rest. In this chapter, we shall study the
basic phenomena about static electric charges. The charges in a
electrostatic field are analogous to masses in a gravitational field. These
charges have forces acting on them and hence possess potential energy.
The ideas are widely used in many branches of electricity and in the
theory of atom.
1.1 Electrostatics – frictional electricity
In 600 B.C., Thales, a Greek Philosopher observed that, when a
piece of amber is rubbed with fur, it acquires the property of attracting
light objects like bits of paper. In the 17th century, William Gilbert
discovered that, glass, ebonite etc, also exhibit this property, when
rubbed with suitable materials.
The substances which acquire charges on rubbing are said to be
‘electrified’ or charged. These terms are derived from the Greek word
elektron, meaning amber. The electricity produced by friction is called
frictional electricity. If the charges in a body do not move, then, the
frictional electricity is also known as Static Electricity.

1.1.1 Two kinds of charges

(i) If a glass rod is rubbed with a silk cloth, it acquires positive
charge while the silk cloth acquires an equal amount of negative charge.
(ii) If an ebonite rod is rubbed with fur, it becomes negatively
charged, while the fur acquires equal amount of positive charge. This
classification of positive and negative charges were termed by American
scientist, Benjamin Franklin.
Thus, charging a rod by rubbing does not create electricity, but
simply transfers or redistributes the charges in a material.

1
1.1.2 Like charges repel and unlike charges attract each other
– experimental verification.

A charged glass rod is suspended by a silk thread, such that it

swings horizontally. Now another charged glass rod is brought near the
end of the suspended glass rod. It is found that the ends of the two
rods repel each other (Fig 1.1). However, if a charged ebonite rod is
brought near the end of the suspended rod, the two rods attract each
other (Fig 1.2). The above experiment shows that like charges repel and
unlike charges attract each other.

Silk Silk

Glass
F +++ Glass
++++ ++++
+++
+
+++ F F
+
++ ------
Glass F
Ebonite

Fig. 1.1 Two charged rods Fig 1.2 Two charged rods
of same sign of opposite sign

The property of attraction and repulsion between charged bodies

have many applications such as electrostatic paint spraying, powder
coating, fly−ash collection in chimneys, ink−jet printing and photostat
copying (Xerox) etc.

1.1.3 Conductors and Insulators

According to the electrostatic behaviour, materials are divided
into two categories : conductors and insulators (dielectrics). Bodies
which allow the charges to pass through are called conductors. e.g.
metals, human body, Earth etc. Bodies which do not allow the charges
to pass through are called insulators. e.g. glass, mica, ebonite, plastic
etc.

2
1.1.4 Basic properties of electric charge

(i) Quantisation of electric charge

The fundamental unit of electric charge (e) is the charge
carried by the electron and its unit is coulomb. e has the magnitude
1.6 × 10−19 C.
In nature, the electric charge of any system is always an integral
multiple of the least amount of charge. It means that the quantity can
take only one of the discrete set of values. The charge, q = ne where
n is an integer.

(ii) Conservation of electric charge

Electric charges can neither be created nor destroyed. According
to the law of conservation of electric charge, the total charge in an
isolated system always remains constant. But the charges can be
transferred from one part of the system to another, such that the total
charge always remains conserved. For example, Uranium (92U238) can
decay by emitting an alpha particle (2He4 nucleus) and transforming to
thorium (90Th234).
238 −−−−→ 234 4
92U 90Th + 2He

Total charge before decay = +92e, total charge after decay = 90e + 2e.
Hence, the total charge is conserved. i.e. it remains constant.

(iii) Additive nature of charge

The total electric charge of a system is equal to the algebraic sum
of electric charges located in the system. For example, if two charged
bodies of charges +2q, −5q are brought in contact, the total charge of
the system is –3q.

1.1.5 Coulomb’s law

The force between two charged bodies was studied by Coulomb in
1785.
Coulomb’s law states that the force of attraction or repulsion
between two point charges is directly proportional to the product of the
charges and inversely proportional to the square of the distance between

3
them. The direction of forces is along q1 q2
the line joining the two point charges. F F
r
Let q1 and q2 be two point charges
placed in air or vacuum at a distance r Fig 1.3a Coulomb forces
apart (Fig. 1.3a). Then, according to
Coulomb’s law,
q1q 2 q1q 2
F α 2 or F = k
r r2
where k is a constant of proportionality. In air or vacuum,
1
k = 4πε , where εo is the permittivity of free space (i.e., vacuum) and
o
the value of εo is 8.854 × 10−12 C2 N−1 m−2.

1 q1q 2
F = 4πε …(1)
o r2
1
and 9 2 −2
4πεo = 9 × 10 N m C

In the above equation, if q1 = q2 = 1C and r = 1m then,

1 ×1
F = (9 × 109) = 9 × 109 N
12

One Coulomb is defined as the quantity of charge, which when

placed at a distance of 1 metre in air or vacuum from an equal and
similar charge, experiences a repulsive force of 9 × 109 N.
If the charges are situated in a medium of permittivity ε, then the
magnitude of the force between them will be,
1 q1q2
Fm = …(2)
4πε r 2
Dividing equation (1) by (2)

F ε
= = εr
Fm εο

4
 ε
The ratio ε = εr, is called the relative permittivity or dielectric
ο
constant of the medium. The value of εr for air or vacuum is 1.

∴ ε = εoεr
F
Since Fm = ε , the force between two point charges depends on
r

the nature of the medium in which the two charges are situated.

Coulomb’s law – vector form

q1 q2
→ r^ 12
If F 21 is the force exerted on charge + +
q2 by charge q1 (Fig.1.3b), F12 r F21

→ qq
F 21 = k 1 2 ^
r 12 q1 q2
2
r12 + r^ 12

F12 F21
where ^ r 12 is the unit vector
r
from q1 to q2.
→ Fig 1.3b Coulomb’s law in
If F 12 is the force exerted on vector form
q1 due to q2,
q1q 2
→
F 12 = k 2
^
r 21
r21

where ^
r 21 is the unit vector from q2 to q1.

[Both ^
r 21 and ^
r 12 have the same magnitude, and are oppositely
directed]

→ q1q 2
∴ F 12 = k r 2 (– ^
r 12)
12

→ q1q 2
or F 12 = − k 2 ^
r 12
r12
→ →
or F 12 = – F 21

So, the forces exerted by charges on each other are equal in

magnitude and opposite in direction.

5
1.1.6 Principle of Superposition

The principle of superposition is to calculate the electric force

experienced by a charge q1 due to other charges q2, q3 ……. qn.

The total force on a given charge is the vector sum of the forces
exerted on it due to all other charges.

The force on q1 due to q2

→ 1 q1q 2
F 12 = 4πε 2
^
r 21
ο r21

Similarly, force on q1 due to q3

→ 1 q1q3
F 13 = 4πε 2
^
r 31
ο r31

The total force F1 on the charge q1 by all other charges is,

→ → → → →
F 1 = F 12 + F 13 + F 14 ......... + F 1n
Therefore,

→ 1 ⎡ q1q 2 ˆ q1q 3 q1qn ⎤

F1 = ⎢ r 2 r21 + r 2 rˆ31 + ....... r 2 rˆn1 ⎥
4πεο ⎣ 21 31 n1 ⎦

1.2 Electric Field

Electric field due to a charge is the space around the test charge
in which it experiences a force. The presence of an electric field
around a charge cannot be detected unless another charge is brought
towards it.
When a test charge qo is placed near a charge q, which is the
source of electric field, an electrostatic force F will act on the test
charge.

Electric Field Intensity (E)

Electric field at a point is measured in terms of electric field
intensity. Electric field intensity at a point, in an electric field is defined
as the force experienced by a unit positive charge kept at that point.

6
 F
It is a vector quantity. E = . The unit of electric field intensity
−1
qo
is N C .
The electric field intensity is also referred as electric field strength
or simply electric field. So, the force exerted by an electric field on a
charge is F = qoE.

1.2.1 Electric field due to a point charge

Let q be the point charge +q +q0

placed at O in air (Fig.1.4). A test
O r P E
charge q o is placed at P at a
distance r from q. According to Fig 1.4 Electric field due to a
Coulomb’s law, the force acting on point charge
qo due to q is

1 q qo
F = 4πε 2
o r

The electric field at a point P is, by definition, the force per unit
test charge.

F 1 q
E = q = 4πε 2
o o r

The direction of E is along the line joining O and P, pointing away

from q, if q is positive and towards q, if q is negative.
→ 1 q ^ ^
In vector notation E = r , where r is a unit vector pointing
4πεo r 2
away from q.

1.2.2 Electric field due to system of charges

If there are a number of stationary charges, the net electric field
(intensity) at a point is the vector sum of the individual electric fields
due to each charge.
→ → → → →
E = E 1 + E 2 + E 3 ...... E n

1 ⎡ q1 q2 q3 ⎤
= ⎢ r 2 r1 + r 2 r2 + r 2 r3 + .........⎥
4πε o ⎣1 2 3 ⎦
7
1.2.3 Electric lines of force
The concept of field lines was introduced by Michael Faraday as
an aid in visualizing electric and magnetic fields.
Electric line of force is an imaginary straight or curved path along
which a unit positive charge tends to move in an electric field.
The electric field due to simple arrangements of point charges are
shown in Fig 1.5.

+q +q -q +q +q

(a) (b) (c)

Isolated charge Unlike charges Like charges
Fig1.5 Lines of Forces

Properties of lines of forces:

(i) Lines of force start from positive charge and terminate at negative
charge.
(ii) Lines of force never intersect.
(iii) The tangent to a line of force at any point gives the direction of
the electric field (E) at that point.
(iv) The number of lines per unit area, through a plane at right angles
to the lines, is proportional to the magnitude of E. This means
that, where the lines of force are close together, E is large and
where they are far apart, E is small.

1
(v) Each unit positive charge gives rise to ε lines of force in free
o
space. Hence number of lines of force originating from a point
q
charge q is N = ε in free space.
o

8
1.2.4 Electric dipole and electric dipole moment
Two equal and opposite charges
separated by a very small distance p
constitute an electric dipole. -q +q
2d
Water, ammonia, carbon−dioxide and
chloroform molecules are some examples Fig 1.6 Electric dipole
of permanent electric dipoles. These
molecules behave like electric dipole, because the centres of positive
and negative charge do not coincide and are separated by a small
distance.
Two point charges +q and –q are kept at a distance 2d apart
(Fig.1.6). The magnitude of the dipole moment is given by the product
of the magnitude of the one of the charges and the distance between
them.

∴ Electric dipole moment, p = q2d or 2qd.

It is a vector quantity and acts from –q to +q. The unit of dipole

moment is C m.

1.2.5 Electric field due to an electric dipole at a point on its

axial line.
AB is an electric dipole of two point charges –q and +q separated
by a small distance 2d (Fig 1.7). P is a point along the axial line of the
dipole at a distance r from the midpoint O of the electric dipole.
A O B E2 P E1
-q +q x axis
2d
r
Fig 1.7 Electric field at a point on the axial line

The electric field at the point P due to +q placed at B is,

1 q
E1 = 4πε 2 (along BP)
o (r − d )

9
 The electric field at the point P due to –q placed at A is,

1 q
E2 = 4πε 2 (along PA)
o (r + d )

E1 and E2 act in opposite directions.

Therefore, the magnitude of resultant electric field (E) acts in the

direction of the vector with a greater magnitude. The resultant electric
field at P is,

E = E1 + (−E2)

⎡ 1 q 1 q ⎤
E = ⎢ 4πε −
2 4πε 2 ⎥ along BP.
⎣ o (r − d ) o (r + d ) ⎦

q ⎡ 1 1 ⎤
E = 4πε ⎢ − ⎥ along BP
2
o ⎣ (r − d ) (r + d )2 ⎦

q ⎡ 4rd ⎤
E = 4πε ⎢ 2 2 2 ⎥ along BP.
o ⎣ (r − d ) ⎦

If the point P is far away from the dipole, then d <<r

q 4rd q 4d
∴ E = 4πε =
o r
4 4πε o r
3

1 2p
E = 4πε 3 along BP.
o r

[∵ Electric dipole moment p = q x 2d]

E acts in the direction of dipole moment.

10
1.2.6 Electric field due to an electric dipole at a point on the
equatorial line.

Consider an electric dipole AB. Let 2d be the dipole distance

and p be the dipole moment. P is a point on the equatorial line at a
distance r from the midpoint O of the dipole (Fig 1.8a).

M
E1 E1
E1sin
E P
R
E2 E1cos
N R P
r E2cos

A B
-q +q E2 E2sin
O
d d

(a) Electric field at a point on (b) The components of the

equatorial line electric field
Fig 1.8

Electric field at a point P due to the charge +q of the dipole,

1 q
E1 = 4πε 2 along BP.
o BP

1 q
= 4πε 2 2 2
2 2 along BP (∵ BP = OP + OB )
o (r + d )

Electric field (E2) at a point P due to the charge –q of the dipole

1 q
E2 = 4πε 2 along PA
o AP

1 q
E2 = 4πε 2 2 along PA
o (r + d )

The magnitudes of E1 and E2 are equal. Resolving E1 and E2 into

their horizontal and vertical components (Fig 1.8b), the vertical
components E1 sin θ and E2 sin θ are equal and opposite, therefore
they cancel each other.

11
 The horizontal components E1 cos θ and E2 cos θ will get added
along PR.

Resultant electric field at the point P due to the dipole is

E = E1 cos θ + E2 cos θ (along PR)
= 2 E1cos θ (∵ E1 = E2)

1 q
E = 4πε 2 × 2 cos θ
o (r + d2 )

d
But cos θ =
r 2 + d2

1 q 2d 1 q 2d
E = 4πε ×
2 2 2 2 1/2 = 4πε 2 2 3/2
o (r + d ) (r + d ) o (r + d )

1 p
= 4πε 2 2 3/2 (∵ p = q2d)
o (r + d )

For a dipole, d is very small when compared to r

1 p
∴ E = 4πε 3
o r

The direction of E is along PR, parallel to the axis of the dipole

and directed opposite to the direction of dipole moment.

1.2.7 Electric dipole in a uniform electric field

Consider a dipole AB of
dipole moment p placed at an B +q F=qE
angle θ in an uniform electric
field E (Fig.1.9). The charge +q 2d θ E
experiences a force qE in the
direction of the field. The charge p
–q experiences an equal force in
A
the opposite direction. Thus the F=-qE -q C
net force on the dipole is zero.
Fig 1.9 Dipole in a uniform field
The two equal and unlike

12
parallel forces are not passing through the same point, resulting in a
torque on the dipole, which tends to set the dipole in the direction of
the electric field.

The magnitude of torque is,

τ = One of the forces x perpendicular distance between the forces

= F x 2d sin θ
= qE x 2d sin θ = pE sin θ (∵ q × 2d = P)
→ → →
In vector notation, τ = p × E

Note : If the dipole is placed in a non−uniform electric field at an

angle θ, in addition to a torque, it also experiences a force.

1.2.8 Electric potential energy of an electric dipole in an

electric field.

E Electric potential energy

B F=qE of an electric dipole in an
electrostatic field is the work
2d +q
done in rotating the dipole to
the desired position in the
A p field.
-q
F=-qE When an electric dipole
of dipole moment p is at an
Fig 1.10 Electric potential
angle θ with the electric field
energy of dipole
E, the torque on the dipole is
τ = pE sin θ
Work done in rotating the dipole through dθ,
dw = τ.dθ
= pE sinθ.dθ
The total work done in rotating the dipole through an angle θ is
W = ∫dw
W = pE ∫sinθ.dθ = –pE cos θ
This work done is the potential energy (U) of the dipole.
∴ U = – pE cos θ

13
 When the dipole is aligned parallel to the field, θ = 0o
∴U = –pE
This shows that the dipole has a minimum potential energy when
it is aligned with the field. A dipole in the electric field experiences a
→ → →
torque ( τ = p × E) which tends to align the dipole in the field direction,
dissipating its potential energy in the form of heat to the surroundings.

Microwave oven
It is used to cook the food in a short time. When the oven is
operated, the microwaves are generated, which in turn produce a non−
uniform oscillating electric field. The water molecules in the food which
are the electric dipoles are excited by an oscillating torque. Hence few
bonds in the water molecules are broken, and heat energy is produced.
This is used to cook food.

1.3 Electric potential

+q
Let a charge +q be placed at a E
O B A
point O (Fig 1.11). A and B are two x dx
points, in the electric field. When a unit
Fig1.11 Electric potential
positive charge is moved from A to B
against the electric force, work is done. This work is the potential
difference between these two points. i.e., dV = WA → B.
The potential difference between two points in an electric field is
defined as the amount of work done in moving a unit positive charge
from one point to the other against the electric force.
The unit of potential difference is volt. The potential difference
between two points is 1 volt if 1 joule of work is done in moving
1 Coulomb of charge from one point to another against the electric force.

The electric potential in an electric field at a point is defined as

the amount of work done in moving a unit positive charge from infinity
to that point against the electric forces.

Relation between electric field and potential

Let the small distance between A and B be dx. Work done in
moving a unit positive charge from A to B is dV = E.dx.

14
 The work has to be done against the force of repulsion in moving
a unit positive charge towards the charge +q. Hence,
dV = −E.dx

−dV
E =
dx
The change of potential with distance is known as potential
gradient, hence the electric field is equal to the negative gradient of
potential.
The negative sign indicates that the potential decreases in the
direction of electric field. The unit of electric intensity can also be
expressed as Vm−1.

1.3.1 Electric potential at a point due to a point charge

Let +q be an isolated
+q p dx E
point charge situated in air at O
O. P is a point at a distance r r A B
from +q. Consider two points Fig 1.12 Electric potential due
A and B at distances x and to a point charge
x + dx from the point O
(Fig.1.12).
The potential difference between A and B is,
dV = −E dx
The force experienced by a unit positive charge placed at A is
1 q
E = .
4πεo x2
1 q
∴ dV = − 4 πε 2 . dx
o x

The negative sign indicates that the work is done against the
electric force.
The electric potential at the point P due to the charge +q is the
total work done in moving a unit positive charge from infinity to that
point.
r
q q
V = −
∫ 4πε x
∞ o
2
. dx = 4 π ε r
o

15
1.3.2 Electric potential at a point due to an electric dipole
Two charges –q at A and
+q at B separated by a small P
distance 2d constitute an
electric dipole and its dipole
r2
moment is p (Fig 1.13).
r r1
Let P be the point at a
distance r from the midpoint
of the dipole O and θ be the A 180- p B
angle between PO and the -q O +q
axis of the dipole OB. Let r1 d d
and r2 be the distances of the Fig 1.13 Potential due to a dipole
point P from +q and –q
charges respectively.

1 q
Potential at P due to charge (+q) = 4πε r
o 1

1 ⎛ q ⎞
Potential at P due to charge (−q) = ⎜− ⎟
4πε o ⎝ r2 ⎠

1 q 1 q
Total potential at P due to dipole is, V = 4πε r − 4πε r
o 1 o 2

q ⎛1 1⎞
V = ⎜ − ⎟ ...(1)
4πεo ⎝ r1 r2 ⎠

Applying cosine law,

r12 = r2 + d2 – 2rd cos θ

⎛ cos θ d 2 ⎞
r12 = r2 ⎜1 − 2d + ⎟
⎝ r r2 ⎠

d2
Since d is very much smaller than r, can be neglected.
r2
1
2d
∴ r1 = r ⎛⎜1 − ⎞2
cos θ ⎟
⎝ r ⎠

16
 − 1/ 2
1 1⎛ 2d ⎞
or = ⎜1 − cos θ ⎟
r1 r ⎝ r ⎠
Using the Binomial theorem and neglecting higher powers,
1 1⎛ d
∴ = ⎜1 + cos θ ⎞⎟ …(2)
r1 r ⎝ r ⎠
Similarly,
r22 = r2 + d2 – 2rd cos (180 – θ)
or r22 = r2 + d2 + 2rd cos θ.
1/2
⎛ 2d ⎞ d2
r2 = r ⎜1 + cos θ ⎟ ( is negligible)
∴
⎝ r ⎠ r2
−1/2
1 1⎛ 2d ⎞
or = ⎜1 + cos θ ⎟
r2 r ⎝ r ⎠
Using the Binomial theorem and neglecting higher powers,
1 1⎛ d ⎞
= ⎜1 − cos θ ⎟ ...(3)
r2 r ⎝ r ⎠
Substituting equation (2) and (3) in equation (1) and simplifying
q 1⎛ d d ⎞
V = 4πε r ⎜1 + r cos θ − 1 + r cos θ ⎟
o ⎝ ⎠
q 2d cosθ 1 p . cosθ
∴ V = = …(4)
4πεo . r 2 4πεo r2
Special cases :
1. When the point P lies on the axial line of the dipole on the side
of +q, then θ = 0
p
∴ V =
4πεo r 2
2. When the point P lies on the axial line of the dipole on the side
of –q, then θ = 180
p
∴ V = −
4πεo r 2
3. When the point P lies on the equatorial line of the dipole, then,
θ = 90o,

∴ V = 0

17
1.3.3 Electric potential energy
The electric potential energy of two q1 q2
point charges is equal to the work done to A B
assemble the charges or workdone in r
bringing each charge or work done in Fig 1.14a Electric
bringing a charge from infinite distance. potential energy
Let us consider a point charge q1,
placed at A (Fig 1.14a].
The potential at a point B at a distance r from the charge q1 is
q1
V = 4πε r
o
Another point charge q2 is brought from infinity to the point B.
Now the work done on the charge q2 is stored as electrostatic potential
energy (U) in the system of charges q1 and q2.
∴ work done, w = Vq2
q1q 2
Potential energy (U) = 4 π ε r
o
Keeping q2 at B, if the charge q1 is q r23
3 q2
imagined to be brought from infinity to the point
A, the same amount of work is done.
r13 r12
Also, if both the charges q1 and q2 are
brought from infinity, to points A and B
respectively, separated by a distance r, then q1
potential energy of the system is the same as the Fig 1.14b Potential
previous cases. energy of system of
charges
For a system containing more than two
charges (Fig 1.14b), the potential energy (U) is given by
1 ⎡ q1q 2 q1q 3 q 2q 3 ⎤
⎢ + +
U =
4πεo ⎣ r12 r13 r23 ⎥⎦

1.3.4 Equipotential Surface

If all the points of a surface are at the same electric potential,
then the surface is called an equipotential surface.
(i) In case of an isolated point charge, all points equidistant from
the charge are at same potential. Thus, equipotential surfaces in this
18
 B E
A

+q E

(a) Equipotential surface (b) For a uniform field

(spherical) Fig 1.15 (plane)

case will be a series of concentric spheres with the point charge as

their centre (Fig 1.15a). The potential, will however be different for
different spheres.
If the charge is to be moved between any two points on an
equipotential surface through any path, the work done is zero. This is
because the potential difference between two points A and B is defined
W AB
as VB – VA = q . If VA = VB then WAB = 0. Hence the electric field
lines must be normal to an equipotential surface.
(ii) In case of uniform field, equipotential surfaces are the parallel
planes with their surfaces perpendicular to the lines of force as shown
in Fig 1.15b.

1.4 Gauss’s law and its applications S E

Electric flux
Consider a closed surface S in a ds
non−uniform electric field (Fig 1.16). ds normal
Consider a very small area ds on this
surface. The direction of ds is drawn
normal to the surface outward. The
Fig1.16 Electric flux
electric field over ds is supposed to be a
→ →
constant E . E and ds make an angle θ with each other.
The electric flux is defined as the total number of electric lines of
force, crossing through the given area. The electric flux dφ through the

19
area ds is,

dφ = E . ds = E ds cos θ
The total flux through the closed surface S is obtained by
integrating the above equation over the surface.
→
φ = ∫ dφ = ∫ E . ds

The circle on the integral indicates that, the integration is to be

taken over the closed surface. The electric flux is a scalar quantity.
Its unit is N m2 C−1

1.4.1 Gauss’s law

The law relates the flux through any closed surface and the net
charge enclosed within the surface. The law states that the total flux
1
of the electric field E over any closed surface is equal to ε times the
o
net charge enclosed by the surface.

q
φ= ε
o

This closed imaginary surface is called Gaussian surface. Gauss’s

law tells us that the flux of E through a closed surface S depends only
on the value of net charge inside the surface and not on the location
of the charges. Charges outside the surface will not contribute to flux.

1.4.2 Applications of Gauss’s Law 2 r ds

i) Field due to an infinite long +

+
straight charged wire +
Consider an uniformly charged +
wire of infinite length having a constant +
+ r ds E
linear charge density λ (charge per unit E +
l P
length). Let P be a point at a distance r +
from the wire (Fig. 1.17) and E be the +
electric field at the point P. A cylinder of +
+
length l, radius r, closed at each end by +
plane caps normal to the axis is chosen
as Gaussian surface. Consider a very Fig 1.17 Infinitely long
small area ds on the Gaussian surface. straight charged wire
20
By symmetry, the magnitude of the electric field will be the same at
all points on the curved surface of the cylinder and directed radially
outward. E and ds are along the same direction.

The electric flux (φ) through curved surface = ∫ E ds cos θ

φ = ∫ E ds [∵ θ = 0;cos θ = 1]
= E (2πrl)
(∵ The surface area of the curved part is 2π rl)
Since E and ds are right angles to each other, the electric flux
through the plane caps = 0
∴ Total flux through the Gaussian surface, φ = E. (2πrl)
The net charge enclosed by Gaussian surface is, q = λl
∴ By Gauss’s law,

λl λ
E (2πrl) = ε or E = 2πε r
o o

The direction of electric field E is radially outward, if line charge

is positive and inward, if the line charge is negative.

1.4.3 Electric field due to an infinite charged plane sheet

Consider an
infinite plane sheet of
charge with surface + +
+ + +
charge density σ. Let P +
+ +
be a point at a distance + +
+
r from the sheet (Fig. ds + ds
E E
1.18) and E be the + A
+ P
electric field at P. P′ + +
+ r
Consider a Gaussian + +
+
surface in the form of + +
+
+ +
cylinder of cross− +
+
sectional area A and
length 2r perpendicular
to the sheet of charge. Fig 1.18 Infinite plane sheet

21
 By symmetry, the electric field is at right angles to the end caps
and away from the plane. Its magnitude is the same at P and at the
other cap at P′.

Therefore, the total flux through the closed surface is given by

φ = ∫
⎢⎣ ⎥⎦P ⎢⎣ ∫
⎡ E.ds ⎤ + ⎡ E.ds ⎤
⎥⎦P 1
(∵ θ = 0,cos θ = 1)

= EA + EA = 2EA
If σ is the charge per unit area in the plane sheet, then the net
positive charge q within the Gaussian surface is, q = σA
Using Gauss’s law,

σA
2EA = ε
o

σ
∴ E = 2ε
o

1.4.4 Electric field due to two parallel charged sheets

Consider two plane parallel +

+ -
infinite sheets with equal and opposite
+ -
charge densities +σ and –σ as shown in -
+
Fig 1.19. The magnitude of electric field - E1(+)
+ E1(+)
on either side of a plane sheet of charge + -
+ P1 - P2
is E = σ/2εo and acts perpendicular to
+ -
the sheet, directed outward (if the E2(-)
+ E2(-) -
charge is positive) or inward (if the + -
charge is negative). + -

(i) When the point P1 is in between Fig 1.19 Field due to two
the sheets, the field due to two sheets parallel sheets
will be equal in magnitude and in the
same direction. The resultant field at P1 is,

σ σ σ
E = E1 + E2 = 2ε + 2ε = ε (towards the right)
o o o

22
 (ii) At a point P2 outside the sheets, the electric field will be equal
in magnitude and opposite in direction. The resultant field at P2 is,

σ σ
E = E1 – E 2 = 2εo – 2εo = 0.

1.4.5 Electric field due to uniformly charged spherical shell

Case (i) At a point outside the shell.

Consider a charged shell E

of radius R (Fig 1.20a). Let P be
a point outside the shell, at a
distance r from the centre O.
Let us construct a Gaussian P
R
surface with r as radius. The E r E
O
electric field E is normal to the
surface. Gaussian
Surface
The flux crossing the
Gaussian sphere normally in an
outward direction is, E
Fig1.20a. Field at a point
φ =
∫s E . ds =
∫s E ds = E (4π r 2 ) outside the shell

(since angle between E and ds is zero)

q
By Gauss’s law, E . (4πr2) = ε
o

1 q
or E = 4πε 2
o r
It can be seen from the equation that, the electric field at a point
outside the shell will be the same as if the total charge on the shell is
concentrated at its centre.

Case (ii) At a point on the surface.

The electric field E for the points on the surface of charged
spherical shell is,
1 q
E = 4πε 2 (∵ r = R)
o R

23
Case (iii) At a point inside the shell.
Consider a point P′ inside the
shell at a distance r′ from the centre
of the shell. Let us construct a
R P/
Gaussian surface with radius r′. r
1

O
The total flux crossing the
Gaussian sphere normally in an Gaussian
Surface
outward direction is
Fig 1.20b Field at a point
φ =
∫s E . ds =
∫s Eds = E × (4π r ′2 ) inside the shell

since there is no charge enclosed by the gaussian surface, according to

Gauss’s Law
q
E × 4πr′ 2 = ε = 0 ∴ E = 0
o
(i.e) the field due to a uniformly charged thin shell is zero at all
points inside the shell.

1.4.6 Electrostatic shielding

It is the process of isolating a certain region of space from
external field. It is based on the fact that electric field inside a
conductor is zero.
During a thunder accompanied by lightning, it is safer to sit
inside a bus than in open ground or under a tree. The metal body of
the bus provides electrostatic shielding, where the electric field is zero.
During lightning the electric discharge passes through the body of the
bus.

1.5 Electrostatic induction

It is possible to obtain charges without any contact with another
charge. They are known as induced charges and the phenomenon of
producing induced charges is known as electrostatic induction. It is
used in electrostatic machines like Van de Graaff generator and
capacitors.
Fig 1.21 shows the steps involved in charging a metal sphere by
induction.

24
 (a) There is an uncharged
metallic sphere on an insulating
(a)
stand.
(b) When a negatively
+ -
-
charged plastic rod is brought close --
+
+ -
-
- - - (b)
to the sphere, the free electrons - -
-
move away due to repulsion and
start pilling up at the farther end. +
-- +
The near end becomes positively - - - +
(c)
-
charged due to deficit of electrons. - -

This process of charge distribution

+
stops when the net force on the free -- +
- - - + (d)
electron inside the metal is zero -
- -
(this process happens very fast).
++
(c) When the sphere is + +
+ ++ (e)
grounded, the negative charge
flows to the ground. The positive
charge at the near end remains Fig 1.21 Electrostatic Induction
held due to attractive forces.
(d) When the sphere is removed from the ground, the positive
charge continues to be held at the near end.
(e) When the plastic rod is removed, the positive charge spreads
uniformly over the sphere.

1.5.1 Capacitance of a conductor

When a charge q is given to an isolated conductor, its potential
will change. The change in potential depends on the size and shape of
the conductor. The potential of a conductor changes by V, due to the
charge q given to the conductor.
q α V or q = CV
i.e. C = q/V
Here C is called as capacitance of the conductor.
The capacitance of a conductor is defined as the ratio of the
charge given to the conductor to the potential developed in the
conductor.

25
 The unit of capacitance is farad. A conductor has a capacitance
of one farad, if a charge of 1 coulomb given to it, rises its potential by
1 volt.
The practical units of capacitance are µF and pF.

Principle of a capacitor
Consider an insulated conductor (Plate A) with a positive charge
‘q’ having potential V (Fig 1.22a). The capacitance of A is C = q/V.
When another insulated metal plate B is brought near A, negative
charges are induced on the side of B near A. An equal amount of
positive charge is induced on the other side of B (Fig 1.22b). The
negative charge in B decreases the potential of A. The positive charge
in B increases the potential of A. But the negative charge on B is nearer
to A than the positive charge on B. So the net effect is that, the
potential of A decreases. Thus the capacitance of A is increased.
If the plate B is earthed, positive charges get neutralized
(Fig 1.22c). Then the potential of A decreases further. Thus the
capacitance of A is considerably increased.

The capacitance depends on the geometry of the conductors and

nature of the medium. A capacitor is a device for storing electric
charges.

A A B A B
+ + - + + -
+ + - + + -
+ + - + + -
+ + - + + -
+ + - + + -
+ + - + + -
+ + - + + -
+ + - + + -
+ + - + + -

(a) (b) (c)

Fig 1.22 Principle of capacitor

26
1.5.2 Capacitance of a parallel plate capacitor
The parallel plate capacitor +q
X
consists of two parallel metal plates X + + + + + +
and Y each of area A, separated by a
distance d, having a surface charge d
density σ (fig. 1.23). The medium
-q - - - - - -
between the plates is air. A charge Y
+q is given to the plate X. It induces
a charge –q on the upper surface of Fig 1.23 Parallel plate
capacitor
earthed plate Y. When the plates are
very close to each other, the field is confined to the region between
them. The electric lines of force starting from plate X and ending at the
plate Y are parallel to each other and perpendicular to the plates.
By the application of Gauss’s law, electric field at a point between
the two plates is,
σ
E = ε
o
Potential difference between the plates X and Y is
0 0
σ σd
V = ∫
d
−E dr =
∫−ε
d
o
dr =
εo
The capacitance (C) of the parallel plate capacitor
q σA εo A q
C = = σd/ε = [since, σ = ]
V o d A
εo A
∴ C =
d
The capacitance is directly proportional to the area (A) of the
plates and inversely proportional to their distance of separation (d).

1.5.3 Dielectrics and polarisation

Dielectrics
A dielectric is an insulating material in which all the electrons are
tightly bound to the nucleus of the atom. There are no free electrons
to carry current. Ebonite, mica and oil are few examples of dielectrics.
The electrons are not free to move under the influence of an external
field.

27
Polarisation
A nonpolar
molecule is one Electron
in which the cloud
centre of gravity -q -q
+q +q
of the positive Electron
charges (pro- cloud E
tons) coincide
Fig 1.24 Induced dipole
with the centre
of gravity of the negative charges (electrons). Example: O2, N2, H2. The
nonpolar molecules do not have a permanent dipole moment.
If a non polar dielectric is placed in an electric field, the centre
of charges get displaced. The molecules are then said to be polarised
and are called induced dipoles. They acquire induced dipole moment p
in the direction of electric field (Fig 1.24).
A polar molecule is one in which the centre of gravity of the
positive charges is separated from the centre of gravity of the negative
charges by a finite distance. Examples : N2O, H2O, HCl, NH3. They have
a permanent dipole moment. In the absence of an external field, the
dipole moments of polar molecules orient themselves in random
directions. Hence no net dipole moment is observed in the dielectric.
When an electric field is applied, the dipoles orient themselves in the
direction of electric field. Hence a net dipole moment is produced
(Fig 1.25).

- + + + - + -
+ - -
+ -
+ -
+
-
+ -

+ -
-
+ -

+
+ - + -

E
(a) No field (b) In electric field
Fig1.25 Polar molecules

28
 The alignment of the dipole moments of the permanent or
induced dipoles in the direction of applied electric field is called
polarisation or electric polarisation.
The magnitude of the induced dipole moment p is directly
proportional to the external electric field E.
∴ p α E or p = α E, where α is the constant of proportionality and
is called molecular polarisability.

1.5.4 Polarisation of dielectric material

Consider a parallel plate
E0
capacitor with +q and –q charges.
Let E0 be the electric field between + - + - + -
the plates in air. If a dielectric slab -qi +qi
+ - + - + -
is introduced in the space between
Ei
them, the dielectric slab gets + - + - + -
polarised. Suppose +qi and –qi be
+ - + - + -
the induced surface charges on the
E
face of dielectric opposite to the + - + - + -
plates of capacitor (Fig 1.26). These
+ - + - + -
induced charges produce their own
field Ei which opposes the electric P
field Eo. So, the resultant field, Fig1.26 Polarisation of dielectric
E < Eo. But the direction of E is in material
the direction of Eo.

∴ E = Eo + (–Ei)

(∵ Ei is opposite to the direction of Eo)

1.5.5 Capacitance of a parallel plate capacitor with a dielectric

medium.
Consider a parallel plate capacitor having two conducting plates
X and Y each of area A, separated by a distance d apart. X is given a
positive charge so that the surface charge density on it is σ and Y is
earthed.
Let a dielectric slab of thick-ness t and relative permittivity εr be
introduced between the plates (Fig.1.27).

29
 Thickness of dielectric
+
slab = t X
Air
Thickness of air gap = (d−t)
Electric field at any point d Dielectric t
in the air between the plates,
Air
σ Y
E = ε
o
t<d
Electric field at any point, in Fig 1.27 Dielectric in capacitor
σ
the dielectric slab E′ = ε ε
r o
The total potential difference between the plates, is the work done
in crossing unit positive charge from one plate to another in the field
E over a distance (d−t) and in the field E′ over a distance t, then
V = E (d−t) + E′ t

σ σt
= (d − t ) +
εo εo εr

σ ⎡ t ⎤
=
εo ⎢(d − t ) + ε ⎥
⎣ r ⎦

The charge on the plate X, q = σA

Hence the capacitance of the capacitor is,
q σA εo A
C = = =
V σ ⎡ t ⎤ t
⎢(d − t ) + ⎥ (d − t ) +
εo ⎣ εr ⎦ εr

Effect of dielectric
In capacitors, the region between the two plates is filled with
dielectric like mica or oil.
εo A
The capacitance of the air filled capacitor, C =
d
εr ε o A
The capacitance of the dielectric filled capacitor, C′ =
d
C′
∴ = εr or C′ = εrC
C

30
 since, εr > 1 for any dielectric medium other than air, the
capacitance increases, when dielectric is placed.

1.5.6 Applications of capacitors.

(i) They are used in the ignition system of automobile engines
to eliminate sparking.
(ii) They are used to reduce voltage fluctuations in power
supplies and to increase the efficiency of power transmission.
(iii) Capacitors are used to generate electromagnetic oscillations
and in tuning the radio circuits.

1.5.7 Capacitors in series and parallel

(i) Capacitors in series
Consider three capacitors of capacitance C1, C2 and C3 connected
in series (Fig 1.28). Let V be the potential difference applied across the
series combination. Each capacitor carries the same amount of charge
q. Let V1, V2, V3 be the potential difference across the capacitors C1,
C2, C3 respectively. Thus V = V1 + V2 + V3

The potential difference across c1 c2 c3

each capacitor is, + - + - + -
+ - + - + -
+ - + - + -
q q q
V1 = ;V2 = ;V3 = + - + - + -
C1 C2 C3
v1 v2 v3
q q q ⎡1 1 1 ⎤
V
V = + + =q⎢ + + ⎥
C1 C2 C3 C
⎣ 1 C 2 C 3⎦ + -
If CS be the effective capacitance Fig 1.28 Capacitors in series
of the series combination, it should
acquire a charge q when a voltage V is applied across it.
q
i.e. V = C
S

q q q q
= + +
Cs C1 C2 C3

1 1 1 1
∴ = + +
Cs C1 C2 C3

31
when a number of capacitors are connected in series, the reciprocal of
the effective capacitance is equal to the sum of reciprocal of the
capacitance of the individual capacitors.

(ii) Capacitors in parallel

Consider three capacitors of capacitances C1, C2 and C3
connected in parallel (Fig.1.29). Let this parallel combination be
connected to a potential difference V. The potential difference across
each capacitor is the same. The charges on the three capacitors are,
q1 = C1V, q2 = C2 V, q3 = C3V. c1

The total charge in the system of

capacitors is
c2
q = q1 + q2 + q3
q = C1V + C2V + C3V
But q = Cp.V where Cp is the effective
c3
capacitance of the system
∴ CpV = V (C1 + C2 + C3)
∴ CP = C1 + C2 + C 3
V
Hence the effective capacitance of the
+ -
capacitors connected in parallel is the sum Fig 1.29 Capacitors
of the capacitances of the individual in parallel
capacitors.

1.5.8 Energy stored in a capacitor

The capacitor is a charge storage device. Work has to be done to
store the charges in a capacitor. This work done is stored as
electrostatic potential energy in the capacitor.
Let q be the charge and V be the potential difference between the
plates of the capacitor. If dq is the additional charge given to the plate,
then work done is, dw = Vdq
q ⎛ q⎞
dw = dq ⎜∵V = ⎟
C ⎝ C⎠
Total work done to charge a capacitor is
q
q 1 q2
∫
w = dw =
∫
0
C
dq =
2 C

32
 This work done is stored as electrostatic potential energy (U) in
the capacitor.

1 q2 1
U= = CV 2 (∵ q = CV)
2 C 2
This energy is recovered if the capacitor is allowed to discharge.

1.5.9 Distribution of charges on a conductor and action of points

Let us consider two
conducting spheres A and B of A
radii r1 and r2 respectively B
connected to each other by a r1 r2
conducting wire (Fig 1.30). Let r1
be greater than r2. A charge
q2
given to the system is
distributed as q1 and q2 on the q1

surface of the spheres A and B. Fig 1.30 Distribution of charges

Let σ1, σ2 be the charge densities
on the sphere A and B.

The potential at A,
q1
V1 = 4πε r
o1
q2
The potential at B, V2 = 4πε r
o 2

Since they are connected, their potentials are equal

⎡∵ q1 = 4π r12σ1 ⎤
⎢ ⎥
q1 q2 ⎢and ⎥
= ⎢ 2 ⎥
4πεo r1 4πεo r2 ⎣⎢q 2 = 4π r2 σ 2 ⎦⎥

σ1r1 = σ2r2
A
i.e., σr is a constant. From the above + + + + +
+ + ++
equation it is seen that, smaller the radius, + +
++C
larger is the charge density. + +
+ + + + + +
In case of conductor, shaped as in
Fig.1.31 the distribution is not uniform. The Fig 1.31 Action of point

33
charges accumulate to a maximum at the pointed end where the
curvature is maximum or the radius is minimum. It is found
experimentally that a charged conductor with sharp points on its
surface, loses its charge rapidly.
The reason is that the air molecules which come in contact with
the sharp points become ionized. The positive ions are repelled and the
negative ions are attracted by the sharp points and the charge in them
is therefore reduced.
Thus, the leakage of electric charges from the sharp points on the
charged conductor is known as action of points or corona discharge.
This principle is made use of in the electrostatic machines for collecting
charges and in lightning arresters (conductors).

1.6 Lightning conductor

This is a simple device used to protect tall buildings from the
lightning.
It consists of a long thick copper rod passing through the building
to ground. The lower end of the rod is connected to a copper plate
buried deeply into the ground. A metal plate with number of spikes is
connected to the top end of the copper rod and kept at the top of the
building.
When a negatively charged cloud passes over the building,
positive charge will be induced on the pointed conductor. The positively
charged sharp points will ionize the air in the vicinity. This will partly
neutralize the negative charge of the cloud, thereby lowering the
potential of the cloud. The negative charges that are attracted to the
conductor travels down to the earth. Thereby preventing the lightning
stroke from the damage of the building.
Van de Graaff Generator
In 1929, Robert J. Van de Graaff designed an electrostatic
machine which produces large electrostatic potential difference of the
order of 107 V.
The working of Van de Graaff generator is based on the principle
of electrostatic induction and action of points.
A hollow metallic sphere A is mounted on insulating pillars as

34
shown in the Fig.1.32. A + + + +
+
pulley B is mounted at

+
A

+
the centre of the sphere

+ + + +

+ + + +
and another pulley C is
E B
mounted near the
bottom. A belt made of

+
silk moves over the
pulleys. The pulley C is
driven continuously by Belt
an electric motor. Two
comb−shaped conductors
D and E having number
of needles, are mounted
near the pulleys. The
comb D is maintained at + D
a positive potential of the C Insulating
order of 104 volt by a - Pillar
power supply. The upper
comb E is connected to
the inner side of the
hollow metal sphere. Fig 1.32 Van de Graaff Generator
Because of the high electric field near the comb D, the air gets
ionised due to action of points, the negative charges in air move
towards the needles and positive charges are repelled on towards the
belt. These positive charges stick to the belt, moves up and reaches
near the comb E.
As a result of electrostatic induction, the comb E acquires
negative charge and the sphere acquires positive charge. The acquired
positive charge is distributed on the outer surface of the sphere. The
high electric field at the comb E ionises the air. Hence, negative
charges are repelled to the belt, neutralises the positive charge on the
belt before the belt passes over the pulley. Hence the descending belt
will be left uncharged.
Thus the machine, continuously transfers the positive charge to
the sphere. As a result, the potential of the sphere keeps increasing till
it attains a limiting value (maximum). After this stage no more charge

35
can be placed on the sphere, it starts leaking to the surrounding due
to ionisation of the air.
The leakage of charge from the sphere can be reduced by
enclosing it in a gas filled steel chamber at a very high pressure.
The high voltage produced in this generator can be used to
accelerate positive ions (protons, deuterons) for the purpose of nuclear
disintegration.

Solved Problems
1.1 Three small identical balls have charges –3 × 10−12C, 8 × 10−12C
and 4 × 10−12C respectively. They are brought in contact and then
separated. Calculate (i) charge on each ball (ii) number of electrons
in excess or deficit on each ball after contact.
Data : q1 = −3 × 10−12C, q2 = 8 × 10−12 C, q3 = 4 × 10−12 C
Solution : (i) The charge on each ball

q1 + q 2 + q 3 ⎛ −3 + 8 + 4 ⎞ −12
q= =⎜ ⎟ × 10
3 ⎝ 3 ⎠
= 3 × 10−12 C
(ii) Since the charge is positive, there is a shortage of electrons on
each ball.

q 3 × 10−12
n= = = 1.875 × 107
e 1.6 × 10 −19
∴ number of electrons = 1.875 × 107.
1.2 Two insulated charged spheres of charges 6.5 × 10−7C each are
separated by a distance of 0.5m. Calculate the electrostatic force
between them. Also calculate the force (i) when the charges are
doubled and the distance of separation is halved. (ii) when the
charges are placed in a dielectric medium water (εr = 80)
Data : q1 = q2 = 6.5 × 10−7C, r = 0.5 m

1 q1q 2
Solution : F = 4πε r2
o

36
 9 × 10 9 × (6.5 × 10 −7 )2
=
(0.5)2

= 1.52 × 10−2 N.
(i) If the charge is doubled and separation between them is halved
then,

1 2q1 2q 2
F1 =
4πε o
( r 2)
2

F1 = 16 times of F.
= 16 × 1.52 × 10−2
F1 = 0.24 N
(ii) When placed in water of εr = 80

F 1.52 × 10 −2
F2 = ε =
r 80

F2 = 1.9 × 10−4 N
1.3. Two small equal and unlike charges 2 ×10−8C are placed at A and B
at a distance of 6 cm. Calculate the force on the charge 1 × 10−8C
placed at P, where P is 4cm on the perpendicular bisector of AB.
Data : q1 = +2 ×10−8C, q2 = −2 × 10−8 C
q3 = 1 ×10−8 C at P
XP = 4 cm or 0.04 m, AB = 6 cm or 0.06 m
Solution : F

P R
q3= +1 x 10-8C
F
5cm 5cm
4cm
q1= +2 x 10 C -8 -8
q2= -2 x 10 C
A X B
3cm 3cm

From ∆ APX, AP = 42 + 32 = 5 cm or 5 ×10−2 m.

A repels the charge at P with a force F (along AP)

37
 1 q1q 3 9 × 109 × 2 × 10 −8 × 1 × 10 −8
F = 4πε =
o r2 (5 × 10 −2 )2

= 7.2 × 10−4 N along AP.

B attracts the charge at P with same F (along PB),
because BP = AP = 5 cm.
To find R, we resolve the force into two components
R = F cos θ + F cos θ = 2F cos θ

3 ⎡ BX 3 ⎤
= 2 × 7.2 × 10−4 ×
5 ⎢⎣∵ cos θ = PB = 5 ⎥⎦

∴R = 8.64 × 10−4 N

1.4 Compare the magnitude of the electrostatic and gravitational force

between an electron and a proton at a distance r apart in hydrogen
atom. (Given : me = 9.11 × 10−31 kg ; mP = 1.67 × 10−27 kg ;
G = 6.67 × 10−11 Nm2 kg−2; e = 1.6 × 10−19 C)
Solution :
The gravitational attraction between electron and proton is
me m p
Fg = G
r2
Let r be the average distance between electron and proton in
hydrogen atom.
The electrostatic force between the two charges.
1 q 1q 2
Fe = 4πε r2
o

Fe 1 q1q 2 1 e2
∴ = =
Fg 4πε o Gme m P 4πε o Gme m P

9 × 109 × (1.6 × 10−19 )

2

=
6.67 × 10−11 × 9.11 × 10−31 × 1.67 × 10−27
Fe
Fg = 2.27 × 1039

This shows that the electrostatic force is 2.27 × 1039 times stronger
than gravitational force.

38
1.5 Two point charges +9e and +1e are kept at a distance of 16 cm from
each other. At what point between these charges, should a third
charge q to be placed so that it remains in equilibrium?
Data : r = 16 cm or 0.16 m; q1 = 9e and q2 = e
Solution : Let a third charge q be kept at a distance x from +
9e and (r – x) from + e r
+9e q +e
1q 1q 2 + +
F = 4πε r 2 x (r-x)
o

1 9e × q 1 q e
= 4πε o =
x2 4πε o (r − x )2
x2
∴ =9
(r − x )2
x
=3
r −x
or x = 3r – 3x
∴ 4x = 3r = 3 × 16 = 48 cm
48
∴ x= =12 cm or 0.12 m
4
∴ The third charge should be placed at a distance of 0.12 m
from charge 9e.
1.6 Two charges 4 × 10−7 C and –8 ×10−7C are placed at the two corners
A and B of an equilateral triangle ABP of side 20 cm. Find the
resultant intensity at P.
Data : q1 = 4 × 10−7 C; q2 = −8 ×10−7 C; r = 20 cm = 0.2 m
Solution :
E1

P
E
E2
-7 C
10 60º
x -7
-8 x 10 C
+4 A X B
20cm

39
 Electric field E1 along AP
1 q1 9 × 109 × 4 × 10 −7
E1 = = = 9 × 104 N C−1
4πε o r2 (0.2)2
Electric field E2 along PB.
1 q2 9 × 10 9 × 8 × 10 −7
E2 = 4πε 2
= = 18 × 104N C-1
o r 0.04

∴ E = E12 + E22 + 2E1E2 cos120o

4 2 2
(
= 9 × 10 2 + 1 + 2 × 2 × 1 − 1 2 )
= 9 3 × 104 = 15.6 × 104 N C −1

1.7 Calculate (i) the potential at a point due a charge of

4 × 10−7C located at 0.09m away (ii) work done in bringing a charge
of 2 × 10−9 C from infinity to the point.
Data : q1 = 4 × 10−7C, q2 = 2 × 10−9 C, r = 0.09 m
Solution :
(i) The potential due to the charge q1 at a point is
1 q1
V = 4πε r
o

9 × 109 × 4 × 10−7
= = 4 × 104 V
0.09
(ii) Work done in bringing a charge q2 from infinity to the point is
W = q2 V = 2 × 10−9 × 4 × 104
W = 8 × 10−5 J

1.8 A sample of HCl gas is placed in an electric field of

2.5 × 104 N C−1 . The dipole moment of each HCl molecule is
3.4 × 10−30 C m. Find the maximum torque that can act on a
molecule.
Data : E = 2.5 × 104 N C−1, p = 3.4 × 10−30 C m.
Solution : Torque acting on the molecule
τ = pE sin θ for maximum torque, θ = 90o
= 3.4 × 10−30 × 2.5 × 104
Maximum Torque acting on the molecule is = 8.5 × 10−26 N m.

40
1.9 Calculate the electric potential at q1 d q2
a point P, located at the centre of +12nc -24nc
the square of point charges P
shown in the figure. d d
Data : q1 = + 12 n C; r
+31nc +17nc
q2 = −24 n C; q3 = +31n C; q4
q3 d=1.3m
q4 = +17n C; d = 1.3 m
Solution :
Potential at a point P is
1 ⎡ q1 q 2 q 3 q 4 ⎤
V = 4πε ⎢ + + +
o ⎣r r r r ⎥⎦

d 1.3
The distance r = = = 0.919 m
2 2
Total charge = q1 + q2 + q3 + q4
= (12 – 24 + 31 + 17) × 10−9
q = 36 × 10−9

9 × 109 × 36 × 10−9
∴ V =
0.919
V = 352.6 V

1.10 Three charges – 2 × 10−9C, +3 × 10−9C, –4 × 10−9C are placed at the

vertices of an equilateral triangle ABC of side 20 cm. Calculate the
work done in shifting the charges A, B and C to A1, B1 and C1
respectively which are
the mid points of the A
-9
sides of the triangle. -2 x 10 C

Data :
q1 = −2 × 10−9C; /
A C
/

q2 = +3 × 10−9C;
q3 = − 4 × 10−9C;
C
-9

AB = BC = CA = 20cm
10

-9
-4 x 10 C
x

= 0.20 m C
+3

B /
B

41
 Solution :
The potential energy of the system of charges,
1 ⎡ q1q 2 q 2q 3 q 3 q1 ⎤
U = 4πε ⎢ + +
o ⎣ r r r ⎥⎦
Work done in displacing the charges from A, B and C to A1, B1 and
C1 respectively
W = Uf – Ui
Ui and Uf are the initial and final potential energy of the system.
9 × 109
Ui = [−6 × 10−18 – 12 × 10−18 + 8 × 10−18]
0.20
= − 4.5 × 10−7 J
9 × 109
Uf = [−6 × 10−18 – 12 × 10−18 + 8 × 10−18]
0.10
= −9 × 10−7J
∴ work done = −9 × 10−7 – (−4.5 × 10−7)
W = − 4.5 × 10–7J

1.11 An infinite line charge produces a field of 9 × 104 N C−1 at a distance

of 2 cm. Calculate the linear charge density.
Data : E = 9 × 104 N C−1, r = 2 cm = 2 × 10–2 m
λ
Solution : E = 2πε r
o

λ = E × 2πεor
1 ⎛ 1 ⎞
= 9 × 104 × × 2 ×10−2 ⎜∵ 2πε o = ⎟
18 × 109 ⎝ 18 × 109 ⎠
λ = 10−7 C m−1

1.12 A point charge causes an electric flux of –6 × 103 Nm2 C−1 to pass
through a spherical Gaussian surface of 10 cm radius centred on
the charge. (i) If the radius of the Gaussian surface is doubled,
how much flux will pass through the surface? (ii) What is the value
of charge?
Data : φ = −6 × 103 N m2 C−1; r = 10 cm = 10 × 10−2 m

42
 Solution :
(i) If the radius of the Gaussian surface is doubled, the electric
flux through the new surface will be the same, as it depends
only on the net charge enclosed within and it is independent
of the radius.
∴ φ = −6 × 103 N m2 C−1
q
(ii) ∴ φ = ε or q = −(8.85 × 10−12 × 6 × 103)
o

q = − 5.31 × 10−8 C

1.13 A parallel plate capacitor has plates of area 200 cm2 and separation
between the plates 1 mm. Calculate (i) the potential difference
between the plates if 1n C charge is given to the capacitor (ii) with
the same charge (1n C) if the plate separation is increased to 2 mm,
what is the new potential difference and (iii) electric field between
the plates.
Data: d = 1 mm = 1 × 10−3m; A = 200 cm2 or 200 × 10−4 m2 ;
q = 1 nC = 1 × 10−9 C ;
Solution : The capacitance of the capacitor

εo A 8.85 × 10 −12 × 200 × 10 −4

C = =
d 1 × 10 −3
C = 0.177 × 10−9 F = 0.177 nF

(i) The potential difference between the plates

q 1 × 10 −9
V= = = 5.65 V
C 0.177 × 10 −9
(ii) If the plate separation is increased from 1 mm to 2 mm, the
capacitance is decreased by 2, the potential difference increases by
the factor 2
∴ New potential difference is 5.65 × 2
= 11.3 V
(iii) Electric field is,
σ q 1 × 10 −9
E = ε = A .ε = 8.85 × 10 −12 × 200 × 10 −4
o o

= 5650 N C−1

43
1.14 A parallel plate capacitor with air between the plates has a
capacitance of 8 pF. What will be the capacitance, if the distance
between the plates be reduced to half and the space between them
is filled with a substance of dielectric constant 6.
Data : Co = 8 pF , εr = 6, distance d becomes, d/2 with dielectric

Aεo
Solution : Co = = 8pF
d
when the distance is reduced to half and dielectric medium fills the
gap, the new capacitance will be
ε r Aε o 2ε r A ε o
C = =
d /2 d
= 2εr Co
C = 2 × 6 × 8 = 96 pF

1.15 Calculate the effective

capacitance of the C1
combination shown in figure. 10 F
C3
Data : C1 = 10µF ; C2 =
4 F
5µF ; C3 = 4µF C2
Solution : (i) C1 and C2 are 5 F
connected in series, the
effective capacitance of the
capacitor of the series combination is
1 1 1
= +
CS C1 C2

1 1
= +
10 5
10 × 5 10
∴ CS = = µF
10 + 5 3
(ii) This CS is connected to C3 in parallel.
The effective capacitance of the capacitor of the parallel combination
is
Cp = Cs + C3

44
 ⎛ 10 ⎞ 22
= ⎜ + 4⎟ = µF
⎝ 3 ⎠ 3
Cp = 7.33 µF

1.16 The plates of a parallel plate capacitor have an area of 90 cm2 each
and are separated by 2.5 mm. The capacitor is charged by connecting
it to a 400 V supply. How much electrostatic energy is stored by
the capacitor?
Data : A = 90 cm2 = 90 × 10–4 m2 ; d = 2.5 mm = 2.5 × 10–3 m;
V = 400 V
Solution : Capacitance of a parallel plate capacitor

εo A 8.85 × 10 −12 × 90 × 10 −4
C= =
d 2.5 × 10 −3
= 3.186 × 10−11 F

1
Energy of the capacitor = ( ) CV2
2

1
= × 3.186 × 10−11 × (400)2
2

Energy = 2.55 x 10−6 J

45
 Self evaluation
(The questions and problems given in this self evaluation are only samples.
In the same way any question and problem could be framed from the text
matter. Students must be prepared to answer any question and problem
from the text matter, not only from the self evaluation.)

1.1 A glass rod rubbed with silk acquires a charge of +8 × 10−12C. The
number of electrons it has gained or lost
(a) 5 × 10−7 (gained) (b) 5 × 107 (lost)
(c) 2 × 10−8 (lost) (d) –8 × 10−12 (lost)
1.2 The electrostatic force between two point charges kept at a distance d
apart, in a medium εr = 6, is 0.3 N. The force between them at the
same separation in vacuum is
(a) 20 N (b) 0.5 N
(c) 1.8 N (d) 2 N
1.3 Electic field intensity is 400 V m−1 at a distance of 2 m from a point
charge. It will be 100 V m−1 at a distance?
(a) 50 cm (b) 4 cm
(c) 4 m (d) 1.5 m
1.4 Two point charges +4q and +q are placed 30 cm apart. At what point
on the line joining them the electric field is zero?
(a) 15 cm from the charge q (b) 7.5 cm from the charge q
(c) 20 cm from the charge 4q (d) 5 cm from the charge q
1.5 A dipole is placed in a uniform electric field with its axis parallel to
the field. It experiences
(a) only a net force
(b) only a torque
(c) both a net force and torque
(d) neither a net force nor a torque
1.6 If a point lies at a distance x from the midpoint of the dipole, the
electric potential at this point is proportional to
1 1
(a) (b)
x2 x3
1 1
(c) (d)
x4 x 3/2

46
1.7 Four charges +q, +q, −q and –q respectively are placed at the corners
A, B, C and D of a square of side a. The electric potential at the centre
O of the square is

1 q 1 2q
(a) (b)
4πε o a 4πε o a

1 4q
(c) (d) zero
4πε o a
1.8 Electric potential energy (U) of two point charges is

q1q 2 q 1q 2
(a) 4πε r 2 (b) 4πε r
o o

(c) pE cos θ (d) pE sin θ

1.9 The work done in moving 500 µC charge between two points on
equipotential surface is
(a) zero (b) finite positive
(c) finite negative (d) infinite
1.10 Which of the following quantities is scalar?
(a) dipole moment (b) electric force
(c) electric field (d) electric potential
1.11 The unit of permittivity is
(a) C2 N−1 m−2 (b) N m2 C−2
(c) H m−1 (d) N C−2 m−2
1.12 The number of electric lines of force originating from a charge of 1 C
is
(a) 1.129 × 1011 (b) 1.6 × 10−19
(c) 6.25 × 1018 (d) 8.85 × 1012
1.13 The electric field outside the plates of two oppositely charged plane
sheets of charge density σ is
+σ −σ
(a) (b)
2ε o 2ε o
σ
(c) (d) zero
εo

47
1.14 The capacitance of a parallel plate capacitor increases from 5 µf to
60 µf when a dielectric is filled between the plates. The dielectric
constant of the dielectric is
(a) 65 (b) 55
(c) 12 (d) 10
1.15 A hollow metal ball carrying an electric charge produces no electric
field at points
(a) outside the sphere (b) on its surface
(c) inside the sphere (d) at a distance more than twice
1.16 State Coulomb’s law in electrostatics and represent it in vector form.
1.17 What is permittivity and relative permittivity? How are they related?
1.18 Explain the principle of superposition.
1.19 Define electric field at a point. Give its unit and obtain an expression
for the electric field at a point due to a point charge.
1.20 Write the properties of lines of forces.
1.21 What is an electric dipole? Define electric dipole moment?
1.22 Derive an expression for the torque acting on the electric dipole when
placed in a uniform field.
1.23 What does an electric dipole experience when kept in a uniform electric
field and non−uniform electric field?
1.24 Derive an expression for electric field due to an electric dipole (a) at a
point on its axial line (b) at a point along the equatorial line.
1.25 Define electric potential at a point. Is it a scalar or a vector quantity?
Obtain an expression for electric potential due to a point charge.
1.26 Distinguish between electric potential and potential difference.
1.27 What is an equipotential surface?
1.28 What is electrostatic potential energy of a system of two point charges?
Deduce an expression for it.
1.29 Derive an expression for electric potential due to an electric dipole.
1.30 Define electric flux. Give its unit.

48
1.31 State Gauss’s law. Applying this, calculate electric field due to
(i) an infinitely long straight charge with uniform charge density
(ii) an infinite plane sheet of charge of q.
1.32 What is a capacitor? Define its capacitance.
1.33 Explain the principle of capacitor. Deduce an expression for the
capacitance of the parallel plate capacitor.
1.34 What is dielectric ? Explain the effect of introducing a dielectric slab
between the plates of parallel plate capacitor.
1.35 A parallel plate capacitor is connected to a battery. If the dielectric
slab of thickness equal to half the plate separation is inserted between
the plates what happens to (i) capacitance of the capacitor (ii) electric
field between the plates (iii) potential difference between the plates.
1.36 Deduce an expression for the equivalent capacitance of capacitors
connected in series and parallel.

q2
1.37 Prove that the energy stored in a parallel plate capacitor is .
2C
1.38 What is meant by dielectric polarisation?
1.39 State the principle and explain the construction and working of Van
de Graaff generator.
1.40 Why is it safer to be inside a car than standing under a tree during
lightning?

Problems :
1.41 The sum of two point charges is 6 µ C. They attract each other with a
force of 0.9 N, when kept 40 cm apart in vacuum. Calculate the
charges.
1.42 Two small charged spheres repel each other with a force of
2 × 10−3 N. The charge on one sphere is twice that on the other. When
one of the charges is moved 10 cm away from the other, the force is
5 × 10−4 N. Calculate the charges and the initial distance between
them.
1.43 Four charges +q, +2q, +q and –q are placed at the corners of a square.
Calculate the electric field at the intersection of the diagonals of the
square of side10 cm if q = 5/3 × 10−9C.

49
1.44 Two charges 10 × 10−9 C and 20 × 10−9C are placed at a distance of
0.3 m apart. Find the potential and intensity at a point mid−way
between them.
1.45 An electric dipole of charges 2 × 10−10C and –2 × 10−10C separated
by a distance 5 mm, is placed at an angle of 60o to a uniform field of
10Vm−1. Find the (i) magnitude and direction of the force acting on
each charge. (ii) Torque exerted by the field
1.46 An electric dipole of charges 2 × 10−6 C, −2 × 10−6 C are separated by
a distance 1 cm. Calculate the electric field due to dipole at a point on
its. (i) axial line 1 m from its centre (ii) equatorial line 1 m from its
centre.
1.47 Two charges +q and –3q are separated by a distance of 1 m. At what
point in between the charges on its axis is the potential zero?
1.48 Three charges +1µ C, +3µ C and –5µ C are kept at the vertices of an
equilateral triangle of sides 60 cm. Find the electrostatic potential
energy of the system of charges.
1.49 Two positive charges of 12 µC and 8 µC respectively are 10 cm apart.
Find the work done in bringing them 4 cm closer, so that, they are
6 cm apart.
1.50 Find the electric flux through each face of a hollow cube of side
10 cm, if a charge of 8.85 µC is placed at the centre.
1.51 A spherical conductor of radius 0.12 m has a charge of 1.6 × 10−7C
distributed uniformly on its surface. What is the electric field
(i) inside the sphere (ii) on the sphere (iii) at a point 0.18 m from the
centre of the sphere?
1.52 The area of each plate of a parallel plate capacitor is 4 × 10−2 sq m. If
the thickness of the dielectric medium between the plates is 10−3 m
and the relative permittivity of the dielectric is 7. Find the capacitance
of the capacitor.
1.53 Two capacitors of unknown capacitances are connected in series and
parallel. If the net capacitances in the two combinations are 6µF and
25µF respectively, find their capacitances.
1.54 Two capacitances 0.5 µF and 0.75 µF are connected in parallel and
the combination to a 110 V battery. Calculate the charge from the
source and charge on each capacitor.

50
 30 F
C1

20 F
1.55 Three capacitors are connected in parallel to a C2
100 V battery as shown in figure. What is the total
10 F
energy stored in the combination of capacitor? C3

100V
1.56 A parallel plate capacitor is maintained at some potential difference.
A 3 mm thick slab is introduced between the plates. To maintain the
plates at the same potential difference, the distance between the plates
is increased by 2.4 mm. Find the dielectric constant of the slab.
1.57 A dielectric of dielectric constant 3 fills three fourth of the space
between the plates of a parallel plate capacitor. What percentage of
the energy is stored in the dielectric?
2 F
C2
C1
A
1.58 Find the charges on the capacitor D B
shown in figure and the potential 2 F
difference across them. 1 F
C3

120V

1.59 Three capacitors each of capacitance 9 pF are connected in series (i)

What is the total capacitance of the combination? (ii) What is the
potential difference across each capacitor, if the combination is
connected to 120 V supply?

51
 Answers

1.1 (b) 1.2 (c) 1.3 (c) 1.4 (c) 1.5 (d)

1.6 (a) 1.7 (d) 1.8 (b) 1.9 (a) 1.10 (d)

1.11 (a) 1.12 (a) 1.13 (d) 1.14 (c) 1.15 (c)

1.35 (i) increases (ii) remains the same (iii) remains the same
1.41 q1 = 8 × 10−6C , q2 = –2 × 10−6 C
1.42 q1 = 33.33 × 10−9C, q2 = 66.66 ×10−9C, x = 0.1 m
1.43 0.9 × 104Vm–1
1.44 V = 1800 V, E = 4000 Vm−1
1.45 2 × 10−9N, along the field, τ = 0.866 × 10−11 Nm
1.46 360 N/C, 180 N C–1
1.47 x = 0.25 m from +q
1.48 –0.255 J
1.49 5.70 J
1.50 1.67 × 105 Nm2C−1
1.51 zero, 105 N C–1, 4.44 × 104 N C−1
1.52 2.478 × 10−9F
1.53 C1 = 15 µF, C2 = 10µF
1.54 q = 137.5 µC, q1 = 55 µC, q2 = 82.5 µC
1.55 0.3 J
1.56 εr = 5
1.57 50%
1.58 q1 = 144 × 10−6C, q2 = 96 × 10−6C, q3 = 48 × 10−6C
V1 = 72 V, V2 = 48 V
1.59 3 pF, each one is 40 V

52
 2. Current Electricity

The branch of Physics which deals with the study of motion of

electric charges is called current electricity. In an uncharged metallic
conductor at rest, some (not all) electrons are continually moving
randomly through the conductor because they are very loosely attached
to the nuclei. The thermodynamic internal energy of the material is
sufficient to liberate the outer electrons from individual atoms,
enabling the electrons to travel through the material. But the net flow
of charge at any point is zero. Hence, there is zero current. These are
termed as free electrons. The external energy necessary to drive the free
electrons in a definite direction is called electromotive force (emf). The
emf is not a force, but it is the work done in moving a unit charge from
one end to the other. The flow of free electrons in a conductor
constitutes electric current.
2.1 Electric current
The current is defined as the rate of flow of charges across any
cross sectional area of a conductor. If a net charge q passes through
any cross section of a conductor in time t, then the current I = q / t,
where q is in coulomb and t is in second. The current I is expressed
in ampere. If the rate of flow of charge is not uniform, the current
varies with time and the instantaneous value of current i is given by,
dq
i =
dt
Current is a scalar quantity. The direction of conventional
current is taken as the direction of flow of positive charges or opposite
to the direction of flow of electrons.
J i E
2.1.1 Drift velocity and mobility
Consider a conductor XY X Y
connected to a battery (Fig 2.1). A vd
steady electric field E is established in
the conductor in the direction X to Y.
In the absence of an electric field, the
free electrons in the conductor move Fig 2.1 Current carrying
randomly in all possible directions. conductor

53
They do not produce current. But, as soon as an electric field is
applied, the free electrons at the end Y experience a force F = eE in a
direction opposite to the electric field. The electrons are accelerated and
in the process they collide with each other and with the positive ions
in the conductor.
Thus due to collisions, a backward force acts on the electrons and
they are slowly drifted with a constant average drift velocity vd in a
direction opposite to electric field.
Drift velocity is defined as the velocity with which free electrons
get drifted towards the positive terminal, when an electric field is
applied.
If τ is the average time between two successive collisions and the
acceleration experienced by the electron be a, then the drift velocity is
given by,
v d = aτ
The force experienced by the electron of mass m is
F = ma
eE
Hence a =
m
eE
∴vd = τ = µE
m
eτ
where µ = is the mobility and is defined as the drift velocity
m
acquired per unit electric field. It takes the unit m2V–1s–1. The drift
velocity of electrons is proportional to the electric field intensity. It is
very small and is of the order of 0.1 cm s–1.
2.1.2 Current density
Current density at a point is defined as the quantity of charge
passing per unit time through unit area, taken perpendicular to the
direction of flow of charge at that point.
The current density J for a current I flowing across a conductor
having an area of cross section A is
(q /t ) I
J = =
A A
Current density is a vector quantity. It is expressed in A m–2
* In this text book, the infinitesimally small current and instantaneous
currents are represented by the notation i and all other currents are
represented by the notation I.

54
2.1.3 Relation between current and drift velocity
Consider a conductor XY of length L and area of cross section A
(Fig 2.1). An electric field E is applied between its ends. Let n be the
number of free electrons per unit volume. The free electrons move
towards the left with a constant drift velocity vd.
The number of conduction electrons in the conductor = nAL
The charge of an electron = e
The total charge passing through the conductor q = (nAL) e
L
The time in which the charges pass through the conductor, t = v
d

q (nAL )e
The current flowing through the conductor, I = = (L /v )
t d

I = nAevd ...(1)
The current flowing through a conductor is directly proportional
to the drift velocity.
I
From equation (1), = nevd
A
⎡ I ⎤
J = nevd ⎢⎣∵ J = A ,current density ⎥⎦
2.1.4 Ohm’s law
George Simon Ohm established the relationship between potential
difference and current, which is known as Ohm’s law. The current
flowing through a conductor is,
I = nAevd
eE
But vd = . τ
m
eE
∴ I = nAe τ
m
nAe 2 ⎡ V⎤
I = τV ⎢⎣∵ E = L ⎥⎦
mL
mL
where V is the potential difference. The quantity is a constant
nAe 2τ
for a given conductor, called electrical resistance (R).
∴ I α V

55
 The law states that, at a constant temperature, the steady
current flowing through a conductor is directly proportional to the
potential difference between the two ends of the conductor.
1
(i.e) I α V or I = V
R
V Y
∴ V = IR or R =
I
Resistance of a conductor is defined as
the ratio of potential difference across the I
conductor to the current flowing through it.
The unit of resistance is ohm (Ω)
The reciprocal of resistance is 0 V X
conductance. Its unit is mho (Ω–1).
Fig 2.2 V−I graph of an
Since, potential difference V is ohmic conductor.
proportional to the current I, the graph
(Fig 2.2) between V and I is a straight line for a conductor. Ohm’s law
holds good only when a steady current flows through a conductor.
2.1.5 Electrical Resistivity and Conductivity
The resistance of a conductor R is directly proportional to the
length of the conductor l and is inversely proportional to its area of
cross section A.
l ρl
R α or R =
A A
ρ is called specific resistance or electrical resistivity of the
material of the conductor.
If l = l m, A = l m2, then ρ = R
The electrical resistivity of a material is defined as the resistance
offered to current flow by a conductor of unit length having unit area
of cross section. The unit of ρ is ohm−m (Ω m). It is a constant for a
particular material.
The reciprocal of electrical resistivity, is called electrical
1
conductivity, σ = ρ

The unit of conductivity is mho m-1 (Ω–1 m–1)

56
2.1.6 Classification of materials in terms of resistivity
The resistivity of a material is the characteristic of that particular
material. The materials can be broadly classified into conductors and
insulators. The metals and alloys which have low resistivity of the order
of 10−6 – 10−8 Ω m are good conductors of electricity. They carry
current without appreciable loss of energy. Example : silver,
aluminium, copper, iron, tungsten, nichrome, manganin, constantan.
The resistivity of metals increase with increase in temperature.
Insulators are substances which have very high resistivity of the order
of 108 – 1014 Ω m. They offer very high resistance to the flow of current
and are termed non−conductors. Example : glass, mica, amber, quartz,
wood, teflon, bakelite. In between these two classes of materials lie the
semiconductors (Table 2.1). They are partially conducting. The
resistivity of semiconductor is 10−2 – 104 Ω m. Example : germanium,
silicon.
Table 2.1 Electrical resistivities at room temperature
(NOT FOR EXAMINATION)
Classification Material ρ (Ω
Ω m)
conductors silver 1.6 × 10−8
copper 1.7 × 10−8
aluminium 2.7 × 10−8
iron 10 × 10−8
Semiconductors germanium 0.46
silicon 2300
Insulators glass 1010 – 1014
wood 108 – 1011
quartz 1013
rubber 1013 – 1016

2.2 Superconductivity
Ordinary conductors of electricity become better conductors at
lower temperatures. The ability of certain metals, their compounds and
alloys to conduct electricity with zero resistance at very low
temperatures is called superconductivity. The materials which exhibit
this property are called superconductors.
The phenomenon of superconductivity was first observed by
Kammerlingh Onnes in 1911. He found that mercury suddenly showed

57
zero resistance at 4.2 K (Fig 2.3). The first
theoretical explanation of superconductivity
was given by Bardeen, Cooper and Schrieffer
in 1957 and it is called the BCS theory.
The temperature at which electrical R ( )
resistivity of the material suddenly drops
to zero and the material changes from
0 4.2 K
normal conductor to a superconductor is
T (K)
called the transition temperature or critical
Fig 2.3 Superconductivity
temperature TC. At the transition
of mercury
temperature the following changes are
observed :
(i) The electrical resistivity drops to zero.
(ii) The conductivity becomes infinity
(iii) The magnetic flux lines are excluded from the material.
Applications of superconductors
(i) Superconductors form the basis of energy saving power
systems, namely the superconducting generators, which are smaller in
size and weight, in comparison with conventional generators.
(ii) Superconducting magnets have been used to levitate trains
above its rails. They can be driven at high speed with minimal
expenditure of energy.
(iii) Superconducting magnetic propulsion systems may be used
to launch satellites into orbits directly from the earth without the use
of rockets.
(iv) High efficiency ore–separating machines may be built using
superconducting magnets which can be used to separate tumor cells
from healthy cells by high gradient magnetic separation method.
(v) Since the current in a superconducting wire can flow
without any change in magnitude, it can be used for transmission
lines.
(vi) Superconductors can be used as memory or storage
elements in computers.

58
2.3 Carbon resistors
The wire wound resistors are expensive and huge in size. Hence,
carbon resistors are used. Carbon resistor consists of a ceramic core,
on which a thin layer of crystalline
Table 2.2 Colour code for
carbon is deposited. These
carbon resistors
resistors are cheaper, stable and
small in size. The resistance of a Colour Number
carbon resistor is indicated by the Black 0
colour code drawn on it (Table Brown 1
2.2). A three colour code carbon Red 2
resistor is discussed here. The
Orange 3
silver or gold ring at one end
corresponds to the tolerance. It is Yellow 4
a tolerable range ( + ) of the Green 5
resistance. The tolerance of silver, Blue 6
gold, red and brown rings is 10%, Violet 7
5%, 2% and 1% respectively. If
Grey 8
there is no coloured ring at this
end, the tolerance is 20%. The White 9
first two rings at the other end of
tolerance ring are significant figures of resistance in ohm. The third
ring indicates the powers of 10 to be multiplied or number of zeroes
following the significant figure.
Example :
The first yellow ring in Fig 2.4
Violet
Yellow Orange Silver corresponds to 4. The next violet ring
corresponds to 7. The third orange ring
corresponds to 103. The silver ring
4 7 000 + 10%
represents 10% tolerance. The total
Fig 2.4 Carbon resistor resistance is 47 × 103 + 10% i.e. 47 k Ω,
colour code.
10%. Fig 2.5 shows 1 k Ω, 5% carbon
resistor. Black
Brown Red Gold
Presently four colour code carbon
resistors are also used. For certain
critical applications 1% and 2% tolerance 1 0 00 ±5 %
resistors are used. Fig 2.5 Carbon resistor

59
2.4 Combination of resistors
In simple circuits with resistors, Ohm’s law can be applied to find
the effective resistance. The resistors can be connected in series and
parallel.
2.4.1 Resistors in series R

Let us consider the I R1 R2 R3 R4

resistors of resistances R1,

R2, R3 and R4 connected in V1 V2 V3 V4

series as shown in Fig 2.6. Fig 2.6 Resistors in series

When resistors are connected in series, the current flowing
through each resistor is the same. If the potential difference applied
between the ends of the combination of resistors is V, then the
potential difference across each resistor R1, R2, R3 and R4 is V1, V2,
V3 and V4 respectively.
The net potential difference V = V1 + V2 + V3 + V4
By Ohm’s law
V1 = IR1, V2 = IR2, V3 = IR3, V4 = IR4 and V = IRs
where RS is the equivalent or effective resistance of the series
combination.
Hence, IRS = IR1 + IR2 + IR3 + IR4 or RS = R1 + R2 + R3 + R4
Thus, the equivalent resistance of a number of resistors in series
connection is equal to the sum of the resistance of individual resistors.
2.4.2 Resistors in parallel
Consider four resistors of V
resistances R1, R2, R3 and R4 are R1
I1
connected in parallel as shown in Fig
R2
2.7. A source of emf V is connected to I2
the parallel combination. When R3
A B
resistors are in parallel, the potential I I3
difference (V) across each resistor is R4
I4
the same.
A current I entering the R
combination gets divided into I1, I2, I3 Fig 2.7 Resistors in
and I4 through R1, R2, R3 and R4 parallel
respectively,
such that I = I1 + I2 + I3 + I4.

60
 By Ohm’s law

V V V V V
I1 = R , I2 = R , I3 = R , I4 = R and I = R
1 2 3 4 P

where RP is the equivalent or effective resistance of the parallel

combination.

V V V V V
∴ = + + +
RP R1 R2 R3 R 4

1 1 1 1 1
= + + +
R P R1 R 2 R3 R 4

Thus, when a number of resistors are connected in parallel, the

sum of the reciprocal of the resistance of the individual resistors is
equal to the reciprocal of the effective resistance of the combination.
2.5 Temperature dependence of resistance
The resistivity of substances varies with temperature. For
conductors the resistance increases with increase in temperature. If Ro
is the resistance of a conductor at 0o C and Rt is the resistance of same
conductor at to C, then
Rt = Ro (1 + αt)
where α is called the temperature
coefficient of resistance.
Rt − Ro R( )
α = Rt R0
o
The temperature coefficient of
resistance is defined as the ratio of 0ºC T (C)
increase in resistance per degree rise in Fig 2.8 Variation of
temperature to its resistance at 0o C. Its resistance with
unit is per oC. temperature
The variation of resistance with temperature is shown in Fig 2.8.
Metals have positive temperature coefficient of resistance,
i.e., their resistance increases with increase in temperature. Insulators
and semiconductors have negative temperature coefficient of
resistance, i.e., their resistance decreases with increase in temperature.
A material with a negative temperature coefficient is called a
thermistor. The temperature coefficient is low for alloys.

61
2.6 Internal resistance of a cell
The electric current in an external circuit flows from the positive
terminal to the negative terminal of the cell, through different circuit
elements. In order to maintain continuity, the current has to flow
through the electrolyte of the cell, from its negative terminal to positive
terminal. During this process of flow of current inside the cell, a
resistance is offered to current flow by the electrolyte of the cell. This
is termed as the internal resistance of the cell.
A freshly prepared cell has low internal resistance and this
increases with ageing.
Determination of internal resistance of a cell using voltmeter
The circuit connections are + V
made as shown in Fig 2.9. With
key K open, the emf of cell E is
found by connecting a high E
resistance voltmeter across it. I
Since the high resistance
voltmeter draws only a very feeble R
K
current for deflection, the circuit Fig 2.9 Internal resistance of a
may be considered as an open cell using voltmeter.
circuit. Hence the voltmeter
reading gives the emf of the cell. A small value of resistance R is
included in the external circuit and key K is closed. The potential
difference across R is equal to the potential difference across cell (V).
The potential drop across R, V = IR ...(1)
Due to internal resistance r of the cell, the voltmeter reads a
value V, less than the emf of cell.
Then V = E – Ir or Ir = E−V ...(2)
Dividing equation (2) by equation (1)

Ir E − V ⎛ E −V ⎞R
= or r = ⎜ ⎟
IR V ⎝ V ⎠

Since E, V and R are known, the internal resistance r of the cell

can be determined.

62
2.7 Kirchoff’s law
Ohm’s law is applicable only for simple circuits. For complicated
circuits, Kirchoff’s laws can be used to find current or voltage. There
are two generalised laws : (i) Kirchoff’s current law (ii) Kirchoff’s
voltage law
Kirchoff’s first law (current law) 1
Kirchoff’s current law states that the
5 2
algebraic sum of the currents meeting at I1
I5
any junction in a circuit is zero. I2
The convention is that, the current I4 O
I3
flowing towards a junction is positive and
the current flowing away from the junction 3
4
is negative. Let 1,2,3,4 and 5 be the
conductors meeting at a junction O in an Fig 2.10 Kirchoff’s
electrical circuit (Fig 2.10). Let I1, I2, I3, I4 current law
and I5 be the currents passing through the
conductors respectively. According to Kirchoff’s first law.
I1 + (−I2) + (−I3) + I4 + I5 = 0 or I1 + I4 + I5 = I2 + I3.
The sum of the currents entering the junction is equal to the sum
of the currents leaving the junction. This law is a consequence of
conservation of charges.
Kirchoff’s second law (voltage law)
Kirchoff’s voltage law states that the algebraic sum of the
products of resistance and current in each part of any closed circuit is
equal to the algebraic sum of the emf’s in that closed circuit. This law
is a consequence of conservation of energy.
In applying Kirchoff’s laws to electrical networks, the direction of
current flow may be assumed either clockwise or anticlockwise. If the
assumed direction of current is not the actual direction, then on
solving the problems, the current will be found to have negative sign.
If the result is positive, then the assumed direction is the same as
actual direction.
It should be noted that, once the particular direction has been
assumed, the same should be used throughout the problem. However,
in the application of Kirchoff’s second law, we follow that the current
in clockwise direction is taken as positive and the current in
anticlockwise direction is taken as negative.

63
 Let us consider the electric A I1 B C
R2
circuit given in Fig 2.11a. I2 I3
Considering the closed loop R3 R4
ABCDEFA, R1

I1R2 + I3R4 + I3r3 + I3R5 + I1

E1 r1 E2 r2 E3 r3
I4R6 + I1r1 + I1R1 = E1 + E3
F D
Both cells E1 and E3 send R6 I4 E R5 I3

currents in clockwise direction. Fig 2.11a Kirchoff’s laws

For the closed loop ABEFA
I1R2 + I2R3 + I2r2 + I4R6 + I1r1 + I1R1 = E1 – E2
Negative sIgn in E2 indicates that it sends current in the
anticlockwise direction.
As an illustration of application of Kirchoff’s second law, let us
calculate the current in the following networks.
Illustration I
Applying first law to the Junction B, (FIg.2.11b)
I1 – I2 – I3 = 0
A I1 B I2 C
∴ I3 = I 1 – I 2 ...(1)
I3
For the closed loop ABEFA,
132 60
132 I3 + 20I1 = 200 ...(2) 20
Substituting equation (1)
in equation (2) 200V 100V

132 (I1 – I2) + 20I1 = 200 F D

I1 E I2
152I1 – 132I2 = 200 ...(3) Fig 2.11b Kirchoff’s laws
For the closed loop BCDEB,
60I2 – 132I3 = 100
substituting for I3,
∴ 60I2 – 132 (I1 – I2) = 100
– 132I1 + 192I2 = 100 ...(4)
Solving equations (3) and (4), we obtain
Il = 4.39 A and I2 = 3.54 A

64
Illustration 2
Taking the current in the clockwise direction along ABCDA as
positive (FIg 2.11c)
10 I + 0.5 I + 5 I + 0.5 I + 8 Ι + 0.5 I + 5 I + 0.5 Ι + 10 I = 50 – 70 – 30 + 40
I ( 10 + 0.5 + 5 + 0.5 + 8 + 0.5 + 5 + 0.5 + 10) = −10
40 I = −10 10 50V 5 70V
A I
B
−10
∴ I = = –0.25 A 0.5 0.5
40
8
The negative sign
10
indicates that the current flows
in the anticlockwise direction.
40V 5 30V
2.7.1 Wheatstone’s bridge
D C
An important application 0.5 0.5
Fig 2.11c Kirchoff’s laws
of Kirchoff’s law is the
Wheatstone’s bridge (FIg 2.12). Wheatstone’s network consists of
B resistances P, Q, R and S connected to form
I3
a closed path. A cell of emf E is connected
P Q
IG between points A and C. The current I from
I1 the cell is divided into I1, I2, I3 and I4 across
G
A I C the four branches. The current through the
2
galvanometer is Ig. The resistance of
galvanometer is G.
R S
I4 Applying Kirchoff’s current law to
D junction B,
I1 – Ig – I3 = 0 ...(1)

I Applying Kirchoff’s current law to

E junction D
Fig 2.12
Wheatstone’s bridge I2 + Ig – I4 = 0 ...(2)

Applying Kirchoff’s voltage law to closed path ABDA

I1 P + IgG – I2 R = 0 ...(3)
Applying Kirchoff’s voltage law to closed path ABCDA
I1P + I3Q – I4S – I2R = 0 ...(4)

65
 When the galvanometer shows zero deflection, the points B and
D are at same potential and Ig = 0. Substituting Ig = 0 in equation (1),
(2) and (3)
I1 = I3 ...(5)
I2 = I4 ...(6)
I1P = I2R ...(7)
Substituting the values of (5) and (6) in equation (4)
I1P + I1Q – I2S – I2R = 0
I1 (P + Q) = I2 (R+S) ...(8)
Dividing (8) by (7)
I1(P + Q ) I 2 (R + S )
=
I1P I 2R
P +Q R +S
∴ =
P R
Q S
1+ =1+
P R
Q S P R
∴ = or =
P R Q S
This is the condition for bridge balance. If P, Q and R are known,
the resistance S can be calculated.
2.7.2 Metre bridge P Q
Metre bridge
is one form of B
G1 G2
Wheatstone’s
bridge. It consists G HR
of thick strips of A
J
C
copper, of negligible l1 l2
resistance, fixed to
( )
a wooden board. K
Bt
There are two gaps
Fig 2.13 Metre bridge
G1 and G2 between
these strips. A uniform manganin wire AC of length one metre whose
temperature coefficient is low, is stretched along a metre scale and its
ends are soldered to two copper strips. An unknown resistance P is
connected in the gap G1 and a standard resistance Q is connected in

66
the gap G2 (Fig 2.13). A metal jockey J is connected to B through a
galvanometer (G) and a high resistance (HR) and it can make contact
at any point on the wire AC. Across the two ends of the wire, a
Leclanche cell and a key are connected.
Adjust the position of metal jockey on metre bridge wire so that
the galvanometer shows zero deflection. Let the point be J. The
portions AJ and JC of the wire now replace the resistances R and S of
Wheatstone’s bridge. Then
P R r .AJ
= =
Q S r .JC
where r is the resistance per unit length of the wire.
P AJ l1
∴ = =
Q JC l 2
where AJ = l1 and JC = l2
l1
∴ P = Ql
2

Though the connections between the resistances are made by

thick copper strips of negligible resistance, and the wire AC is also
l1
soldered to such strips a small error will occur in the value of l due
2

to the end resistance. This error can be eliminated, if another set of

readings are taken with P and Q interchanged and the average value
of P is found, provided the balance point J is near the mid point of the
wire AC.
2.7.3 Determination of specific resistance
The specific resistance of the material of a wire is determined by
knowing the resistance (P), radius (r) and length (L) of the wire using
P πr 2
the expression ρ =
L
2.7.4 Determination of temperature coefficient of resistance
If R1 and R2 are the resistances of a given coil of wire at the
temperatures t1 and t2, then the temperature coefficient of resistance
of the material of the coil is determined using the relation,
R 2 − R1
α = Rt −R t
1 2 2 1

67
2.8 Potentiometer
The Potentiometer is A
an instrument used for
the measurement of
potential difference (Fig
2.14). It consists of a ten
metre long uniform wire of B
manganin or constantan
Fig 2.14 Potentiometer
stretched in ten segments,
each of one metre length. The segments are stretched parallel to each
other on a horizontal wooden board. The ends of the wire are fixed to
copper strips with binding screws. A metre scale is fixed on the board,
parallel to the wire. Electrical contact with wires is established by
pressing the jockey J.
2.8.1 Principle of potentiometer
A battery Bt is ( )
connected between the I Bt K
ends A and B of a potentio- J
A B
meter wire through a
key K. A steady current I
flows through the G HR
E
potentiometer wire (Fig
2.15). This forms the Fig 2.15 Principle of potentiometer
primary circuit. A primary cell is connected in series with the positive
terminal A of the potentiometer, a galvanometer, high resistance and
jockey. This forms the secondary circuit.
If the potential difference between A and J is equal to the emf of
the cell, no current flows through the galvanometer. It shows zero
deflection. AJ is called the balancing length. If the balancing length is
l, the potential difference across AJ = Irl where r is the resistance per
unit length of the potentiometer wire and I the current in the primary
circuit.
∴ E = Irl,
since I and r are constants, E α l
Hence emf of the cell is directly proportional to its balancing
length. This is the principle of a potentiometer.

68
2.8.2 Comparison of emfs of two given cells using potentiometer
The potentiometer wire
AB is connected in series ( )
with a battery (Bt), Key (K), Bt K Rh
I
rheostat (Rh) as shown in Fig
J
2.16. This forms the primary A B
E1
circuit. The end A of
potentiometer is connected to C1 D1
the terminal C of a DPDT C D G HR
switch (six way key−double C2 D2
pole double throw). The
E2
terminal D is connected to
Fig 2.16 comparison of emf of two cells
the jockey (J) through a
galvanometer (G) and high resistance (HR). The cell of emf E1 is
connected between terminals C1 and D1 and the cell of emf E2 is
connected between C2 and D2 of the DPDT switch.
Let I be the current flowing through the primary circuit and r be
the resistance of the potentiometer wire per metre length.
The DPDT switch is pressed towards C1, D1 so that cell E1 is
included in the secondary circuit. The jockey is moved on the wire and
adjusted for zero deflection in galvanometer. The balancing length is l1.
The potential difference across the balancing length l1 = Irll. Then, by
the principle of potentiometer,
E1 = Irl l ...(1)
The DPDT switch is pressed towards E2. The balancing length l2
for zero deflection in galvanometer is determined. The potential
difference across the balancing length is l2 = Irl2, then
E2 = Irl 2 ...(2)
Dividing (1) and (2) we get
E1 l1
=
E2 l2
If emf of one cell (E1) is known, the emf of the other cell (E2) can
be calculated using the relation.

l2
E2 = E1
l1

69
2.8.3 Comparison of emf and potential difference
1. The difference of potentials between the two terminals of a
cell in an open circuit is called the electromotive force (emf) of a cell.
The difference in potentials between any two points in a closed circuit
is called potential difference.
2. The emf is independent of external resistance of the circuit,
whereas potential difference is proportional to the resistance between
any two points.
2.9 Electric energy and electric power.
If I is the current flowing through a conductor of resistance R in
time t, then the quantity of charge flowing is, q = It. If the charge q,
flows between two points having a potential difference V, then the work
done in moving the charge is = V. q = V It.
Then, electric power is defined as the rate of doing electric work.

Work done VIt

∴ Power = = = VI
time t
Electric power is the product of potential difference and current
strength.
Since V = IR, Power = I2R
Electric energy is defined as the capacity to do work. Its unit is
joule. In practice, the electrical energy is measured by watt hour (Wh)
or kilowatt hour (kWh). 1 kWh is known as one unit of electric energy.
(1 kWh = 1000 Wh = 1000 × 3600 J = 36 × 105 J)
2.9.1 Wattmeter
A wattmeter is an instrument used to measure electrical power
consumed i.e energy absorbed in unit time by a circuit. The wattmeter
consists of a movable coil arranged between a pair of fixed coils in the
form of a solenoid. A pointer is attached to the movable coil. The free
end of the pointer moves over a circular scale. When current flows
through the coils, the deflection of the pointer is directly proportional
to the power.
2.10 Chemical effect of current
The passage of an electric current through a liquid causes
chemical changes and this process is called electrolysis. The conduction

70
is possible, only in liquids +
wherein charged ions can be
dissociated in opposite directions
(Fig 2.17). Such liquids are called
electrolytes. The plates through
which current enters and leaves
an electrolyte are known as
+ Cathode
electrodes. The electrode towards Anode +
which positive ions travel is
called the cathode and the other, Fig 2.17 Conduction in liquids
towards which negative ions
travel is called anode. The positive ions are called cations and are mostly
formed from metals or hydrogen. The negative ions are called anions.
2.10.1 Faraday’s laws of electrolysis
The factors affecting the quantities of matter liberated during the
process of electrolysis were investigated by Faraday.
First Law : The mass of a substance liberated at an electrode is
directly proportional to the charge passing through the electrolyte.
If an electric current I is passed through an electrolyte for a time
t, the amount of charge (q) passed is I t. According to the law, mass of
substance liberated (m) is
m α q or m = zIt
where Z is a constant for the substance being liberated called as
electrochemical equivalent. Its unit is kg C–1.
The electrochemical equivalent of a substance is defined as the
mass of substance liberated in electrolysis when one coulomb charge
is passed through the electrolyte.
Second Law : The mass of a substance liberated at an electrode
by a given amount of charge is proportional to the *chemical equivalent
of the substance.
If E is the chemical equivalent of a substance, from the second
law
m αE

Relative atomic mass mass of the atom

*Chemical equivalent = Valency = 1/12 of the mass C12 atom x valency

71
2.10.2 Verification of Faraday’s laws of electrolysis
First Law : A battery, a rheostat, a key and an ammeter are
connected in series to an electrolytic cell (Fig 2.18). The cathode is
cleaned, dried, weighed and
then inserted in the cell. A
current I1 is passed for a time
A
t. The current is measured by
the ammeter. The cathode is
taken out, washed, dried and Bt Cathode
weighed again. Hence the mass Anode
m1 of the substance deposited
is obtained.
The cathode is reinserted Rh
in the cell and a different
Fig 2.18 Verification of Faraday’s
current I2 is passed for the
first law
same time t. The mass m2 of
the deposit is obtained. It is found that
m1 I1
=
m2 I 2
∴ m αI ...(1)
The experiment is repeated for same current I but for different
times t1 and t2. If the masses of the deposits are m3 and m4
respectively, it is found that
m3 t1
=
m4 t2
∴ m α t ...(2)
From relations (1) and (2)
m α It or m α q Thus, the first law is verified.
Second Law : Two electrolytic cells containing different electro-
lytes, CuSO4 solution and AgNO3 solution are connected in series with a
battery, a rheostat and an ammeter (Fig 2.19). Copper electrodes are
inserted in CuSO4 and silver electrodes are inserted in AgNO3.
The cathodes are cleaned, dried, weighed and then inserted in the
respective cells. The current is passed for some time. Then the cathodes are
taken out, washed, dried and weighed. Hence the masses of copper and
silver deposited are found as m1 and m2.

72
 It is found that + +
m1 E1
=
m2 E 2 , where E1 and
E2 are the chemical Bt
equivalents of copper and
silver respectively. A CuSO4 AgNO3
m α E
Thus, the second
law is verified.
2.11 Electric cells Rh Fig 2.19
The starting point Verification of Faraday’s second law
to the development of
electric cells is the classic experiment by Luige Galvani and his wife Lucia
on a dissected frog hung from iron railings with brass hooks. It was
observed that, whenever the leg of the frog touched the iron railings, it
jumped and this led to the introduction of animal electricity. Later,
Italian scientist and genius professor Alessandro Volta came up with an
electrochemical battery. The battery Volta named after him consisted of a
pile of copper and zinc discs placed alternately separated by paper and
introduced in salt solution. When the end plates were connected to an
electric bell, it continued to ring, opening a new world of electrochemical
cells. His experiment established that, a cell could be made by using two
dissimilar metals and a salt solution which reacts with atleast one of the
metals as electrolyte.
2.11.1 Voltaic cell +
The simple cell or
voltaic cell consists of two Cu Zn
electrodes, one of copper and
the other of zinc
dipped in a solution of Glass + Dilute H2SO4
Vessel
dilute sulphuric acid in a
glass vessel (Fig 2.20). On +

connecting the two

electrodes externally, with a Fig 2.20 Voltaic cell
piece of wire, current flows

73
from copper to zinc outside the cell and from zinc to copper inside it. The
copper electrode is the positive pole or copper rod of the cell and zinc is the
negative pole or zinc rod of the cell. The electrolyte is dilute sulphuric acid.
The action of the cell is explained in terms of the motion of the
charged ions. At the zinc rod, the zinc atoms get ionized and pass into
solution as Zn++ ions. This leaves the zinc rod with two electrons more,
making it negative. At the same time, two hydrogen ions (2H+) are
discharged at the copper rod, by taking these two electrons. This makes
the copper rod positive. As long as excess electrons are available on the
zinc electrode, this process goes on and a current flows continuously in
external circuit. This simple cell is thus seen as a device which converts
chemical energy into electrical energy. Due to opposite charges on the
two plates, a potential difference is set up between copper and zinc,
copper being at a higher potential than zinc. The difference of potential
between the two electrodes is 1.08V.
2.11.2 Primary Cell
The cells from which the electric energy is derived by irreversible
chemical actions are called primary cells. The primary cell is capable of
giving an emf, when its constituents, two electrodes and a suitable
electrolyte, are assembled together. The three main primary cells, namely
Daniel Cell and Leclanche cell are discussed here. These cells cannot be
recharged electrically.
2.11.3 Daniel cell
+
Daniel cell is a primary cell
which cannot supply steady Zinc Rod
current for a long time. It
dilute H2SO4
consists of a copper vessel
containing a strong solution of Porous Pot
copper sulphate (Fig 2.21). A zinc
CuSO4 Solution
rod is dipped in dilute sulphuric
Copper Vessel
acid contained in a porous pot.
The porous pot is placed inside
the copper sulphate solution. Fig 2.21 Daniel cell

The zinc rod reacting with dilute sulphuric acid produces Zn++
ions and 2 electrons.

74
 Zn++ ions pass through the pores of the porous pot and reacts
with copper sulphate solution, producing Cu++ ions. The Cu++ ions
deposit on the copper vessel. When Daniel cell is connected in a circuit,
the two electrons on the zinc rod pass through the external circuit and
reach the copper vessel thus neutralizing the copper ions. This
constitutes an electric current from copper to zinc. Daniel cell produces
an emf of 1.08 volt.

2.11.4 Leclanche cell

A Leclanche cell
consists of a carbon Carbon Rod
electrode packed in a porous
Mixture of MnO2
pot containing manganese and Charcoal
dioxide and charcoal powder Porous Pot
(Fig 2.22). The porous pot is
Zinc Rod
immersed in a saturated
Ammonium
solution of ammonium Chloride Solution
chloride (electrolyte)
Glass Vessel
contained in an outer glass
vessel. A zinc rod is Fig 2.22 Leclanche cell
immersed in electrolytic
solution.
At the zinc rod, due to oxidation reaction Zn atom is converted
into Zn++ ions and 2 electrons. Zn++ ions reacting with ammonium
chloride produces zinc chloride and ammonia gas.
i.e Zn++ + 2 NH4Cl → 2NH3 + ZnCl2 + 2 H+ + 2e–
The ammonia gas escapes. The hydrogen ions diffuse through the
pores of the porous pot and react with manganese dioxide. In this
process the positive charge of hydrogen ion is transferred to carbon
rod. When zinc rod and carbon rod are connected externally, the two
electrons from the zinc rod move towards carbon and neutralizes the
positive charge. Thus current flows from carbon to zinc.
Leclanche cell is useful for supplying intermittent current. The
emf of the cell is about 1.5 V, and it can supply a current of 0.25 A.

75
2.11.5 Secondary Cells
The advantage of secondary cells is that they are rechargeable.
The chemical reactions that take place in secondary cells are reversible.
The active materials that are used up when the cell delivers current
can be reproduced by passing current through the cell in opposite
direction. The chemical process of obtaining current from a secondary
cell is called discharge. The process of reproducing active materials is
called charging. The most common secondary cells are lead acid
accumulator and alkali accumulator.
2.11.6 Lead – Acid +

accumulator
The lead acid
accumulator consists Pb

of a container made up PbO2

of hard rubber or glass H2SO4
or celluloid. The
container contains Glass / Rubber container
dilute sulphuric acid
Fig 2.23 Lead - Acid accumulator
which acts as the
electrolyte. Spongy lead (Pb) acts as the negative electrode and lead
oxide (PbO2) acts as the positive electrode (Fig 2.23). The electrodes are
separated by suitable insulating materials and assembled in a way to
give low internal resistance.
When the cell is connected in a circuit, due to the oxidation
reaction that takes place at the negative electrode, spongy lead reacting
with dilute sulphuric acid produces lead sulphate and two electrons. The
electrons flow in the external circuit from negative electrode to positive
electrode where the reduction action takes place. At the positive
electrode, lead oxide on reaction with sulphuric acid produces lead
sulphate and the two electrons are neutralized in this process. This
makes the conventional current to flow from positive electrode to
negative electrode in the external circuit.
The emf of a freshly charged cell is 2.2 Volt and the specific gravity
of the electrolyte is 1.28. The cell has low internal resistance and hence
can deliver high current. As the cell is discharged by drawing current
from it, the emf falls to about 2 volts. In the process of charging, the
chemical reactions are reversed.

76
2.11.7 Applications of secondary cells
The secondary cells are rechargeable. They have very low internal
resistance. Hence they can deliver a high current if required. They can
be recharged a very large number of times without any deterioration in
properties. These cells are huge in size. They are used in all
automobiles like cars, two wheelers, trucks etc. The state of charging
these cells is, simply monitoring the specific gravity of the electrolyte.
It should lie between 1.28 to 1.12 during charging and discharging
respectively.

Solved problems
2.1 If 6.25 × 1018 electrons flow through a given cross section in
unit time, find the current. (Given : Charge of an electron is
1.6 × 10–19 C)
Data : n = 6.25 × 1018 ; e = 1.6 × 10−19 C ; t = 1 s ; I = ?

q ne 6.25 × 1018 × 1.6 × 10−19

Solution : I = = = = 1 A
t t 1

2.2 A copper wire of 10−6 m2 area of cross section, carries a current

of 2 A. If the number of electrons per cubic metre is 8 × 1028,
calculate the current density and average drift velocity.
(Given e = 1.6 × 10−19C)
Data : A = 10−6 m2 ; Current flowing I = 2 A ; n = 8 ×
1028
e = 1.6 × 10−19 C ; J = ? ; vd =?

I 2
Solution : Current density, J = = = 2 × 106A/m2
A 10 −6
J = n e vd

J 2 × 106
or vd = = = 15.6 × 10−5 m s–1
ne 8 × 1028 × 1.6 × 10−19

2.3 An incandescent lamp is operated at 240 V and the current is

0.5 A. What is the resistance of the lamp ?
Data : V = 240 V ; I = 0.5 A ; R = ?

77
 Solution : From Ohm’s law

V 240
V = IR or R = = = 480 Ω
I 0.5
2.4 The resistance of a copper wire of length 5m is 0.5 Ω. If the
diameter of the wire is 0.05 cm, determine its specific resistance.
Data : l = 5m ; R = 0.5 Ω ; d = 0.05 cm = 5 × 10−4 m ;
r = 2.5 × 10−4m ; ρ = ?

ρl RA
Solution : R = or ρ =
A l
A = πr2 = 3.14 × (2.5 × 10−4)2 = 1.9625 × 10−7 m2

0.5 × 1.9625 × 10−7

ρ=
5
ρ = 1.9625 × 10−8 Ω m

2.5 The resistance of a nichrome wire at 0o C is 10 Ω. If its

temperature coefficient of resistance is 0.004/oC, find its
resistance at boiling point of water. Comment on the result.
Data : At 0oC, Ro = 10 Ω ; α = 0.004/oC ; t = 1000C ;
At toC, Rt = ?
Solution : Rt = Ro (1+ α t)
= 10 (1 + (0.004 × 100))
Rt = 14 Ω
As temperature increases the resistance of wire also increases.

2.6 Two wires of same material and length have resistances 5 Ω and
10 Ω respectively. Find the ratio of radii of the two wires.
Data : Resistance of first wire R1 = 5 Ω ;
Radius of first wire = r1
Resistance of second wire R2 = 10 Ω
Radius of second wire = r2
Length of the wires = l
Specific resistance of the material of the wires = ρ

78
 ρl
Solution : R = ; A = πr 2
A
ρl ρl
∴ R1 = 2 ; R2 =
π r1 π r22

R 2 r12 r1 R2 10 2
= or = = =
R1 r22 r2 R1 5 1

r1 : r2 = 2 :1

2.7 If a copper wire is stretched to make it 0.1% longer, what is the

percentage change in resistance?
Data : Initial length of copper wire l1 = l
Final length of copper wire after stretching
l2 = l + 0.1% of l

0.1
= l + l
100
= l (1 + 0.001)
l2 = 1.001 l
During stretching, if length increases, area of cross section
decreases.
Initial volume = A1l1 = A1l
Final volume = A2l2 = 1.001 A2l
Resistance of wire before stretching = R1.
Resistance after stretching = R2
Solution : Equating the volumes
A1l = 1.001 A2l
(or) A1 = 1.001A2

ρl
R =
A
ρl1 ρl 2
R1 =
A1 and R2 = A
2

79
 ρl ρ1.001l
R1 = R2 =
1.001A2 and A2

R2
2
R1 = (1.001) =1.002

Change in resistance = (1.002 – 1) = 0.002

Change in resistance in percentage = 0.002 × 100 = 0.2%

2.8 The resistance of a field coil measures 50 Ω at 20oC and 65 Ω at

70oC. Find the temperature coefficient of resistance.
Data : At R20 = 50 Ω ; 70oC, R70 = 65 Ω ; α = ?
Solution : Rt = Ro (1 + α t)
R20 = Ro (1 + α 20)
50 = Ro (1 + α 20) ...(1)
R70 = Ro (1+ α 70)
65 = Ro (1 + α 70 ] ...(2)
Dividing (2) by (1)

65 1 + 70α
=
50 1 + 20α
65 + 1300 α = 50 + 3500 α
2200 α = 15
α = 0.0068 / oC

2.9 An iron box of 400 W power is used daily for 30 minutes. If the
cost per unit is 75 paise, find the weekly expense on using the
iron box.
Data : Power of an iron box P = 400 W
rate / unit = 75 p
consumption time t = 30 minutes / day
cost / week = ?
Solution :
Energy consumed in 30 minutes = Power × time in hours
= 400 × ½ = 200 W h

80
 Energy consumed in one week = 200 × 7 = 1400 Wh = 1.4 unit
Cost / week = Total units consumed × rate/ unit
= 1.4 × 0.75 = Rs.1.05

2.10 Three resistors are connected in series with 10 V supply as shown

in the figure. Find the voltage drop across each resistor.
R1 5 R2 3 R3 2

V1 V2 V3
I

10V
Data : R1 = 5Ω, R2 = 3Ω, R3 = 2Ω ; V = 10 volt
Effective resistance of series combination,
Rs = R1 + R2 + R3 = 10Ω

V 10
Solution : Current in circuit I = R = 10 = 1A
s

Voltage drop across R1, V1 = IR1 = 1 × 5 = 5V

Voltage drop across R2, V2 = IR2 = 1 × 3 = 3V
Voltage drop across R3, V3 = IR3 = 1 × 2 = 2V

2.11 Find the current flowing across three resistors 3Ω, 5Ω and 2Ω
connected in parallel to a 15 V supply. Also find the effective
resistance and total current drawn from the supply.
Data : R1 = 3Ω, R2 = 5Ω, R3 = 2Ω ; Supply voltage V = 15 volt
Solution :
Effective resistance of parallel combination I1
3
R1
1 1 1 1 1 1 1 5
= + + = + + I2
R P R1 R2 R 3 3 5 2 R2
Rp = 0.9677 Ω I3 2
R3
V 15 I
Current through R1, I 1 = = = 5A
R1 3
15V

81
 V 15
Current through R2, I 2 = = = 3A
R2 5
V 15
Current through R3, I 3 = R = 2 = 7.5A
3

V 15
Total current I = R = 0.9677 = 15.5 A
P

2.12 In the given network, calculate the effective resistance between

points A and B
(i) 5 10 5 10 5 10

A B
5 5 5
10 10 10

Solution : The network has three identical units. The simplified

form of one unit is given below :
5 10 R1 = 15

10 5 R2 = 15
The equivalent resistance of one unit is
1 1 1 1 1
= + = +
RP R1 R2 15 15 or RP = 7.5 Ω

Each unit has a resistance of 7.5 Ω. The total network reduces

to 7.5 7.5 7.5
A B
R/ R/ R/

The combined resistance between points A and B is

R = R′ + R′ + R′ (∵ Rs = R1 + R2 + R3 )
R = 7.5 + 7.5 + 7.5 = 22.5 Ω

2.13 A 10 Ω resistance is connected in series with a cell of emf 10V.

A voltmeter is connected in parallel to a cell, and it reads. 9.9 V.
Find internal resistance of the cell.
Data : R = 10 Ω ; E = 10 V ; V = 9.9 V ; r = ?
82
 10V 10
⎛ E −V ⎞ R
Solution : r = ⎜ ⎟
⎝ V ⎠
R
⎛ 10 − 9.9 ⎞
= ⎜ ⎟ × 10 V
⎝ 9.9 ⎠ I
9.9V
= 0.101 Ω

Self evaluation
(The questions and problems given in this self evaluation are only samples.
In the same way any question and problem could be framed from the text
matter. Students must be prepared to answer any question and problem
from the text matter, not only from the self evaluation.)

2.1 A charge of 60 C passes through an electric lamp in 2 minutes.

Then the current in the lamp is
(a) 30 A (b) 1 A (c) 0.5 A (d) 5 A
2.2 The material through which electric charge can flow easily is
(a) quartz (b) mica (c) germanium (d) copper
2.3 The current flowing in a conductor is proportional to
(a) drift velocity
(b) 1/ area of cross section
(c) 1/no of electrons
(d) square of area of cross section.
2.4 A toaster operating at 240V has a resistance of 120Ω. The power
is
(a) 400 W (b) 2 W (c) 480 W (d) 240 W
2.5 If the length of a copper wire has a certain resistance R, then on
doubling the length its specific resistance
(a) will be doubled (b) will become 1/4th
(c) will become 4 times (d) will remain the same.
2.6 When two 2Ω resistances are in parallel, the effective resistance is
(a) 2 Ω (b) 4 Ω (c) 1 Ω (d) 0.5 Ω
2.7 In the case of insulators, as the temperature decreases, resistivity
(a) decreases (b) increases

83
 (c) remains constant (d) becomes zero
2.8 If the resistance of a coil is 2 Ω at 0oc and α = 0.004 /oC, then its
resistance at 100o C is
(a) 1.4 Ω (b) 0 Ω (c) 4 Ω (d) 2.8 Ω
2.9 According to Faraday’s law of electrolysis, when a current is
passed, the mass of ions deposited at the cathode is independent
of
(a) current (b) charge (c) time (d) resistance
2.10 When n resistors of equal resistances (R) are connected in series,
the effective resistance is
(a) n/R (b) R/n (c) 1/nR (d) nR
2.11 Why is copper wire not suitable for a potentiometer?
2.12 Explain the flow of charges in a metallic conductor.
2.13 Distinguish between drift velocity and mobility. Establish a relation
between drift velocity and current.
2.14 State Ohm’s law.
2.15 Define resistivity of a material. How are materials classified based
on resistivity?
2.16 Write a short note on superconductivity. List some applications of
superconductors.
2.17 The colours of a carbon resistor is orange, orange, orange. What is
the value of resistor?
2.18 Explain the effective resistance of a series network and parallel
network.
2.19 Discuss the variation of resistance with temperature with an
expression and a graph.
2.20 Explain the determination of the internal resistance of a cell using
voltmeter.
2.21 State and explain Kirchoff’s laws for electrical networks.
2.22 Describe an experiment to find unknown resistance and
temperature coefficient of resistance using metre bridge?
2.23 Define the term specific resistance. How will you find this using a
metre bridge?

84
2.24 Explain the principle of a potentiometer. How can emf of two cells
be compared using potentiometer?
2.25 Distinguish between electric power and electric energy
2.26 State and Explain Faraday’s laws of electrolysis. How are the laws
verified experimentally?
2.27 Explain the reactions at the electrodes of (i) Daniel cell (ii) Leclanche
cell
2.28 Explain the action of the following secondary cell.
(i) lead acid accumulator
2.29 Why automobile batteries have low internal resistance?
Problems
2.30 What is the drift velocity of an electron in a copper conductor
having area 10 × 10−6m2, carrying a current of 2 A. Assume that
there are 10 × 1028 electrons / m3.
2.31 How much time 1020 electrons will take to flow through a point, so
that the current is 200 mA? (e = 1.6 × 10−19 C)
2.32 A manganin wire of length 2m has a diameter of 0.4 mm with a
resistance of 70 Ω. Find the resistivity of the material.
2.33 The effective resistances are 10Ω, 2.4Ω when two resistors are
connected in series and parallel. What are the resistances of
individual resistors?
2.34 In the given circuit, what is the total resistance and current supplied
by the battery.

6V

3 3 3

2.35 Find the effective resistance between A and B in the given circuit
2 2
2
A B

1 1

85
2.36 Find the voltage drop across 18 Ω resistor in the given circuit
18 12

30V 6 6

2.37 Calculate the current I1, I2 and I3 in the given electric circuit.
3V 1
I1
2
I2 2V

I3
10

2.38 The resistance of a platinum wire at 00 C is 4 Ω. What will be the

resistance of the wire at 100oC if the temperature coefficient of
resistance of platinum is 0.0038 /0 C.
2.39 A cell has a potential difference of 6 V in an open circuit, but it falls
to 4 V when a current of 2 A is drawn from it. Find the internal
resistance of the cell.
2.40 In a Wheatstone’s bridge, if the galvanometer shows zero
deflection, find the unknown resistance. Given P = 1000Ω
Q = 10000 Ω and R = 20 Ω
2.41 An electric iron of resistance 80 Ω is operated at 200 V for two
hours. Find the electrical energy consumed.
2.42 In a house, electric kettle of 1500 W is used everyday for 45
minutes, to boil water. Find the amount payable per month
(30 days) for usage of this, if cost per unit is Rs. 3.25
2.43 A 1.5 V carbon – zinc dry cell is connected across a load of 1000 Ω.
Calculate the current and power supplied to it.
2.44 In a metre bridge, the balancing length for a 10 Ω resistance in left
gap is 51.8 cm. Find the unknown resistance and specific
resistance of a wire of length 108 cm and radius 0.2 mm.

86
2.45 Find the electric current flowing A
through the given circuit connected
to a supply of 3 V. 5 R2
R1 5 3V

R3
B 5 C

2.46 In the given circuit, find the 4V 2

current through each branch of C D

the circuit and the potential I1

5V 4 I1
I2 I2
drop across the 10 Ω resistor. B E

(I1 +I2 ) 10
A F

Answers
2.1 (c) 2.2 (d) 2.3 (a) 2.4 (c)
2.5 (d) 2.6 (c) 2.7 (b) 2.8 (d)
2.9 (d) 2.10 (d)
2.17 33 k Ω 2.30 1.25 × 10−5 m s–1
2.31 80s 2.32 4.396 µ Ω m
2.33 6 Ω and 4Ω 2.34 3 Ω and 2A
2.35 3.33 Ω 2.36 24 V
2.37 0.5 A, –0.25 A, 0.25 A 2.38 5.52 Ω
2.39 1 Ω 2.40 200 Ω
2.41 1 kWh 2.42 Rs. 110
2.43 1.5 mA; 2.25 mW 2.44 1.082 × 10–6 Ω m
2.45 0.9 A 2.46 0.088A, 0.294A, 3.82 V

87
 3. Effects of electric current

The ideas of electric current, electromotive force having been

already discussed in the preceding chapter, we shall discuss in this
chapter the physical consequences of electric current. Living in an
electrical and interestingly in an electronic age, we are familiar with
many practical applications of electric current, such as bulbs,
electroplating, electric fans, electric motors etc. In a source of emf, a
part of the energy may go into useful work like in an electric motor. The
remaining part of the energy is dissipated in the form of heat in the
resistors. This is the heating effect of current. Just as current produces
thermal energy, thermal energy may also be suitably used to produce
an emf. This is thermoelectric effect. This effect is not only a cause but
also a consequence of current. A steady electric current produces a
magnetic field in surrounding space. This important physical
consequence of current is magnetic effect of electric current.
3.1 Heating effect : Joule’s law
In a conductor, the free electrons are always at random motion
making collisions with ions or atoms of the conductor. When a
voltage V is applied between the ends of the conductor, resulting in the
flow of current I, the free electrons are accelerated. Hence the electrons
gain energy at the rate of VI per second. The lattice ions or atoms
receive this energy VI from the colliding electrons in random bursts.
This increase in energy is nothing but the thermal energy of the lattice.
Thus for a steady current I, the amount of heat produced in time t is
H = VIt ...(1)
For a resistance R,
H = I2Rt ...(2) and
2
V
H = t ...(3)
R
The above relations were experimentally verified by Joule and are
known as Joule’s law of heating. By equation (2) Joule’s law implies

88
that the heat produced is (i) directly proportional to the square of the
current for a given R (ii) directly proportional to resistance R for a given
I and (iii) directly proportional to the time of passage of current. Also
by equation (3), the heat produced is inversely proportional to
resistance R for a given V.
3.1.1 Verification of Joule’s law
K
+
Joule’s law is verified using Joule’s A +
Rh
calorimeter. It consists of a resistance Bt

coil R enclosed inside a copper

+
calorimeter (Fig 3.1). V

The ends of the coil are connected to T

two terminals, fixed to the lid of the

calorimeter. A stirrer and a thermometer
T are inserted through two holes in the
lid. Two thirds of the volume of the
calorimeter is filled with water. The R
calorimeter is enclosed in a wooden box to
minimise loss of heat.
A battery (Bt), a key (K), a Fig 3.1 Joule’s calorimeter
rheostat (Rh) and an ammeter (A) are
connected in series with the calorimeter. A voltmeter (V) is connected
across the ends of the coil R.
(i) Law of current
The initial temperature of water is measured as θ1. Let W be the
heat capacity of the calorimeter and contents. Now a current of I1 is
passed for a time of t (about 20 minutes). The final temperature (θ2)
(after applying necessary correction) is noted. The quantity of heat
gained by calorimeter and the contents is calculated as H1 = W (θ2−θ1).
Water is then cooled to θ1. The experiment is repeated by passing
currents I2, I3 .. etc., through the same coil for the same interval of
time t and the corresponding quantities of heat H2, H3 etc. are
calculated. It is found that

H1 H2 H3
= =
I12 I22 I32

89
 H
i.e = a constant
I2
i.e H α I2
i.e. Hence, law of current is verified.
(ii) Law of resistance
The same amount of current I is passed for the same time t
through different coils of resistances R1, R2, R3 etc. The corresponding
quantities of heat gained H1, H2, H3 etc. are calculated. It is found
that,
H1 H2 H3
= =
R1 R2 R3

H
= constant
R
i.e H α R. Hence, law of resistance is verified.
(iii) Law of time
The same amount of current I is passed through the same
resistance R for different intervals of time t1, t2, t3 etc. The
corresponding quantities of heat gained H1, H2, H3 etc. are calculated.
It is found that
H1 H2 H3
t1 = =
t2 t3
H
= constant
t
i.e H α t. Hence, law of time is verified.
3.1.2 Some applications of Joule heating
(i) Electric heating device
Electric iron, electric heater, electric toaster are some of the
appliances that work on the principle of heating effect of current. In
these appliances, Nichrome which is an alloy of nickel and chromium
is used as the heating element for the following reasons.
(1) It has high specific resistance
(2) It has high melting point
(3) It is not easily oxidized

90
(ii) Fuse wire
Fuse wire is an alloy of lead 37% and tin 63%. It is connected in
series in an electric circuit. It has high resistance and low melting
point. When large current flows through a circuit due to short
circuiting, the fuse wire melts due to heating and hence the circuit
becomes open. Therefore, the electric appliances are saved from
damage.
(iii) Electric bulb
Since the resistance of the filament in the bulb is high, the
quantity of heat produced is also high. Therefore, the filament is heated
to incandescence and emits light. Tungsten with a high melting point
(3380oC) is used as the filament. The filament is usually enclosed in a
glass bulb containing some inert gas at low pressure.
Electric arc and electric welding also work on the principle of
heating effect of current.
In some cases such as transformers and dynamos, Joule heating
effect is undesirable. These devices are designed in such a way as to
reduce the loss of energy due to heating.
3.1.3 Seebeck effect
In 1821, German Physicist Thomas Johann Seebeck discovered
that in a circuit consisting of two dissimilar metals like iron and
copper, an emf is developed when the junctions are maintained at
different temperatures.
Two dissimilar metals connected to form two junctions is called
thermocouple. The emf developed in the circuit is thermo electric emf.
The current through the circuit is called thermoelectric current. This
Cu G
Cu G

Fe Fe

ºC ºC
1
2 ºC 2 ºC 1

Hot Cold Hot

Junction Cold Junction Junction
Junction

(a) (b)
Fig 3.2 Seebeck effect

91
effect is called thermoelectric effect or Seebeck effect. If the hot and
cold junctions are interchanged, the direction of current also reverses.
Hence Seebeck effect is reversible. In a Cu-Fe thermocouple (Fig 3.2a),
the direction of the current is from copper to iron at the hot
junction (Fig 3.2b).
The magnitude and sign of thermo emf depends on the materials
of the two conductors and the temperatures of the hot and cold
junctions. Seebeck after studying the thermoelectric properties of
different pairs of metals, arranged them in a series called thermoelectric
series. The direction of the current at the hot junction is from the metal
occurring earlier in the series to the one occurring later in the series.
The magnitude of thermoemf is larger for metals appearing farther apart
in the series. The thermo-electric series of metals is :
Bi, Ni, Pd, Pt, Cu, Mn, Hg, Pb, Sn, Au, Ag, Zn, Cd, Fe, Sb.
The position of the metal in the series depends upon the
temperature. The thermoemf of any thermocouple has the temperature
dependence given by the relation,
V = α θ + ½ β θ2,
where θ is the temperature difference between the junctions and
α and β are constants depending on the nature of the materials.
3.1.4 Neutral and Inversion temperature
The graph showing the
variation of thermoemf with
temperature of the hot junction,
taking the temperature of the cold Thermo
junction (θC) as origin is shown in emf
(mv)
Fig 3.3. For small difference in
temperature between the
junctions, the graph is a straight
line. For large difference in
n i
temperature, the graph is a C
Temperature of hot junction
parabola. Fig 3.3 Graph showing the variation
Keeping the temperature of of thermo emf with temperature
the cold junction constant, the temperature of the hot junction is
gradually increased. The thermo emf rises to a maximum at a

92
temperature (θn) called neutral temperature and then gradually
decreases and eventually becomes zero at a particular temperature (θi)
called temperature of inversion. Beyond the temperature of inversion,
the thermoemf changes sign and then increases.
For a given thermocouple, the neutral temperature is a constant,
but the temperature of inversion depends upon the temperature of cold
junction. These temperatures are related by the expression
θc + θ i
= θn
2
3.1.5 Peltier effect
In 1834, a French scientist Peltier discovered that when electric
current is passed through a circuit consisting of two dissimilar metals,
heat is evolved at one junction and absorbed at the other junction. This
is called Peltier effect. Peltier effect is the converse of Seebeck effect.
Cu Cu

1 2 1 2
Cooled Heated Heated Cooled

Fe Fe
(a) (b)
Fig 3.4 Peltier effect
In a Cu-Fe thermocouple, at the junction 1 (Fig 3.4a) where the
current flows from Cu to Fe, heat is absorbed (so, it gets cooled) and
at the junction 2 where the current flows from Fe to Cu heat is
liberated (so, it gets heated). When the direction of the current is
reversed (Fig 3.4b) junction 1 gets heated and the junction 2 gets
cooled. Hence Peltier effect is reversible.
Peltier Co-efficient (π)
The amount of heat energy absorbed or evolved at one of the
junctions of a thermocouple when one ampere current flows for one
second (one coulomb) is called Peltier coefficient. It is denoted by π. Its
unit is volt. If H is the quantity of heat absorbed or evolved at one
junction then H = π It
The Peltier coefficient at a junction is the Peltier emf at that
junction. The Peltier coefficient depends on the pair of metals in
contact and the temperature of the junction.

93
3.1.6 `Thomson effect
Thomson suggested that when a current flows through unequally
heated conductors, heat energy is absorbed or evolved throughout the
body of the metal.

Heat Heat
evolved evolved

C C
A M N B A M N B

(a) Positive effect (b) Negative effect

Fig. 3.5 Thomson effect
Consider a copper bar AB heated in the middle at the point C and
current flowing as shown in Fig. 3.5a. When no current is flowing, the
point M and N equidistant from C are at the same temperature. When
current is passed from A to B. N shows higher temperature compared
to M. Similarly, B will show higher temperature as compared to A. It
means from A to C heat is absorbed and from C to B heat is evolved.
This is known as positive Thomson effect. Similar effect is observed in
the case of Sb, Ag, Zn, Cd, etc. When the current is passed from B to
A, M will show higher temperature as compared to N.
In the case of Iron (fig. 3.5b), when it is heated at the point C and
current is flowing from A to B, M shows higher temperature as
compared to N. It means from A to C, heat is evolved and from C to
B heat is absorbed. This is negative Thomson effect. Similar effect is
observed in the case of Pt, Bi, Co, Ni, Hg, etc.
If we take a bar of lead and heat it at the middle point C, the
point M and N equidistant from C show the same temperature when
current is flowing from A to B or from B to A. Therefore, in the case
of lead, Thomson effect is nil. Due to this reason, lead is used as one
of the metals to form a thermo couple with other metals for the purpose
of drawing thermo electric diagrams.
94
Thomson coefficient (σ)
The amount of heat energy absorbed or evolved when one ampere
current flows for one second (one coulomb) in a metal between two
points which differ in temperature by 1oC is called Thomson coefficient.
It is denoted by σ. Its unit is volt per oC.
3.1.7 Thermopile
Thermopile is a device used to detect thermal radiation. It works on
the principle of Seebeck effect.

Bi A

5
Sheildi

Incident
3 G
radiation

1
B
Sb

Fig 3.6 Thermopile

Since a single thermocouple gives a very small emf, a large number

of thermocouples are connected in series. The ends are connected to a
galvanometer G (Fig. 3.6). One set of junctions (1,3,5) is blackened to
absorb completely the thermal radiation falling on it. The other set of
junctions (2,4) called cold junction is shielded from the radiation.
When thermal radiation falls on one set of junctions (1, 3, 5) a
difference in temperature between the junctions is created and a large
thermo emf is produced. The deflection in the galvanometer is
proportional to the intensity of radiation.
3.2 Magnetic effect of current
In 1820, Danish Physicist, Hans Christian Oersted observed that
current through a wire caused a deflection in a nearby magnetic
needle. This indicates that magnetic field is associated with a current
carrying conductor.

95
3.2.1 Magnetic field around a straight conductor carrying current
A smooth cardboard with iron filings spread
over it, is fixed in a horizontal plane with the help I
of a clamp. A straight wire passes through a hole
made at the centre of the cardboard (Fig 3.7).
A current is passed through the wire by
connecting its ends to a battery. When the
cardboard is gently tapped, it is found that the iron
filings arrange themselves along concentric circles.
This clearly shows that magnetic field is developed
Fig 3.7 Magnetic
around a current carrying conductor.
field around a
To find the direction of the magnetic field, let straight conductor
us imagine, a straight wire passes through the carrying current
plane of the paper and perpendicular to it. When a compass needle is
placed, it comes to rest in such a way that its axis is always tangential
to a circular field around the conductor. When the current is inwards
(Fig 3.8a) the direction of the magnetic field around the conductor looks
clockwise.

N S S N

S N N S

(a ) Current inwards (b) Current Outwards

Fig 3.8
When the direction of the current is reversed, that it is outwards,
(Fig 3.8b) the direction of the magnetic pole of the compass needle also
changes showing the reversal of the direction of the magnetic field. Now,
it is anticlockwise around the conductor. This proves that the direction of
the magnetic field also depends on the direction of the current in the
conductor. This is given by Maxwell’s rule.
Maxwells’s right hand cork screw rule
If a right handed cork screw is rotated to advance along the
direction of the current through a conductor, then the direction of
rotation of the screw gives the direction of the magnetic lines of force
around the conductor.

96
3.2.2 Magnetic field due to a circular loop carrying current
A cardboard
is fixed in a
horizontal plane.
A circular loop
of wire passes
through two holes
in the cardboard as
shown in Fig 3.9.
Iron filings are
sprinkled over the
cardboard. Current
is passed through
Fig 3.9 Magnetic field due to a circular loop
the loop and the carrying current
card board is gently
tapped. It is observed that the iron filings arrange themselves along the
resultant magnetic field. The magnetic lines of force are almost circular
around the wire where it passes through the cardboard. At the centre of
the loop, the line of force is almost straight and perpendicular to the
plane of the circular loop.
3.3 Biot – Savart Law
Biot and Savart conducted
many experiments to determine the Y

factors on which the magnetic field

due to current in a conductor
dl
of

depends.
n
io
ct
re

The results of the experiments B

di

dl
are summarized as Biot-Savart law.
A O
Let us consider a conductor
XY carrying a current I (Fig 3.10).
r
AB = dl is a small element of the
I
conductor. P is a point at a
distance r from the mid point O of P
AB. According to Biot and Savart, X
the magnetic induction dB at P due Fig 3.10 Biot - Savart Law
to the element of length dl is

97
 (i) directly proportional to the current (I)
(ii) directly proportional to the length of the element (dl )
(iii) directly proportional to the sine of the angle between dl and
the line joining element dl and the point P (sin θ)
(iv) inversely proportional to the square of the distance of the
1
point from the element ( )
r2
I dl sin θ
∴ dB α
r2
I dl sin θ
dB = K , K is the constant of proportionality
r2
µ
The constant K = where µ is the permeability of the medium.
4π
µ I dl sin θ
dB =
4π r2
µ = µr µo where µr is the relative permeability of the medium and
µ0 is the permeability of free space. µo = 4π × 10–7 henry/metre. For air
µr = 1.
µo I . dl sin θ
So, in air medium dB = .
4π r2
µo Idl × r µo Idl × r
In vector form, dB = or dB =
4π r 3
4π r2
The direction of dB is perpendicular to the plane containing
current element Idl and r (i.e plane of the paper) and acts inwards. The
unit of magnetic induction is tesla (or) weber m-2.

3.3.1 Magnetic induction due to infinitely long straight conductor

carrying current
XY is an infinitely long straight conductor carrying a current I
(Fig 3.11). P is a point at a distance a from the conductor. AB is a small
element of length dl. θ is the angle between the current element I dl
and the line joining the element dl and the point P. According to Biot-
Savart law, the magnetic induction at the point P due to the current
element Idl is
µo Idl .sin θ
dB = ...(1)
4π r2

98
 AC is drawn perpendicular to BP from A. Y

OPA = φ, APB = dφ
B
AC AC dl C
In ∆ ABC, sin θ = =
AB dl A
d
∴ AC = dl sin θ ...(2) r
2
From ∆ APC, AC = rdφ ...(3) a
O P
From equations (2) and (3), rdφ=dl sinθ ...(4)
1
substituting equation (4) in equation (1)
µo I rdφ µ o I dφ I
dB = = r
...(5)
4π r2 4π
a
In ∆ OPA, cos φ =
r
a X
∴ r = cos φ ...(6) Fig 3.11 Straight
substituting equation (6) in equation (5) conductor
µo I
dB = cos φ dφ
4π a
The total magnetic induction at P due to the conductor XY is
φ2 φ2
µo I
B = ∫
−φ
dB =
−1
∫φ 4π a
cos φ dφ
1

µo I
B = [sin φ1 + sin φ2]
4π a
For infinitely long conductor, φ1 = φ2 = 90o
µo I
∴ B =
2π a
If the conductor is placed in a medium of permeability µ,
µI
B =
2π a
3.3.2 Magnetic induction along the axis of a circular coil carrying
current
Let us consider a circular coil of radius ‘a’ with a current I as
shown in Fig 3.12. P is a point along the axis of the coil at a distance
x from the centre O of the coil.

99
 AB is an dl dB Cos
A B
infinitesimally small C R
r
element of length dl. C a
is the mid point of AB I P N
O x dB Sin
and CP = r
According to Biot M
– Savart law, the A/ B/ dB Cos
magnetic induction at P Fig. 3.12 Circular coil
due to the element dl is
µo I dl sin θ
dB = , where θ is the angle between Idl and r
4π r2
Here, θ = 90o
µo I dl
∴ dB =
4π r2
The direction of dB is perpendicular to the current element Idl
and CP. It is therefore along PR perpendicular to CP.
Considering the diametrically opposite element A′B′, the
magnitude of dB at P due to this element is the same as that for AB
but its direction is along PM. Let the angle between the axis of the coil
and the line joining the element (dl) and the point (P) be α.
dB is resolved into two components :- dB sin α along OP and
dB cos α perpendicular to OP. dB cos α components due to two opposite
elements cancel each other whereas dB sin α components get added
up. So, the total magnetic induction at P due to the entire coil is
µo Idl a µo Ia
B = ∫ dB sin α = ∫
4π r3 ∫
= dl
4π r2 r
µ o Ia
= 2πa
4π r 3
µ o Ia 2
= 3
(∵ r2 = a2 + x2)
2(a 2 +x 2 )2
If the coil contains n turns, the magnetic induction is
µo nIa 2
3
B =
2(a 2 +x 2 )2
At the centre of the coil, x = 0
µ o nI
B =
2a

100
3.3.3 Tangent galvanometer
Tangent galvanometer is
a device used for measuring
current. It works on the
principle of tangent law. A
magnetic needle suspended at
a point where there are two
crossed fields at right angles to
each other will come to rest in
the direction of the resultant of
the two fields.
Construction
It consists of a circular
coil of wire wound over a non
magnetic frame of brass or
wood. The vertical frame is
mounted on a horizontal
circular turn table provided
Fig 3.13 Tangent galvanometer
with three levelling screws. The (This diagram need not be drawn in
vertical frame can be rotated the examination)
about its vertical diameter.
There is a small upright projection at the centre of the turn table on
which a compass box is supported.
The compass box consists of a small pivoted magnet to which a
thin long aluminium pointer is fixed at right angles. The aluminium
pointer can move over a circular scale graduated in degrees. The scale
consists of four quadrants. The compass box is supported such that the
centre of the pivoted magnetic needle coincides with the centre of the
coil. Since the magnetic field at the centre of the coil is uniform over
a very small area, a small magnetic needle is used so that it remains
in an uniform field even in deflected position. Usually the coil consists
of three sections of 2,5 and 50 turns, which are of different thickness,
used for measuring currents of different strength.
Theory
When the plane of the coil is placed parallel to the horizontal
component of Earth’s magnetic induction (Bh) and a current is passed

101
through the coil, there will be two magnetic Bh

fields acting perpendicular to each other : (1)

the magnetic induction (B) due to the current N
in the coil acting normal to the plane of the coil
B
and (2) the horizontal component of Earth’s
magnetic induction (Bh) (Fig 3.14).
S
Due to these two crossed fields, the
pivoted magnetic needle is deflected through
Fig 3.14 Tangent law
an angle θ. According to tangent Law,
B = Bh tan θ ...(1)
If a current I passes through the coil of n turns and of radius a,
the magnetic induction at the centre of the coil is
µ o nI
B = ...(2)
2a
Substituting equation (2) in equation (1)
µ o nI
= Bh tan θ
2a
2aBh
∴ I = µ n tan θ
o

I = K tan θ ...(3)
2aBh
where K = µ n is called the reduction factor of the tangent
o
galvanometer. It is a constant at a place. Using this equation, current
in the circuit can be determined.
Since the tangent galvanometer is most sensitive at a deflection
of 450,the deflection has to be adjusted to be between 300 and 600.
3.4 Ampere’s Circuital Law
Biot – Savart law expressed in an alternative way is called
Ampere’s circuital law.
The magnetic induction due to an infinitely long straight current
carrying conductor is
µo I
B =
2π a
B (2πa) = µoI
B (2πa) is the product of the magnetic field and the circumference
of the circle of radius ‘a’ on which the magnetic field is constant. If L

102
is the perimeter of the closed curve and Io is the net current enclosed
by the closed curve, then the above equation may be expressed as,
BL = µoIo ....(1)
In a more generalized way, Ampere’s circuital law is written as
→→
∫ B. dl = µoIo ....(2)

The line integral does not depend on the shape of the path or the
position of the wire within the magnetic field. If the current in the wire
is in the opposite direction, the integral would have the opposite sign.
If the closed path does not encircle the wire (if a wire lies outside the
path), the line integral of the field of that wire is zero. Although derived
for the case of a number of long straight parallel conductors, the law
is true for conductors and paths of any shape. Ampere’s circuital law
is hence defined using equation (1) as follows :
→→
The line integral ∫ B. dl for a closed curve is equal to µo times
the net current Io through the area bounded by the curve.
3.4.1 Solenoid
A long closely wound helical P
coil is called a solenoid. Fig 3.15
shows a section of stretched out
solenoid. The magnetic field due to
the solenoid is the vector sum of the
magnetic fields due to current
through individual turns of the
solenoid. The magnetic fields
associated with each single turn are Fig 3.15 Magnetic field due to a
current carrying solenoid.
almost concentric circles and hence
tend to cancel between the turns. At the interior mid point, the field is
strong and along the axis of the solenoid (i.e) the field is parallel to the
axis. For a point such as P, the field due to the upper part of the solenoid
turns tend to cancel the field due to the lower part of the solenoid turns,
acting in opposite directions. Hence the field outside the solenoid is
nearly zero. The direction of the magnetic field due to circular closed
loops (solenoid) is given by right hand palm-rule.

103
Right hand palm rule
The coil is held in the right hand so that the
fingers point in the direction of the current in the
windings. The extended thumb, points in the direction
of the magnetic field.
3.4.2 Magnetic induction due to a long solenoid
carrying current.
Let us consider an infinitely long solenoid having
n turns per unit length carrying a current of I. For
such an ideal solenoid (whose length is very large Fig 3.16 Right
compared to its radius), the magnetic field at points hand palm rule
outside the solenoid is zero.

d
A long solenoid
c
appears like a long
cylindrical metal sheet (Fig
3.17). The upper view of dots
a b
l is like a uniform current
sheet coming out of the
plane of the paper. The lower
Fig 3.17 Magnetic field due row of crosses is like a
to a long solenoid. uniform current sheet going
into the plane of the paper.
To find the magnetic induction (B) at a point inside the solenoid, let us
→→
consider a rectangular Amperean loop abcd. The line integral ∫ B. dl
for the loop abcd is the sum of four integrals.
b c d a
→→ →→ →→ →→ →→
∴ ∫ B. dl = ∫
a
B. dl + ∫
b
B. dl + ∫
c
B. dl + ∫
d
B. dl

If l is the length of the loop, the first integral on the right side
→
is Bl. The second and fourth integrals are equal to zero because B is
→
at right angles for every element dl along the path. The third integral
is zero since the magnetic field at points outside the solenoid is zero.
→→
∴ ∫ B. dl = Bl ...(1)

Since the path of integration includes nl turns, the net current

enclosed by the closed loop is

104
 Io = Inl ...(2)
Ampere’s circuital law for a closed loop is
→→
∫ B. dl = µoIo ...(3)
Substituting equations (1) and (2) in equation (3)
Bl = µo Inl
∴ B = µonI ...(4)
The solenoid is commonly used to obtain uniform magnetic field.
By inserting a soft iron core inside the solenoid, a large magnetic field
is produced
B = µnI = µo µrnI ...(5)
when a current carrying solenoid is freely suspended, it comes to rest
like a suspended bar magnet pointing along north-south. The magnetic
polarity of the current carrying solenoid is given by End rule.
End rule
When looked
from one end, if the S N N S
current through the (a) (b)
solenoid is along Fig 3.18 End rule
clockwise direction Fig 3.18a, the nearer end corresponds to south pole
and the other end is north pole.
When looked from one end, if the current through the solenoid is
along anti-clock wise direction, the nearer end corresponds to north
pole and the other end is south pole (Fig 3.18b)
3.5 Magnetic Lorentz force
Z Z

v v

B B

θ θ
+q -q
O v sin θ Y O v sin θ Y

F F

X (a) X (b)
Fig 3.19 Lorentz force

105
 Let us consider a uniform magnetic field of induction B acting
along the Z-axis. A particle of charge + q moves with a velocity v in YZ
plane making an angle θ with the direction of the field (Fig 3.19a).
Under the influence of the field, the particle experiences a force F.
H.A.Lorentz formulated the special features of the force F
(Magnetic lorentz force) as under :
(i) the force F on the charge is zero, if the charge is at rest. (i.e)
the moving charges alone are affected by the magnetic field.
(ii) the force is zero, if the direction of motion of the charge is
either parallel or anti-parallel to the field and the force is maximum,
when the charge moves perpendicular to the field.
(iii) the force is proportional to the magnitude of the charge (q)
(iv) the force is proportional to the magnetic induction (B)
(v) the force is proportional to the speed of the charge (v)
(vi) the direction of the force is oppositely directed for charges of
opposite sign (Fig 3.19b).
All these results are combined in a single expression as
→ → →
F = q ( v × B)
The magnitude of the force is
F = Bqv sin θ
Since the force always acts perpendicular to the direction of
motion of the charge, the force does not do any work.
In the presence of an electric field E and magnetic field B, the
total force on a moving charged particle is
→ → → →
F = q [( v × B) + E]
3.5.1 Motion of a charged particle in a uniform magnetic field.
Let us consider a uniform magnetic field of induction B acting
along the Z-axis. A particle of charge q and mass m moves in XY plane.
At a point P, the velocity of the particle is v. (Fig 3.20)
→ → →
The magnetic lorentz force on the particle is F = q ( v × B). Hence
→ → →
F acts along PO perpendicular to the plane containing v and B.
Since the force acts perpendicular to its velocity, the force does not do
any work. So, the magnitude of the velocity remains constant and only

106
its direction changes. The force F Z

acting towards the point O acts as

the centripetal force and makes the B
particle to move along a circular
v B
path. At points Q and R, the B
R
particle experiences force along QO
Q
and RO respectively. O F v
F
→ → B Y
Since v and B are at right F
angles to each other P
X v
F = Bqv sin 900 = Bqv
Fig 3.20 Motion of a
This magnetic lorentz force charged particle
provides the necessary centripetal
force.
mv 2
Bqv =
r
mv
r = Bq ...(1)

It is evident from this equation, that the radius of the circular

path is proportional to (i) mass of the particle and (ii) velocity of the
particle
v Bq
From equation (1), =
r m
Bq
ω = ...(2)
m
This equation gives the angular frequency of the particle inside
the magnetic field.
Period of rotation of the particle,
2π
T =
ω
2π m
T = Bq ...(3)

From equations (2) and (3), it is evident that the angular

frequency and period of rotation of the particle in the magnetic field do
not depend upon (i) the velocity of the particle and (ii) radius of the
circular path.

107
3.5.2 Cyclotron
Cyclotron is a device used to accelerate charged particles to high
energies. It was devised by Lawrence.
Principle
Cyclotron works on the principle that a charged particle moving
normal to a magnetic field experiences magnetic lorentz force due to
which the particle moves in a circular path.
Construction
D.P
It consists of a hollow metal
cylinder divided into two sections D1 and T
D2 called Dees, enclosed in an evacuated
chamber (Fig 3.21). The Dees are kept
separated and a source of ions is placed S

at the centre in the gap between the

Dees. They are placed between the pole
pieces of D1 D2
a strong electromagnet. The magnetic
field acts perpendicular to the plane of S
the Dees. The Dees are connected to a
high frequency oscillator. Fig 3.21 Cyclotron

Working
When a positive ion of charge q and mass m is emitted from the
source, it is accelerated towards the Dee having a negative potential at
that instant of time. Due to the normal magnetic field, the ion
experiences magnetic lorentz force and moves in a circular path. By the
time the ion arrives at the gap between the Dees, the polarity of the
Dees gets reversed. Hence the particle is once again accelerated and
moves into the other Dee with a greater velocity along a circle of greater
radius. Thus the particle moves in a spiral path of increasing radius
and when it comes near the edge, it is taken out with the help of a
deflector plate (D.P). The particle with high energy is now allowed to hit
the target T.
When the particle moves along a circle of radius r with a
velocity v, the magnetic Lorentz force provides the necessary centripetal
force.

108
 mv 2
Bqv =
r
v Bq
∴ = = constant ...(1)
r m
The time taken to describe a semi-circle
πr
t = …(2)
v
Substituting equation (1) in (2),
πm
t = Bq …(3)

It is clear from equation (3) that the time taken by the ion to
describe a semi-circle is independent of
(i) the radius (r) of the path and (ii) the velocity (v) of the particle
Hence, period of rotation T = 2t
2π m
∴ T = Bq = constant ...(4)

So, in a uniform magnetic field, the ion traverses all the circles
in exactly the same time. The frequency of rotation of the particle,

1 Bq
υ = = …(5)
T 2π m
If the high frequency oscillator is adjusted to produce oscillations
of frequency as given in equation (5), resonance occurs.
Cyclotron is used to accelerate protons, deutrons and
α - particles.

Limitations
(i) Maintaining a uniform magnetic field over a large area of the
Dees is difficult.
(ii) At high velocities, relativistic variation of mass of the particle
upsets the resonance condition.
(iii) At high frequencies, relativistic variation of mass of the
electron is appreciable and hence electrons cannot be accelerated by
cyclotron.

109
3.6 Force on a current carrying conductor placed in a magnetic
field.
Z
Let us consider a conductor PQ
of length l and area of cross section A.
The conductor is placed in a uniform
B
magnetic field of induction B making
an angle θ with the field [Fig 3.22]. A I
current I flows along PQ. Hence, the Q
electrons are drifted along QP with
vd Y
drift velocity vd. If n is the number of l
free electrons per unit volume in the
conductor, then the current is
I = nAvde P
Multiplying both sides by the Fig 3.22 Force on a current
length l of the conductor, carrying conductor placed in a
magnetic field
∴ Il = nAvdel.
Therefore the current element,
→ →
Il = –nAvdel ...(1)
The negative sign in the equation indicates that the direction of
current is opposite to the direction of drift velocity of the electrons.
Since the electrons move under the influence of magnetic field,
the magnetic lorentz force on a moving electron.
→ → →
f = –e (vd × B) …(2)
The negative sign indicates that the charge of the electron is
negative.
The number of free electrons in the conductor
N = nAl ...(3)
The magnetic lorentz force on all the moving free electrons
→ →
F = Nf
Substituting equations (2) and (3) in the above equation
→ → →
F = nAl { –e (vd × B) }
→ → →
F = –nAl e vd × B ...(4)

110
 Substituting equation (1) in equation (4)
→ → →
F = Il × B
This total force on all the moving free electrons is the force on the
current carrying conductor placed in the magnetic field.
Magnitude of the force
The magnitude of the force is F = BIl sin θ
(i) If the conductor is placed along the direction of the magnetic
field, θ = 0o, Therefore force F = 0.
(ii) If the conductor is placed perpendicular to the magnetic field,
θ = 90o, F = BIl. Therefore the conductor experiences maximum force.
Direction of force
The direction of the force on a current carrying conductor placed
in a magnetic field is given by Fleming’s Left Hand Rule.
The forefinger, the middle finger and the thumb of the left hand
are stretched in mutually perpendicular directions. If the forefinger
points in the direction of the magnetic field, the middle finger points in
the direction of the current, then the thumb points in the direction of
the force on the conductor.
3.6.1 Force between two long parallel current-carrying
conductors
B D
AB and CD are two straight
very long parallel conductors placed I1 I2
B1
in air at a distance a. They carry inwards
currents I1 and I2 respectively. F F
(Fig 3.23). The magnetic induction
due to current I1 in AB at a distance B2
a is outwards
a
µo I1
B1 = ...(1)
2π a
This magnetic field acts A C
perpendicular to the plane of the Fig. 3.23 Force between two
paper and inwards. The conductor long parallel current-carrying
CD with current I2 is situated in this conductors
magnetic field. Hence, force on a
segment of length l of CD due to magnetic field B1 is

111
 F = B1I2l
substituting equation (1)
µ o I1I2l
F = ...(2)
2π a
By Fleming’s Left Hand Rule, F acts towards left. Similarly, the
magnetic induction due to current I2 flowing in CD at a distance a is
µo I2
B2 = ...(3)
2π a
This magnetic field acts perpendicular to the plane of the paper
and outwards. The conductor AB with current I1, is situated in this
field. Hence force on a segment of length l of AB due to magnetic field
B2 is
F = B2I1l
substituting equation (3)
µ o I1I2l
∴ F = …(4)
2π a
By Fleming’s left hand rule, this force acts towards right. These
two forces given in equations (2) and (4) attract each other. Hence, two
parallel wires carrying currents in the same direction attract each other
and if they carry currents in the opposite direction, repel each other.
Definition of ampere
The force between two parallel wires carrying currents on a
segment of length l is
µ o I1I2
F = l
2π a
∴ Force per unit length of the conductor is
F µ o I1I2
=
l 2π a
If I1 = I2 = 1A, a = 1m
F µo 1 × 1 4π × 10-7
= = = 2 × 10-7 Nm-1
l 2π 1 2π
The above conditions lead the following definition of ampere.
Ampere is defined as that constant current which when flowing
through two parallel infinitely long straight conductors of negligible
cross section and placed in air or vacuum at a distance of one metre
apart, experience a force of 2 × 10-7 newton per unit length of the
conductor.
112
3.7 Torque experienced by a current loop in a uniform magnetic
field
Let us consider a rectangular loop PQRS of length l and
breadth b (Fig 3.24). It carries a current of I along PQRS. The loop is
placed in a uniform magnetic field of induction B. Let θ be the angle
between the normal to the plane of the loop and the direction of the
magnetic field.
F2 S

B F4

P n
B F4

I S

B B
R

F3 n
B P
N
n
Q F3
F1
Fig 3.24 Torque on a current loop Fig 3.25 Torque
placed in a magnetic field
→ →
Force on the arm QR, F1 = I(QR) × B
→
Since the angle between I(QR) and B is (90o – θ),
Magnitude of the force F1 = BIb sin (90o – θ)
F1 = BIb cos θ
ie.
→ →
Force on the arm SP, F2 = I(SP) × B
→
Since the angle between I(SP) and B is (90o + θ),
Magnitude of the force F2 = BIb cos θ
The forces F1 and F2 are equal in magnitude, opposite in direction
and have the same line of action. Hence their resultant effect on the
loop is zero.
→ →
Force on the arm PQ, F3 = I(PQ) × B
→
Since the angle between I(PQ) and B is 90o,

113
 Magnitude of the force F3 = BIl sin 90o = BIl
F3 acts perpendicular to the plane of the paper and outwards.
→ →
Force on the arm RS, F4 = I(RS) × B
→
Since the angle between I(RS) and B is 90o,
Magnitude of the force F4 = BIl sin 90o = BIl
F4 acts perpendicular to the plane of the paper and inwards.
The forces F3 and F4 are equal in magnitude, opposite in direction
and have different lines of action. So, they constitute a couple.
Hence, Torque = BIl × PN = BIl × PS × sin θ (Fig 3.25)
= BIl × b sin θ = BIA sin θ
If the coil contains n turns, τ = nBIA sin θ
So, the torque is maximum when the coil is parallel to the
magnetic field and zero when the coil is perpendicular to the magnetic
field.
3.7.1 Moving coil galvanometer
Moving coil galvanometer is a device used for measuring the
current in a circuit.
Principle
Moving coil galvanometer works on the principle that a current
carrying coil placed in a magnetic field experiences a torque.
Construction
It consists of a rectangular coil of a large number of turns of thin
insulated copper wire wound over a light metallic frame (Fig 3.26). The
coil is suspended between the pole pieces of a horse-shoe magnet by a
fine phosphor – bronze strip from a movable torsion head. The lower
end of the coil is connected to a hair spring (HS) of phosphor bronze
having only a few turns. The other end of the spring is connected to
a binding screw. A soft iron cylinder is placed symmetrically inside the
coil. The hemispherical magnetic poles produce a radial magnetic field
in which the plane of the coil is parallel to the magnetic field in all its
positions (Fig 3.27).

114
 A small plane mirror (m) attached to the suspension wire is used
along with a lamp and scale arrangement to measure the deflection of
the coil.
T

T1 T2

P S

N S
Q R N S
s

Fig 3.26 Moving coil galvanometer Fig 3.27 Radial magnetic field
Theory
Let PQRS be a single turn of the coil (Fig 3.28). A current I flows
through the coil. In a radial magnetic field, the plane of the coil is
always parallel to the magnetic field. Hence the sides QR and SP are
always parallel to the field. So, they do not experience any force. The
sides PQ and RS are always perpendicular to the field.
PQ = RS = l, length of the coil and PS = QR = b, breadth of the
coil
Force on PQ, F = BI (PQ) = BIl. According to Fleming’s left hand
rule, this force is normal to the plane of the coil and acts outwards.

P S

F F
I

B
B P S
b
F

R F
Q

Torque on the coil

Fig 3.28 Fig 3.29

115
 Force on RS, F = BI (RS) = BIl.
This force is normal to the plane of the coil and acts inwards.
These two equal, oppositely directed parallel forces having different
lines of action constitute a couple and deflect the coil. If there are n
turns in the coil,
moment of the deflecting couple = n BIl × b (Fig 3.29)
= nBIA
When the coil deflects, the suspension wire is twisted. On
account of elasticity, a restoring couple is set up in the wire. This
couple is proportional to the twist. If θ is the angular twist, then,
moment of the restoring couple = Cθ
where C is the restoring couple per unit twist
At equilibrium, deflecting couple = restoring couple
nBIA = Cθ

C
∴ I = θ
nBA

C
I = K θ where K = is the galvanometer constant.
nBA
i.e I α θ. Since the deflection is directly proportional to the current
flowing through the coil, the scale is linear and is calibrated to give
directly the value of the current.
3.7.2 Pointer type moving coil galvanometer
The suspended coil galvanometers are very sensitive. They can
measure current of the order of 10-8 ampere. Hence these
galvanometers have to be carefully handled. So, in the laboratory, for
experiments like Wheatstone’s bridge, where sensitivity is not required,
pointer type galvanometers are used. In this type of galvanometer, the
coil is pivoted on ball bearings. A lighter aluminium pointer attached
to the coil moves over a scale when current is passed. The restoring
couple is provided by a spring.
3.7.3 Current sensitivity of a galvanometer.
The current sensitivity of a galvanometer is defined as the
deflection produced when unit current passes through the

116
galvanometer. A galvanometer is said to be sensitive if it produces large
deflection for a small current.
C
In a galvanometer, I = θ
nBA
θnBA
∴ Current sensitivity = …(1)
I C
The current sensitivity of a galvanometer can be increased by
(i) increasing the number of turns
(ii) increasing the magnetic induction
(iii) increasing the area of the coil
(iv) decreasing the couple per unit twist of the suspension wire.
This explains why phosphor-bronze wire is used as the suspension wire
which has small couple per unit twist.
3.7.4 Voltage sensitivity of a galvanometer
The voltage sensitivity of a galvanometer is defined as the
deflection per unit voltage.
θ θ nBA
∴ Voltage sensitivity
= = ...(2)
V IG CG
where G is the galvanometer resistance.
An interesting point to note is that, increasing the current
sensitivity does not necessarily, increase the voltage sensitivity. When
the number of turns (n) is doubled, current sensitivity is also doubled
(equation 1). But increasing the number of turns correspondingly
increases the resistance (G). Hence voltage sensitivity remains
unchanged.
3.7.5 Conversion of galvanometer into an ammeter
A galvanometer is a device used to detect the flow of current in
an electrical circuit. Eventhough the deflection is directly proportional
to the current, the galvanometer scale is not marked in ampere. Being
a very sensitive instrument, a large current cannot be passed through
the galvanometer, as it may damage the coil. However, a galvanometer
is converted into an ammeter by connecting a low resistance in parallel
with it. As a result, when large current flows in a circuit, only a small
fraction of the current passes through the galvanometer and the
remaining larger portion of the current passes through the low

117
 resistance. The low resistance
I Ig I connected in parallel with the
G
galvanometer is called shunt
resistance. The scale is marked
I-Ig
S in ampere.
The value of shunt
resistance depends on the
fraction of the total current
Ammeter
required to be passed through
Fig 3.30 Conversion of galvanometer
the galvanometer. Let Ig be the
into an ammeter
maximum current that can be
passed through the galvanometer. The current Ig will give full scale
deflection in the galvanometer.
Galvanometer resistance = G
Shunt resistance = S
Current in the circuit = I
∴ Current through the shunt resistance = Is = (I–Ig)
Since the galvanometer and shunt resistance are parallel,
potential is common.
∴ Ig . G = (I- Ig)S
Ig
S = G I-I ...(1)
g

The shunt resistance is very small because Ig is only a fraction

of I.
The effective resistance of the ammeter Ra is (G in parallel with S)
1 1 1
Ra = G + S
GS
∴ Ra = G + S

Ra is very low and this explains why an ammeter should be

connected in series. When connected in series, the ammeter does not
appreciably change the resistance and current in the circuit. Hence an
ideal ammeter is one which has zero resistance.

118
3.7.6 Conversion of galvanometer into a voltmeter
Voltmeter is an instrument
used to measure potential difference R
between the two ends of a current G
carrying conductor.
Ig
A galvanometer can be
converted into a voltmeter by Voltmeter
connecting a high resistance in Fig 3.31 Conversion of
series with it. The scale is calibrated galvanometer into voltmeter
in volt. The value of the resistance
connected in series decides the range of the voltmeter.
Galvanometer resistance = G
The current required to produce full scale deflection in the
galvanometer = Ig
Range of voltmeter = V
Resistance to be connected in series = R
Since R is connected in series with the galvanometer, the current
through the galvanometer,
V
Ig = R + G
V
∴ R = I – G
g

From the equation the resistance to be connected in series with

the galvanometer is calculated.
The effective resistance of the voltmeter is
Rv = G + R
Rv is very large, and hence a voltmeter is connected in parallel in
a circuit as it draws the least current from the circuit. In other words,
the resistance of the voltmeter should be very large compared to the
resistance across which the voltmeter is connected to measure the
potential difference. Otherwise, the voltmeter will draw a large current
from the circuit and hence the current through the remaining part of
the circuit decreases. In such a case the potential difference measured
by the voltmeter is very much less than the actual potential difference.
The error is eliminated only when the voltmeter has a high resistance.
An ideal voltmeter is one which has infinite resistance.

119
3.8 Current loop as a magnetic dipole
Ampere found that the distribution of magnetic lines of force
around a finite current carrying solenoid is similar to that produced by
a bar magnet. This is evident from the fact that a compass needle when
moved around these two bodies show similar deflections. After noting
the close resemblance between these two, Ampere demonstrated that a
simple current loop behaves like a bar magnet and put forward that all
the magnetic phenomena is due to circulating electric current. This is
Ampere’s hypothesis.
The magnetic induction at a point along the axis of a circular coil
carrying current is
µo nIa 2
3
B =
2 (a 2 +x 2 )2
The direction of this magnetic field is along the axis and is given
by right hand rule. For points which are far away from the centre of
the coil, x>>a, a2 is small and it is neglected. Hence for such points,
µo nIa 2
B =
2x 3
If we consider a circular loop, n = 1, its area A = πa2
µ o IA
∴ B = ...(1)
2π x 3
The magnetic induction at a point along the axial line of a short
bar magnet is
µo 2M
B = . 3
4π x
µo M
B = . 3 ...(2)
2π x
Comparing equations (1) and (2), we find that
M = IA ...(3)
Hence a current loop is equivalent to a magnetic dipole of
moment M = IA
The magnetic moment of a current loop is defined as the product
of the current and the loop area. Its direction is perpendicular to the
plane of the loop.

120
3.9 The magnetic dipole moment of a revolving electron
According to Neil Bohr’s atom model, the negatively charged
electron is revolving around a positively charged nucleus in a circular
orbit of radius r. The revolving electron in a closed path constitutes an
electric current. The motion of the electron in anticlockwise direction
produces conventional current in clockwise direction.
e
Current, i = where T is the period of revolution of the electron.
T
If v is the orbital velocity of the electron, then
2π r
T =
v
ev
∴ i =
2π r
Due to the orbital motion of the electron, there will be orbital
magnetic moment µl
µl = i A, where A is the area of the orbit
ev
µl = . πr2
2π r
evr
µl =
2
If m is the mass of the electron
e
µl =
(mvr)
2m
mvr is the angular momentum (l) of the electron about the
central nucleus.
e
µl = l … (1)
2m
µl e
= is called gyromagnetic ratio and is a constant. Its value
l 2m
is 8.8 × 1010 C kg-1. Bohr hypothesised that the angular momentum
has only discrete set of values given by the equation.
nh
l = ...(2) where n is a natural number
2π
and h is the Planck’s constant = 6.626 × 10–34 Js.
substituting equation (2) in equation (1)

121
 e nh neh
µl = . =
2m 2π 4πm
The minimum value of magnetic moment is
eh
(µl)min = , n = 1
4πm
eh
The value of is called Bohr magneton
4πm
By substituting the values of e, h and m, the value of Bohr
magneton is found to be 9.27 × 10–24 Am2
In addition to the magnetic moment due to its orbital motion, the
electron possesses magnetic moment due to its spin. Hence the
resultant magnetic moment of an electron is the vector sum of its
orbital magnetic moment and its spin magnetic moment.

Solved problems
3.1 In a Joule’s calorimeter experiment, the temperature of a given
quantity of water increases by 5oC when current passes through
the resistance coil for 30 minutes and the potential difference
across the coil is 6 volt. Find the rise in temperature of water, if
the current passes for 20 minutes and the potential difference
across the coil is 9 volt.
Data : V1 = 6V, t1 = 30 × 60 s, θ2 – θ1 = dθ = 50C
V2 = 9V, t2 = 20 × 60 s, dθ′ = ?

V12
Solution : t = w dθ
R 1
V 22
t = w dθ′
R 2
V22 t 2 dθ ′
=
V12 t1 dθ
V 22 t 2
∴ dθ ′ = ⋅ ⋅ dθ
V 12 t 1

(9)2 20×60
= × ×5
(6)2 30×60
∴ dθ′ = 7.5oC.

122
3.2 Calculate the resistance of the filament of a 100 W, 220 V
electric bulb.
Data : P = 100 W, V = 220 V, R = ?
V2
Solution : P =
R
V2 (220)2
∴ R = = = 484 Ω
P 100
3.3 A water heater is marked 1500 W, 220 V. If the voltage drops to
180 V, calculate the power consumed by the heater.
Data : P1 = 1500 W, V1 = 220 V, V2 = 180 V, P2 = ?
V12
Solution : (i) P1 =
R
V12 (220)2
∴ R = P = = 32.26Ω
1 1500
V22 (180)2
∴ P2 = =
R 32.26
∴ P2 = 1004 Watt
Aliter
V12 V2
P1 = , P2 = 2
R R
P1 V12
∴ = 2
P2 V2
V22 (180)2
∴ P2 = P 1 × = 1500 ×
V12 (220)2
∴ P2 = 1004 Watt.
3.4 A long straight wire carrying current produces a magnetic
induction of 4 × 10-6T at a point, 15 cm from the wire. Calculate
the current through the wire.
Data : B = 4 × 10-6T, a=15 x 10-2m, I=?
µo I
Solution : B =
2π a
B × 2π a 4 × 10 −6 × 2π × 15 × 10 −2
∴I = =
µo 4π × 10 −7
∴ I = 3A

123
3.5 A circular coil of 200 turns and of radius 20 cm carries a current
of 5A. Calculate the magnetic induction at a point along its axis,
at a distance three times the radius of the coil from its centre.
Data : n = 200; a = 20cm = 2 × 10-1m; I = 5A; x = 3a; B = ?
µo nIa 2
Solution : B =
2(a 2 + x 2 )3 /2
µo nIa 2 µonIa 2 µo nI
B = 2 2 3 /2 = 2 3 /2
=
2(a + 9a ) 2(10a ) a × 20 10

µo nI 10 4π × 10−7 × 200 × 5 × 10
B = =
a × 200 2 × 10−1 × 200
B = 9.9 x 10-5 T
3.6 A current of 4A flows through 5 turn coil of a tangent
galvanometer having a diameter of 30 cm. If the horizontal
component of Earth’s magnetic induction is 4 × 10-5 T, find the
deflection produced in the coil
Data : n = 5; I = 4A; d = 3 × 10–1 m; Bh = 4 × 10–5 T;
a = 1.5 × 10–1 m; θ = ?
2aBh
Solution : I = tan θ
µon
µ nI 4π × 10−7 × 5 × 4
∴ tan θ = o =
2aB h 2 × 1.5 × 10−1 × 4 × 10−5
tan θ = 2.093
∴ θ = 64o 28′
3.7 In a tangent galvanometer, a current of 1A produces a deflection
of 300. Find the current required to produce a deflection of 600.
Data : I1 = 1A; θ1 = 300; θ2 = 600; I2 = ?
Solution : I1 = k tan θ1 ; I2 = k tan θ2

I 2 tan θ 2
∴ =
I1 tan θ1

tan60o 1× 3
I2 = I1 × = = 3 3 = 3A
tan30o ⎛ 1 ⎞
⎜ 3 ⎟⎠
⎝
I2 = 3A

124
3.8 A solenoid is 2m long and 3 cm in diameter. It has 5 layers of
windings of 1000 turns each and carries a current of 5A. Find the
magnetic induction at its centre along its axis.
Data : l = 2m, N = 5 × 1000 turns, I = 5A, B = ?

N
Solution : B = µo nI = µo .I
l

4π × 10 − 7 × 5000 × 5
B =
2
B = 1.57 x 10-2 T
3.9 An α-particle moves with a speed of 5 × 105 ms-1 at an angle of
30o with respect to a magnetic field of induction 10-4 T. Find the
force on the particle. [ α particle has a +ve charge of 2e]
Data : B = 10-4 T, q = 2e, v = 5 × 105 ms-1, θ = 300, F = ?
Solution F = Bqv sin θ
= B(2e) v sin 30o

1
=10-4 × 2 × 1.6 × 10-19 × 5 × 105 ×
2
F = 8 × 10-18N
3.10 A stream of deutrons is projected with a velocity of
104 ms-1 in XY – plane. A uniform magnetic field of induction
10-3 T acts along the Z-axis. Find the radius of the circular path
of the particle. (Mass of deuteron is 3.32 × 10-27 kg and charge
of deuteron is 1.6 x 10-19C)
Data : v = 104 ms–1, B = 10–3T, m = 3.32 × 10–27 kg
e = 1.6 x 10-19C, r = ?

mv2
Solution : Bev =
r

mv 3.32 × 10−27 × 104

∴ r= = = 2.08 × 10–1
Be 10−3 × 1.6 × 10−19
r = 0.208m

125
3.11 A uniform magnetic field of induction 0.5 T acts perpendicular
to the plane of the Dees of a cyclotron. Calculate the frequency
of the oscillator to accelerate protons. (mass of proton =
1.67 × 10-27 kg)
Data : B = 0.5 T, mp = 1.67 × 10-27 kg, q= 1.6 × 10-19C, ν = ?

Bq
Solution: ν = 2π m
p

0.5 × 1.6 × 10−19

= = 0.763 × 107= 7.63 × 106 Hz
2 × 3.14 × 1.67 × 10−27
∴ ν = 7.63 MHz
3.12 A conductor of length 50 cm carrying a current of 5A is placed
perpendicular to a magnetic field of induction 2 × 10-3 T. Find the
force on the conductor.
Data : l = 50 cm = 5×10-1m, I= 5A, B = 2×10-3T; θ = 90o, F = ?
Solution: F = BIl sinθ
= 2 × 10-3 × 5 × 5 × 10-1 × sin 900
∴ F = 5 × 10-3 N
3.13 Two parallel wires each of length 5m are placed at a distance of
10 cm apart in air. They carry equal currents along the same
direction and experience a mutually attractive force of
3.6 × 10-4 N. Find the current through the conductors.
Data : I1 = I2= I,
l = 5m, a =10-1 m,
F = 3.6×10-4N, I = ?

µo I1I 2l
Solution: F =
2π a

2 × 10−7 I 2l
F =
a

F .a 3.6 × 10−4 × 10−1

∴I2 = −7 = = 36
2 × 10 l 2 × 10−7 × 5
∴ I = 6A

126
3.14 A, B and C are three parallel
conductors each of length 10 m,
carrying currents as shown in the
figure. Find the magnitude and F1 F2
direction of the resultant force on
4A 5A
the conductor B.
Solution : Between the wires A 3A
and B, force of attraction exists.
10 cm
F1 acts towards left
10 cm
−7 −7
2 × 10 I1I 2l 2×10 ×3×4×10
F1 = =
a 10−1
A B C
F1 = 24 × 10-5 N

Between the wires B and C, force of attraction exists

F2 acts towards right

2 × 10−7 I1I 2l 2×10−7 ×4×5×10

F2 = =
a 10−1
F2 = 40 × 10-5 N
F2 – F1 = 16 × 10-5 N
The wire B is attracted towards C with a net force of 16 × 10-5 N.

3.15 A rectangular coil of area 20 cm × 10 cm with 100 turns of wire

is suspended in a radial magnetic field of induction 5 × 10-3 T. If
the galvanometer shows an angular deflection of 150 for a current
of 1mA, find the torsional constant of the suspension wire.
Data : n = 100, A = 20 cm × 10 cm = 2 × 10-1 × 10-1 m2
B = 5 × 10-3 T, θ = 150, I = 1mA = 10-3A, C = ?
π π
Solution : θ = 150 = × 15 = rad
180 12
nBIA = Cθ

nBIA 102 × 5 × 10-3 × 10-3 × 2 × 10-1 × 10-1

∴ C = =
θ ⎛ π ⎞
⎜ ⎟
C = 3.82 × 10-5 N m rad-1 ⎝ 12 ⎠

127
3.16 A moving coil galvanometer of resistance 20 Ω produces full scale
deflection for a current of 50 mA. How you will convert the
galvanometer into (i) an ammeter of range 20 A and (ii) a
voltmeter of range 120 V.
Data : G = 20 Ω ; Ig = 50 x 10-3 A ; I = 20 A, S = ?
V = 120 V, R = ?

Ig 20 × 50 × 10-3 1
Solution : (i) S = G . I-I = -3 =
g 20 - 50 × 10 20 - 0.05
S = 0.05 Ω
A shunt of 0.05 Ω should be connected in parallel

V
(ii) R = Ig – G

120
= – 20 = 2400-20 = 2380 Ω
50 × 10-3
R = 2380 Ω
A resistance of 2380 Ω should be connected in series with the
galvanometer.
3.17 The deflection in a galvanometer falls from 50 divisions to 10
divisions when 12 Ω resistance is connected across the
galvanometer. Calculate the galvanometer resistance.
Data : θ1 = 50 divs, θg = 10 divs, S = 12Ω G = ?
Solution : I α θ1
Ig α θg
In a parallel circuit potential is common.
∴ G. Ig = S (I-Ig)

S (I - Ig ) 12 (50 - 10)
∴ G = =
Ig 10
∴ G = 48 Ω
3.18 In a hydrogen atom electron moves in an orbit of radius 0.5 Å
making 1016 revolutions per second. Determine the magnetic
moment associated with orbital motion of the electron.

128
 Data : r = 0.5 Å = 0.5x10-10 m, n = 1016 s-1
Solution :
Orbital magnetic moment µl = i.A ...(1)

e
i = = e.n ...(2)
T
A = πr2 ...(3)
substituting equation (2), (3) in (1)
µl = e.n. πr2
= 1.6 × 10-19 × 1016 × 3.14 (0.5 × 10-10)2
= 1.256 × 10-23
∴ µl = 1.256 × 10-23 Am2

Self evaluation
(The questions and problems given in this self evaluation are only samples.
In the same way any question and problem could be framed from the text
matter. Students must be prepared to answer any question and problem
from the text matter, not only from the self evaluation.)
3.1 Joule’s law of heating is
I2
(a) H = t (b) H = V2 Rt
R
(c) H = VIt (d) H = IR2t
3.2 Nichrome wire is used as the heating element because it has
(a) low specific resistance (b) low melting point
(c) high specific resistance (d) high conductivity
3.3 Peltier coefficient at a junction of a thermocouple depends on
(a) the current in the thermocouple
(b) the time for which current flows
(c ) the temperature of the junction
(d) the charge that passes through the thermocouple
3.4 In a thermocouple, the temperature of the cold junction is 20oC, the
neutral temperature is 270oC. The temperature of inversion is
(a) 520oC (b) 540oC
o
(c) 500 C (d) 510oC

129
3.5 Which of the following equations represents Biot-savart law?
µo Idl → µo Idl sin θ
(a) dB = 2 (b) dB =
4π r 4π r2
→ µo Idl × r → µo Idl × r
(c) dB = (d) dB =
4π r 2
4π r3
3.6 Magnetic induction due to an infinitely long straight conductor
placed in a medium of permeability µ is
µo I µo I
(a) (b)
4π a 2π a
µI µI
(c) (d)
4π a 2π a
3.7 In a tangent galvanometer, for a constant current, the deflection is
30o. The plane of the coil is rotated through 900. Now, for the same
current, the deflection will be
(a) 300 (b) 600
(c) 900 (d) 00
3.8 The period of revolution of a charged particle inside a cyclotron
does not depend on
(a) the magnetic induction (b) the charge of the particle
(c) the velocity of the particle (d) the mass of the particle
3.9 The torque on a rectangular coil placed in a uniform magnetic field
is large, when
(a) the number of turns is large
(b) the number of turns is less
(c) the plane of the coil is perpendicular to the field
(d) the area of the coil is small
3.10 Phosphor – bronze wire is used for suspension in a moving coil
galvanometer, because it has
(a) high conductivity (b) high resistivity
(c) large couple per unit twist (d) small couple per unit twist
3.11 Of the following devices, which has small resistance?
(a) moving coil galvanometer (b) ammeter of range 0 – 1A
(c) ammeter of range 0–10 A (d) voltmeter

130
3.12 A galvanometer of resistance G Ω is shunted with S Ω .The effective
resistance of the combination is Ra. Then, which of the following
statements is true?
(a) G is less than S
(b) S is less than Ra but greater than G.
(c) Ra is less than both G and S
(d) S is less than both G and Ra
3.13 An ideal voltmeter has
(a) zero resistance
(b) finite resistance less than G but greater than Zero
(c) resistance greater than G but less than infinity
(d) infinite resistance
3.14 State Joule’s law
3.15 Explain Joule’s calorimeter experiment to verify Joule’s laws of
heating.
3.16 Define Peltier coefficient
3.17 Define Thomson coefficient
3.18 State Biot – Savart law
3.19 Obtain an expression for the magnetic induction at a point due to
an infinitely long straight conductor carrying current.
3.20 Deduce the relation for the magnetic induction at a point along the
axis of a circular coil carrying current.
3.21 Explain in detail the principle, construction and theory of a tangent
galvanometer.
3.22 What is Ampere’s circuital law?
3.23 Applying Amperes circuital law, find the magnetic induction due to
a straight solenoid.
3.24 Define ampere
3.25 Deduce an expression for the force on a current carrying conductor
placed in a magnetic field.
3.26 Explain in detail the principle, construction and the theory of
moving coil galvanometer.

131
3.27 Explain how you will convert a galvanometer into (i) an ammeter
and (ii) a voltmeter.
Problems
3.28 In a thermocouple, the temperature of the cold junction is – 20oC
and the temperature of inversion is 600oC. If the temperature of the
cold junction is 20oC, find the temperature of inversion.
3.29 Find the magnetic induction at a point, 10 cm from a long straight
wire carrying a current of 10A
3.30 A circular coil of radius 20 cm has 100 turns wire and it carries a
current of 5A. Find the magnetic induction at a point along its axis
at a distance of 20 cm from the centre of the coil.
3.31 Three tangent galvanometers have turns ratio of 2:3:5. When
connected in series in a circuit, they show deflections of 30o, 45o
and 60o respectively. Find the ratio of their radii.
3.32 A straight wire of length one metre and of resistance 2 Ω is
connected across a battery of emf 12V. The wire is placed normal
to a magnetic field of induction 5 × 10-3 T. Find the force on the
wire.
3.33 A circular coil of 50 turns and radius 25 cm carries a current of 6A.
It is suspended in a uniform magnetic field of induction 10-3 T. The
normal to the plane of the coil makes an angle of 600 with the field.
Calculate the torque of the coil.
3.34 A uniform magnetic field 0.5 T is applied normal to the plane of the
Dees of a Cyclotron. Calculate the period of the alternating potential
to be applied to the Dees to accelerate deutrons (mass of deuteron
= 3.3 × 10-27 kg and its charge = 1.6 × 10-19C).
3.35 A rectangular coil of 500 turns and of area 6 × 10-4 m2 is
suspended inside a radial magnetic field of induction 10-4 T by a
suspension wire of torsional constant 5 × 10-10 Nm per degree.
calculate the current required to produce a deflection of 10o.
3.36 Two straight infinitely long parallel wires carrying equal currents
and placed at a distance of 20 cm apart in air experience a mutally
attractive force of 4.9 × 10-5 N per unit length of the wire. Calculate
the current.
3.37 A long solenoid of length 3m has 4000 turns. Find the current
through the solenoid if the magnetic field produced at the centre of
the solenoid along its axis is 8 × 10-3 T.
132
3.38 A galvanometer has a resistance of 100 Ω. A shunt resistance 1 Ω
is connected across it. What part of the total current flows through
the galvanometer?
3.39 A galvanometer has a resistance of 40 Ω. It shows full scale
deflection for a current of 2 mA. How you will convert the
galvanometer into a voltmeter of range 0 to 20V?
3.40 A galvanometer with 50 divisions on the scale requires a current
sensitivity of 0.1 m A/division. The resistance of the galvanometer
is 40 Ω. If a shunt resistance 0.1 Ω is connected across it, find the
maximum value of the current that can be measured using this
ammeter.

Answers

3.1 (c) 3.2 (c) 3.3 (c) 3.4 (a) 3.5 (d)

3.6 (d) 3.7 (d) 3.8 (c) 3.9 (a) 3.10 (d)

3.11 (c) 3.12 (c) 3.13 (d)

o -5
3.28 560 C 3.29 2 × 10 T

-4
3.30 5.55 × 10 T 3.31 6 : 3 √3 : 5

-2 -2
3.32 3 × 10 N 3.33 5.1 × 10 Nm

-7
3.34 2.6 × 10 s 3.35 0.166 m A

3.36 7 A 3.37 4.77 A

3.38 1/101 3.39 9960 Ω in series

3.40 2 A

133
 4. Electromagnetic Induction and
Alternating Current

In the year 1820, Hans Christian Oersted demonstrated that a

current carrying conductor is associated with a magnetic field.
Thereafter, attempts were made by many to verify the reverse effect of
producing an induced emf by the effect of magnetic field.
4.1 Electromagnetic induction
Michael Faraday demonstrated the reverse effect of Oersted
experiment. He explained the possibility of producing emf across the
ends of a conductor when the magnetic flux linked with the conductor
changes. This was termed as electromagnetic induction. The discovery
of this phenomenon brought about a revolution in the field of power
generation. ^ n
4.1.1 Magnetic flux
The magnetic flux (φ) linked
with a surface held in a magnetic
field (B) is defined as the number
A B
of magnetic lines of force crossing
a closed area (A) (Fig 4.1). If θ is
the angle between the direction of
the field and normal to the area,
then
φ = B . A Fig 4.1 Magnetic flux
φ = BA cos θ
4.1.2 Induced emf and current – Electromagnetic induction.
Whenever there is a change in the magnetic flux linked with a
closed circuit an emf is produced. This emf is known as the induced
emf and the current that flows in the closed circuit is called induced
current. The phenomenon of producing an induced emf due to the
changes in the magnetic flux associated with a closed circuit is known
as electromagnetic induction.

134
 Faraday discovered the
electromagnetic induction by
conducting several experiments.
G
Fig 4.2 consists of a
C
cylindrical coil C made up of several
turns of insulated copper wire
connected in series to a sensitive
galvanometer G. A strong bar N
magnet NS with its north pole
pointing towards the coil is moved
S
up and down. The following
inferences were made by Faraday. Fig 4.2 Electromagnetic
Induction
(i) Whenever there is a
relative motion between the coil and the magnet, the galvanometer
shows deflection indicating the flow of induced current.
(ii) The deflection is momentary. It lasts so long as there is
relative motion between the coil and the magnet.
(iii) The direction of the flow of current changes if the
magnet is moved towards and withdrawn from it.
(iv) The deflection is more when the magnet is moved faster,
and less when the magnet is moved slowly.
(v) However, on reversing the magnet (i.e) south pole
pointing towards the coil, same results are obtained, but current flows
in the opposite direction.
CC 1
1 CC 2
2
Faraday
demonstrated the electro-
magnetic induction by
another experiment also.
G Fig 4.3 shows two
coils C1 and C2 placed
K close to each other.
()
Rh
Bt The coil C1 is
Fig 4.3 Electromagnetic Induction
connected to a battery Bt
through a key K and a rheostat. Coil C2 is connected to a
sensitive galvanometer G and kept close to C1. When the key
K is pressed, the galvanometer connected with the coil C2 shows a
135
sudden momentary deflection. This indicates that a current is induced
in coil C2. This is because when the current in C1 increases from zero
to a certain steady value, the magnetic flux linked with the coil C1
increases. Hence, the magnetic flux linked with the coil C2 also
increases. This causes the deflection in the galvanometer.
On releasing K, the galvanometer shows deflection in the opposite
direction. This indicates that a current is again induced in the coil C2.
This is because when the current in C1 decreases from maximum to
zero value, the magnetic flux linked with the coil C1 decreases. Hence,
the magnetic flux linked with the coil C2 also decreases. This causes
the deflection in the galvanometer in the opposite direction.
4.1.3 Faraday’s laws of electromagnetic induction
Based on his studies on the phenomenon of electromagnetic
induction, Faraday proposed the following two laws.
First law
Whenever the amount of magnetic flux linked with a closed
circuit changes, an emf is induced in the circuit. The induced emf lasts
so long as the change in magnetic flux continues.
Second law
The magnitude of emf induced in a closed circuit is directly
proportional to the rate of change of magnetic flux linked with the
circuit.
Let φ1 be the magnetic flux linked with the coil initially and φ2 be
the magnetic flux linked with the coil after a time t. Then
φ2 − φ1
Rate of change of magnetic flux =
t
According to Faraday’s second law, the magnitude of induced
φ2 − φ1
emf is, e α . If dφ is the change in magnetic flux in a time dt,
t
dφ
then the above equation can be written as e α
dt
4.1.4 Lenz’s law
The Russian scientist H.F. Lenz in 1835 discovered a simple
law giving the direction of the induced current produced in a circuit.
Lenz’s law states that the induced current produced in a circuit always
flows in such a direction that it opposes the change or cause that
produces it.

136
 If the coil has N number of turns and φ is the magnetic flux
linked with each turn of the coil then, the total magnetic flux linked
with the coil at any time is Nφ
d Ndφ N (φ2 − φ1 )
∴ e = – (Nφ) e = – = –
dt dt t
Lenz’s law - a consequence of conservation of energy
Copper coils are wound on a cylindrical
S
cardboard and the two ends of the coil are
connected to a sensitive galvanometer. A magnet is
moved towards the coil (Fig 4.4). The upper face of N
the coil acquires north polarity.
Consequently work has to be done to move
the magnet further against the force of repulsion.
When we withdraw the magnet away from the coil,
its upper face acquires south polarity. Now the G
workdone is against the force of attraction. When
the magnet is moved, the number of magnetic lines
of force linking the coil changes, which causes an
induced current to flow through the coil. The
Fig 4.4 Lenz’s law
direction of the induced current, according to
Lenz’s law is always to oppose the motion of the magnet. The workdone
in moving the magnet is converted into electrical energy. This energy
is dissipated as heat energy in the coil. If on the contrary, the direction
of the current were to help the motion of the magnet, it would start
moving faster increasing the change of magnetic flux linking the coil.
This results in the increase of induced current. Hence kinetic energy
and electrical energy would be produced without any external work
being done, but this is impossible. Therefore, the induced current
always flows in such a direction to oppose the cause. Thus it is proved
that Lenz’s law is the consequence of conservation of energy.
4.1.5 Fleming’s right hand rule
The forefinger, the middle finger and the thumb of the right hand
are held in the three mutually perpendicular directions. If the forefinger
points along the direction of the magnetic field and the thumb is along
the direction of motion of the conductor, then the middle finger points
in the direction of the induced current. This rule is also called
generator rule.
137
4.2. Self Induction
The property of a coil which enables
to produce an opposing induced emf in it
when the current in the coil changes is
called self induction.
K
A coil is connected in series with a ( )
battery and a key (K) (Fig. 4.5). On Bt
pressing the key, the current through the Fig 4.5 Self Induction
coil increases to a maximum value and correspondingly the magnetic
flux linked with the coil also increases. An induced current flows
through the coil which according to Lenz’s law opposes the further
growth of current in the coil.
On releasing the key, the current through the coil decreases to a
zero value and the magnetic flux linked with the coil also decreases.
According to Lenz’s law, the induced current will oppose the decay of
current in the coil.
4.2.1 Coefficient of self induction
When a current I flows through a coil, the magnetic flux (φ) linked
with the coil is proportional to the current.
φ α I or φ = LI
where L is a constant of proportionality and is called coefficient
of self induction or self inductance.
If I = 1A, φ = L × 1, then L = φ Therefore, coefficient of self
induction of a coil is numerically equal to the magnetic flux linked with
a coil when unit current flows through it. According to laws of
electromagnetic induction.
dφ d dI
e = – = − (LI ) or e = – L
dt dt dt
dI
If = 1 A s–1, then L = −e
dt
The coefficient of self induction of a coil is numerically equal to
the opposing emf induced in the coil when the rate of change of current
through the coil is unity. The unit of self inductance is henry (H).
One henry is defined as the self-inductance of a coil in which a
change in current of one ampere per second produces an opposing emf
of one volt.

138
4.2.2 Self inductance of a long solenoid
Let us consider a solenoid of N turns with length l and area of
cross section A. It carries a current I. If B is the magnetic field at any
point inside the solenoid, then
Magnetic flux per turn = B × area of each turn

µoNI
But, B =
l

µo NIA
Magnetic flux per turn =
l
Hence, the total magnetic flux (φ) linked with the solenoid is given
by the product of flux through each turn and the total number of turns.
µ o NIA
φ= × N
l
µo N2IA
i.e φ= ...(1)
l
If L is the coefficient of self induction of the solenoid, then
φ = LI ...(2)
From equations (1) and (2)

µo N2IA
LI =
l

µο Ν 2 Α
∴ L =
l
If the core is filled with a magnetic material of permeability µ,

µΝ 2 Α
then, L =
l
4.2.3 Energy associated with an inductor
Whenever current flows through a coil, the self−inductance
opposes the growth of the current. Hence, some work has to be done
by external agencies in establishing the current. If e is the induced emf
then,

139
 dI
e = – L
dt
The small amount of work dw done in a time interval dt is
dw = e.I dt
dI
= −L I.dt
dt
The total work done when the current increases from 0 to
maximum value (Io) is
Io

w = ∫ dw = ∫ −L I dI
0

This work done is stored as magnetic potential energy in the coil.

∴ Energy stored in the coil
Io
1
= −L ∫ IdI = – L Io2
0 2
Negative sign is consequence of Lenz’s Law. Hence, quantitatively,
1
the energy stored in an inductor is L Io2
2
4.2.4 Mutual induction
Whenever there is a change in the
magnetic flux linked with a coil, there is G
also a change of flux linked with the
neighbouring coil, producing an induced S
emf in the second coil. This phenomenon of
producing an induced emf in a coil due to
the change in current in the other coil is P
Cell current
known as mutual induction.
P and S are two coils placed close to + - ( )
each other (Fig. 4.6). P is connected to a K
Fig 4.6 Mutual induction
battery through a key K. S is connected to
a galvanometer G. On pressing K, current in P starts increasing from
zero to a maximum value. As the flow of current increases, the
magnetic flux linked with P increases. Therefore, magnetic flux linked
with S also increases producing an induced emf in S. Now, the
galvanometer shows the deflection. According to Lenz’s law the induced
current in S would oppose the increase in current in P by flowing in

140
a direction opposite to the current in P, thus delaying the growth of
current to the maximum value. When the key ‘K’ is released, current
starts decreasing from maximum to zero value, consequently magnetic
flux linked with P decreases. Therefore magnetic flux linked with S also
decreases and hence, an emf is induced in S. According to Lenz’s law,
the induced current in S flows in such a direction so as to oppose the
decrease in current in P thus prolonging the decay of current.
4.2.5 Coefficient of mutual induction
IP is the current in coil P and φs is the magnetic flux linked with
coil S due to the current in coil P.
∴ φs α IP or φs = M IP
where M is a constant of proportionality and is called the
coefficient of mutual induction or mutual inductance between the two
coils.
IfIP = 1A, then, M = φs
Thus, coefficient of mutual induction of two coils is numerically
equal to the magnetic flux linked with one coil when unit current flows
through the neighbouring coil. If es is the induced emf in the coil (S)
at any instant of time, then from the laws of electromagnetic induction,
dφs d dI P
es = − = − (MIP) = − M
dt dt dt
es
⎛
∴ M = –⎜ PdI ⎞
⎟
⎝ dt ⎠
dI P
If = 1 A s–1, then, M = −es
dt
Thus, the coefficient of mutual induction of two coils is
numerically equal to the emf induced in one coil when the rate of
change of current through the other coil is unity. The unit of coefficient
of mutual induction is henry.
One henry is defined as the coefficient of mutual induction
between a pair of coils when a change of current of one ampere per
second in one coil produces an induced emf of one volt in the other coil.
The coefficient of mutual induction between a pair of coils
depends on the following factors

141
 (i) Size and shape of the coils, number of turns and permeability
of material on which the coils are wound.
(ii) proximity of the coils
Two coils P and S have their axes perpendicular to each other
(Fig. 4.7a). When a current is passed through coil P, the magnetic flux
linked with S is small and hence, the coefficient of mutual induction
between the two coils is small.
The two coils are placed in such a way that they have a common
axis (Fig. 4.7b). When current is passed through the coil P the magnetic
flux linked with coil S is large and hence, the coefficient of mutual
induction between the two coils is large.

P P
P S

S
S

(a) (b) (c)

Fig 4.7 Mutual induction

If the two coils are wound on a soft iron core (Fig 4.7c) the mutual
induction is very large.
4.2.6 Mutual induction of two long solenoids.
S1 and S2 are two long solenoids each of length l. The solenoid
S2 is wound closely over the solenoid S1 (Fig 4.8).
N1 and N2 are the number of turns in the solenoids S1 and S2
respectively. Both the solenoids are considered to have the same area
of cross section A as they are closely
S1
wound together. I1 is the current flowing
through the solenoid S1. The magnetic S2
field B1 produced at any point inside the Fig 4.8 Mutual induction
between two long solenoids
solenoid S1 due to the current I1 is

B1 = µo N I I1 ...(1)
l
The magnetic flux linked with each turn of S2 is equal to B1A.

142
 Total magnetic flux linked with solenoid S2 having N2 turns is
φ2 = B1AN2
Substituting for B1 from equation (1)

⎛ N ⎞
φ2 = ⎜ µ o 1 I 1 ⎟ A N2
⎝ l ⎠
µo N 1N 2 AI 1
φ2 = ...(2)
l
But φ2 = MI1 ...(3)
where M is the coefficient of mutual induction between S1 and S2.
From equations (2) and (3)
µo N 1N 2 AI 1
MI1 =
l
µ o N 1N 2 A
M =
l
If the core is filled with a magnetic material of permeability µ,
µ N1N 2 A
M =
l
4.3 Methods of producing induced emf
We know that the induced emf is given by the expression
dφ d
e = – =− (NBA cos θ)
dt dt
Hence, the induced emf can be produced by changing
(i) the magnetic induction (B)
(ii) area enclosed by the coil (A) and
(iii) the orientation of the coil (θ) with respect to the magnetic field.
4.3.1 Emf induced by changing the magnetic induction.
The magnetic induction can be changed by moving a magnet
either towards or away from a coil and thus an induced emf is
produced in the coil.
The magnetic induction can also be changed in one coil by
changing the current in the neighbouring coil thus producing an
induced emf.

⎛ dB ⎞
∴ e = – NA cos θ ⎜ ⎟
⎝ dt ⎠

143
4.3.2 Emf induced by changing the area enclosed by the coil
PQRS is a conductor bent in the shape as shown in the Fig 4.9.
L1M1 is a sliding conductor of length l resting on the arms PQ and RS.
A uniform magnetic field ‘B’ acts perpendicular to the plane of the
conductor. The closed area of the conductor is L1QRM1. When L1M1 is
moved through a
B
distance dx in time dt,
the new area is
L2QRM2. Due to the Q L1 L2
change in area P
L2L1M1M2, there is a l
change in the flux
S
linked with the R M1 M2
dx
conductor. Therefore,
an induced emf is
Fig 4.9 Emf induced by changing the area
produced.
Change in area dA = Area L2L1M1M2
∴ dA = l dx
Change in the magnetic flux, dφ = B.dA = Bl dx

dφ
But e = –
dt

Bldx
∴ e = – = – Bl v
dt
where v is the velocity with which the sliding conductor is
moved.
4.3.3 Emf induced by changing the orientation of the coil
PQRS is a rectangular coil of N turns and area A placed in a uniform
magnetic field B (Fig 4.10). The coil is rotated with an angular velocity ω in
the clockwise direction about an axis perpendicular to the direction of the
magnetic field. Suppose, initially the coil is in vertical position, so that the
angle between normal to the plane of the coil and magnetic field is zero.
After a time t, let θ (=ωt) be the angle through which the coil is rotated. If
φ is the flux linked with the coil at this instant, then
φ = NBA cos θ

144
 The induced emf is,
Q R Q
dφ d R Q Q R
e=– = −NBA cos (ωt) R Q R
dt dt
∴ e = NBAω sin ωt ...(1) P P
S
The maximum value S P P S
N S P S S
of the induced emf is, Eo
= NABω +E0
e
Hence, the induced
O
emf can be represented as _ 3
__ 2 ωt
2
e = Eo sin ωt 2
-E0
The induced emf e Fig 4.10 Induced emf by changing the
varies sinusoidally with orientation of the coil
time t and the frequency
⎛ ω ⎞
being ν cycles per second ⎜ν = ⎟.
⎝ 2π ⎠
(i) When ωt = 0, the plane of the coil is perpendicular to the
field B and hence e = 0.
(ii) When ωt = π/2, the plane of the coil is parallel to B and
hence e = Eo
(iii) When ωt = π, the plane of the coil is at right angle to B and
hence e = 0.
(iv) When ωt = 3π/2, the plane of the coil is again parallel to B
and the induced emf is e = −Eo.
(v) When ωt = 2π, the plane of the coil is again perpendicular
to B and hence e = 0.
If the ends of the coil are connected to an external circuit through
a resistance R, current flows through the circuit, which is also
sinusoidal in nature.
4.4 AC generator (Dynamo) – Single phase
The ac generator is a device used for converting mechanical
energy into electrical energy. The generator was originally designed by
a Yugoslav scientist Nikola Tesla.
Principle
It is based on the principle of electromagnetic induction,

145
according to which an emf is induced in a coil when it is rotated in a
uniform magnetic field.
Essential parts of an AC generator
(i) Armature
Armature is a rectangular coil consisting of a large number of
loops or turns of insulated copper wire wound over a laminated soft
iron core or ring. The soft iron core not only increases the magnetic flux
but also serves as a support for the coil
(ii) Field magnets
The necessary magnetic field is provided by permanent magnets in
the case of low power dynamos. For high power dynamos, field is
provided by electro magnet. Armature rotates between the magnetic
poles such that the axis of rotation is perpendicular to the magnetic field.
(iii) Slip rings
The ends of the armature coil are connected to two hollow
metallic rings R1 and R2 called slip rings. These rings are fixed to
a shaft, to which the armature is also fixed. When the shaft rotates, the
slip rings along with the armature also rotate.
(iv) Brushes
B1 and B2 are two flexible metallic plates or carbon brushes. They
provide contact with the slip rings by keeping themselves pressed
against the ring. They are used to pass on the current from the
armature to the external power line through the slip rings.
Working
Whenever, there is a change in
B C
orientation of the coil, the magnetic
flux linked with the coil changes,
producing an induced emf in the coil.
The direction of the induced current is
given by Fleming’s right hand rule. N S
A D
Suppose the armature ABCD is
To B1 R1
initially in the vertical position. It is Power
rotated in the anticlockwise direction. Line
B2 R2
The side AB of the coil moves
downwards and the side DC moves Fig 4.11 AC dynamo

146
upwards (Fig. 4.11). Then according to Flemings right hand rule the
current induced in arm AB flows from B to A and in CD it flows from
D to C. Thus the current flows along DCBA in the coil. In the external
circuit the current flows from B1 to B2.
On further rotation, the
t
sinω arm AB of the coil moves
e=E 0
e upwards and DC moves
3__ 7__ downwards. Now the current in
2 3 2 4
_ 2 5__ ωt the coil flows along ABCD. In
2
2 the external circuit the current
flows from B2 to B1. As the
rotation of the coil continues,
Fig 4.12 emf varies sinusoidally the induced current in the
external circuit keeps changing
its direction for every half a rotation of the coil. Hence the induced
current is alternating in nature (Fig 4.12). As the armature completes
ν rotations in one second, alternating current of frequency ν cycles per
second is produced. The induced emf at any instant is given by e= Eo
sin ωt
The peak value of the emf, Eo = NBAω
where N is the number of turns of the coil,
A is the area enclosed by the coil,
B is the magnetic field and
ω is the angular velocity of the coil
4.4.1 AC generator (Alternator) – Three phase
A single phase a.c. generator or alternator has only one armature
winding. If a number of armature windings are used in the alternator
it is known as polyphase alternator. It produces voltage waves equal to
the number of windings or phases. Thus a polyphase system consists
of a numerous windings which are placed on the same axis but
displaced from one another by equal angle which depends on the
number of phases. Three phase alternators are widely preferred for
transmitting large amount of power with less cost and high efficiency.

147
Generation of three phase emf N
In a three – phase a.c. generator three
coils are fastened rigidly together and
c2 b2
displaced from each other by 120o. It is
made to rotate about a fixed axis in a
uniform magnetic field. Each coil is provided B a1 a2 A
with a separate set of slip rings and brushes.
b1 c1
An emf is induced in each of the coils
with a phase difference of 120o. Three coils
S
a1 a2, b1 b2 and c1 c2 are mounted on the
same axis but displaced from each other by Fig 4.13a Section of
120o, and the coils rotate in the 3 phase ac generator
anticlockwise direction in
a magnetic field (Fig
emf Ea1a2 Eb b Ec1c2
1 2
4.13a).
When the coil a1a2 is
O
2 3 in position AB, emf
induced in this coil is zero
o
120 o
120 120
o and starts increasing in
Fig 4.13b Three phase emf the positive direction. At
the same instant the coil
b1b2 is 120o behind coil a1 a2, so that emf induced in this coil is
approaching its maximum negative value
and the coil c1 c2 is 240o behind the coil a1 Ec1c2
a2, so the emf induced in this coil has
passed its positive maximum value and is
decreasing. Thus the emfs induced in all
the three coils are equal in magnitude and 240º
of same frequency. The emfs induced in the
120º
three coils are ;
Eb b
1 2
Ea1a2
e = Eo sin ωt
a1 a2 Fig 4.13c Angular
e = Eo sin (ωt – 2π/3) displacement between
b1 b2 the armature
e = Eo sin (ωt – 4π/3)
c1 c2
The emfs induced and phase difference in the three coils a1 a2,
b1 b2 and c1 c2 are shown in Fig 4.13b & Fig 4.13c.

148
4.5 Eddy currents
Foucault in the year 1895 observed that when a mass of metal
moves in a magnetic field or when the magnetic field through a
stationary mass of metal is altered, induced current is produced in the
metal. This induced current flows in the metal in the form of closed
loops resembling ‘eddies’ or whirl pool. Hence this current is called
eddy current. The direction of the eddy current is given by Lenz’s law.
When a conductor in
the form of a disc
or a metallic plate as shown
in Fig 4.14, swings between
the poles of a magnet, eddy
currents are set up inside the S N

plate. This current acts in a

direction so as to oppose the Fig 4.14 Eddy current
motion of the conductor with a strong retarding force, that the
conductor almost comes to rest. If the metallic plate with holes drilled
in it is made to swing inside the magnetic field, the effect of eddy
current is greatly reduced consequently the plate swings freely inside
the field. Eddy current can be minimised by using thin laminated
sheets instead of solid metal.
Applications of Eddy current
(i) Dead beat galvanometer
When current is passed through a galvanometer, the coil
oscillates about its mean position before it comes to rest. To bring the
coil to rest immediately, the coil is wound on a metallic frame. Now,
when the coil oscillates, eddy currents are set up in the metallic frame,
which opposes further oscillations of the coil. This inturn enables the
coil to attain its equilibrium position almost instantly. Since the
oscillations of the coil die out instantaneously, the galvanometer is
called dead beat galvanometer.
(ii) Induction furnace
In an induction furnace, high temperature is produced by
generating eddy currents. The material to be melted is placed in a
varying magnetic field of high frequency. Hence a strong eddy current
is developed inside the metal. Due to the heating effect of the current,
the metal melts.

149
(iii) Induction motors
Eddy currents are produced in a metallic cylinder called rotor,
when it is placed in a rotating magnetic field. The eddy current initially
tries to decrease the relative motion between the cylinder and the
rotating magnetic field. As the magnetic field continues to rotate, the
metallic cylinder is set into rotation. These motors are used in fans.
(iv) Electro magnetic brakes
A metallic drum is coupled to the wheels of a train. The drum
rotates along with the wheel when the train is in motion.When the
brake is applied, a strong magnetic field is developed and hence, eddy
currents are produced in the drum which oppose the motion of the
drum. Hence, the train comes to rest.
(v) Speedometer
In a speedometer, a magnet rotates according to the speed of the
vehicle. The magnet rotates inside an aluminium cylinder (drum) which
is held in position with the help of hair springs. Eddy currents are
produced in the drum due to the rotation of the magnet and it opposes
the motion of the rotating magnet. The drum inturn experiences a
torque and gets deflected through a certain angle depending on the
speed of the vehicle. A pointer attached to the drum moves over a
calibrated scale which indicates the speed of the vehicle.

4.6 Transformer
Transformer is an
Laminated
electrical device used for
Steel Core
converting low alternating
voltage into high φ
alternating voltage and
vice versa. It transfers
electric power from one
circuit to another. The Secondary
transformer is based on Primary Winding
the principle of Winding
Fig 4.15 Transformer
electromagnetic induction.
A transformer consists of primary and secondary coils insulated
from each other, wound on a soft iron core (Fig 4.15). To minimise eddy

150
currents a laminated iron core is used. The a.c. input is applied across
the primary coil. The continuously varying current in the primary coil
produces a varying magnetic flux in the primary coil, which in turn
produces a varying magnetic flux in the secondary. Hence, an induced
emf is produced across the secondary.
Let EP and ES be the induced emf in the primary and secondary
coils and NP and NS be the number of turns in the primary and
secondary coils respectively. Since same flux links with the primary
and secondary, the emf induced per turn of the two coils must be the
same
E P Es
(i.e) =
NP Ns
Es N s
or = …(1)
EP N p
For an ideal transformer, input power = output power
Ep Ip = Es Is
where Ip and Is are currents in the primary and secondary coils.
Es I P
(i.e.) E = I ...(2)
P s

From equations (1) and (2)

Es N s I P
= =
EP N p I S = k
where k is called transformer ratio.
(for step up transformer k > 1 and
for step down transformer k < 1)
In a step up transformer Es > Ep implying that Is < Ip. Thus a
step up transformer increases the voltage by decreasing the current,
which is in accordance with the law of conservation of energy. Similarly
a step down transformer decreases the voltage by increasing the
current.

Efficiency of a transformer
Efficiency of a transformer is defined as the ratio of output power
to the input power.

151
 output power Es I s
η = input power = EP I P
The efficiency η = 1 (ie. 100%), only for an ideal transformer
where there is no power loss. But practically there are numerous
factors leading to energy loss in a transformer and hence the efficiency
is always less than one.

Energy losses in a transformer

(1) Hysteresis loss
The repeated magnetisation and demagnetisation of the iron core
caused by the alternating input current, produces loss in energy called
hysterisis loss. This loss can be minimised by using a core with a
material having the least hysterisis loss. Alloys like mumetal and
silicon steel are used to reduce hysterisis loss.
(2) Copper loss
The current flowing through the primary and secondary windings
lead to Joule heating effect. Hence some energy is lost in the form of
heat. Thick wires with considerably low resistance are used to minimise
this loss.
(3) Eddy current loss (Iron loss)
The varying magnetic flux produces eddy current in the core.
This leads to the wastage of energy in the form of heat. This loss is
minimised by using a laminated core made of stelloy, an alloy of steel.
(4) Flux loss
The flux produced in the primary coil is not completely linked
with the secondary coil due to leakage. This results in the loss of
energy. This loss can be minimised by using a shell type core.
In addition to the above losses, due to the vibration of the core,
sound is produced, which causes a loss in the energy.

4.6.1 Long distance power transmission

The electric power generated in a power station situated in a
remote place is transmitted to different regions for domestic and
industrial use. For long distance transmission, power lines are made of

152
conducting material like aluminium. There is always some power loss
associated with these lines.

Line wire

Step-up Step-down
Generating Transformer Transformer City
Station Sub-Station
Fig 4.16 Distance transmission of power
If I is the current through the wire and R the resistance,
a considerable amount of electric power I2R is dissipated as heat.
Hence, the power at the receiving end will be much lesser than the
actual power generated. However, by transmitting the electrical energy
at a higher voltage, the power loss can be controlled as is evident from
the following two cases.
Case (i) A power of 11,000 W is transmitted at 220 V.
Power P = VI
P 11, 000
∴ I = = = 50A
V 220
If R is the resistance of line wires,
Power loss = I2R = 502R = 2500(R) watts
Case (ii) 11,000 W power is transmitted at 22,000 V
P 11,000
∴ I = = = 0.5 A
V 22,000
Power loss = I2R = (0.5)2 R = 0.25(R) watts
Hence it is evident that if power is trasmitted at a higher voltage
the loss of energy in the form of heat can be considerably reduced.
For transmitting electric power at 11,000 W at 220 V the current
capacity of line wires has to be 50 A and if transmission is done at
22,000 V, it is only 0.5 A. Thus, for carrying larger current (50A) thick
wires have to be used. This increases the cost of transmission. To
support these thick wires, stronger poles have to be erected which
further adds on to the cost. On the other hand if transmission is done
at high voltages, the wires required are of lower current carrying
capacity. So thicker wires can be replaced by thin wires, thus reducing
the cost of transmission considerably.

153
 For example, 400MW power produced at 15,000 V in the power
station at Neyveli, is stepped up by a step-up transformer to
230,000 V before transmission. The power is then transmitted through
the transmission lines which forms a part of the grid. The grid connects
different parts of the country. Outside the city, the power is stepped
down to 110,000 V by a step-down transformer. Again the power is
stepped down to 11,000 V by a transformer. Before distribution to the
user, the power is stepped down to 230 V or 440 V depending upon the
need of the user.
4.7 Alternating current
As we have seen earlier a rotating coil in a magnetic field, induces
an alternating emf and hence an alternating current. Since the emf
induced in the coil varies in magnitude and direction periodically, it is
called an alternating emf. The significance of an alternating emf is that
it can be changed to lower or higher voltages conveniently and efficiently
using a transformer. Also the frequency of the induced emf can be
altered by changing the speed of the coil. This enables us to utilize the
whole range of electromagnetic spectrum for one purpose or the other.
For example domestic power in India is supplied at a frequency of 50 Hz.
For transmission of audio and video signals, the required frequency
range of radio waves is between 100 KHz and 100 MHz. Thus owing to
its wide applicability most of the countries in the world use alternating
current.
4.7.1 Measurement of AC
Since alternating current varies continuously with time, its
average value over one complete cycle is zero. Hence its effect is
measured by rms value of a.c.
RMS value of a.c.
The rms value of alternating current is defined as that value of the
steady current, which when passed through a resistor for a given time,
will generate the same amount of heat as generated by an alternating
current when passed through the same resistor for the same time.
The rms value is also called effective value of an a.c. and is
denoted by Irms or Ieff.
when an alter-nating current i=Io sin ωt flows through a resistor of

154
resistance R, the
amount of heat I02

produced in the resistor

in a small time dt is +I0
Irms
dH = i2 R dt
0 t
The total amount
of heat produced in the
-I0
resistance in one
complete cycle is Fig 4.17 Variation I, I 2 and Irms with time
T T

H = ∫ i R dt = ∫ (I sin2 ω t ) R dt
2 2
o
O O

T
⎛ 1 − cos 2ω t ) ⎞ I o 2R ⎡ T T
⎤
= Io 2R
∫O ⎜⎝ ⎟dt = 2 ⎢∫ dt − ∫ cos 2ω t .dt ⎥
2 ⎠ ⎣O 0 ⎦

{ }
T
I o 2R ⎡ sin 2ω t ⎤ I o 2R ⎡ sin 4π ⎤ 2π
=
2 ⎢⎣t − 2ω ⎥⎦ = 2 ⎢⎣T − 2ω ⎥⎦ ∵T =
ω
0

I o 2RT
H =
2
But this heat is also equal to the heat produced by rms value of
AC in the same resistor (R) and in the same time (T),
(i.e) H = I2rms RT

I o 2RT
∴ I2rms RT =
2
Io
Irms = = 0.707 I0
2
Similarly, it can be calculated that
Eo
Erms = .
2
Thus, the rms value of an a.c is 0.707 times the peak value of the
a.c. In other words it is 70.7 % of the peak value.

155
4.7.2 AC Circuit with resistor
Let an alternating source of emf be connected across a resistor of
resistance R.
The instantaneous value of the applied emf is
e = Eo sin ωt ...(1)
R e

e,i
O
2
e=E0 sin t
(a)
i
eR
(c)
(b)
Fig 4.18 a.c. circuit with a resistor
If i is the current through the circuit at the instant t, the
potential drop across R is, e = i R
Potential drop must be equal to the applied emf.
Hence, iR = Eo sin ωt
Eo
i = sin ωt ; i = Io sin ωt ...(2)
R
E0
where Io = , is the peak value of a.c in the circuit. Equation
R
(2) gives the instantaneous value of current in the circuit containing R.
From the expressions of voltage and current given by equations (1) and
(2) it is evident that in a resistive circuit, the applied voltage and
current are in phase with each other (Fig 4.18b).
Fig 4.18c is the phasor diagram representing the phase
relationship between the current and the voltage.
4.7.3 AC Circuit with an inductor
Let an alternating source of emf be applied to a pure inductor of
inductance L. The inductor has a negligible resistance and is wound on
a laminated iron core. Due to an alternating emf that is applied to the
inductive coil, a self induced emf is generated which opposes the
applied voltage. (eg) Choke coil.
156
 The instantaneous value of applied emf is given by
e = Eo sin ωt ...(1)
di
Induced emf e′ = −L .
dt
where L is the self inductance of the coil. In an ideal inductor
circuit induced emf is equal and opposite to the applied voltage.
Therefore e = −e′
⎛ di ⎞
Eo sin ωt = − ⎜ −L ⎟
⎝ dt ⎠
di
∴ Eo sin ωt =L
e=E0 sin t
dt
(a) Eo
di = sin ωt dt
e L
I Integrating both the sides

Eo
i = ∫ sin ω t dt
e,i

L
O
2 t Eo ⎡ cos ω t ⎤ E o cos ω t
= ⎢⎣ − ω ⎥⎦ =–
L ωL

Eo π
i = sin (ωt – )
ωL 2
(b)
Fig 4.19 Pure inductive circuit π
i = Io . sin (ωt – ) ...(2)
2

Eo
where Io = . Here, ωL is the resistance offered by the coil. It
ωL
is called inductive reactance. Its unit is ohm .

From equations (1) and (2) it is clear that in an eL

a.c. circuit containing a pure inductor the current i
lags behind the voltage e by the phase angle of π/2.
Conversely the voltage across L leads the current by
the phase angle of π/2. This fact is presented
graphically in Fig 4.19b.
Fig 4.19c represents the phasor diagram of a.c. Fig 4.19c si
circuit containing only L. Phasor diagram

157
Inductive reactance
XL = ωL = 2π ν L, where ν is the frequency of the a.c. supply
For d.c. ν = 0; ∴ XL = 0
Thus a pure inductor offers zero resistance to d.c. But in an a.c.
circuit the reactance of the coil increases with increase in frequency.
4.7.4 AC Circuit with a capacitor
An alternating source of emf is connected across a capacitor of
capacitance C (Fig 4.20a). It is charged first in one direction and then
in the other direction.
Y
e
i
e,i

i
C O X

90º
e=E0 sin t Y/ ec

(a) (b) (c)

Fig 4.20 Capacitive circuit

The instantaneous value of the applied emf is given by

e = Eo sin ωt ...(1)
At any instant the potential difference across the capacitor will be
equal to the applied emf
∴ e = q/C, where q is the charge in the capacitor
dq d
But i = = (Ce)
dt dt
d
i = (C Eo sin ωt) = ω CEo. cos ωt
dt
Eo ⎛ π⎞
i = (1/ωC ) sin ⎜⎝ ωt + 2 ⎟⎠

⎛ π⎞
i = Io sin ⎜ ω t + ⎟ ...(2)
⎝ 2⎠

158
 Eo
where Io = (1/ωC )
1
= XC is the resistance offered by the capacitor. It is called
ωC
capacitive reactance. Its unit is ohm .
From equations (1) and (2), it follows that in an a.c. circuit with
a capacitor, the current leads the voltage by a phase angle of π/2. In
otherwords the emf lags behind the current by a phase angle of π/2.
This is represented graphically in Fig 4.20b.
Fig 4.20c represents the phasor diagram of a.c. circuit containing
only C.
1 1
∴ XC = =
ωC 2π ν C
where ν is the frequency of the a.c. supply. In a d.c. circuit
ν = 0
∴ XC = ∞
Thus a capacitor offers infinite resistance to d.c. For an a.c. the
capacitive reactance varies inversely as the frequency of a.c. and also
inversely as the capacitance of the capacitor.

4.7.5 Resistor, inductor and capacitor in series

Let an alternating source of emf e be connected to a series
combination of a resistor of resistance R, inductor of inductance L and
a capacitor of capacitance C (Fig 4.21a).
VL
R L C
VL-VC B
VR VL VC
90º V
I φ
O
90º VR A I
e=E0 sin t
4.21b voltage phasor
Fig 4.21a RLC sereis circuit VC diagram

Let the current flowing through the circuit be I.

The voltage drop across the resistor is, VR = I R (This is in phase
with I)

159
 The voltage across the inductor coil is VL = I XL
(VL leads I by π/2)
The voltage across the capacitor is, VC = IXC
(VC lags behind I by π/2)
The voltages across the different components are represented in
the voltage phasor diagram (Fig. 4.21b).
VL and VC are 180o out of phase with each other and the
resultant of VL and VC is (VL – VC), assuming the circuit to be
predominantly inductive. The applied voltage ‘V’ equals the vector sum
of VR, VL and VC.
OB2 = OA2 + AB2 ; XL
V2 = VR 2 + (VL – VC)2
B
XL-XC
VR + (VL − VC )
2
V = 2
Z
XL-XC
φ
V = (IR )2 − (IX L − IXC )2
O
R A

= I R 2 + (X L − XC )2 XC
V Fig 4.22 Impedance
= Z = R 2 + (X L − X C )2 diagram
I

The expression R 2 + (X L − X C )2 is the net effective opposition

offered by the combination of resistor, inductor and capacitor known as
the impedance of the circuit and is represented by Z. Its unit is ohm.
The values are represented in the impedance diagram (Fig 4.22).
Phase angle φ between the voltage and current is given by
VL −VC I XL − I XC
tan φ = =
VR IR

X L − X C net reactance
tan φ = =
R resistance
⎛ X L − XC ⎞
∴ φ = tan–1 ⎜⎝ R
⎟
⎠

∴ Io sin (ωt + φ) is the instantaneous current flowing in the

circuit.

160
Series resonance or voltage resonance in RLC circuit
The value of current at any instant in a series RLC circuit is given
by
V V V
I = = =
Z 2 2
R + (X L − X C ) 1
R 2 + (ω L − )2
ωC
At a particular value of the angular frequency, the inductive
reactance and the capacitive reactance will be equal to each other (i.e.)

1
ωL = , so that the impedance becomes minimum and it is
ωC
given by Z = R
i.e. I is in phase with V
The particular frequency νo at which the impedance of the circuit
becomes minimum and therefore the current becomes maximum is
called Resonant frequency of the circuit. Such a circuit which admits
maximum current is called series resonant circuit or acceptor circuit.
Thus the maximum current through the circuit at resonance is
V
Io =
R
Maximum current flows through the circuit, since the impedance
of the circuit is merely equal to the ohmic resistance of the circuit. i.e
Z = R
1
ωL =
ωC
1
ω = 2π νo =
LC
1
νo =
2π LC
Acceptor circuit
The series resonant circuit is often called an ‘acceptor’ circuit. By
offering minimum impedance to current at the resonant frequency it is
able to select or accept most readily this particular frequency among
many frequencies.
In radio receivers the resonant frequency of the circuit is tuned

161
to the frequency of the signal desired to be detected. This is usually
done by varying the capacitance of a capacitor.
Q-factor
The selectivity or sharpness of a resonant circuit is measured by
the quality factor or Q factor. In other words it refers to the sharpness
of tuning at resonance.
The Q factor of a series resonant circuit is defined as the ratio of
the voltage across a coil or capacitor to the applied voltage.

voltage across L or C
Q = applied voltage ...(1)

Voltage across L = I ωoL …(2)

where ωo is the angular frequency of the a.c. at resonance.
The applied voltage at resonance is the potential drop across R,
because the potential drop across L is equal to the drop across C and
they are 180o out of phase. Therefore they cancel out and only potential
drop across R will exist.
Applied Voltage = IR ...(3)
Substituting equations (2) and (3) in equation (1)
I ωo L ωoL
Q = =
IR R
1 L 1 L ⎧ 1 ⎫
Q = = ⎨∵ ωo = ⎬
LC R R C ⎩ LC ⎭
Q is just a number
having values between 10 to
Q-infinite
100 for normal frequencies. R-zero
Circuit with high Q values
Current I

would respond to a very Q-high

(R-low)
narrow frequency range and
vice versa. Thus a circuit with
a high Q value is sharply Q-low
tuned while one with a low Q (R-high)

has a flat resonance. Q-factor 0

Frequency
can be increased by having a
Fig 4.23 variation of current with
coil of large inductance but of
frequency
small ohmic resistance.

162
 Current frequency curve is quite flat for large values of resistance
and becomes more sharp as the value of resistance decreases. The
curve shown in Fig 4.23 is also called the frequency response curve.

4.7.6 Power in an ac circuit

In an a.c circuit the current and emf vary continuously with time.
Therefore power at a given instant of time is calculated and then its
mean is taken over a complete cycle. Thus, we define instantaneous
power of an a.c. circuit as the product of the instantaneous emf and
the instantaneous current flowing through it.
The instantaneous value of emf and current is given by
e = Eo sin ωt
i = Io sin (ωt + φ)
where φ is the phase difference between the emf and current in
an a.c circuit
The average power consumed over one complete cycle is
T

∫ ie dt T

Pav = 0
T
= ∫ [I
0
o sin(ωt + φ )Eo sin ω t ] dt
.
∫ dt
0
T

On simplification, we obtain
Eo I o
Pav = cos φ
2
Eo Io
Pav = .cos φ = Erms I rms cos φ
.
2 2
Pav = apparent power × power factor
where Apparent power = Erms Irms and power factor = cos φ
The average power of an ac circuit is also called the true power
of the circuit.

Choke coil
A choke coil is an inductance coil of very small resistance used
for controlling current in an a.c. circuit. If a resistance is used to
control current, there is wastage of power due to Joule heating effect
in the resistance. On the other hand there is no dissipation of power
when a current flows through a pure inductor.

163
Construction
It consists of a large number of turns of
insulated copper wire wound over a soft iron
core. A laminated core is used to minimise eddy
current loss (Fig. 4.24). Fig 4.24 Choke coil
Working
The inductive reactance offered by the coil is given by
XL = ωL
In the case of an ideal inductor the current lags behind the emf
π
by a phase angle .
2
∴ The average power consumed by the choke coil over a complete
cycle is
Pav = Erms Irms cos π/2 = 0
However in practice, a choke coil of inductance L possesses a
small resistance r. Hence it may be treated as a series combination of
an inductor and small resistance r. In that case the average power
consumed by the choke coil over a complete cycle is
Pav = E rms Irms cos φ
r
Pav = Erms Irms ...(1)
r + ω 2 L2
2

r
where is the power factor. From equation (1) the
r + ω 2 L2
2

value of average power dissipated works out to be much smaller than

the power loss I2R in a resistance R.

Fig.4.24a A.F Choke Fig.4.24b R.F. Choke

Chokes used in low frequency a.c. circuit have an iron core so
that the inductance may be high. These chokes are known as audio –
frequency (A.F) chokes. For radio frequencies, air chokes are used since
a low inductance is sufficient. These are called radio frequency (R. F)
or high frequency (H.F) chokes and are used in wireless receiver
circuits (Fig. 4.24a and Fig. 4.24b).
Choke coils can be commonly seen in fluorescent tubes which
work on alternating currents.

164
 Solved problems
4.1 Magnetic field through a coil having 200 turns and cross
sectional area 0.04 m2 changes from 0.1 wb m−2 to 0.04 wb
m−2 in 0.02 s Find the induced emf.
Data : N = 200, A = 0.04 m2, B1 = 0.1 wb m−2,
B2 = 0.04 wb m−2, t = 0.02 s, e = ?
dφ d
Solution : e = − = − (φ )
dt dt
d dB (B 2 − B1 )
e = − (NBA) = − NA . = − NA.
dt dt dt
(0.04 − 0.1)
e = − 200 × 4 × 10−2
0.02
e = 24 V
4.2 An aircraft having a wingspan of 20.48 m flies due north at a
speed of 40 ms−1. If the vertical component of earth’s magnetic
field at the place is 2 × 10−5 T, Calculate the emf induced between
the ends of the wings.
Data : l = 20.48 m; v = 40 ms−1; B = 2 × 10−5T; e = ?
Solution : e = − Bl v
= − 2 × 10−5 × 20.48 × 40
e = − 0.0164 volt
4.3 A solenoid of length 1 m and 0.05 m diameter has 500 turns. If
a current of 2A passes through the coil, calculate (i) the
coefficient of self induction of the coil and (ii) the magnetic flux
linked with a the coil.
Data : l = 1 m; d = 0.05 m; r = 0.025 m; N = 500 ; I = 2A ;
(i) L = ? (ii) φ = ?
µo N 2 A µo N 2π r 2
Solution : (i) L = =
l l
4π × 10−7 × (5 × 102 )2 × 3.14(0.025)2
= = 0.616 × 10−3
1
∴ L = 0.616 mH
(ii) Magnetic flux φ = LI
= 0.616 × 10−3 × 2 = 1.232 × 10−3
φ = 1.232 milli weber

165
4.4 Calculate the mutual inductance between two coils when a
current of 4 A changing to 8 A in 0.5 s in one coil, induces an
emf of 50 mV in the other coil.
Data : I1 = 4A; I2 = 8A; dt = 0.5s;
e = 50 mV = 50 × 10−3V, M = ?
dI
Solution : e = − M .
dt

e e 50 × 10−3
∴ M = − =− = − 8−4 = − 6.25 × 10−3
⎛ dI ⎞ ⎛ I 2 − I1 ⎞ ⎛ ⎞
⎜ ⎟ ⎜ ⎟ ⎜ ⎟
⎝ dt ⎠ ⎝ dt ⎠ ⎝ 0.5 ⎠

∴ M = 6.25 mH
4.5 An a.c. generator consists of a coil of 10,000 turns and of area
100 cm2. The coil rotates at an angular speed of 140 rpm in a
uniform magnetic field of 3.6 × 10−2 T. Find the maximum value
of the emf induced.
Data : N = 10,000 A = 102 cm2 = 10–2 m2,
140
ν = 140 rpm = rps, B = 3.6 × 10−2T Eo = ?
60
Solution : Eo = NABω = NAB 2πν

7
= 104 × 10−2 × 3.6 × 10−2 × 2 π ×
3
Eo = 52.75 V
4.6 Write the equation of a 25 cycle current sine wave having rms
value of 30 A.
Data : ν = 25 Hz, Irms = 30 A
Solution : i = Io sin ωt
= Irms 2 sin 2πνt

i = 30 2 sin2π × 25 t
i = 42.42 sin 157 t
4.7 A capacitor of capacitance 2 µF is in an a.c. circuit of frequency
1000 Hz. If the rms value of the applied emf is 10 V, find the
effective current flowing in the circuit.

166
 Data : C = 2µF, ν = 1000 Hz, Eeff = 10V

1 1
Solution : Xc = =
C ω C × 2π v
1
Xc = −6 = 79.6 Ω
2 × 10 × 2π × 103
E eff 10
Irms = =
XC 7 9 .6

∴ Irms = 0.126 A
4.8 A coil is connected across 250 V, 50 Hz power supply and it
draws a current of 2.5 A and consumes power of 400 W. Find the
self inductance and power factor.
Data : Erms = 250 V. ν = 50 Hz; Irms = 2.5A; P = 400 W; L = ?,
cos φ = ?
Solution : Power P = Erms Irms cos φ
P
∴cos φ = E
rms I rms

400
=
250 × 2.5
cos φ = 0.64

Erms 250
=
Impedance Z = I
rms 2.5 = 100 Ω

From the phasor diagram

XL
sin φ =
Z

∴ XL = Z . sin φ = Z (1 − cos2 φ )

= 100 √[1 – (0.64)2]

∴ XL = 76.8 Ω
But XL = L ω = L 2 πν

XL 76.8
∴ L = =
2π v 2π × 50
∴ L = 0.244 H

167
4.9 A bulb connected to 50 V, DC consumes 20 w power. Then the
bulb is connected to a capacitor in an a.c. power supply of
250 V, 50 Hz. Find the value of the capacitor required so that the
bulb draws the same amount of current.
Data : P = 20 W; V = 50 V; ν = 50 Hz; C= ?
Solution : P = VI
P 20
∴ I = = = 0.4 A
V 50
V 50
∴ Resistance, R = = = 125 Ω
I 0.4
Z XL
V 250
The impedence, Z = = = 625Ω φ
I 0.4
R
2 2
⎛ 1 ⎞ ⎛ 1 ⎞
∴ Z = R2 + ⎜ ⎟ = R2 + ⎜ ⎟
⎝ ωc ⎠ ⎝ 2πνC ⎠

1
Z 2 = R2 + 2 2 2
4π ν C
1
C =
2πν Z 2 − R 2
1 1
= =
2
2π × 50 (625) − (125) 2 2π × 50 × 612.37

C = 5.198 µF
4.10 An AC voltage represented by e = 310 sin 314 t is connected in
series to a 24 Ω resistor, 0.1 H inductor and a 25 µF capacitor.
Find the value of the peak voltage, rms voltage, frequency,
reactance of the circuit, impedance of the circuit and phase angle
of the current.
Data : R = 24 Ω, L = 0.1 H, C = 25 × 10−6F
Solution : e = 310 sin 314 t ... (1)
and e = Eo sin ωt ... (2)
comparing equations (1) & (2)
Eo = 310 V
Eo 310
Erms = = = 219.2 V
2 2

168
 ωt = 314 t
2πν = 314
314
ν = = 50 Hz
2 × 3.14
1 1
Reactance = XL – XC = L ω – = L.2πv −
Cω C .2π v
1
= 0.1 × 2 π × 50 –
25 × 10−6 × 2π × 50
= 31.4 – 127.4 = −96 Ω
XL – XC = −96 Ω
∴ XC – XL = 96 Ω

R 2 + ( XC − X L )
2
Z =

= 242 + 962

= 576 + 9216
= 98.9 Ω

XC − X L
tan φ =
R

⎛ 127.4 − 31.4 ⎞
= ⎜ ⎟
⎝ 24 ⎠

96
tan φ = = 4
24
φ = 76o
Predominance of capacitive reactance signify that current leads
the emf by 76o

169
 Self evaluation
(The questions and problems given in this self evaluation are only samples.
In the same way any question and problem could be framed from the text
matter. Students must be prepared to answer any question and problem
from the text matter, not only from the self evaluation.)

4.1 Electromagnetic induction is not used in

(a) transformer (b) room heater
(c) AC generator (d) choke coil
4.2 A coil of area of cross section 0.5 m2 with 10 turns is in a plane
which is pendendicular to an uniform magnetic field of 0.2 Wb/m2.
The flux though the coil is
(a) 100 Wb (b) 10 Wb
(c) 1 Wb (d) zero
4.3 Lenz’s law is in accordance with the law of
(a) conservation of charges (b) conservation of flux
(c) conservation of momentum (d) conservation of energy
4.4 The self−inductance of a straight conductor is
(a) zero (b) infinity
(c) very large (d) very small
4.5 The unit henry can also be written as
(a) Vs A−1 (b) Wb A−1
(c) Ω s (d) all
4.6 An emf of 12 V is induced when the current in the coil changes at
the rate of 40 A S–1. The coefficient of self induction of the coil is
(a) 0.3 H (b) 0.003 H
(c) 30 H (d) 4.8 H
4.7 A DC of 5A produces the same heating effect as an AC of
(a) 50 A rms current (b) 5 A peak current
(c) 5A rms current (d) none of these
4.8 Transformer works on
(a) AC only (b) DC only
(c) both AC and DC (d) AC more effectively than DC

170
4.9 The part of the AC generator that passes the current from the coil
to the external circuit is
(a) field magnet (b) split rings
(c) slip rings (d) brushes
4.10 In an AC circuit the applied emf e = Eo sin (ωt + π/2) leads the
current I = Io sin (ωt – π/2) by
(a) π/2 (b) π/4
(c) π (d) 0
4.11 Which of the following cannot be stepped up in a transformer?
(a) input current (b) input voltage
(c) input power (d) all
4.12 The power loss is less in transmission lines when
(a) voltage is less but current is more
(b) both voltage and current are more
(c) voltage is more but current is less
(d) both voltage and current are less
4.13 Which of the following devices does not allow d.c. to pass through?
(a) resistor (b) capacitor
(c) inductor (d) all the above
4.14 In an ac circuit
(a) the average value of current is zero.
(b) the average value of square of current is zero.
(c) the average power dissipation is zero.
(d) the rms current is 2 time of peak current.
4.15 What is electromagnetic induction?
4.16 State Faraday’s laws of electromagnetic induction.
4.17 Define self−inductance. Give its unit
4.18 Define the unit of self−inductance.
4.19 Define coefficient of mutual induction.
4.20 Give the practical application of self−induction.
4.21 State Fleming’s right hand rule.

171
4.22 Define rms value of a.c.
4.23 State the methods of producing induced emf.
4.24 What is a poly phase AC generator?
4.25 What is inductive reactance?
4.26 Define alternating current and give its expression.
4.27 What is capacitive reactance?
4.28 Mention the difference between a step up and step down
transformer.
4.29 What is resonant frequency in LCR circuit?
4.30 Define power factor.
4.31 Why a d.c ammeter cannot read a.c?
4.32 Obtain an expression for the rms value of a.c.
4.33 Define quality factor.
4.34 A capacitor blocks d.c but allows a.c. Explain.
4.35 What happens to the value of current in RLC series circuit, if
frequency of the source is increased?
4.36 State Lenz’s law and illustrate through an experiment. Explain how
it is in accordance with the law of conservation of energy.
4.37 Differentiate between self−inductance and mutual inductance.
4.38 Obtain an expression for the self−inductance of a long solenoid.
4.39 Explain the mutual induction between two long solenoids. Obtain
an expression for the mutual inductance.
4.40 Explain how an emf can be induced by changing the area enclosed
by the coil.
4.41 Discuss with theory the method of inducing emf in a coil by
changing its orientation with respect to the direction of the magnetic
field.
4.42 What are eddy currents? Give their applications. How are they
minimised?
4.43 Explain how power can be transmitted efficiently to long distance.
4.44 Obtain an expression for the current flowing in a circuit containing
resistance only to which alternating emf is applied. Find the phase
relationship between voltage and current.

172
4.45 Obtain an expression for the current in an ac circuit containing a
pure inductance. Find the phase relationship between voltage and
current.
4.46 Obtain an expression for the current flowing in the circuit containing
capacitance only to which an alternating emf is applied. Find the
phase relationship between the current and voltage.
4.47 Derive an expression for the average power in an ac circuit.
4.48 Describe the principle, construction and working of a choke coil.
4.49 Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of a.c. over dc.
4.50 Describe the principle, construction and working of a single – phase
a.c generator.
4.51 Describe the principle, construction and working of three−phase a.c
generator.
4.52 Explain the principle of transformer. Discuss its construction and
working.
4.53 A source of altemating emf is connected to a series combination of
a resistor R an inductor L and a capacitor C. Obtain with the help
of a vector diagram and impedance diagram, an expression for
(i) the effective voltage (ii) the impedance (iii) the phase relationship
between the current and the voltage.
Problems
4.54 A coil of 100 turns and resistance 100 Ω is connected in series
with a galvanometer of resistance 100 Ω and the coil is placed in
a magnetic field. If the magnetic flux linked with the coil changes
from 10–3 Wb to 2 × 10–4 Wb in a time of 0.1 s, calculate the
induced emf and current.
4.55 Two rails of a railway track insulated from each other and the
ground are connected to a millivoltmeter. The train runs at a speed
of 180 Km/hr. Vertical component of earth’s magnetic field is
0.2 × 10−4 Wb/m2 and the rails are separated by 1m. Find the
reading of the voltmeter.
4.56 Air core solenoid having a diameter of 4 cm and length 60 cm is
wound with 4000 turns. If a current of 5A flows in the solenoid,
calculate the energy stored in the solenoid.

173
4.57 An iron cylinder 5cm in diameter and 100cm long is wound with
3000 turns in a single layer. The second layer of 100 turns of much
finer wire is wound over the first layer near its centre. Calculate the
mutual inductance between the coils (relative permeability of the
core = 500).
4.58 A student connects a long air core coil of manganin wire to a 100V
DC source and records a current of 1.5A. When the same coil is
connected across 100V, 50 Hz a.c. source, the current reduces to
1 A. Calculate the value of reactance and inductance of the coil.
4.59 An emf e = 100 sin 200 πt is connected to a circuit containing a
capacitance of 0.1µF and resistance of 500 Ω in series. Find the
power factor of the circuit.
4.60 The primary of a transformer has 400 turns while the secondary
has 2000 turns. If the power output from the secondary at 1100 V
is 12.1 KW, calculate the primary voltage. If the resistance of
primary is 0.2 Ω and that of secondary is 2 Ω and the efficiency
of the transformer is 90% calculate
(i) heat loss in the primary coil
(ii) heat loss in the secondary coil
4.61 A resistance of 50 Ω, an inductance of 0.5 H and a capacitance of
5 µF are connected in series with an a.c. supply of
e = 311 sin (314t). Find (i) frequency of a.c. supply (ii) maximum
voltage (iii) inductive reactance (iv) capacitive reactance (v)
impedance.
4.62 A radio can tune over the frequency range of a portion of broadcast
band (800 KHz to 1200 KHz). If its LC circuit has an effective
inductance of 200 µ H, what must be the range of its variable
capacitance?
4.63 A transformer has an efficiency of 80%. It is connected to a power
input of at 4 KW and 100 V. If the secondary voltage is 240 V.
Calculate the primary and secondary currents.
4.64 An electric lamp which works at 80 volt and 10 A D.C. is connected
to 100 V, 50 Hz alternating current. Calculate the inductance of the
choke required so that the bulb draws the same current of 10 A.

174
 Answers
4.1 (b) 4.2 (c) 4.3 (d) 4.4 (a) 4.5 (d)

4.6 (a) 4.7 (c) 4.8 (a) 4.9 (d) 4.10 (c)

4.11 (c) 4.12(c) 4.13 (b) 4.14 (a)

4.54 0.8 V and 4 mA 4.55 1 mV

4.56 0.52575 joule 4.57 0.37 H

4.58 74.54 Ω and 0.237 H 4.59 0.0314

4.60 220V, (i) 747 W (ii) 242 W

4.61 (i) 50 Hz (ii) 311 V (iii) 157 Ω (iv) 636.9 Ω (v) 482.5 Ω

4.62 87.9 pF to 198 pF

4.63 40 A, 13.3 A

4.64 0.019 H

175
 Nobel Laurate in Physics

Sir Chandrasekhara Venkata Raman

KL., MA., Ph.D., D.Sc., L.L.D., F.R.S.

176
 Chandrasekhara Venkata Raman was born at
Thiruchirapalli in Tamilnadu on 7th November, 1888. His father
Mr.R.Chandrasekara Iyer was a teacher. Venkata Raman had his
school education at Vizagapatnam, as his father worked as a
lecturer in Physics at that place. He completed his B.A., degree
with distinction in Presidency College, Chennai in 1904. Venkata
Raman continued his post-graduation in the same college and
passed the M.A., degree examination in January 1907 securing a
first class and obtaining record marks in his subjects.
Raman appeared for the finance examination in February
1907 and again secured the first place. He began his life as an
Assistant Accountant General in Calcutta in June 1907.
Eventhough, Raman worked as an officer in finance department,
he spent the morning and evening hours, out of office hours in
Physics laboratories. He converted a part of his house as a
laboratory and worked with improvised apparatus. Raman left
Government Service in July 1917 and joined as a Professor of
Physics in the University of Calcutta. The British Government
knighted him in 1929 as “Sir,” but he did not like the use of “Sir”
before his name.
The discovery of the Raman effect was not an accident, but
was the result of prolonged and patient research extending over
a period of nearly seven years. These researches began in the
summer of 1921. When, during the voyage made on the occasion
of his first visit to Europe, Raman’s attention was attracted to the
beautiful blue colour exhibited by the water of the deep sea. On
his return to India, he started a series of experimental and
theoretical studies on scattering of light by the molecules of
transparent media such as air, water or ice and quartz. The
experiment of Professor Raman revealed that the scattered light
is different from the incident light. This led to the discovery of a
new effect. For his investigation on the scattering of light and the
discovery of the effect known after him, Raman effect, Nobel
Prize was awarded to Raman on 10th December, 1930.
Sir. C.V. Raman joined the Indian Institute of Science
and Technology, Bangalore as its first Indian director in 1933.
He established a research laboratory known as Raman Institute in
1943. He continued his research, until death put a full stop to his
activities at the age of 82.

177
 5. Electromagnetic Waves and Wave optics

The phenomenon of Faraday’s electromagnetic induction

concludes that a changing magnetic field at a point with time produces
an electric field at that point. Maxwell in 1865, pointed out that there
is a symmetry in nature (i.e) changing electric field with time at a point
produces a magnetic field at that point. It means that a change in one
field with time (either electric or magnetic) produces another field. This
idea led Maxwell to conclude that the variation in electric and magnetic
fields perpendicular to each other, produces electromagnetic
disturbances in space. These disturbances have the properties of a
wave and propagate through space without any material medium.
These waves are called electromagnetic waves.
5.1.1 Electromagnetic waves
According to Maxwell, an accelerated charge is a source of
electromagnetic radiation.
In an electromagnetic wave, electric and magnetic field vectors are
at right angles to each
Y
other and both are at
B B
right angles to the E E
direction of propagation.
They possess the wave
X
character and propagate
through free space
E E
without any material Z B B
medium. These waves are
Fig 5.1 Electromagnetic waves.
transverse in nature.
→
Fig 5.1 shows the variation of electric field E along Y direction and
→
magnetic field B along Z direction and wave propagation in + X
direction.

178
5.1.2 Characteristics of electromagnetic waves
(i) Electromagnetic waves are produced by accelerated charges.
(ii) They do not require any material medium for propagation.
→ →
(iii) In an electromagnetic wave, the electric (E) and magnetic (B)
field vectors are at right angles to each other and to the direction of
propagation. Hence electromagnetic waves are transverse in nature.
→ →
(iv) Variation of maxima and minima in both E and B occur
simultaneously.
(v) They travel in vacuum or free space with a velocity
1
3 × 108 m s−1 given by the relation C = .
µ ε o o
(µo – permeability of free space and εo - permittivity of free
space)
(vi) The energy in an electromagnetic wave is equally divided
between electric and magnetic field vectors.
(vii) The electromagnetic waves being chargeless, are not deflected
by electric and magnetic fields.
5.1.3 Hertz experiment
The existence of electromagnetic waves was confirmed
experimentally by Hertz in 1888. This experiment is based on the fact
that an oscillating electric charge radiates electromagnetic waves. The
energy of these waves is due to the kinetic energy of the oscillating
charge.
The experimental arrangement is as shown in Fig 5.2. It consists
of two metal plates A and B placed at a distance of 60 cm from each
other. The metal plates are
connected to two polished metal A
spheres S1 and S2 by means of
thick copper wires. Using an To Induction
Coil S 1

induction coil a high potential S 2

difference is applied across the Detector

small gap between the spheres. B
Due to high potential
Fig 5.2 Hertz experiment
difference across S1 and S2, the
air in the small gap between the spheres gets ionized and provides a
path for the discharge of the plates. A spark is produced between
179
S1 and S2 and electromagnetic waves of high frequency are radiated.
Hertz was able to produce electromagnetic waves of frequency
about 5 × 107 Hz.
Here the plates A and B act as a capacitor having small
capacitance value C and the connecting wires provide low
inductance L. The high frequency oscillation of charges between the
1
plates is given by ν =
2π LC
5.1.4 Electromagnetic Spectrum
After the demonstration of electromagnetic waves by Hertz,
electromagnetic waves in different regions of wavelength were produced
by different ways of excitation.
Wavelength Frequency (Hz)
Gamma rays
22
10
1021
20
10
º X-rays 1019
1A 18
10
1 nm 17
10
Ultraviolet 1016
15
10
1 m 14
10
Visible light
Infrared 1013
12
10
1011
1 cm Microwaves
1010
9
10
1m
TV. FM 108
7
Radio waves 10
6
Standard broadcast 10
1 km
105
4
10
Long waves 3
10
Fig 5.3 Electromagnetic spectrum
180
 The orderly distribution of electromagnetic waves according to
their wavelength or frequency is called the electromagnetic spectrum.
Electromagnetic spectrum covers a wide range of wavelengths (or)
frequencies. The whole electromagnetic spectrum has been classified
into different parts and sub parts, in order of increasing wavelength
and type of excitation. All electromagnetic waves travel with the velocity
of light. The physical properties of electromagnetic waves are
determined by their wavelength and not by their method of excitation.
The overlapping in certain parts of the spectrum shows that the
particular wave can be produced by different methods.
Table 5.1 shows various regions of electromagnetic spectrum with
source, wavelength and frequency ranges of different electromagnetic
waves.
Table 5.1
(NOT FOR EXAMINATION)
Sl.No. Name Source Wavelength Frequency
range (m) range (Hz)
1. γ – rays Radioactive 10−14 − 10−10 3 × 1022 – 3x 1018
nuclei, nuclear
reactions
2. x − rays High energy 1 × 10−10–3 × 10−8 3 × 1018 – 1 × 1016
electrons suddenly
stopped by a metal
target
3. Ultra−violet Atoms and
(UV) molecules in an 6 x 10−10–4 × 10−7 5 x 1017 – 8 × 1014
electrical discharge
4. Visible light incandescent solids
Fluorescent 4 x 10−7 – 8 x 10−7 8 x 1014 – 4 x 1014
lamps
5. Infra−red (IR) molecules of 8 x 10−7 – 3x 10−5 4 x 1014 – 1 × 1013
hot bodies
6. Microwaves Electronic 10−3 – 0.3 3 x 1011 – 1 x 109
device
(Vacuum tube)
7. Radio charges 10−104 3 x 107 – 3 x 104
frequency accelerated through
waves conducting wires

181
5.1.5 Uses of electromagnetic spectrum
The following are some of the uses of electromagnetic waves.
1. Radio waves : These waves are used in radio and television
communication systems. AM band is from 530 kHz to 1710 kHz. Higher
frequencies upto 54 MHz are used for short waves bands.
Television waves range from 54 MHz to 890 MHz. FM band is
from 88 MHz to 108 MHz. Cellular phones use radio waves in ultra high
frequency (UHF) band.
2. Microwaves : Due to their short wavelengths, they are used
in radar communication system. Microwave ovens are an interesting
domestic application of these waves.
3. Infra red waves :
(i) Infrared lamps are used in physiotherapy.
(ii) Infrared photographs are used in weather forecasting.
(iii) As infrared radiations are not absorbed by air, thick fog, mist
etc, they are used to take photograph of long distance objects.
(iv) Infra red absorption spectrum is used to study the molecular
structure.
4. Visible light : Visible light emitted or reflected from objects
around us provides information about the world. The wavelength range
of visible light is 4000 Å to 8000 Å.
5. Ultra− violet radiations
(i) They are used to destroy the bacteria and for sterilizing
surgical instruments.
(ii) These radiations are used in detection of forged documents,
finger prints in forensic laboratories.
(iii) They are used to preserve the food items.
(iv) They help to find the structure of atoms.
6. X rays :
(i) X rays are used as a diagonistic tool in medicine.
(ii) It is used to study the crystal structure in solids.
7. γ−
γ−rays : Study of γ rays gives useful information about the
nuclear structure and it is used for treatment of cancer.

182
5.2 Types of spectra
When white light falls on a prism, placed in a spectrometer, the
waves of different wavelengths are deviated to different directions by
the prism. The image obtained in the field of view of the telescope
consists of a number of coloured images of the slit. Such an image is
called a spectrum.
If the slit is illuminated with light from sodium vapour lamp, two
images of the slit are obtained in the yellow region of the spectrum.
These images are the emission lines of sodium having wave lengths
5896Ao and 5890Ao. This is known as spectrum of sodium.
The spectra obtained from different bodies can be classified into
two types (i) emission spectra and (ii) absorption spectra.
(i) Emission spectra
When the light emitted directly from a source is examined with
a spectrometer, the emission spectrum is obtained. Every source has
its own characteristic emission spectrum.
The emission spectrum is of three types.
1. Continuous spectrum 2. Line spectrum and 3. Band spectrum
1. Continuous spectrum
It consists of unbroken luminous bands of all wavelengths
containing all the colours from violet to red. These spectra depend only
on the temperature of the source and is independent of the
characteristic of the source.
Incandescent solids, liquids, Carbon arc, electric filament lamps
etc, give continuous spectra.
2. Line spectrum
Line spectra are sharp lines of definite wavelengths. It is the
characteristic of the emitting substance. It is used to identify the gas.
Atoms in the gaseous
state, i.e. free excited atoms H H H H
emit line spectrum. The
substance in atomic state Fig 5.4 Line spectrum of hydrogen
such as sodium in sodium vapour lamp, mercury in mercury vapour
lamp and gases in discharge tube give line spectra (Fig. 5.4).

183
3. Band Spectrum
It consists of a number of bright bands with a sharp edge at one
end but fading out at the other end.
Band spectra are obtained from molecules. It is the characteristic
of the molecule. Calcium or Barium salts in a bunsen flame and gases
like carbon−di−oxide, ammonia and nitrogen in molecular state in the
discharge tube give band spectra. When the bands are examined with
high resolving power spectrometer, each band is found to be made of
a large number of fine lines, very close to each other at the sharp edge
but spaced out at the other end. Using band spectra the molecular
structure of the substance can be studied.
(ii) Absorption Spectra
When the light emitted from a source is made to pass through an
absorbing material and then examined with a spectrometer, the
obtained spectrum is called absorption spectrum. It is the
characteristic of the absorbing substance.
Absorption spectra is also of three types
1. continuous absorption spectrum
2. line absorption spectrum and
3. band absorption spectrum
1. Continuous absorption spectrum
A pure green glass plate when placed in the path of white light,
absorbs everything except green and gives continuous absorption
spectrum.
2. Line absorption spectrum
º
5896 A º
5890 A º
5896 A º
5890 A

Fig 5.5 Emission and absorption spectrum of sodium

When light from the carbon arc is made to pass through sodium
vapour and then examined by a spectrometer, a continuous spectrum
of carbon arc with two dark lines in the yellow region is obtained as
shown in Fig.5.5.
3. Band absorption spectrum
If white light is allowed to pass through iodine vapour or dilute
solution of blood or chlorophyll or through certain solutions of organic

184
and inorganic compounds, dark bands on continuous bright
background are obtained. The band absorption spectra are used for
making dyes.
5.2.1 Fraunhofer lines
If the solar spectrum is closely examined, it is found that it
consists of large number of dark lines. These dark lines in the solar
spectrum are called Fraunhofer lines. Solar spectrum is an example of
line absorption spectrum.
The central core of the sun is called photosphere which is at a
very high temperature of the order of 14 million kelvin. It emits
continuous spectrum. The sun’s outer layer is called chromosphere.
This is at a comparatively lower temperature at about 6000 K. It
contains various elements in gaseous state.
When light from the central core of the sun passes through sun’s
atmosphere, certain wavelengths are absorbed by the elements present
in the chromosphere and the spectrum is marked by dark lines.
By comparing the absorption spectra of various substances with
the Fraunhofer lines in the solar spectrum, the elements present in the
sun’s atmosphere have been identified.
5.2.2 Fluorescence
When an atomic or molecular system is excited into higher energy
state by absorption of energy, it returns back to lower energy state in
a time less than 10−5 second and the system is found to glow brightly
by emitting radiation of longer wavelength.
When ultra violet light is incident on certain substances, they
emit visible light.
It may be noted that fluorescence exists as long as the fluorescing
substance remain exposed to incident ultraviolet light and re-emission
of light stops as soon as incident light is cut off.
5.2.3 Phosphorescence
There are some substances in which the molecules are excited by
the absorption of incident ultraviolet light, and they do not return
immediately to their original state. The emission of light continues even
after the exciting radiation is removed. This type of delayed
fluorescence is called phosphorescence.

185
5.3 Theories of light
Any theory regarding propagation of light must explain the
properties of light. Since, light is a form of energy, it is transferred from
one place to another. Light does not require a material medium for its
propagation.
In general, there are two possible modes of propagation of energy
from one place to another (i) by stream of material particles moving
with a finite velocity (ii) by wave motion, wherein the matter through
which the wave propagates does not move along the direction of the
wave. The various theories of light put forward by famous physicists
are given below.
5.3.1 Corpuscular theory
According to Newton, a source of light or a luminous body
continuously emits tiny, massless (negligibly small mass) and perfectly
elastic particles called corpuscles. They travel in straight lines in a
homogeneous medium in all directions with the speed of light.
The corpuscles are so small that a luminous body does not suffer
any appreciable loss of mass even if it emits light for a long time.
Light energy is the kinetic energy of the corpuscles. The sense of
vision is produced, when the corpuscles impinge on the retina of the
eye. The sensation of different colours was due to different sizes of the
corpuscles. On account of high speed, they are unaffected by the force
of gravity and their path is a straight line. When the corpuscles
approach a surface between two media, they are either attracted or
repelled. Reflection of the particles is due to repulsion and refraction
is due to attraction.
According to this theory, the velocity of light in the denser
medium is greater than the velocity of light in rarer medium. But the
experimental results of Foucault and Michelson showed that velocity of
light in a denser medium is lesser than that in a rarer medium.
Further, this theory could not explain the phenomena of interference,
diffraction and polarisation.
5.3.2 Wave theory
According to Huygens, light is propagated in the form of waves,
through a continuous medium. Huygens assumed the existence of an
invisible, elastic medium called ether, which pervades all space. The

186
disturbance from the source is propagated in the form of waves through
space and the energy is distributed equally in all directions. Huygens
assumed these waves to be longitudinal. Initially rectilinear propagation of
light could not be explained. But the difficulty was overcome when Fresnel
and Young suggested that light waves are transverse. The wave theory
could satisfactorily explain all the basic properties, which were earlier
proved by corpuscular theory and in addition, it explains the phenomena
of interference, diffraction and polarisation.
According to Huygens, the velocity of light in a denser medium is
lesser than that in a rarer medium. This is in accordance with the
experimental result of Foucault.
5.3.3 Electromagnetic theory
Maxwell showed that light was an electromagnetic wave,
conveying electromagnetic energy and not mechanical energy as
believed by Huygens, Fresnel and others. He showed that the variation
of electric and magnetic intensities had precisely the same
characteristics as a transverse wave motion. He also showed that no
medium was necessary for the propagation of electromagnetic waves.
5.3.4 Quantum theory
The electromagnetic theory, however failed to account for the
phenomenon of photo electric effect. In 1900, Planck had suggested
that energy was emitted and absorbed, not continuously but in
multiples of discrete pockets of energy called Quantum which could not
be subdivided into smaller parts. In 1905, Einstein extended this idea
and suggested that light waves consist of small pockets of energy called

Fig 5.6 Wave and Quantum nature

187
photons. The energy associated with each photon is E = h ν , where h
is Planck’s constant (h = 6.626 × 10–34 J s) and ν is the frequency of
the electromagnetic radiation.
It is now established that photon seems to have a dual character.
It behaves as particles in the region of higher energy and as waves in
the region of lower energy (Fig. 5.6).

5.4 Scattering of light

Lord Rayleigh was the first to deal with scattering of light by air
molecules. The scattering of sunlight by the molecules of the gases in
Earth’s atmosphere is called Rayleigh scattering.
The basic process in scattering is absorption of light by the
molecules followed by its re-radiation in different directions. The
strength of scattering depends on the wavelength of the light and also
the size of the particle which cause scattering.
The amount of scattering is inversely proportional to the fourth
power of the wavelength. This is known as Rayleigh scattering law.
Hence, the shorter wavelengths are scattered much more than the
longer wavelengths. The blue appearance of sky is due to scattering of
sunlight by the atmosphere. According to Rayleigh’s scattering law,
blue light is scattered to a greater extent than red light. This scattered
radiation causes the sky to appear blue.
At sunrise and sunset the rays from the sun have to travel a
larger part of the atmosphere than at noon. Therefore most of the blue
light is scattered away and only the red light which is least scattered
reaches the observer. Hence, sun appears reddish at sunrise and
sunset.
5.4.1 Tyndal scattering
When light passes through a colloidal solution its path is visible
inside the solution. This is because, the light is scattered by the particles
of solution. The scattering of light by the colloidal particles is called Tyndal
scattering.
5.4.2 Raman effect
In 1928, Sir C.V. Raman discovered experimentally, that the
monochromatic light is scattered when it is allowed to pass through a
substance. The scattered light contains some additional frequencies

188
other than that of incident frequency. This is known as Raman effect.
The lines whose frequencies have been modified in Raman effect
are called Raman lines. The lines having frequencies lower than the
incident frequency are called Stoke’s lines and the lines having
frequencies higher than the incident frequency are called Anti−stokes
lines. This series of lines in the scattering of light by the atoms and
molecules is known as Raman Spectrum.
The Raman effect can be easily understood, by considering the
scattering of photon of the incident light with the atoms or molecules.
Let the incident light consist of photons of energy hνo.
1. If a photon strikes an atom or a molecule in a liquid, part of
the energy of the incident photon may be used to excite the atom of the
liquid and the rest is scattered. The spectral line will have lower
frequency and it is called stokes line.
2. If a photon strikes an atom or a molecule in a liquid, which is in
an excited state, the scattered photon gains energy. The spectral line will
have higher frequency and it is called Anti−stoke’s line.
3. In some cases, when a light photon strikes atoms or molecules,
photons may be scattered elastically. Then the photons neither gain nor
Virtual level
Virtual level Virtual level

hνo hνS hνAS

ν ν ν
3 3 3
hνo 2 hνo 2 hνo 2
1 1 1
0 0 0
Rayleigh line Stokes line Anti -stokes
line
(ν = 0, 1, 2 .... are the vibration levels of the ground electronic state.)
Fig 5.7 Raman Spectrum

189
lose energy. The spectral line will have unmodified frequency.
If νo is the frequency of incident radiation and νs the frequency of
scattered radiation of a given molecular sample, then Raman Shift or
Raman frequency ∆ν is given by the relation ∆ν = νο − νs.
The Raman shift does not depend upon the frequency of the
incident light but it is the characteristic of the substance producing
Raman effect. For Stoke’s lines, ∆ν is positive and for Anti–stoke’s lines
∆ν is negative.
The intensity of Stoke’s line is always greater than the
corresponding Anti−stoke’s Line. The different processes giving rise to
Rayleigh, Stoke’s and Anti-stokes lines are shown in Fig 5.7.
When a system interacts with a radiation of frequency νo, it may
make an upward transition to a virtual state. A virtual state is not one
of the stationary states of the molecule. Most of the molecules of the
system return back to the original state from the virtual state which
corresponds to Rayleigh scattering. A small fraction may return to
states of higher and lower energy giving rise to Stoke’s line and Anti-
stoke’s line respectively.
5.4.3 Applications of Raman Spectrum
(i) It is widely used in almost all branches of science.
(ii) Raman Spectra of different substances enable to classify them
according to their molecular structure.
(iii) In industry, Raman Spectroscopy is being applied to study the
properties of materials.
(iv) It is used to analyse the chemical constitution.
5.5 Wave front
When a stone is dropped in a still
water, waves spread out along the surface
of water in all directions with same velocity.
Every particle on the surface vibrates. At
any instant, a photograph of the surface of
water would show circular rings on which
the disturbance is maximum (Fig. 5.8). It
is clear that all the particles on such a
circle are vibrating in phase, because these Fig 5.8 Water waves
particles are at the same distance from the source. Such a surface
which envelopes the particles that are in the same state of vibration is

190
known as a wave front. The wave front at any instant is defined as the
locus of all the particles of the medium which are in the same state of
vibration.
A point source of light at a finite distance in an isotropic medium*
emits a spherical wave front (Fig 5.9a). A point source of light in an
isotropic medium at infinite distance will give rise to plane wavefront
(Fig. 5.9b). A linear source of light such as a slit illuminated by a lamp,
will give rise to cylindrical wavefront (Fig 5.9c).

Source
Rays

Source

(a) (b)
(c)
Fig 5.9 Wavefront
5.5.1 Huygen’s principle
Huygen’s principle helps us to locate the new position and shape of
the wavefront at any instant, knowing its position and shape at any
previous instant. In other words, it describes the progress of a wave front
in a medium.
Huygen’s principle states that, (i) every point on a given wave front
may be considered as a source of secondary wavelets which spread out
with the speed of light in that medium and (ii) the new wavefront is the
forward envelope of the secondary wavelets at that instant.
Huygen’s construction for a spherical and plane wavefront is
shown in Fig. 5.10a. Let AB represent a given wavefront at a time
t = 0. According to Huygen’s principle, every point on AB acts as a
source of secondary wavelets which travel with the speed of light c. To
find the position of the wave front after a time t, circles are drawn with
points P, Q, R ... etc as centres on AB and radii equal to ct. These are
the traces of secondary wavelets. The arc A1B1 drawn as a forward
envelope of the small circles is the new wavefront at that instant. If the
source of light is at a large distance, we obtain a plane wave front
A1 B1 as shown in Fig 5.10b.
* Isotropic medium is the medium in which the light travels with same
speed in all directions.

191
 A A1

A1
A P

P
Q
Q

R
R
B
B1
B B1
(a) (b)
Fig 5.10 Huygen’s principle

5.5.2 Reflection of a plane wave front at a plane surface

Let XY be a plane reflecting surface and AB be a plane wavefront
incident on the surface at A. PA and QBC are perpendiculars drawn to
AB at A and B respectively. Hence they represent incident rays. AN is
the normal drawn to the surface. The wave front and the surface are
perpendicular to the plane of the paper (Fig. 5.11).
According to Huygen’s principle each point on the wavefront acts
as the source of secondary wavelet. By the time, the secondary wavelets
from B travel a distance BC, the secondary wavelets from A on the
reflecting surface would travel the same distance BC after reflection.
Taking A as centre and BC as radius an arc is drawn. From C a tangent
CD is drawn to this arc. This tangent CD not only envelopes the
wavelets from C and A but also the wavelets from all the points
between C and A. Therefore CD is the reflected plane wavefront and AD
is the reflected ray.
Laws of reflection
(i) The incident wavefront AB, the reflected wavefront CD and the
reflecting surface XY all lie in the same plane.
(ii) Angle of incidence i = ∠ PAN = 900 − ∠ NAB = ∠ BAC
Angle of reflection r = ∠ NAD = 900 − ∠ DAC = ∠ DCA
In right angled triangles ABC and ADC

192
 0
∠B = ∠ D = 90
BC = AD and AC is common
∴ The two triangles are congruent
∠ BAC = ∠ DCA
i.e. i = r
Thus the angle of incidence is equal to angle of reflection.
Q
N
M
D
B
P E
i r
i r
X Y
A C
Fig 5.11 Reflection of a plane wavefront at a plane surface.

5.5.3 Refraction of a plane wavefront at a plane surface

Let XY be a plane refracting surface separating two media 1 and
2 of refractive indices µ1 and µ2 (Fig 5.12). The velocities of light in
these two media are respectively c1 and c2. Consider a plane wave
front AB incident on the refracting surface at A. PA and QBC are
perpendiculars drawn to AB at A and B respectively. Hence they
represent incident rays. NAN1 is the normal drawn to the surface. The
wave front and the surface are perpendicular to the plane of the paper.
According to Huygen’s
Q
principle each point on the wave N
front act as the source of 1
secondary wavelet. By the time, P C1
the secondary wavelets from B, B
reaches C, the secondary wavelets i
from the point A would travel a i C
X A r Y
distance AD = C2t, where t is the
time taken by the wavelets to r
D 2
travel the distance BC.
N1 C2
∴ BC = C1t and AD = C2t =
BC Fig 5.12 Refraction of a plane
C2 . Taking A as centre and wavefront at the plane surface.
C1

193
 BC
C2 as radius an arc is drawn in the second medium. From C a
C1
tangent CD is drawn to this arc. This tangent CD not only envelopes
the wavelets from C and A but also the wavelets from all the points
between C and A. Therefore CD is the refracted plane wavefront and AD
is the refracted ray.
Laws of refraction
(i) The incident wave front AB, the refracted wave front CD and
the refracting surface XY all lie in the same plane.
(ii) Angle of incidence i = ∠ PAN = 900 − ∠ NAB = ∠ BAC
Angle of refraction r = ∠ N1AD = 900 − ∠ DAC = ∠ ACD

sin i BC / AC BC BC C
= = = = 1 = a constant = 1µ2
sin r AD / AC AD C2 C2
BC .
C1
µ
1 2 is called the refractive index of second medium with respect
to first medium. This is Snell’s law of refraction.
If 1µ2 > 1, the first medium is rarer and the second medium is
C1
denser. Then C > 1. This means that the velocity of light in rarer
2

medium is greater than that in a denser medium. This conclusion from

wave theory is in agreement with the result of Foucault’s experiment.
It is clear from above discussions that the refractive index of a
medium µm is given by

velocity of light in vacuum Ca

µm = =
velocity of light in the medium Cm
The frequency of a wave does not change when a wave is reflected
or refracted from a surface, but wavelength changes on refraction.
Ca νλa λa
i.e. µm = C = νλ = λ
m m m

λa
∴ λm = µ
m

where λa and λm are the wavelengths in air and medium

respectively.

194
5.5.4 Total internal reflection by wave theory
Let XY be a plane surface which separates a rarer medium (air)
and a denser medium. Let the velocity of the wavefront in these media
be Ca and Cm respectively.
A plane wavefront AB passes from denser medium to rarer
medium. It is incident on the surface with angle of incidence i. Let r
be the angle of refraction.

sin i (BC / AC ) BC c m t c m
= = = =
sin r ( AD / AC ) AD c a t ca

RARER
D
r r =90º D
r C A
X A i Y A YX Y
X i C C
i i>C
B
i=C
B B
D
DENSER

(a) (b) (c)

Fig 5.13 Total internal reflection
cm
Since < 1 , i is less than r. This means that the refracted
ca
wavefront is deflected away from the surface XY.
In right angled triangle ADC, there are three possibilities
(i) AD < AC (ii) AD = AC and (iii) AD > AC
(i) AD < AC : For small values of i, BC will be small and so
AD > BC but less than AC (Fig. 5.13a)
AD
sin r = , which is less than unity
AC
i.e r < 900
For each value of i, for which r < 900, a refracted wavefront is
possible
(ii) AD = AC : As i increases r also increases. When AD = AC,
sin r = 1 (or) r = 900. i.e a refracted wavefront is just possible
(Fig. 5.13b). Now the refracted ray grazes the surface of separation of
the two media. The angle of incidence at which the angle of refraction
is 900 is called the critical angle C.
195
 (iii) AD > AC : When AD > AC, sin r > 1. This is not possible
(Fig 5.13c). Therefore no refracted wave front is possible, when the angle
of incidence increases beyond the critical angle. The incident wavefront
is totally reflected into the denser medium itself. This is called total
internal reflection.
Hence for total internal reflection to take place (i) light must travel
from a denser medium to a rarer medium and (ii) the angle of incidence
inside the denser medium must be greater than the critical angle. i.e i > C.
5.6 Superposition principle
When two or more waves simultaneously pass through the same
medium, each wave acts on every particle of the medium, as if the
other waves are not present. The resultant displacement of any particle
is the vector addition of the displacements due to the individual waves.
Y
Y2
Y2
Y
Y1

Y1

Fig 5.14 Superposition principle

→ →
This is known as principle of superposition. If Y1 and Y2 represent the
individual displacement then the resultant displacement is given by
→ → →
Y = Y1 + Y2
5.6.1 Coherent sources
Two sources are said to be coherent if they emit light waves of the
same wave length and start with same phase or have a constant phase
difference.
Two independent monochromatic sources, emit waves of same
wave length. But the waves are not in phase. So they are not coherent.
This is because, atoms cannot emit light waves in same phase and
these sources are said to be incoherent sources.
5.6.2 Phase difference and path difference
A wave of length λ corresponds to a phase of 2π. A distance of δ
2π
corresponds to a phase of φ = × δ
λ

196
5.6.3 Interference of light
Two slits A and B
illuminated by a single
monochromatic source S act as
A
coherent sources. The waves from
these two coherent sources travel S
B
in the same medium and
superpose at various points as
shown in Fig. 5.15. The crest of
the wavetrains are shown by
thick continuous lines and Fig 5.15 Interference phenomenon
troughs are shown by broken lines. At points where the crest of one
wave meets the crest of the other wave or the trough of one wave meets
the trough of the other wave, the waves are in phase, the displacement
is maximum and these points appear bright. These points are marked
by crosses (x). This type of interference is said to be constructive
interference.
At points where the crest of one wave meets the trough of the other
wave, the waves are in opposite phase, the displacement is minimum and
these points appear dark. These points are marked by circles (O). This
type of interference is said to be destructive interference. Therefore, on a
screen XY the intensity of light will be alternatively maximum and
minimum i.e. bright and dark bands which are referred as interference
fringes. The redistribution of intensity of light on account of the
superposition of two waves is called interference.
The intensity of light (I) at a point due to a wave of amplitude (a)
is given by I ∝ a2.
If a1 and a2 are the amplitude of the two interfering waves, then
I1 ∝ a12 and I2 ∝ a22
I1 a12
∴ =
I 2 a22
For constructive interference, Imax ∝ (a1 + a2)2 and for destructive
interference, Imin ∝ (a1 – a2)2

Imax (a1 + a2 )2
∴ =
Imin (a1 − a2 )2

197
5.6.4 Condition for sustained interference
The interference pattern in which the positions of maximum and
minimum intensity of light remain fixed with time, is called sustained
or permanent interference pattern. The conditions for the formation of
sustained interference may be stated as :
(i) The two sources should be coherent
(ii) Two sources should be very narrow
(iii) The sources should lie very close to each other to form
distinct and broad fringes.
5.6.5 Young’s double slit experiment
The phenomenon of interference Y
was first observed and demonstrated
by Thomas Young in 1801. The A
experimental set up is shown in
Fig 5.16. P
S
Light from a narrow slit S, B
illuminated by a monochromatic
source, is allowed to fall on two
narrow slits A and B placed very close X
to each other. The width of each slit is Fig 5.16 Young’s double slit
about 0.03 mm and they are about experiment
0.3 mm apart. Since A and B are equidistant from S, light waves from
S reach A and B in phase. So A and B act as coherent sources.
According to Huygen’s principle, wavelets from A and B spread
out and overlapping takes place to the right side of AB. When a screen
XY is placed at a distance of about 1 metre from the slits, equally
spaced alternate bright and dark fringes appear on the screen. These
are called interference fringes or bands. Using an eyepiece the fringes
can be seen directly. At P on the screen, waves from A and B travel
equal distances and arrive in phase. These two waves constructively
interfere and bright fringe is observed at P. This is called central bright
fringe.
When one of the slits is covered, the fringes disappear and there
is uniform illumination on the screen. This shows clearly that the
bands are due to interference.

198
5.6.6 Expression for bandwidth
Let d be the distance between two coherent sources A and B of
wavelength λ. A screen XY is placed parallel to AB at a distance D from
the coherent sources. C is the mid point of AB. O is a point on the
screen equidistant from A and B. P is a point at a distance x from O,
as shown in Fig 5.17. Waves from A and B meet at P in phase or out
of phase depending upon the path difference between two waves.
X

P
Dark fringe
x
A
Central
d C bright
O fringe
M
B
Bright fringe

D
Y

Fig 5.17 Interference band width

Draw AM perpendicular to BP
The path difference δ = BP – AP
AP = MP
∴ δ = BP – AP = BP – MP = BM
In right angled ∆ ABM, BM = d sin θ
If θ is small, sin θ = θ
∴ The path difference δ = θ.d
OP x
In right angled triangle COP, tan θ = =
CO D
For small values of θ, tan θ = θ

xd
∴ The path difference δ =
D
Bright fringes
By the principle of interference, condition for constructive
interference is the path difference = nλ

199
 xd
∴ = nλ
D
where n = 0,1,2 … indicate the order of bright fringes.
D
∴ x = nλ
d
This equation gives the distance of the nth bright fringe from the
point O.
Dark fringes
By the principle of interference, condition for destructive
λ
interference is the path difference = (2n−1)
2
where n = 1,2,3 … indicate the order of the dark fringes.
D λ
∴ x (2n − 1)
=
d 2
This equation gives the distance of the nth dark fringe from the
point O. Thus, on the screen alternate dark and bright bands are seen
on either side of the central bright band.
Band width (β )
The distance between any two consecutive bright or dark bands
is called bandwidth.
The distance between (n+1)th and nth order consecutive bright
fringes from O is given by
D D D
x(n+1) – xn = (n + 1)λ − n λ = λ
d d d
D
Bandwitdth, β = λ
d
Similarly, it can be proved that the distance between two
Dλ
consecutive dark bands is also equal to . Since bright and dark
d
fringes are of same width, they are equi−spaced on either side of central
maximum.
Condition for obtaining clear and broad interference bands
(i) The screen should be as far away from the source as possible.
(ii) The wavelength of light used must be larger.
(iii) The two coherent sources must be as close as possible.

200
5.6.7 Colours of thin films
Everyone is familiar with the brilliant colours exhibited by a thin
oil film spread on the surface of water and also by a soap bubble. These
colours are due to interference between light waves reflected from the
top and the bottom surfaces of thin films. When white light is incident
on a thin film, the film appears coloured and the colour depends upon
the thickness of the film and also the angle of incidence of the light.
Interference in thin films
Consider a transparent thin film of uniform thickness t and its
refractive index µ bounded by two plane surfaces K and K′ (Fig 5.18).
A ray of monochromatic light AB incident on the surface K of the
film is partly reflected along BC and partly refracted into the film along
BD. At the point D on the surface K′, the ray of light is partly reflected
along DE and partly transmitted out of the film along DG. The reflected
light then emerges into air along EF which is parallel to BC. The ray
EH after refraction at H, finally emerges along HJ.
BC and EF are
reflected rays parallel to
C
each other and DG and M
A F
HJ are transmitted rays
i
parallel to each other. i
K L
Rays BC and EF interfere B E
and similarly the rays DG t r
and HJ interfere. r
H
K′
Interference due to the D
reflected beam J
N
EM is drawn normal
G
to BC from E. Now the Fig 5.18 Interference in thin films
path difference between
the waves BC and EF
δ = (BD+DE)in film – (BM)in air
We know, that a distance in air is numerically equal to µ times
the distance in medium
δ = µ (BD + DE) – BM

201
 From the figure, it is clear that BD = DE
∴ δ = (2µ . BD) – BM
BM ⎡ sin i ⎤
In the ∆ BME, sin i =
BE ⎢⎣∵ µ = sin r ⎥⎦
BM = BE sin i = BE . µ sin r
BM = µ . BE sin r
1
BE
BL
In the ∆ BDL, sin r = = 2
BD BD
BE = 2 (BD) sin r
∴ BM = µ(2BD) sin2r
∴ δ = 2µBD – 2µBD sin2r
δ = 2µBD cos2r
DL t
In the ∆ BDL, cos r = =
BD BD
∴ δ = 2µt cos r
A ray of light travelling in air and getting reflected at the surface
of a denser medium, undergoes an automatic phase change of π (or) an
additional path difference of λ/2.
Since the reflection at B is at the surface of a denser medium,
λ
there is an additional path difference .
2
λ
The effective path difference in this case, δ = 2µt cos r +
2
(i) For the constructive interference, path difference δ = nλ, where
n = 0,1,2,3 and the film appears bright
λ
2µt cos r + = nλ
2
λ
∴ 2µt cos r = (2n–1)
2
(ii) For the destructive interference, path difference
λ
δ = (2n+1)
2
where n = 0, 1, 2, 3 … and the film appers dark.
λ λ
2µt cos r + = (2n+1)
2 2

202
 ∴ 2µt cos r = nλ
If light is incident normally i = 0 and hence r = 0. Therefore the
λ
condition for bright fringe is 2µt = (2n–1) and for dark fringe
2
is 2µt = nλ.
Interference due to the transmitted light
The path difference between the transmitted rays DG and HJ is,
in a similar way, δ = 2µt cos r. In this case there is no additional path
difference introduced because both reflections at the point D and E
take place backed by rarer medium
Hence, condition for brightness is 2 µt cos r = nλ and condition
λ
for darkness is 2µt cos r = (2n – 1)
2
5.6.8 Newton’s rings
An important application of interference in thin films is the
formation of Newton’s rings. When a plano convex lens of long focal
length is placed over an optically plane glass plate, a thin air film with
varying thickness is enclosed between them. The thickness of the air
film is zero at the point of contact and gradually increases outwards
from the point of contact. When the air film is illuminated by
monochromatic light normally, alternate bright and dark concentric
circular rings are formed with dark spot at the centre. These rings are
known as Newton’s rings. When viewed with white light, the fringes are
coloured (shown in the wrapper of the text book).
Experiment
Fig 5.19 shows an experimental arrangement for producing and
observing Newton’s rings. A monochromatic source of light S is kept at
the focus of a condensing lens L1. The parallel beam of light emerging
from L1 falls on the glass plate G kept at 45o. The glass plate reflects
a part of the incident light vertically downwards, normally on the thin
air film, enclosed by the plano convex lens L and plane glass plate P.
The reflected beam from the air film is viewed with a microscope.
Alternate bright and dark circular rings with dark spot as centre is
seen.

203
 M

L1

45º
S

L Air film
P
O
Fig 5.19 Newton’s rings
Theory
The formation of Newton’s rings can be explained on the basis of
interference between waves which are partially reflected from the top
and bottom surfaces of the air film. If t is the thickness of the air film
at a point on the film, the refracted wavelet from the lens has to travel
a distance t into the film and after reflection from the top surface of the
glass plate, has to travel the same distance back to reach the point
again.
Thus, it travels a total path 2t. One of the two reflections takes
place at the surface of the denser medium and hence it introduces an
additional phase change of π or an equivalent path difference
λ
between two wavelets.
2
∴ The condition for brightness is,
λ
Path difference, δ = 2t + = nλ
2
λ
∴ 2t = (2n–1)
2
where n = 1, 2, 3 … and λ is the wavelength of light used.

204
 The condition for darkness is,
λ λ
path difference δ = 2t + = (2n+1)
2 2
∴ 2t = nλ
where n = 0, 1, 2, 3 ....
The thickness of the air film at the point of contact of lens L with
glass plate P is zero. Hence, there is no path difference between the
interfering waves. So, it should appear bright. But the wave reflected
from the denser glass plate has suffered a phase change of π while the
wave reflected at the spherical surface of the lens has not suffered any
phase change. Hence the point O appears dark. Around the point of
contact alternate bright and dark rings are formed.
5.6.9 Expression for the radius of the nth dark ring
Let us consider the vertical section SOP of the plano convex lens
through its centre of curvature C, as shown in Fig 5.20. Let R be the
radius of curvature of the plano convex lens and O be the point of
contact of the lens with the plane surface. Let t be the thickness of the
air film at S and P. Draw ST and PQ perpendiculars to the plane
surface of the glass plate. Then ST = AO = PQ = t
Let rn be the radius of the nth dark ring which passes through
the points S and P.
Then SA = AP = rn
If ON is the vertical diameter of the circle, then by the law of
segments
SA. AP = OA. AN
rn2 = t(2R–t)
rn2 = 2 Rt (neglecting t2 comparing with 2R)
N
r 2
2t = n
R
According to the condition for darkness C

2t = nλ S A P
t
rn 2
∴ = nλ T O Q
R
Fig 5.20 Radius of
rn2 = nRλ or rn = nR λ
Newton’s rings

205
 Since R and λ are constants, we find that the radius of the dark
ring is directly proportional to square root of its order. i.e. r1 ∝ 1, r2 ∝
2, r3 ∝ 3, and so on. It is clear that the rings get closer as n increases.
5.6.10 Applications of Newtons rings
(i) Using the method of Newton’s rings, the wavelength of a given
monochromatic source of light can be determined. The radius of nth
dark ring and (n+m)th dark ring are given by
rn2 = nRλ and r2n+m = (n+m) Rλ
rn+m2 – rn2 = mRλ
rn +m 2 − rn 2
∴ λ =
mR
Knowing rn+m, rn and R, the wavelength can be calculated.
(ii) Using Newton’s rings, the refractive index of a liquid can
calculated. Let λa and λm represent the wavelength of light in air and
in medium (liquid). If rn is the radius of the nth dark ring in air and
if r′ n is the radius of the nth dark ring in liquid, then
rn 2 = nR λa
nR λa λ
r′
2
= nR λ = [∵ µ = a ]
n m µ λm
2
rn
∴ µ = 1
2
r n

5.7 Diffraction
Sound is propagated in the form of waves. Sound produced in an
adjoining room reaches us after bending round the edges of the walls.
Similarly, waves on the surface of water also bend round the edges of
an obstacle and spread into the region behind it. This bending of waves
around the edges of an obstacle is called diffraction. Diffraction is a
characteristic property of waves. The waves are diffracted, only when
the size of the obstacle is comparable to the wavelength of the wave.
Fresnel showed that the amount of bending produced at an
obstacle depends upon the wavelength of the incident wave. Since the
sound waves have a greater wavelength, the diffraction effects are
pronounced. As the wavelength of light is very small, compared to that
of sound wave and even tiny obstacles have large size, compared to the
wavelength of light waves, diffraction effects of light are very small.

206
 In practice, diffraction of light can be observed by looking at a
source of white light through a fine piece of cloth. A series of coloured
images are observed.
5.7.1 Fresnel and Fraunhofer diffraction
Diffraction phenomenon can be classified under two groups
(i) Fresnel diffraction and (ii) Fraunhofer diffraction. In the Fresnel
diffraction, the source and the screen are at finite distances from the
obstacle producing diffraction. In such a case the wave front
undergoing diffraction is either spherical or cylindrical. In the
Fraunhofer diffraction, the source and the screen are at infinite
distances from the obstacle producing diffraction. Hence in this case
the wavefront undergoing diffraction is plane. The diffracted rays which
are parallel to one another are brought to focus with the help of a
convex lens. Fraunhofer pattern is easier to observe practically by a
spectrometer.
5.7.2 Diffraction grating
An arrangement consisting of a large number of equidistant
parallel narrow slits of equal width separated by equal opaque portions
is known as a diffraction grating.
The plane transmission grating is a plane sheet of transparent
material on which opaque rulings are made with a fine diamond
pointer. The modern commercial form of grating contains about 6000
lines per centimetre.
The rulings act as obstacles having a definite width ‘b’ and the
transparent space between the rulings act as slit of width ‘a’. The
combined width of a ruling and a slit is called grating element (e).
Points on successive slits separated by a distance equal to the grating
element are called corresponding points.
Theory
MN represents the section of a plane transmission grating. AB,
CD, EF … are the successive slits of equal width a and BC, DE … be
the rulings of equal width b (Fig. 5.21). Let e = a + b.
Let a plane wave front of monochromatic light of wave length λ be
incident normally on the grating. According to Huygen’s principle, the
points in the slit AB, CD … etc act as a source of secondary wavelets
which spread in all directions on the other side of the grating.

207
 M P2
A
P1
a B
b C
G
D O
E

F P1

P2
N

Fig 5.21 Diffraction grating

Let us consider the secondary diffracted wavelets, which makes
an angle θ with the normal to the grating.
The path difference between the wavelets from one pair of
corresponding points A and C is CG = (a + b) sin θ. It will be seen that
the path difference between waves from any pair of corresponding
points is also (a + b) sin θ
The point P1 will be bright, when
(a + b) sin θ = m λ where m = 0, 1, 2, 3
In the undiffracted position θ = 0 and hence sin θ = 0.
(a + b) sin θ = 0, satisfies the condition for brightness for
m = 0. Hence the wavelets proceeding in the direction of the incident
rays will produce maximum intensity at the centre O of the screen. This
is called zero order maximum or central maximum.
If (a + b) sin θ1 = λ, the diffracted wavelets inclined at an angle
θ1 to the incident direction, reinforce and the first order maximum is
obtained.
Similarly, for second order maximum, (a + b) sin θ2 = 2λ
On either side of central maxima different orders of secondary
maxima are formed at the point P1, P2.
In general, (a + b) sin θ = m λ is the condition for maximum
intensity, where m is an integer, the order of the maximum intensity.
mλ
sin θ = or sin θ = Nmλ
a +b

208
 1
where N = , gives the number of grating element or number
a +b
of lines per unit width of the grating.
When white light is used, the diffraction pattern consists of a
white central maximum and on both sides continuous coloured images
are formed.
In the undiffracted position, θ = 0 and hence sin θ = 0. Therefore
sin θ = Nmλ is satisfied for m= 0 for all values of λ. Hence, at O all the
wavelengths reinforce each other producing maximum intensity for all
wave lengths. Hence an undispersed white image is obtained.
λ
As θ increases, (a + b) sin θ first passes through values for all
2
colours from violet to red and hence darkness results. As θ further
increases, (a + b) sin θ passes through λ values of all colours resulting
in the formation of bright images producing a spectrum from violet to
red. These spectra are formed on either side of white, the central
maximum.
5.7.3 Experiment to determine the
wavelength of monochromatic light using a S
plane transmission grating.
The wavelength of a spectral line can be
very accurately determined with the help of a C
diffraction grating and spectrometer.
Initially all the preliminary adjustments of
the spectrometer are made. The slit of collimator
is illuminated by a monochromatic light, whose
wavelength is to be determined. The telescope is
brought in line with collimator to view the direct
2 2
image. The given plane transmission grating is
1 1
then mounted on the prism table with its plane
is perpendicular to the incident beam of light
coming from the collimator. The telescope is T T
Direct
slowly turned to one side until the first order ray
diffraction image coincides with the vertical Fig 5.22 Diffraction
cross wire of the eye piece. The reading of the of monochromatic
position of the telescope is noted (Fig. 5.22). light

209
Similarly the first order diffraction image on the other side, is made to
coincide with the vertical cross wire and corresponding reading is
noted. The difference between two positions gives 2θ. Half of its value
gives θ, the diffraction angle for first order maximum. The wavelength
sin θ
of light is calculated from the equation λ = . Here N is the number
Nm
of rulings per metre in the grating.

5.7.4 Determination of wavelengths of spectral lines of white light

Monochromatic light is now replaced by the given source of white
light. The source emits radiations of different wavelengths, then the
beam gets dispersed by grating and a spectrum of constituent
wavelengths is obtained as shown in Fig 5.23.
R2 Second Order
Grating
V2
R1
First Order
2 V1

1 Zero Order
1 (Central Maximum)

2 V1
First Order
R1

V2

R2 Second Order

Fig 5.23 Diffraction of white light

knowing N, wave length of any line can be calculated from the
relation
sin θ
λ=
Nm
5.7.5 Difference between interference and diffraction
Interference Diffraction
1. It is due to the superposition of It is due to the superposition
secondary wavelets from two of secondary wavelets emitted
different wavefronts produced from various points of the
by two coherent sources. same wave front.
2. Fringes are equally spaced. Fringes are unequally spaced.
3. Bright fringes are of same Intensity falls rapidly
intensity
4. Comparing with diffraction, it It has less number of fringes.
has large number of fringes
210
5.8. Polarisation
The phenomena of reflection, refraction, interference, diffraction
are common to both transverse waves and longitudinal waves. But the
transverse nature of light waves is demonstrated only by the
phenomenon of polarisation.
5.8.1 Polarisation of transverse waves.
Let a rope AB be passed through two parallel vertical slits S1 and
S2 placed close to each other. The rope is fixed at the end B. If the free
end A of the rope is moved up and down perpendicular to its length,
transverse waves are
generated with
vibrations parallel to
the slit. These waves B
D
pass through both S1 A
C
and S2 without any
change in their
amplitude. But if S2 is S1 S2
made horizontal, the (a)
two slits are
perpendicular to each
other. Now, no
vibrations will pass D B
through S2 and A C
amplitude of vibra-
tions will become zero.
S1 S2
i.e the portion S2B is
without wave motion (b)
as shown in fig 5.24. Fig 5.24 Polarisation of transverse waves
On the otherhand, if longitudinal waves are generated in the rope
by moving the rope along forward and backward, the vibrations will
pass through S1 and S2 irrespective of their positions.
This implies that the orientation of the slits has no effect on the
propagation of the longitudinal waves, but the propagation of the
transverse waves, is affected if the slits are not parallel to each other.
A similar phenomenon has been observed in light, when light
passes through a tourmaline crystal.

211
 Source
Polarised Light Polarised Light

A (a) B

Source

Polarised Light
No Light

A B
(b)
Fig 5.25 Polarisation of transverse waves

Light from the source is allowed to fall on a tourmaline crystal

which is cut parallel to its optic axis (Fig. 5.25a).
The emergent light will be slightly coloured due to natural colour
of the crystal. When the crystal A is rotated, there is no change in the
intensity of the emergent light. Place another crystal B parallel to A in
the path of the light. When both the crystals are rotated together, so
that their axes are parallel, the intensity of light coming out of B does
not change. When the crystal B alone is rotated, the intensity of the
emergent light from B gradually decreases. When the axis of B is at
right angles to the axis of A, no light emerges from B (Fig. 5.25b).
If the crystal B is further rotated, the intensity of the light coming
out of B gradually increases and is maximum again when their axis are
parallel.
Comparing these observations with the mechanical analogue
discussed earlier, it is concluded that the light waves are transverse in
nature.
Light waves coming out of tourmaline crystal A have their
vibrations in only one direction, perpendicular to the direction of

212
propagation. These waves are said to be polarised. Since the vibrations
are restricted to only one plane parallel to the axis of the crystal, the
light is said to be plane polarised. The phenomenon of restricting the
vibrations into a particular plane is known as polarisation.
5.8.2 Plane of vibration and plane of polarisation
The plane containing the optic axis in which the vibrations occur
is known as plane of vibration. The plane which is at right angles to
the plane of vibration and which contains the direction of propagation
of the polarised light is known as the plane of polarisation. Plane of
polarisation does not contain vibrations in it.
In the Fig 5.26 PQRS P
S
represents the plane of H G
vibration and EFGH
represents the plane of
polarisation.
E F
5.8.3 Representation of R
Q
light vibrations
Fig 5.26 Planes of vibration and
In an unpolarised polarisation
light, the vibrations in all
directions may be supposed to be made up of two mutually
perpendicular vibrations. These are
represented by double arrows and
dots (Fig 5.27).
The vibrations in the plane of
the paper are represented by double
Fig 5.27 Light vibrations
arrows, while the vibrations
perpendicular to the plane of the paper are represented by dots.
5.8.4 Polariser and Analyser
A device which produces plane polarised light is called a polariser.
A device which is used to examine, whether light is plane polarised or not
is an analyser. A polariser can serve as an analyser and vice versa.
A ray of light is allowed to pass through an analyser. If the
intensity of the emergent light does not vary, when the analyser is
rotated, then the incident light is unpolarised; If the intensity of light
varies between maximum and zero, when the analyser is rotated

213
through 90o, then the incident light is plane polarised; If the intensity
of light varies between maximum and minimum (not zero), when the
analyser is rotated through 90o, then the incident light is partially
plane polarised.
5.8.5 Polarisation by reflection
The simplest method of producing plane polarised light is by
reflection. Malus, discovered that when a beam of ordinary light is
reflected from the surface of transparent medium like glass or water,
it gets polarised. The degree of polarisation varies with angle of
incidence.
Consider a beam of unpolarised light AB, incident at any angle on
the reflecting glass surface XY.
Vibrations in AB
which are parallel to the
Incident
beam Reflected
plane of the diagram are
A beam shown by arrows. The
ip C
ip vibrations which are
perpendicular to the plane of
X B Y
the diagram and parallel to
the reflecting surface, shown
r
by dots (Fig. 5.28).
Refracted
beam
A part of the light is
reflected along BC, and the
D rest is refracted along BD.
Fig 5.28 Polarisation by reflection On examining the reflected
beam with an analyser, it is found that the ray is partially plane
polarised.
When the light is allowed to be incident at a particular angle, (for
glass it is 57.5o) the reflected beam is completely plane polarised. The
angle of incidence at which the reflected beam is completely plane
polarised is called the polarising angle (ip).
5.8.6 Brewster’s law
Sir David Brewster conducted a series of experiments with different
reflectors and found a simple relation between the angle of polarisation
and the refractive index of the medium. It has been observed
experimentally that the reflected and refracted rays are at right angles to

214
each other, when the light is incident at polarising angle.
From Fig 5.28, ip +900 + r = 1800
r = 900 – ip
sin i p
From Snell’s law, =µ
sin r
where µ is the refractive index of the medium (glass)
Substituting for r, we get
sin i p sin i p
=µ ; =µ
sin(90 − i p ) cos i p
∴ tan ip = µ
The tangent of the polarising angle is numerically equal to the
refractive index of the medium.
5.8.7 Pile of plates
The phenomenon
of polarisation by
reflection is used in the
construction of pile of
plates. It consists of a
number of glass plates
placed one over the
other as shown in
Fig 5.29 in a tube of
suitable size. The plates Fig.5.29 Pile of plates
are inclined at an angle
of 32.5o to the axis of the tube. A beam of monochromatic light is
allowed to fall on the pile of plates along the axis of the tube. So, the
angle of incidence will be 57.5o which is the polarising angle for glass.
The vibrations perpendicular to the plane of incidence are
reflected at each surface and those parallel to it are transmitted. The
larger the number of surfaces, the greater is the intensity of the
reflected plane polarised light. The pile of plates is used as a polariser
and an analyser.
5.8.8 Double refraction
Bartholinus discovered that when a ray of unpolarised light is
incident on a calcite crystal, two refracted rays are produced. This

215
phenomenon is called double refraction (Fig. 5.30a). Hence, two images
of a single object are formed. This phenomenon is exhibited by several
other crystals like quartz, mica etc.

E E

O
O

(a) (b)
Fig 5.30 Double refraction
When an ink dot on a sheet of paper is viewed through a calcite
crystal, two images will be seen (Fig 5.30b). On rotating the crystal, one
image remains stationary, while the other rotates around the first. The
stationary image is known as the ordinary image (O), produced by the
refracted rays which obey the laws of refraction. These rays are known as
ordinary rays. The other image is extraordinary image (E), produced by
the refracted rays which do not obey the laws of refraction. These rays
are known as extraordinary rays.
Inside a double refracting crystal the ordinary ray travels with
same velocity in all directions and the extra ordinary ray travels with
different velocities along different directions.
A point source inside a refracting crystal produces spherical
wavefront corresponding to ordinary ray and elliptical wavefront
corresponding to extraordinary ray.
Inside the crystal there is a particular direction in which both the
rays travel with same velocity. This direction is called optic axis. The
refractive index is same for both rays and there is no double refraction
along this direction.
5.8.9 Types of crystals
Crystals like calcite, quartz, ice and tourmaline having only one
optic axis are called uniaxial crystals.
Crystals like mica, topaz, selenite and aragonite having two optic
axes are called biaxial crystals.

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5.8.10 Nicol prism
Nicol prism was designed by William Nicol. One of the most
common forms of the Nicol prism is made by taking a calcite crystal
whose length is three times its breadth. It is cut into two halves along
the diagonal so that their face angles are 720 and 1080. And the two
halves are joined together by a layer of Canada balsam, a transparent
cement as shown in Fig 5.31. For sodium light, the refractive index for
ordinary light is 1.658 and for extra−ordinary light is 1.486. The
refractive index for Canada balsam is 1.550 for both rays, hence
Canada balsam does not polarise light.
A monochromatic beam of unpolarised light is incident on the
face of the nicol prism. It splits up into two rays as ordinary ray (O)
and extraordinary ray (E) inside the nicol prism (i.e) double refraction
takes place. The ordinary ray is totally internally reflected at the layer
of Canada balsam and is prevented from emerging from the other face.
The extraordinary ray alone is transmitted through the crystal which
is plane polarised. The nicol prism serves as a polariser and also an
analyser.
A

108º E

72º O
B
Fig 5.31 Nicol prism
5.8.11 Polaroids
A Polaroid is a material which polarises light. The phenomenon of
selective absorption is made use of in the construction of polariods.
There are different types of polaroids.
A Polaroid consists of micro crystals of herapathite (an
iodosulphate of quinine). Each crystal is a doubly refracting medium,
which absorbs the ordinary ray and transmits only the extra ordinary
ray. The modern polaroid consists of a large number of ultra
microscopic crystals of herapathite embedded with their optic axes,
parallel, in a matrix of nitro –cellulose.
Recently, new types of polariod are prepared in which thin film
of polyvinyl alcohol is used. These are colourless crystals which
transmit more light, and give better polarisation.

217
5.8.12 Uses of Polaroid
1. Polaroids are used in the laboratory to produce and analyse plane
polarised light.
2. Polaroids are widely used as polarising sun glasses.
3. They are used to eliminate the head light glare in motor cars.
4. They are used to improve colour contrasts in old oil paintings.
5. Polaroid films are used to produce three – dimensional moving
pictures.
6. They are used as glass windows in trains and aeroplanes to control
the intensity of light. In aeroplane one polaroid is fixed outside the
window while the other is fitted inside which can be rotated. The
intensity of light can be adjusted by rotating the inner polaroid.
7. Aerial pictures may be taken from slightly different angles and
when viewed through polaroids give a better perception of depth.
8. In calculators and watches, letters and numbers are formed by
liquid crystal display (LCD) through polarisation of light.
9. Polarisation is also used to study size and shape of molecules.
5.8.13 Optical activity
When a plane polarised light is made to pass through certain
substances, the plane of polarisation of the emergent light is not the
same as that of incident light, but it has been rotated through some
angle. This phenomenon is known as optical activity. The substances
which rotate the plane of polarisation are said to be optically active.
Examples : quartz, sugar crystals, turpentine oil, sodium chloride etc.
Optically active substances are of two types, (i) Dextro−rotatory
(right handed) which rotate the plane of polarisation in the clock wise
direction on looking towards the source. (ii) Laevo – rotatory (left
handed) which rotate the plane of polarisation in the anti clockwise
direction on looking towards the source.
Light from a monochromatic source S, is made to pass through a
polariser P. The plane polarised light is then made to fall on an analyser
A, which is in crossed position with P. No light comes out of A. When a
quartz plate is inserted between the polariser and analyser some light
emerges out of the analyzer A (Fig. 5.32). The emerging light is cut off
again, when the analyzer is rotated through a certain angle.

218
 This implies that light emerging from quartz is still plane
polarised, but its plane of polarisation has been rotated through certain
angle.
P A
S
No light

P A
S

Light
Optically
active
substance

Fig 5.32 Optical activity

The amount of optical rotation depends on :
(i) thickness of crystal
(ii) density of the crystal or concentration in the case of solutions.
(iii) wavelength of light used
(iv) the temperature of the solutions.
5.8.14 Specific rotation
The term specific rotation is used to compare the rotational effect
of all optically active substances.
Specific rotation for a given wavelength of light at a given
temperature is defined as the rotation produced by one-decimeter
length of the liquid column containing 1 gram of the active material in
1cc of the solution.
If θ is the angle of rotation produced by l decimeter length of a
solution of concentration C in gram per cc, then the specific rotation
S at a given wavelength λ for a given temperature t is given by
θ
S= .
l .c
The instrument used to determine the optical rotation produced
by a substance is called polarimeter.
Sugar is the most common optically active substance and this
optical activity is used for the estimation of its strength in a solution
by measuring the rotation of plane of polarisation.

219
 Solved problems
5.1 In Young’s double slit experiment two coherent sources of
intensity ratio of 64 : 1, produce interference fringes. Calculate
the ratio of maximium and minimum intensities.

I max
Data : I1 : I2 : : 64 : 1 I min = ?

I1 a12 64
Solution : = =
I 2 a 22 1

a1 8
∴ = ; a1 = 8a2
a2 1
2
I max (a 1 + a2 ) (8a2 + a2 )2
= =
I min (a 1 − a2 )2 (8a2 − a2 )2

(9a 2 )2 81
= 2 =
(7a2 ) 49

Imax : Imin : : 81 : 49
5.2 In Young’s experiment, the width of the fringes obtained with light
of wavelength 6000 Å is 2 mm. Calculate the fringe width if the
entire apparatus is immersed in a liquid of refractive index 1.33.
Data : λ = 6000 Å = 6 × 10−7 m; β = 2mm = 2 × 10−3 m
µ = 1.33; β′ = ?

D λ′ λD β ⎡ λ⎤
Solution : β′ = d = µd = µ ⎢⎣∵ µ = λ ′ ⎥⎦

2 × 10−3
∴β′ = = 1.5 x 10-3 m (or) 1.5 mm
1.33
5.3 A soap film of refractive index 1.33, is illuminated by white light
incident at an angle 30o. The reflected light is examined by
spectroscope in which dark band corresponding to the wavelength
6000Å is found. Calculate the smallest thickness of the film.
Data : µ = 1.33; i = 30o; λ = 6000 Å = 6 × 10–7 m
n = 1 (Smallest thickness); t = ?

220
 sin i
Solution : µ =
sin r

sini sin 30o 0.5

sin r = µ = = = 0.3759
1.33 1.33

∴ cos r = 1 − 0.37592 = 0.9267

2 µt cos r = nλ

λ 6 × 10 −7
t = =
2µ cos r 2 × 1.33 × 0.9267

6 × 10−7
t =
2.465
t = 2.434 × 10–7 m

5.4 A plano – convex lens of radius 3 m is placed on an optically flat

glass plate and is illuminated by monochromatic light. The radius
of the 8th dark ring is 3.6 mm. Calculate the wavelength of light
used.
Data : R = 3m ; n = 8 ; r8 = 3.6 mm = 3.6 × 10−3 m ; λ = ?
Solution : rn = nR λ
rn2 = nRλ

rn 2 (3.6 × 10−3 )2
λ= = = 5400 × 10−10 m (or) 5400 Å
nR 8×3

5.5 In Newton’s rings experiment the diameter of certain order of

dark ring is measured to be double that of second ring. What is
the order of the ring?
Data : dn = 2d2 ; n = ?
Solution : dn2 = 4nRλ ...(1)
d22 = 8Rλ ...(2)

(1) d 2 n
⇒ n2 =
(2) d2 2

221
 4d22 n
=
d 22 2

∴ n = 8.
5.6 Two slits 0.3 mm apart are illuminated by light of wavelength
4500 Å. The screen is placed at 1 m distance from the slits. Find
the separation between the second bright fringe on both sides of
the central maximum.
Data : d = 0.3 mm = 0.3 × 10−3 m ; λ = 4500 Å = 4.5 × 10−7 m,
D = 1 m ; n = 2 ; 2x = ?

D
Solution : 2x = 2 nλ
d

2 × 1 × 2 × 4.5 × 10−7
=
0.3 × 10−3
∴ 2x = 6 × 10−3 m (or) 6 mm

5.7 A parallel beam of monochromatic light is allowed to incident

normally on a plane transmission grating having 5000 lines per
centimetre. A second order spectral line is found to be diffracted
at an angle 30o. Find the wavelength of the light.
Data : N = 5000 lines / cm = 5000 × 102 lines / m
m = 2 ; θ = 30o ; λ = ?

sin θ
Solution : sin θ = Nm λ λ =
Nm

sin 30o 0.5

λ = =
5 × 10 × 2 5 × 105 × 2
5

λ = 5 × 10−7 m = 5000 Å.

5.8 A 300 mm long tube containing 60 cc of sugar solution produces

a rotation of 9o when placed in a polarimeter. If the specific
rotation is 60o, calculate the quantity of sugar contained in the
solution.

222
 Data : l = 300 mm = 30 cm = 3 decimeter
θ = 9o ; S = 60o ; v = 60 cc
m = ?

θ θ
Solution : S = l × c = l × (m /v )

θ .v
m =
l ×s

9 × 60
=
3 × 60
m = 3 g

Self evaluation
(The questions and problems given in this self evaluation are only samples.
In the same way any question and problem could be framed from the text
matter. Students must be prepared to answer any question and problem
from the text matter, not only from the self evaluation.)

5.1 In an electromagnetic wave

(a) power is equally transferred along the electric and magnetic
fields
(b) power is transmitted in a direction perpendicular to both the
fields
(c) power is transmitted along electric field
(d) power is transmitted along magnetic field

5.2 Electromagnetic waves are

(a) transverse
(b) longitudinal
(c) may be longitudinal or transverse
(d) neither longitudinal nor transverse

5.3 Refractive index of glass is 1.5. Time taken for light to pass through
a glass plate of thickness 10 cm is
(a) 2 × 10–8 s (b) 2 × 10–10 s
(c) 5 × 10–8 s (d) 5 × 10–10 s

223
5.4 In an electromagnetic wave the phase difference between electric
→ →
field E and magnetic field B is
(a) π/4 (b) π/2
(c) π (d) zero

5.5 Atomic spectrum should be

(a) pure line spectrum (b) emission band spectrum
(c) absorption line spectrum (d) absorption band spectrum.

5.6 When a drop of water is introduced between the glass plate and
plano convex lens in Newton’s rings system, the ring system
(a) contracts (b) expands
(c) remains same (d) first expands, then contracts
5.7 A beam of monochromatic light enters from vacuum into a medium
of refractive index µ. The ratio of the wavelengths of the incident
and refracted waves is
(a) µ : 1 (b) 1 : µ
2
(c) µ : 1 (d) 1 : µ2

5.8 If the wavelength of the light is reduced to one fourth, then the
amount of scattering is
(a) increased by 16 times (b) decreased by 16 times
(c) increased by 256 times (d) decreased by 256 times

5.9 In Newton’s ring experiment the radii of the mth and (m + 4)th dark
rings are respectively 5 mm and 7 mm. What is the value of m?
(a) 2 (b) 4
(c) 8 (d) 10

5.10 The path difference between two monochromatic light waves of

wavelength 4000 Å is 2 × 10−7 m. The phase difference between
them is
(a) π (b) 2π
π
(c) 3 (d) π/2
2
5.11 In Young’s experiment, the third bright band for wavelength of light
6000 Å coincides with the fourth bright band for another source in
the same arrangement. The wave length of the another source is
(a) 4500 Å (b) 6000 Å
(c) 5000 Å (d) 4000 Å

224
5.12 A light of wavelength 6000 Å is incident normally on a grating
0.005 m wide with 2500 lines. Then the maximum order is
(a) 3 (b) 2
(c) 1 (d) 4

5.13 A diffraction pattern is obtained using a beam of red light. What

happens if the red light is replaced by blue light?
(a) bands disappear
(b) no change
(c) diffraction pattern becomes narrower and crowded together
(d) diffraction pattern becomes broader and farther apart

5.14 The refractive index of the medium, for the polarising angle 60o is
(a) 1.732 (b) 1.414
(c) 1.5 (d) 1.468
5.15 What are electromagnetic waves?
5.16 Mention the characteristics of electromagnetic waves.
5.17 Give the source and uses of electromagnetic waves.
5.18 Explain emission and absorption spectra.
5.19 What is fluoresence and phosphorescence?
5.20 Distinguish the corpuscle and photon.
5.21 What is Tyndal Scattering?
5.22 How are Stoke’s and Anti-stoke’s line formed?
5.23 Why the sky appears blue in colour?
5.24 Explain the Raman scattering of light.
5.25 Explain Huygen’s principle.
5.26 On the basis of wave theory, explain total internal reflection.
5.27 What is principle of superposition of waves?
5.28 Give the conditions for sustained interference.
5.29 Derive an expression for bandwidth of interference fringes in
Young’s double slit experiment.
5.30 Discuss the theory of interference in thin transparent film due to
reflected light and obtain condition for the intensity to be maximum
and minimum.

225
5.31 What are Newton’s rings? Why the centre of the Newton’s rings is
dark?
5.32 Distinguish between Fresnel and Fraunhofer diffraction.
5.33 Discuss the theory of plane transmission grating.
5.34 Describe an experiment to demonstrate transverse nature of light.
5.35 Differentiate between polarised and unpolarised light.
5.36 State and explain Brewster’s law.
5.37 Bring out the difference’s between ordinary and extra ordinary light.
5.38 Write a note on : (a) Nicol prism (b) Polaroid
5.39 What is meant by optical rotation? On what factors does it depend?
Problems
5.40 An LC resonant circuit contains a capacitor 400 pF and an inductor
100 µH. It is sent into oscillations coupled to an antenna. Calculate
the wavelength of the radiated electromagnetic wave.
5.41 In Young’s double slit experiment, the intensity ratio of two coherent
sources are 81 : 1. Calculate the ratio between maximum and
minimum intensities.
5.42 A monochromatic light of wavelength 589 nm is incident on a water
surface having refractive index 1.33. Find the velocity, frequency
and wavelength of light in water.
5.43 In Young’s experiment a light of frequency 6 × 1014 Hz is used.
Distance between the centres of adjacent fringes is 0.75 mm.
Calculate the distance between the slits, if the screen is 1.5 m
away.
5.44 The fringe width obtained in Young’s double slit experiment while
using a light of wavelength 5000 Å is 0.6 cm. If the distance
between the slit and the screen is halved, find the new fringe
width.
5.45 A light of wavelength 6000 Å falls normally on a thin air film, 6
dark fringes are seen between two points. Calculate the thickness
of the air film.
5.46 A soap film of refractive index 4/3 and of thickness 1.5 × 10–4 cm
is illuminated by white light incident at an angle 60o. The reflected
light is examined by a spectroscope in which dark band

226
 corresponds to a wavelength of 5000 Å. Calculate the order of the
dark band.
5.47 In a Newton’s rings experiment the diameter of the 20th dark ring
was found to be 5.82 mm and that of the 10th ring 3.36 mm. If the
radius of the plano−convex lens is 1 m. Calculate the wavelength
of light used.
5.48 A plane transmission grating has 5000 lines / cm. Calculate the
angular separation in second order spectrum of red line 7070 Å
and blue line 5000 Å.
5.49 The refractive index of the medium is 3 . Calculate the angle of
refraction if the unpolarised light is incident on it at the polarising
angle of the medium.
5.50 A 20 cm long tube contains sugar solution of unknown strength.
When observed through polarimeter, the plane of polarisation is
rotated through 10o. Find the strength of sugar solution in g/cc.
Specific rotation of sugar is 60o / decimetre / unit concentration.

Answers

5.1 (b) 5.2 (a) 5.3 (d) 5.4 (d) 5.5 (a)

5.6 (a) 5.7 (a) 5.8 (c) 5.9 (d) 5.10 (a)

5.11 (a) 5.12 (a) 5.13 (c) 5.14 (a)

5.40 377 m 5.41 25 : 16

5.42 2.26 × 108 m s–1, 5.09 × 1014 Hz, 4429 Å

5.43 1 mm 5.44 3 mm

5.45 18 × 10–7 m 5.46 6

5.47 5645Å 5.48 15o

5.49 30o 5.50 0.0833 g/cc

227