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Question: Answered & Verified by Expert

A rectangular loop of sides 10 cm and 5 cm, carrying a current I of 12 A, is placed in different orientations as shown in the figure below.
(a)  (b)

(c)  (d)

If there is a uniform magnetic field of 0.3 T in the positive z direction, in which orientations the loop would be in (i) stable equilibrium and (ii) unstable equilibrium?

PhysicsMagnetic Effects of CurrentJEE MainJEE Main 2015 (04 Apr)
Options:
  • A (b) and (c), respectively.
  • B (a) and (b), respectively.
  • C (a) and (c), respectively.
  • D (b) and (d), respectively.
Solution:
2497 Upvotes Verified Answer
The correct answer is: (b) and (d), respectively.

For a magnetic dipole placed in a uniform magnetic field, the torque is given by τ=M×B, and potential energy U is given as,

U=-M·B=-MBcosθ

When M is in the same direction as B then τ=0 and U is minimum = -MB as θ=0o. Stable equilibrium is (b).

When M the opposite direction of B, then τ=0 and U is max = +MB
As, θ=180o Unstable equilibrium in (d)

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