D PHYSICS

CSIR-NET, GATE, SET, JEST, IIT-JAM, BARC, TIFR

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PHYSICAL SCIENCE

MATHEMATICAL PHYSICS
ELECTROMAGNETIC THEORY

Previous Year Questions [Topic-Wise]

With Answer Key

CSIR-NET/JRF I GATE I JEST I TIFR

NUCLEAR & PARTICLE PHYSICS

DPHYSICS KRISHNA CHOWK, NEW SANGAVI, PUNE-27 CONTACT: 8830156303
NO TOPIC PAGE NO:
1. Electric Charge, Force, Field & Flux 3
2. Electric Potential & Conductor 12
3. Laplace & Poisson’s Equations, Dielectrics, Capacitor 21
4. Multipole Expansion 30
5. Magnetic Field Induction & Trajectories 37
6. Magnetic Vector potential & Magnetic Material 45
7. EMF, Displacement Current 51
8. Applications Of Maxwell’s Equations, Wave In Matter 60
9. Poynting Vector, Radiation 70
10. Time Varying Potentials 78
11. Relativistic Electrodynamics 82
12. Waveguide, Transmission line 85
13. Miscellaneous Topics 87
14. Optics 90

Amruta Pawar
EMT Subject Expert
 ❖ EMT 01 : Electric Charge, Force, Field & Flux

❖ CSIR-NET PYQ’s (a) q/√2 (b) √2q

(c) 2q (d) 4q
1. Four equal point charges are kept fixed at the four
vertices of a square. How many neutral points (i.e., 4. Consider a hollow charged shell of inner radius ' 𝑎
points where the electric field vanishes will be ' and outer radius ' 𝑏 '. The volume charge density
found inside the square? is 𝜌(𝑟) =
𝑘
(where 𝑘 is a constant) in the region
𝑟2
[CSIR DEC 2011]
(a) 3 (b) 4
𝑎 < 𝑟 < 𝑏. The magnitude of the electric field
(c) 5 (d) 7
produced at distance 𝑟 > 𝑎 is:
[CSIR DEC 2012]
2. A static charge distribution gives rise to an electric 𝑘(𝑏−𝑎)
r̂ (a) for 𝑟 > 𝑎
field of the form ⃗E = 𝛼(1 − e−𝑟/𝑅 ) 2 , where 𝛼 and
r
𝜀0 𝑟 2
𝑘(𝑏−𝑎) 𝑘𝑏
R are positive constants. The charge contained (b) 𝜀 𝑟2 for 𝑎 < 𝑟 < 𝑏 and 𝜀 𝑟2 for 𝑟 > 𝑏
0 0
within a sphere of radius R, centred at the origin 𝑘(𝑟−𝑎) 𝑘(𝑏−𝑎)
(c) 𝜀 𝑟2 for 𝑎 < 𝑟 < 𝑏 and 𝜀 𝑟2 for 𝑟 > 𝑏
is: 0 0
𝑘(𝑟−𝑎) 𝑘(𝑏−𝑎)
[CSIR DEC 2011] (d) 𝜀 𝑎2 for 𝑎 < 𝑟 < 𝑏 and 𝜀 𝑎2 for 𝑟 > 𝑏
0 0
e e2
(a) 𝜋𝛼𝜀0 (b) 𝜋𝛼𝜀0
R2 R2
1 R2 5. A solid sphere of radius 𝑅 has a charge density,
(c) 4𝜋𝛼𝜀0 (1 − e) (d) 𝜋𝛼𝜀0 e 𝑎𝑟
given by 𝜌(𝑟) = 𝜌0 (1 − 𝑅
), where 𝑟 is the radial

3. Three charges are located on the circumference of coordinate and 𝜌0 , 𝑎 and 𝑅 are positive constants.
a circle of radius ' 𝑅 ' as shown in the figure below. If the magnitude of the electric field at 𝑟 = 𝑅/2 is
The two charges Q subtend an angle 90∘ at the 1.25 times that at 𝑟 = 𝑅, then the value of 𝑎 is
centre of the circle. The charge ' 𝑞 ' is [CSIR DEC 2014]
symmetrically placed with respect to the charges (a) 2 (b) 1
1 1
𝑄. If the electric field at the centre of the circle is (c) (d)
2 4
zero, what is the magnitude of Q?
[CSIR DEC 2012] 6. Consider a charge 𝑄 at the origin of 3-dimensional
coordinate system. The flux of the electric field
through the curved surface of a cone that has a
height ℎ and a circular base of radius 𝑅 (as shown
in the figure) is

3
 [CSIR DEC 2015] The electric field at the center of the circle is
[CSIR DEC 2016]
𝜆0 𝜆
(a) 𝐸⃗ = − 𝑖ˆ
4𝜀0 𝑎
(b) 𝐸⃗ = 0 𝑖ˆ
4𝜀0 𝑎
𝜆 𝜆0
(c) 𝐸⃗ = − 0 𝑗ˆ (d) 𝐸⃗ = 𝑘ˆ
4𝜀0 𝑎 4𝜋𝜀0 𝑎

𝑄 𝑄 10. A non-conducting thin ellipsoidal shell defined by

(a) 𝜖 (b) 2𝜖
0 0 the equation 𝑥 2 + 2𝑦 2 + 3𝑧 2 = 𝑎2 has a net
ℎ𝑄 𝑄𝑅
(c) (d) chareg 𝑄 spread uniformly over its surface. The
𝑅𝜖0 2ℎ𝜖0
flux passing through a hemispherical surface
7. Four equal charges of +𝑄 each are kept at the defined by 𝑥 2 + 𝑦 2 + 𝑧 2 = 𝑎2 and 𝑧 > 0, is
vertices of a square of side 𝑅. A particle of mass 𝑚 [NET Dec, 2019]
and charge +𝑄 is placed in the plane of the square (a) 𝑄/(√3𝜖0 ) (b) 𝑄/𝜖0
at a short distance 𝑎(≪ 𝑅) from the center. If the (c) 𝑄/(2𝜖0 ) (d) 2/(3𝑒0 ).
motion of the particle is confined to the plane, it
will undergo small oscillations with an angular 11. The values of 𝑎 and 𝑏 for which the force 𝐹 =
frequency (𝑎𝑥𝑦 + 𝑧 3 )𝑖ˆ + 𝑥 2 𝑗ˆ + 𝑏𝑥𝑧 2 𝑘ˆ is conservative are
[CSIR JUNE 2016] [CSIR DEC 2019]
𝑄2 𝑄2 (a) 𝑎 = 2, 𝑏 = 3 (b) 𝑎 = 1, 𝑏 = 3
(a) √2𝜋𝜀 3 (b) √𝜋𝜀 3
0𝑅 𝑚 0𝑅 𝑚 (c) 𝑎 = 2, 𝑏 = 6 (d) 𝑎 = 3, 𝑏 = 2
√2𝑄2 𝑄2
(c) √𝜋𝜀 3 (d) √4𝜋𝜀 3
0𝑅 𝑚 0𝑅 𝑚 12. Three point charges 𝑞 are placed at the corners of
an equilateral triangle. Another point charge −𝑄
8. Consider a sphere 𝑆1 of radius 𝑅 which carries a is placed at the centroid of the triangle. If the
uniform charge of density 𝜌. A smaller sphere 𝑆2 of force on each of the charges 𝑞 vanishes, then the
𝑅
radius 𝑎 < is cut out and removed from it. The ratio 𝑄/𝑞 is
2
centers of the two spheres are separated by the [CSIR JUNE 2020]
𝑅 1
vector 𝑏⃗ = 𝑛ˆ , as shown in the figure. (a) √3 (b)
2 √3
1 1
(c) 3 (d) 3
√3

❖ GATE PYQ’s

1. Two point charges Q1 = 1nC and Q 2 = 2nC are

kept in free space such that the distance between
them is 0.1 m.
The electric field at a point 𝑃 inside 𝑆2 is [GATE 2001]
[CSIR JUNE 2016] (a) The force on 𝑄2 is along the direction from 𝑄2
𝜌𝑅 𝜌𝑅 to 𝑄1
(a) 3𝜀 𝑛ˆ (b) 3𝜀 (𝑟 − 𝑛ˆ𝑎)
0 0𝑎
𝜌𝑅 𝜌𝑎
(b) The force on Q 2 is the same in magnitude as
(c) 6𝜀 𝑛ˆ (d) 3𝜀 𝑅 𝑟 that on Q1
0 0
(c) The force on 𝑄1 is attractive
9. The charge per unit length of a circular wire of (d) A point charge Q 3 = −3nC, placed at the
radius 𝑎 in the 𝑥𝑦-plane, with its center at the midpoint between Q1 and Q 2 , experiences no net
origin, is 𝜆 = 𝜆0 cos 𝜃, where 𝜆0 is a constant and force
the angle 𝜃 is measured from the positive 𝑥-axis.

4
2. Consider a set of two stationary point charges 𝑞1 𝑄𝑥ˆ 𝑄𝑥ˆ
(c) (d)
and 𝑞2 as shown in the figure. Which of the 4𝜋𝜖0 𝑥02 16𝜋𝜖0 𝑥02
following statements is correct?
[GATE 2002] ⃗ 𝑓 for a scalar field 𝑓(𝑥𝑖 , 𝑦∗ 𝑧) =
7. The direction of ∇
1 2 1
2
𝑥 − 𝑥𝑦 + 2 𝑧 2 at the point 𝑃(1,1,2) is
[GATE 2016]
(−𝑗ˆ−2𝑘ˆ) (−𝑗ˆ+2𝑘ˆ)
(a) (b)
√5 √5
(𝑗ˆ−2𝑘ˆ) (𝑗ˆ+2𝑘ˆ)
(c) 5 (d) 5
√ √

(a) The electric field at P is independent of 𝑞2

8. An infinitely long thin cylindrical shell has its axis
(b) The electric flux crossing the closed surface S
coinciding with the z-axis. It carries a surface
is independent of 𝑞2
charge density 𝜎0 cos 𝜙, where 𝜙 is the polar angle
(c) The line integral of the electric field 𝐸⃗ over the and 𝜎0 is a constant. The magnitude of the electric
closed contour C depends on 𝑞1 and 𝑞2 . field inside the cylinder is
⃗ ⋅ 𝐸⃗ = 0 everywhere
(d) ∇ [GATE 2019]
𝜎0
(a) 0 (b) 2𝜖
0
3. A vector 𝐴 = (5𝑥 + 2𝑦)𝑖ˆ + (3𝑦 − 𝑧)𝑗ˆ + (2𝑥 − 𝜎 𝜎
(c) 3𝜖0 (d) 4𝜖0
𝑎𝑧)𝑘ˆ is solenoidal if the constant 𝑎 has a value 0 0

[GATE 2002]
(a) 4 (b) -4 9. A charge 𝑞 moving with uniform speed enters a
(c) 8 (d) -8 cylindrical region in free space at 𝑡 = 0 and exits
the region at 𝑡 = 𝜏 (see figure). Which one of the
4. A solid sphere of radius 𝑅 carries a uniform following options best describes the time
volume charge density 𝜌. The magnitude of dependence of the total electric flux 𝜑(𝑡), through
electric field inside the sphere at a distance 𝑟 from the entire surface of the cylinder?
the centre is [GATE 2020]
[GATE 2005]
𝑟𝜌 𝑅𝜌
(a) (b)
3𝜀0 2𝜀0
𝑅2 𝜌 𝑅3𝜌
(c) 𝑟𝜀0
(d) 𝑟2 𝜀
0

𝑦2 (a)
5. A vector field is defined everywhere as 𝐹 = 𝐿
𝑖ˆ +
𝑧𝑘ˆ. The net flux of 𝐹 associated with a cube of side
𝐿, with one vertex at the origin and sides along the
positive X, Y, and Z axes, is
[GATE 2007]
(a) 2𝐿3 (b) 4𝐿3
(c) 8𝐿3 (d) 10𝐿3
(b)
6. A charge distribution has the charge density given
by 𝜌 = 𝑄{𝛿(𝑥 − 𝑥0 ) − 𝛿(𝑥 + 𝑥0 )}. For this charge
distribution the electric field at (2𝑥0 , 0,0)
[GATE. 2013]

5
 corresponding to the plane polar coordinates 𝑟
and 𝜃 ).
You may use the fact that in cylindrical coordinates
(𝑠, 𝜙, 𝑧) (s is the distance from the zaxis), the
gradient, divergence, curl and Laplacian operators
are: [GATE 2023]
∂𝑓 1 ∂𝑓 ∂𝑓
(c) ⃗𝑓=
∇ 𝑆ˆ + 𝜙ˆ + 𝑍ˆ
∂𝑠 𝑠 ∂𝜙 ∂𝑧
1 ∂ 1 ∂𝐴𝜙 ∂𝐴𝑧
⃗∇ ⋅ 𝐴 = (𝑠𝐴𝑠 ) + +
𝑠 ∂𝑠 𝑠 ∂𝜙 ∂𝑧
1 ∂𝐴𝑧 ∂𝐴𝜙 ∂𝐴𝑠 ∂𝐴𝑧
⃗ ×𝐴=(
∇ − ) 𝑆ˆ + ( − ) 𝜙ˆ
𝑠 ∂𝜙 ∂𝑧 ∂𝑧 ∂𝑠
1 ∂ ∂𝐴𝑠
+ ( (𝑠𝐴𝜙 ) − ) 𝑍ˆ
𝑠 ∂𝑠 ∂𝜙
1 ∂ ∂𝑓 1 ∂2 𝑓 ∂2 𝑓
(d) ⃗∇2 𝑓 = (𝑠 ) + 2 2 + 2
𝑠 ∂𝑠 ∂𝑠 𝑠 ∂𝜙 ∂𝑧
⃗
(a) ∇𝑉 = 2𝑟ˆ
(b) ⃗∇ ⋅ 𝑉
⃗ =2
⃗ ×𝑉
(c) ∇ ⃗ = 4𝑍ˆ, where 𝑍ˆ is a unit vector
perpendicular to the (𝑟, 𝜃) plane
⃗ 2 𝑉 = 4 at 𝑟 = 1.5 m
(d) ∇ 3

10. Electric field is measured along the axis of a 13. The electric field in a region depends only on 𝑥 and
uniformly charged disc of radius 25 cm . At a 𝑦 coordinates as
distance 𝑑 from the centre, the field differs by (𝑥𝑥ˆ + 𝑦𝑦ˆ)
𝐸⃗ = 𝑘 2
10% from that of an infinite plane having the 𝑥 + 𝑦2
same charge density. The value of 𝑑 is (Round off where k is a constant. The flux of 𝐸⃗ through the
to one decimal place) [GATE 2023] surface of a sphere of radius 𝑅 with its center at
the origin is 𝑛𝜋𝑘𝑅, where the value of 𝑛 is (in
11. An electric field as a function of radial coordinate integer). [GATE 2024]
𝑒 −𝑟2
𝑟 has the form 𝐸⃗ = 𝛼 𝑟 𝑟ˆ, where 𝛼 is a constant.
❖ JEST PYQ’s
Assume that dimensions are appropriately taken
care of. The electric flux through a sphere of radius
1. An electric field in a region is given by
√2, centered at the origin, is Φ. What is the value
Φ
𝐸⃗ (𝑥, 𝑦, 𝑧) = 𝑎𝑥𝑖ˆ + 𝑐𝑧𝑗ˆ + 6𝑏𝑦𝑘ˆ . For which values of
of (rounded off to two decimal places)? a, b, c does this represent an electrostatic field?
2𝜋𝛼
[GATE 2023] [JEST 2012]
(a) 13,1,12 (b) 17,6,1
12. Consider the vector field 𝑉 ⃗ consisting of the (c) 13,1,6 (d) 45,6,1
velocities of points on a thin horizontal disc of
radius 𝑅 = 2 m, moving anticlockwise with
uniform angular speed 𝜔 = 2rad/sec about an 2. If 𝐸⃗1 = 𝑥𝑦𝑖ˆ + 2𝑦𝑧𝑗ˆ + 3𝑥𝑧𝑘ˆ and 𝐸⃗2 = 𝑦 2 𝑖ˆ +
⃗ |, then
axis passing through its center. If 𝑉 = |𝑉 (2𝑥𝑦 + 𝑧 2 )𝑗ˆ + 2𝑦𝑧𝑘ˆ then [JEST 2013]
which of the following options is(are) CORRECT? (a) Both are impossible electrostatic fields.
(In the options, 𝑟ˆ and 𝜃ˆ are unit vectors (b) Both are possible electrostatic fields.

6
 (c) Only 𝐸1 is a possible electrostatic field. electric field 𝐸⃗ = 100𝑥𝑉/𝑚 applied, the time
(d) 𝐸2 is a possible electrostatic fields. period becomes 𝑇. What is the value of (𝑇0 /𝑇)4 ?
[JEST 2017]

3. Two large non conducting sheets one with a fixed

uniform positive charge and another with a fixed
uniform negative charge are placed at a distance
of 1 meter from each other. The magnitude of the
surface charge densities are 𝜎+ = 6.8𝜇C/m2 for
the positively charged sheet and 𝜎− = 4.3𝜇C/m2
for the negatively charged sheet. What is the
electric field in the region between the sheets?
[JEST 2014]
(a) 6.30 × 105 N/C (b) 3.84 × 105 N/C
(c) 1.40 × 105 N/C (d) 1.16 × 105 N/C 8. For an electric field 𝐸⃗ = 𝑘 √𝑥𝑥 where k is an non -
zero constant, total charge enclosed by the cube
as shown below is [JEST 2017]
4. A circular loop of radius R carries a uniform line
charge density 𝜆. The electric field, calculated at a
distance z directly above the center of the loop, is
maximum if z is equal to, [JEST 2015]
𝑅 𝑅
(a) (b)
√3 √2
𝑅
(c) 2
(d) 2𝑅

5. Consider two points charges 𝑞 and 𝑞 located at

the points, 𝑥 = 𝑎 and 𝑥𝑎, respectively. Assuming
(a) 0 (b) 𝑘𝜀0 𝑙 5/2 (√3 − 1)
that the sum of the two charges is constant, what
(c) 𝑘𝜀0 𝑙 5/2 (√5 − 1) (d) 𝑘𝜀0 𝑙 5/2 (√2 − 1)
is the value of 𝜆 for which the magnitude of the
electrostatic force is maximum?
9. Two dielectric spheres of radius 𝑅 are separated
[JEST 2015]
by a distance a such that 𝑎 >> 𝑅. one of the
(a) 𝜇 (b) 1
1 spheres (sphere 1) has a charge q and the other is
(c) (d) 1 + 𝜇
𝜇 neutral. If the linear dimensions of the systems
are scaled up by a factor two, by a factor two, by
6. A sphere of inner radius 1 cm and outer radius what factor should be charge on the sphere 1 be
2 cm, centered at origins has a volume charge charged so that the force between the two
𝑘
density 𝜌0 = 4𝜋𝑟, where K is a nonzero constant spheres remain unchanged?
and 𝑟 is the radial distance. A point charge of [JEST 2018]
magnitude 10−3 C is placed at the origin. For what (a) 2 (b) 4√2
value of K in units of C/m2, the electric field (c) 4 (d) 2√2
inside the shell is constant? [JEST 2017]
10. An electric charge distribution produces an
𝑟
7. A simple pendulum has a bob of mass 1 kg and electric field 𝐸⃗ = (1 − e−𝛼𝑟 ) 𝑟3 ,
change 1 Coulomb. It is suspended by the
massless string of length 13 m. The time period of
small oscillations of this pendulum is 𝑇0 . if an

7
 Where 𝛿 and 𝛼 are constants. The net charge (a) 0 (b) 𝜋𝑅 2 𝜎
within a sphere of radius 𝛼 −1 centered at the (c) 2𝜋𝑅 2 𝜎 (d) 4𝜋𝑅 2 𝜎
origin is [JEST 2018]
−1 )
(1
(a) 4𝜋𝜀0 − 𝑒 (b) 4𝜋𝜀0 (1 + 𝑒 −1 ) 14. A point charge 𝑞 is located at the apex of a cone of
1 1 height ℎ and base radius ℎ. The flux of the electric
(c) −4𝜋𝜀0 𝛼𝑒 (d) 4𝜋𝜀0 𝛼𝑒
field through the cone due to the point charge is
[JEST 2023]
11. The charge density as a function of the radial
𝑅2 −𝑟 2
distance 𝑟 is given by 𝜌(𝑟) = 𝜌0 𝑅2
For r < R and zero otherwise. The electric flux
over the surface of an ellipsoid with axes 3R, 4R
and 5R centered at the origin is
[JEST 2018] 1 𝑞 1 𝜋𝑞
4 8 (a) (1 − ) (b) (1 − )
(a) 3𝜀 𝜋𝜌0 𝑅3 (b) 9𝜀 𝜋𝜌0 𝑅 3 √2 2𝜋𝜖0 √2 2𝜖0
0 0 1 𝑞 1 𝑞
8 (c) (d) (1 − 2) 2𝜖
(c) 15𝜀 𝜋𝜌0 𝑅3 (d) Zero √2 2𝜖0 √ 0
0

12. A ring of radius 0.5 m has a gap of 0.002𝜋m. If the

15. Three equal charges +𝑞 are placed at the corners
ring carries a charge of +1.0C distributed
of an equilateral triangle. A test charge
uniformly along it, then the electric field at the
constrained to move on the plane of the triangle is
centre of the ring is [JEST 2020]
placed at the centre of the triangle. Which of the
following statements about the test charge is
true? [JEST 2024]
(a) It is in a stable equilibrium.
(b) Stability of the equilibrium depends on the
sign of the test charge.
(c) It is not in an equilibrium.
(a) 7.5 × 107 NC−1 (b) 7.2 × 107 NC −1 (d) It is in an unstable equilibrium.
(c) 6.2 × 107 NC−1 (d) 6.5 × 107 NC−1
16. An infinitely long cylinder of radius 𝑅 has uniform
13. Consider a spherical shell of radius 𝑅 having a volume charge density. A spherical region of
uniform surface charge density 𝜎. Suppose we radius 𝑅 is carved out of it, as shown in the figure.
construct a spherical Gaussian surface having the At what value of 𝑟 (the radial coordinate in a
same radius 𝑅 but its centre shifted from the cylindrical system, with origin at the center of the
charged sphere by a distance 𝑅 (see the figure). sphere) is the electric field maximum?
What is the total electric flux ∮ 𝐸⃗ ⋅ 𝑑𝐴 through [JEST 2024]
the Gaussian surface? [JEST 2021]

4
(a) 𝑟 = 𝑅 (b) 𝑟 = 3 𝑅
2 3
(c) 𝑟 = 3 𝑅 (d) 𝑟 = 2 𝑅

8
❖ TIFR PYQ and measure the deviation.
(c) Apply a uniform electric field along 𝑦-axis and
1. In the laboratory, four point charges measure the deviation.
+𝑄, −𝑄, +𝑄, −𝑄 are placed at the four ends of a (d) Apply a uniform electric field along 𝑦-axis and
horizontal square of side 𝑎, as shown in the figure a (variable) uniform magnetic field along 𝑧-axis
below. The number of neutral points (where the simultaneously and note the zero deviation.
electric field vanishes) is
[TIFR 2009] 4. Three positively charged particles lie on a straight
line at positions 0, 𝑥 and 10 as indicated in the
figure below. Their charges are 𝑄, 2𝑄, and 4𝑄 cm
respectively.

If the charges at 𝑥 = 0 and 𝑥 = 10 are fixed and

the charge at 𝑥 is movable, the system will be in
equilibrium when 𝑥 = [TIFR 2016]
(a) 8 (b) 2
(c) 20/3 (d) 10/3

(a) ∞ (b) 4 5. A common model for the distribution of charge in

(c) 1 (d) zero a hydrogen atom has a point-like proton of charge
+𝑞0 at the centre and an electron with a static
2. A point charge 𝑞 sits at a corner of a cube of side charge density distribution
𝑎, as shown in the figure on the right. The flux of 𝑞0 −2𝑟/𝑎
the electric field vector through the shaded side is 𝜌(𝑟) = −
𝑒
𝜋𝑎3
[TIFR 2013] where 𝑎 is a constant. The electric field 𝐸⃗ at 𝑟 = 𝑎
due to this system of charges will be
[TIFR 2017]
5𝑞0 5𝑞0
(a) − 4𝜋𝜖 2 2𝑟
ˆ (b) − 4𝜋𝜖 2𝑟 ˆ
0𝑒 𝑎 0 𝑒𝑎
5𝑞0 3𝑞0
(c) 𝑟ˆ (d) 𝑟ˆ
4𝜋𝜖0 𝑒 2 𝑎 2 4𝜋𝜖0 𝑒 2 𝑎 2
𝑞 𝑞
(a) (b)
8𝜀0 16𝜀0
𝑞 𝑞 6. Consider an infinite plane with a uniform positive
(c) (d) 6𝜀
24𝜀0 0 charge density 𝜎 as shown below.

3. In an ionization experiment conducted in the

laboratory, different singly charged positive ions
are produced and accelerated simultaneously
using a uniform electric field along the 𝑥-axis. If
we need to determine the masses of various ions
produced, which of the following methods will
NOT work [TIFR 2016]
(a) Detect them at a fixed distance from the
interaction point along 𝑥-axis and measure their A negative point charge −𝑞 with mass 𝑚 is held at
time of arrival. rest at a distance 𝑑 from the sheet and released. It
(b) Apply a uniform magnetic field along 𝑦-axis

9
 will then undergo oscillatory motion. What is the
time period of this oscillation?
[You may assume that the point charge can move
freely though the charged plane without
disturbing the charge density.]. [TIFR 2018]

7. Consider two concentric spheres of radii 𝑎 and 𝑏,

where 𝑎 < 𝑏 (see figure). The (shaded) space
between the two spheres is filled uniformly with
total charge 𝑄. The electric field at any point
between the two spheres at distance 𝑟 from the
centre is given by [TIFR 2020]

𝑄 𝑟 3 −𝑎 3 𝑄 1
(a) (b)
4𝜋𝜖0 𝑟 2 (𝑏3 −𝑎3 ) 4𝜋𝜖0 𝑟 2

𝑄 𝑏 𝑎 2/3
(c)4𝜋𝜖 (𝑟4 − 𝑟4 ) (d) zero
0

8. A two-dimensional electrostatic field is defined as

𝐸⃗ (𝑥, 𝑦) = −𝑥𝑖ˆ + 𝑦𝑗ˆ
A correct diagram for the lines of force is
[TIFR 2020]

10
 ❖ ANSWER KEY
9. A falling raindrop, spherical in shape, with a ❖ CSIR-NET PYQ
diameter of 1𝜇m, acquires a uniform negative 1. c 2. c 3. a 4. c 5. b
charge due to friction with air. The electric field at 6. b 7. c 8. c 9. a 10. c
a distance of 10𝜇m from the surface of the droplet 11. a 12. b
is measured to be 101 V m−1.
The number of excess electrons acquired by the ❖ GATE PYQ
droplet is [TIFR 2022] 1. b 2. b 3. c 4. a 5. a
6. a 7. b 8. b 9. d 10. 2.4-2.6
(a) 7 (b) 7.02 × 106
(c) 1.4 × 1023 (d) 1414 11. 0.36to0.4 12. acd 13. 4
0

10. Consider a solid sphere of radius 𝑅 with a total ❖ JEST PYQ

charge 𝑄 distributed uniformly throughout its 1. c 2. d 3. a 4. b 5. b
volume (see figure, left). The electric field 6. 0020 7. 0101 8. d 9. d 10. a
11. c 12. b 13. b 14. d 15. b
measured at a distance 𝑥 = 2𝑅 from the centre of
16. b
the sphere along the equatorial plane is found to
be 𝐸1 .
❖ TIFR PYQ
1. a 2. c 3. c 4. d 5. c
6. 7. a 8. a 9. a 10. a
11. a

Next, the same charge is distributed differently,

such that Q/2 is concentrated at the north pole,
and the remaining Q/2 is concentrated at the
south pole (see figure, right). The electric field is
measured again at the same point on the
equatorial plane and found to be 𝐸2 .
The value of 𝐸2 /𝐸1 is [TIFR 2023]
8
(a)5 (b) 1
√5
2 4
(c) 5 (d)5
√

11. A thin spherical shell of radius 𝑅 has a constant

surface charge density 𝜎. This shell is cut
symmetrically into two pieces. What is the
electrostatic force between the two halves?
[TIFR 2024]
𝜋 𝜎2 𝑅2 𝜋 𝜎2 𝑅2
(a) (b)
2 𝜀0 4 𝜀0
𝜎2 𝑅2 𝜎2 𝑅2
(c) 𝜋 𝜀0
(d) 2𝜋 𝜀0

11
 ❖ EMT 02 : Electric Potential & Conductor
❖ CSIR-NET PYQ’s
𝑞2
(a) 8𝑑 2
(2√2 − 1) away from the corner
1. Consider an infinite line charge with linear charge 𝑞2
density 𝜆. At a distance 𝑟 from the line, the (b) 8𝑑2 (2√2 − 1) towards the corner
electrostatic potential has the form 𝑞2
(c) 2 2𝑑2 towards the corner
√
[CSIR NET 2008]
3𝑞2
𝜆𝑎 𝜆 𝑟 (d) 8𝑑2 away from the corner
(a) 4𝜋𝜀 (b) 2𝜋𝜀 exp (− 𝑎)
0𝑟 0
−𝜆 𝑟 𝜆 𝑟
(c)2𝜋𝜀 ln (𝑎) (d) 4𝜋𝜀 𝑎 4. A charged particle is at a distance 𝑑 from an
0 0
infinite conducting plane maintained at zero
2. A point charge ' 𝑞 ' of mass ' 𝑚 ' is kept at a potential. When released from rest, the particle
distance ' 𝑑 ' below a grounded infinite reaches a speed 𝑢 at a distance d/2 from the
conducting sheet which lies in the 𝑥𝑦-plane. What plane. At what distance from the plane will the
is the value of ' 𝑑 ' for which the charge remains particle reach the speed 2u ?
stationary? [CSIR DEC 2012] [NET June 2014]
(a) 𝑞/4√𝑚𝑔𝜋𝜀0 (a) d/6 (b) 𝑑/3
(b) 𝑞/√𝑚𝑔𝜋𝜀0 (c) d/4 (d) 𝑑/5
(c) There is no finite value of ' d '
5. A charge (-e) is placed in vacuum at the point
(d) √𝑚𝑔𝜋𝜀0 /𝑞
(d, 0,0), where d > 0. The region 𝑥 ≤ 0 is filled
uniformly with a metal. The electric field at the
3. A point charge 𝑞 is placed symmetrically at a 𝑑
point ( 2 , 0,0) is [CSIR JUNE 2014]
distance 𝑑 from two perpendicularly placed
10𝑒 10𝑒
grounded conducting infinite plates as shown in (a) − 9𝜋𝜀 𝑑2 (1,0,0) (b) 9𝜋𝜀 2 (1,0,0)
0 0𝑑
the figure. The net force on the charge (in units of 𝑒 𝑒
(c) 𝜋𝜀 𝑑2 (1,0,0) (d) − 𝜋𝜀 𝑑2 (1,0,0)
1/4𝜋𝜖0 ) is [CSIR DEC 2013] 0 0

6. Two uniformly charged insulating solid spheres A

and B, both of radius 𝑎, carry total charges +𝑄
and −𝑄, respectively. The spheres are placed
touching each other as shown in the figure.

12
 If both the rings carry the same current i along
the same direction, the magnitude of the
magnetic field along the x axis is best represented
by [CSIR JUNE 2022]

If the potential at the center of the sphere A is 𝑉𝐴

and that at the center of B is 𝑉𝐵 , then the
difference 𝑉𝐴 − 𝑉𝐵 is [CSIR DEC 2016]
𝑄 −𝑄
(a) 4𝜋𝜀 (b) 2𝜋𝜀
0𝑎 0𝑎
𝑄 −𝑄
(c) (d)
2𝜋𝜀0 𝑎 4𝜋𝜀0 𝑎

7. The 𝑦𝑧-plane at 𝑥 = 0 carries a uniform surface

charge density 𝜎. A unit point charge is moved
from a point (𝛿, 0,0) on one side of the plane to a
point (−𝛿, 0,0) on the other side. If 𝛿 is an
infinitesimally small positive number, the work
done in moving the charge is
10. A conducting shell of radius 𝑅 is placed with its
[CSIR DEC 2019]
𝜎 centre at the origin as shown below. A point
(a) 0 (b) 𝛿
𝜀0 charge 𝑄 is placed inside the shell at a distance 𝑎
𝜎 2𝜎
(c) −𝜀 𝛿 (d) 𝜀 𝛿 along the 𝑥-axis from the centre.
0 0

8. Two small metallic objects are embedded in a

weakly conducting medium of conductivity 𝜎 and
dielectric constant 𝜀. A battery connected
between them leads to a potential difference 𝑉0 . It
is subsequently disconnected at time 𝑡 = 0. The
potential difference at later time 𝑡 is The electric field at a distance 𝑏 > 𝑅 along the 𝑥-
[NET June 2022] axis from the centre is [CSIR DEC 2023]
−𝐼𝜎/4𝜀
(a) 𝑉0 𝑒 (b) 𝑉0 𝑒 −𝑡𝜎/2𝜀 (a)
𝑄
𝑥ˆ
4𝜋𝜀0 𝑏2
(c) 𝑉0 𝑒 −3𝜅𝜎/4𝜀 (d) 𝑉0 𝑒 −𝑡𝜎/𝜀 𝑄 1 𝑎𝑅
(b) [ − (𝑎𝑏−𝑅2 )2 ] 𝜒ˆ
4𝜋𝜀0 (𝑏−𝑎)2
9. Two parallel conducting rings, both of radius R, 𝑄 1 𝑎𝑅
(c)4𝜋𝜀 [(𝑏−𝑎)2 + (𝑎𝑏−𝑅2 )2 ] 𝑥ˆ
0
are separated by a distance R. The planes of the
𝑄 1 𝑅2
rings are perpendicular to the line joining their (d)4𝜋𝜀 [𝑏2 − 𝑎2 𝑏2 ] 𝑥ˆ
0
centres, which is taken to be the x-axis.
11. A one-dimensional infinite long wire with
uniform linear charge density 𝜆, is placed along
the 𝑧-axis. The potential difference 𝛿𝑉 = 𝑉(𝜌 +
𝑎) − 𝑉(𝜌), between two points at radial distances
𝜌 + 𝑎 and 𝜌 from the 𝑧-axis, where 𝑎 ≪ 𝜌, is
closest to [CSIR DEC 2023]
𝜆 𝑎2 𝜆 𝑎
(a)− 2𝜋𝜀 2 (b)− 2𝜋𝜀
0𝜌 0 𝜌

13
 𝜆 𝑎 𝜆 𝑎2 3. The scalar potential corresponding to the force
(c) (d)
2𝜋𝜀0 𝜌 2𝜋𝜀0 𝜌2
field 𝐹⃗ = 𝑖ˆ(𝑦 + 𝑧) [GATE 2002]
(a) is 𝑦 2 /2 (b) is 1
❖ GATE PYQ’S
(c) is zero (d) does not exist
1. A spherical conductor of radius 𝑅 has two cavities
4. A conducting sphere of radius 𝑅 has charge +𝑄
centered at 𝑟1 and 𝑟2 respectively from the centre
on its surface. If the charge on the sphere is
of the conductor. The cavities contain point
doubled and its radius is halved, the energy
charges +2𝑞 and −𝑞 at their respective centers as
associated with the electric field will be:
shown in the figure. The magnitude of the electric
[GATE 2004]
field at a point P is : [GATE 1996]
(a)Increase four times (b) Increase eight times
(c) Remain the same (d) Decrease four times

5. A charge +𝑞 is kept at a distance of 2𝑅 from the

centre of a grounded conducting sphere of radius
𝑅. The image charge and its distance from the
centre are, respectively [GATE 2004]
𝑞 𝑅 𝑞 𝑅
(a) − 2 and 2 (b) − 2 and 4
1 𝑞 𝑅 𝑞 𝑅
(𝑎) (c) −𝑞 and (d) + and
4𝜋𝜀0 𝑟 2 2 2 2
2 1/2
1 2𝑞 −𝑞 2
(𝑏) [( ) + ( ) ] 6. The work done in bringing a charge +𝑞 from
4𝜋𝜀0 (𝑟 − 𝑟1 )2 (𝑟 − 𝑟2 )2
infinity in free space, to a position at a distance 𝑑
1 q
(c) in front of a semi-infinite grounded metal surface
4𝜋𝜀0 (𝑟 − 𝑟1 − 𝑟2 )2
is [GATE 2005]
1 𝑞
(d) 𝑞2 𝑞2
4𝜋𝜀0 (𝑟 − 𝑟1 ) + (𝑟 − 𝑟2 )2
2 (a) − (b) −
4𝜋𝜀0 (𝑑) 4𝜋𝜀0 (2𝑑)
𝑞2 𝑞2
(c) − 4𝜋𝜀 (d) − 4𝜋𝜀
2. A point charge 𝑞 is kept at the mid-point between 0 (4𝑑) 0 (6𝑑)

two large parallel grounded conducting plates.

Assume no gravity. The charge is displaced a little 7. A sphere of radius 𝑅 has uniform volume charge
towards the right plate. The charge will now, density. The electric potential at a point 𝑟(𝑟 < 𝑅)
[GATE 2000] is [GATE 2006]
(a) due to the charge inside a sphere of radius 𝑟
only
(b) due to the entire charge of the sphere
(c) due to charge in the spherical shell of inner
and outer radii 𝑟 and 𝑅, only
(d) independent of 𝑟

8. At time 𝑡 = 0, a charge distribution 𝜌(𝑟⃗, 0) exist

(a) Stay where it is within an ideal homogeneous conductor of
(b) Move towards the right plate permittivity 𝜀 and conductivity 𝜎. At a later time
(c) Move towards the left plate 𝜌(𝑟⃗, 𝑡) is given by [GATE 2008]
𝜎𝑡
(d) Oscillate between the plates (a) 𝜌(𝑟⃗, 𝑡) = 𝜌(𝑟⃗, 0)exp (− 𝜀 )
𝜌(𝑟⃗,0)
(b) 𝜌(𝑟⃗, 𝑡) = 1+(𝜎𝑡/𝜀)2

14
 𝜎𝑡 2 the volume of the sphere
(c) 𝜌(𝑟⃗, 𝑡) = 𝜌(𝑟⃗, 0)exp [− ( ) ]
𝜀 (b) The electrostatic potential has the same value
𝜀 𝜎𝑡
(d) 𝜌(𝑟⃗, 𝑡) = 𝜌(𝑟⃗, 0) 𝜎𝑡 sin ( 𝜀 ) for 𝑟 < 𝑎
(c) An equal and opposite charge gets induced in
Common data for Q. 9 and Q.10. the bottom half of the sphere
Consider two concentric conducting spherical (d) The electric field is given by 1/(4𝜋𝜀0 r 2 ) for
shells with inner and outer radii a, b and c, d as r<a
shown in the figure. Both the shells are given Q
amount of positive charges 12. Two charges 𝑞 and 2𝑞 are placed along the 𝑥-axis
in front of a grounded, infinite conducting plane,
as shown in the figure. They are located
respectively at a distance of 0.5 m and 1.5 m from
the plane. The force acting on the charge 𝑞 is
[GATE 2011]

9. The electric field in different regions are :

[GATE 2008]
−𝑄
(a) 𝐸⃗⃗ = 0 for 𝑟 < 𝑎; 𝐸⃗⃗ = 2𝑟ˆ for 𝑎 < 𝑟 <
4𝜋𝜀0 𝑟
Q
𝑏; 𝐸⃗⃗ = 0 for b < r < c; ⃗E⃗ = 4𝜋𝜀 r2 r̂ for r > d
0

−𝑄
⃗⃗ =
(b) E r̂ for ⃗⃗ = 0 for a < r < b; E
r < a; E ⃗⃗ = 1 7𝑞2 1
4𝜋𝜀0 𝑟 2 (a) (b) 2𝑞 2
4𝜋𝜀0 2 4𝜋𝜀0
𝑄
r̂ for b < r < c; E ⃗⃗ = Q 2 r̂ for r < d 1 1 𝑞2
4𝜋𝜀0 r2 4𝜋𝜀0 r (c) 4𝜋𝜀 𝑞 2 (d) 4𝜋𝜀
−𝑄 0 0 2
⃗⃗
(c) E = ⃗⃗
r̂ for r < a; E = 0 for a < r < b; ⃗E⃗ =
4𝜋𝜀0 r2
2Q 13. A point charge is placed between two semi-
0 for b < r < c; Ė = 4𝜋𝜀 r2 r̂ for r > d
0
infinite conducting plates which are inclined at an
(d) 𝐸⃗⃗ = 0 for 𝑟 < 𝑎; 𝐸⃗⃗ = 0 for 𝑎 < 𝑟 < 𝑏; 𝐸˙ = angle of 30° with respect to each other. The
𝑄 2𝑄
4𝜋𝜀0 𝑟
ˆ for 𝑏 < 𝑟 < 𝑐; 𝐸˙ =
2𝑟 2𝑟ˆ for 𝑟 > 𝑑
4𝜋𝜀0 𝑟
number of image charges is [GATE 2015]

10. In order to have equal surface charge densities on 14. Identical charges 𝑞 are placed at five vertices of a
the outer surfaces of both the shells, the following regular hexagon of side 𝑎. The magnitude of the
conditions should be satisfied [GATE 2008] electric field and the electrostatic potential at the
(a) d = 4 b and c = 2a centre of the hexagon are respectively
(b) −d = 2 b and c = √2a [GATE 2017]
𝑞 𝑞
(c) d = √2 b and c > a (a) 0,0 (b) 4𝜋𝜀 𝑎2 , 4𝜋𝜀 𝑎
0 0

(d) 𝑑 > 𝑏 and 𝑐 = √2𝑎 𝑞 5𝑞 √5𝑞 √5𝑞

(c) ,
4𝜋𝜀0 𝑎 2 4𝜋𝜀0 𝑎
(d) 4𝜋𝜀 𝑎2 , 4𝜋𝜀 𝑎
0 0

11. An electric charge, +Q is placed on the surface of

15. A uniform volume charge density is placed inside
a solid, conduction sphere of radius a. The
a conductor (with resistivity 10−2 Ωm ). The
distance measured from the centre of the sphere
charge density becomes 1/(2.718) of its original
is denoted as 𝑟. Then : GATE 2008]
value after time_____ femto seconds. (up to two
(a) The charge gets distributed uniformly through

15
 decimal places) (𝜀0 = 8.854 × 10−12 F/m)
[GATE 2017] 3 Consider a grounded conducting plane which is
infinitely extended perpendicular to the 𝑦 − axis
16. A conducting sphere of radius 1 m is placed in air. at 𝑦 = 0. If an infinite line of charge per unit
The maximum number of electrons that can be length 𝜆 runs parallel to 𝑥-axis at 𝑦 = 𝑑, then
put on the sphere to avoid electrical breakdown is surface charge density on the conducting plane is
about 7 × 10𝑛 , where 𝑛 is an integer. The value of [JEST 2017]
𝑛 is ….. Assume: −𝜆𝑑 −𝜆𝑑
(a) (𝑥 2 +𝑑2 +𝑧2 ) (b) (𝑥 2 +𝑑2 +𝑧2 )
Breakdown electric field strength in air is |𝐸⃗⃗ | = −𝜆𝑑
(c) 𝜋(𝑥 2 +𝑑2 +𝑧2 )
−𝜆𝑑
(d) 2𝜋(𝑥 2 +𝑑2 +𝑧2 )
3 × 106 V/m [GATE 2020]
Permittivity of free space 𝜀0 = 8.85 × 10−12 F/m
4 A solid, insulating sphere of radius 1 cm has
Electron charge 𝑒 = 1.60 × 10−19 C
charge 10−7 C distributed uniformly over its
volume. It is surrounded concentrically by a
17. Two point charges of charge +𝑞 each are placed a
conducting thick spherical shell of inner radius
distance 2𝑑 apart. A grounded solid conducting
2 cm, outer radius 2.5 cm and is charged with
sphere of radius 𝑎 is placed midway between
them. Assume 𝑎2 ≪ 𝑑2 . Which of the following −2 × 10−7 C. What is the electrostatic potential in
statement is/are true? [GATE 2024] Volts on the surface of the sphere?
(a)The potential at the center of the sphere is [JEST 2017]
non-zero
(b)Total induced charge on the sphere is (−
2𝑎𝑞
) 5 An apparatus is made from two concentric
𝑑
𝑑 conducting cylinders of radii a and b respectively,
(c) If 𝑎 > 8 , the net force acting on the charges is where a < b. the inner cylinder is grounded and
directed towards each other the outer cylinder is at a positive potential V. the
(d) The potential at the surface of the sphere is space between the cylinders has a uniform
zero magnetic field H directed along the axis of the
cylinders. Electrons leave the inner cylinder with
zero speed and travel towards the outer cylinder.
❖ JEST PYQ
What is the threshold value of V below which the
electrons cannot reach the outer cylinder?
1 A point charge +𝑞 placed at (0,0, 𝑑) above a
[JEST 2018]
grounded infinite conducting plane defined by 2
𝑒𝐻 2 (𝑏2 −𝑎2 ) 𝑒𝐻 2 (𝑏2 −𝑎2 )
𝑧 = 0. There are no charges present anywhere (a) 8𝑚𝑐 2
(b) 8𝑚𝑐 2 𝑏2
else. What is the magnitude of electric field at 𝑒𝐻 2 (𝑏2 −𝑎 2 )
2
𝑒𝐻 2 𝑏√(𝑏2 −𝑎2 )
(0,0, −d) ? [JEST 2012] (c) 8𝑚𝑐 2 𝑎2
(d) 8𝑚𝑐 2

(a) 𝑞/(8𝜋𝜀0 d2 ) (b) −∞

𝑞 6 Consider two concentric spherical metal shells of
(c) 0 (d) (16𝜋𝜀
0 d2 ) radii 𝑟1 and 𝑟2 (𝑟2 > 𝑟1 ). The outer shell has a
charge 𝑞 and the inner shell is grounded. What is
2 A point charge 𝑞 of mass 𝑚 is released from rest the charge on the inner shell? [JEST 2019]
𝑟1 𝑟1
at a distance 𝑑 from an infinite grounded (a) 𝑞 (b) 𝑞
𝑟2 𝑟2
conducting plane (ignore gravity). How long does 𝑟
(c) 0 (d) 2 𝑞
it takes for the charge to hit the plane? 𝑟1
[JEST 2016]
√2𝜋3 𝜖0 𝑚𝑑 3 √2𝜋3 𝜖0 𝑚𝑑 7 A point charge 𝑞 is kept 𝑑 distance above an
(a) (b)
𝑞 𝑞 infinite conducting plane. What is the energy
√𝜋3 𝜖0 𝑚𝑑 3 √𝜋3 𝜖0 𝑚𝑑 stored in the configuration?
(c) 𝑞
(d) 𝑞

16
 [JEST 2022] [JEST 2023]
1 𝑞2 1 𝑞2 𝑞2 𝑎𝑑 𝑞2
(a) − (b) − (a) 4𝜋𝜖 2 2 2 (b) 4𝜋𝜖 2
4𝜋𝜀0 4𝑑 4𝜋𝜀0 2𝑑 0 (𝑑 −𝑎 ) 0 (𝑑−𝑎)
1 𝑞2 1 𝑞2 𝑞2
(c) 4𝜋𝜀 (d) 4𝜋𝜀 (c) 4𝜋𝜖 2 (d) 0
0 2𝑑 0 4𝑑 0𝑑

8 Two point charges 2𝑞 and 𝑞 are placed inside two ❖ TIFR PYQ
spherical cavities of equal radii 𝑅/4 in a solid
conducting sphere of radius 𝑅, as shown in the 1 A spherical conductor, carrying a total charge 𝑄,
figure. The cavities are placed along a diagonal at spins uniformly and very rapidly about an axis
distances 𝑅/2 from the center of the solid sphere. coinciding with one of its diameters. In the
The electrical potential at a point 𝑃, 3𝑅/2 diagrams given below, the equilibrium charge
distance away from the center along the same density on its surface is represented by the
diagonal, is given by [JEST 2022] thickness of the shaded region. Which of these
diagrams is correct? [TIFR 2014]

1 2𝑞 1 5𝑞
(a) 4𝜋𝜖 𝑅
(b) 4𝜋𝜖 2𝑅
∘ ∘
1 3𝑞
(c) 0 (d) 4𝜋𝜖 𝑅
∘ 2 A solid spherical conductor encloses 3 cavities, a
cross-section of which are as shown in the figure.
9 A point charge 𝑞 is fixed at point 𝐴 inside a hollow A net charge +𝑞 resides on the outer surface of
grounded conducting spherical shell of radius 𝑅, the conductor. Cavities A and C contain point
at a distance 𝑎 from the center 𝐶. The force on the charges +𝑞 and −𝑞, respectively.
sphere due to the presence of the point charge is The net charges on the surfaces of these cavities
[JEST 2022] are [TIFR 2015]
1 𝑞2 𝑎𝑅
(a) 4𝜋𝜖 2 2
⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗ .
in magnitude and along 𝐴𝐶
0 (𝑅+𝑎) (𝑅−𝑎)
1 𝑞2 𝑎𝑅
(b) 4𝜋𝜖 2 2
⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗.
in magnitude and along 𝐶𝐴
0 (𝑅+𝑎) (𝑅−𝑎)
1 𝑞2
(c) ⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗ .
in magnitude and along 𝐴𝐶
4𝜋𝜖0 (𝑅−𝑎)2
1 𝑞2
(d) 4𝜋𝜖 2
⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗.
in magnitude and along 𝐶𝐴
0 (𝑅−𝑎)

10 Calculate the magnitude of the force experienced

(a) 𝐴 = −𝑞, 𝐵 = 𝑞, 𝐶 = 0
by a point charge +𝑞 placed at a distance 𝑑 from
(b) 𝐴 = −𝑞, 𝐵 = 0, 𝐶 = −𝑞
the center of a grounded conducting sphere of
(c) 𝐴 = +𝑞, 𝐵 = 0, 𝐶 = −𝑞
radius 𝑎(< 𝑑).
(d) 𝐴 = −𝑞, 𝐵 = 0, 𝐶 = +𝑞

17
3 Two long hollow conducting cylinders, each of
height ℎ, are placed concentrically on the ground, 5 A point charge 𝑞 < 0 is brought in front of a
as shown in the figure (top view). The outer grounded conducting sphere. If the induced
cylinder is grounded, while the inner cylinder is charge density on the sphere is plotted such that
insulated. A positive charge (the black dot in the that the thickness of the black shading is
figure) is placed between the cylinders at a height proportional to the charge density, the correct
ℎ/2 from the ground. plot will most closely resemble [TIFR 2019]

Which of the following figures gives the most

accurate representation (top view) of the lines of
force? [TIFR 2017]
6 A monsoon cloud has a flat bottom of surface area
125 km2. It floats horizontally over the ground at
a level such that the base of the cloud is 1.13 km
above the ground (see figure). Due to friction
with the air below, the base of the cloud acquires
a uniform electric charge density. This keeps
increasing slowly with time.
When the uniform electric field below the cloud
reaches the value 2.4MVm−1 a lightning discharge
occurs, and the entire charge of the cloud passes
to the Earth below - which, in this case, behaves
4 Consider the following situations. like a grounded conductor.

In situation A, two semi-infinite earthed

conducting planes meet at right-angles. A point Neglecting edge effects and inhomogeneities
charge 𝑞, is placed at a distance 𝑑 from each inside the cloud and the air below, the energy
plane, as shown in the figure A. The magnitude of released in this lightning discharge can be
the force exerted on the charge 𝑞 is denoted 𝐹𝐴 . estimated, in kilowatt-hours ( kWh), as about
In situation B, the same charge 𝑞 is kept at the [TIFR 2019]
same distance 𝑑 from an infinite earthed (a) 10 9
(b) 10 5
conducting plane, as shown in the figure B. The (c) 10 (d) 10−1
magnitude of the force exerted on the charge 𝑞 is
denoted 𝐹𝐵 .
7 A light rigid insulating rod of length ℓ is
Find the numerical ratio 𝐹𝐴 /𝐹𝐵 [TIFR 2017]
suspended horizontally from a rigid frictionless

18
 pivot at one of the ends (see figure). At a vertical 1 𝑎 𝑒𝑎 𝑒𝑏 𝑒
(d) − ( + + 𝑐˙ )
4𝜋𝜀0 𝑐 𝑎 𝑏 𝑐
distance ℎ below the rod there is an infinite plane
conducting plane, which is grounded.
9 Two positive charges 𝑄 and 𝑞 are placed on
If two small, light spherical conductors are
opposite sides of a grounded sphere of radius 𝑅 at
attached at the ends of the rod and given charges
distances of 2𝑅 and 4𝑅 respectively, from the
+𝑄 and −𝑄 as indicated in the figure, the torque
centre of the sphere, as shown in the diagram
on the rod will be [TIFR 2020]
below.

The charge 𝑞 feels a force AWAY from the centre

Q2 Q2 of the sphere if [TIFR 2021]
(a)4πϵ ℓ k̂ (b)− 4πϵ ℓ k̂
0 0 𝑞 25 𝑞 25
(4−√2) Q2 (4−√2) Q2 (a)𝑄 < 36 (b)𝑄 < 16
(c) 16πϵ ℓ
k̂ (d)− 16πϵ ℓ k̂
0 0 𝑞 25 𝑞 49
(c) < (d) <
𝑄 144 𝑄 144
8 Three concentric spherical metallic shells with
radii 𝑐 > 𝑏 > 𝑎 (see figure) are charged with 10 Three concentric spherical metallic shells with
charges 𝑒𝑒 , 𝑒𝑏 , and 𝑒𝑜 respectively. The outermost radii 𝑐 > 𝑏 > 𝑎 (see figure) are charged with
shell (of radius 𝑐 ) is at a potential 𝑉𝑐0 . charges 𝑒𝑐 , 𝑒𝑏 , and 𝑒𝑎 respectively. The outermost
[TIFR 2021] shell (of radius 𝑐) is at a potential 𝑉𝑐0 . Now, the
innermost shell (of radius 𝑎 ) is grounded, and
the potential of the outermost shell becomes
𝑔 𝑔
𝑉𝑐 .The difference 𝑉𝑐 − 𝑉𝑐0 will be
[TIFR 2021]

11 A falling raindrop, spherical in shape, with a

diameter of 1𝜇m, acquires a uniform negative
charge due to friction with air. The electric field at
a distance of 10𝜇m from the surface of the droplet
is measured to be 101Vm−1 . The number of
Now, the innermost shell (of radius 𝑎 ) is
excess electrons acquired by the droplet is
grounded, and the potential of the outermost
𝑔 𝑔 (a) 7 (b) 7.02 × 106
shell becomes 𝑉𝑐 The difference 𝑉𝑐 − 𝑉𝑐0 will
(c) 1.4 × 1023 (d) 1414
be
1 𝑎 𝑒𝑐 𝑒𝑏
[TIFR 2022]
(a) − 4𝜋𝜀 (
𝑐 𝑐−𝑎
+ 𝑏
)
0
12 Two equal positive point charges 𝑄 = +1 are
1 𝑐 𝑒 𝑒𝑏 𝑒 placed on either side of an 𝑥-axis normal to a
(b) − 4𝜋𝜀 𝑎 ( 𝑎𝑎 + 𝑏
+ 𝑐𝑐 )
0
grounded infinite conducting plane at distances
1 𝑐 𝑒𝑎 𝑒𝑏 𝑒 of 𝑥 = +2 units and 𝑥 = −1 unit respectively (see
(c) − 4𝜋𝜀 ( + + 𝑎𝑐 )
0 𝑎 𝑐 𝑏 figure) w.r.t. the point of intersection of the axis

19
 with the conducting plane as origin. The 𝑝2
(c) 𝜏 = (64𝜋𝜖 3) cos (𝜃)
0𝑑
electrostatic potential along the axis will
𝑝2
correspond to the graph in [TIFR 2022] (d) 𝜏 = (16𝜋𝜖 3) sin (𝜃)
0𝑑

❖ Answer Key
CSIR-NET PYQ
1. c 2. b 3. b 4. d 5. b
6. c 7. a 8. d 9. a
10. a 11. b
GATE PYQ
1. a 2. b 3. d 4. b 5. a
6. c 7. b 8. a 9. d 10. c
11. b 12. a 13. 11 14. c 15. 88.50
16. 14 17. bcd
JEST PYQ
1. c 2. a 3. c 4. 9000 5. b
6. a 7. a 8. a 9. a 10. a
TIFR PYQ
1. b 2. d 3. c 4. 5. b
6. a 7. d 8. d 9. c 10.
11. a 12. a 13. a

13. Consider an electric dipole of strength 𝑝 placed near

a grounded infinite conducting sheet in the 𝑥𝑦 plane
at a distance 𝑑 from it in the 𝑧 direction as shown
below. The centre of the dipole (C) is fixed to a pivot
but the dipole is free to rotate about the 𝑥 axis
(coming out of the page). [TIFR 2024]

What is the magnitude of the torque on the dipole

when the angle between the dipole and the positive
𝑧 axis is (𝜋 − 𝜃) as shown?
𝑝2
(a) 𝜏 = (64𝜋𝜖 3) sin (2𝜃)
0𝑑
𝑝2
(b) 𝜏 = (16𝜋𝜖 3) cos (2𝜃)
0𝑑

20
 ❖ EMT 03 : Laplace & Poisson’s Equations , Dielectrics , Capacitor
,Electrostatics Energy
❖ CSIR-NET PYQ’s 4. A static, spherically symmetric charge
𝐴 −𝑘𝑟
distribution is given by 𝜌(𝑟) = 𝑟
𝑒 where 𝐴
1. Consider a parallel plate capacitor connected to
and 𝑘 are positive constants. The electrostatic
an AC voltage source (as shown in fig.1). A
potential corresponding to this charge
conductin slab is introduced in the space
distribution varies with 𝑟 as
between the plates from above (as shown in
[CSIR JUNE 2011]
fig.2) 1
(a) 𝑟𝑒 −𝑘𝑟 (b) 𝑟 𝑒 −𝑘𝑟
[NET 2008]
1 −𝑘 1
(c) 𝑒 (d) (1 − 𝑒 −𝑘𝑟 )
𝑟2 𝑟

5. If the electrostatic potential 𝑉(𝑟, 𝜃, 𝜙) in 𝑎

charge free region has the form
𝑉(𝑟, 𝜃, 𝜙) = 𝑓(𝑟)cos 𝜃, then the functional
form of 𝑓(𝑟) (in the following 𝑎 and 𝑏 are
The capacitance of the parallel plate capacitor. constants) is [NET Dec, 2013]
𝑏 𝑏
(a) Goes to zero. (a) 𝑎𝑟 2 + 𝑟 (b) 𝑎𝑟 + 𝑟2
(b) Increases to a finite value 𝑏 𝑟
(c) 𝑎𝑟 + (d) 𝑎ln ( )
(c)decreases to a non zero value 𝑟 𝑏
(d) becomes infinite
6. If the electrostatic potential in spherical polar
2. A dielectric sphere of radius 𝑅 carries a coordinates is 𝜑(𝑟) = 𝜑0 𝑒 −𝑟/𝑟0 where 𝜑0 and 𝑟0
polarization 𝑃⃗ = 𝑘𝑟 throughout its volume. The are constants, then the charge density at a
volume charge density 𝜌b of the bound charges distance 𝑟 = 𝑟0 will be
is [NET June 2009] [NET June 2014]
𝜀0 𝜑 0 𝜀𝜀 𝜑
(a) −3𝑘 (b) 3k (a) 2 (b) 0 2 0
𝑒𝑟0 2𝑟0
(c)k (d) k 𝜀0 𝜑 0 2𝜀𝜀0 𝜑0
(c) − 𝑒𝑟02
(d) − 𝑟02
3. The electrostatic potential V(x, y) in free space
in a region where the charge density 𝜌 is zero is 7. A hollow metallic sphere of radius 𝑎, which is
given by 𝑉(𝑥, 𝑦) = 4𝑒 2𝑥 + 𝑓(𝑥) − 3𝑦 2 . Given kept at a potential 𝑉0 , has a charge 𝑄 at its
that the 𝑥-component of the electric field, 𝐸𝑥 , centre. The potential at a point outside the
and 𝑉 are zero at the origin, 𝑓(𝑥) is: sphere, at a distance 𝑟 from the centre, is
[NET June 2011] [CSIR DEC 2015]
(a) 3x 2 − 4e2x + 8x (b) 3x 2 − 4e2x + 16x (a) 𝑉0 (b)
𝑄
+
𝑉0 𝑎
4𝜋𝜖0 𝑟 𝑟
(c) 4e2x − 8 (d)3x 2 − 4e2x
𝑄 𝑉0 𝑎2 𝑉0 𝑎
(c) + (d)
4𝜋𝜖0 𝑟 𝑟2 𝑟

21
8. Two parallel plate capacitors, separated by 11. A parallel plate capacitor, with 1 cm separation
distances 𝑥 and 1,1𝑥 respectively, have a between the plates, has two layers of dielectric
dielectric material of dielectric constant 3.0 with dielectric constants 𝜅 = 2 and 𝜅 = 4, as
inserted between the plates, and are connected shown in the figure below. If a
to a battery of voltage 𝑉. The difference in charge potentialdifference of 10 V is applied between
on the second capacitor compared to the first is the plates, the magnitude of the bound surface
[CSIR JUNE 2016] charge density (in units of C / m2 ) at the
(a) +66% (b) +20% junction of the diclectrics is.
(c) −3.3% (d) −10% [NET Dec, 2019]

9. The half space regions 𝑥 > 0 and 𝑥 < 0 are

filled with dielectric media of dielectric
constants 𝜀1 and 𝜀2 respectively. There is a
uniform electric field in each part. In the right
half, the electric field makes an angle 𝜃1 to the
interfice. The corresponding angle 𝜃2 in the left (a)250𝜀0 (b)2000𝜀0 3
half satisfies (c) 2000𝜀0 (d) 200𝜀0 /3
[NET June 2016]
12. A parallel plate capacitor with rectangular plates
of length 𝑙, breadth 𝑏 and plate separation 𝑑, is
held vertically on the surface of a dielectric
liquid of dielectric constant 𝜅 and density 𝜌 as
shown in the figure. The length and breadth are
large enough for edge effects to be neglected.
The plates of the capacitor are kept at a constant
voltage difference 𝑉. Ignoring effects of surface
tension, the height ℎ upto which the liquid level
rises inside the capacitor, is
(a) 𝜀1 sin 𝜃2 = 𝜀2 sin 𝜃1
(b) 𝜀1 tan 𝜃2 = 𝜀2 tan 𝜃1 [CSIR JUNE 2020]
(c)𝜀1 tan 𝜃1 = 𝜀2 tan 𝜃2
(d) 𝜀1 sin 𝜃1 = 𝜀2 sin 𝜃2

10. Two long hollow co-axial conducting cylinders

of radii 𝑅1 and 𝑅2 (𝑅1 < 𝑅2 ) are placed in
vacuum as shown in the figure below.
[NET June 2017]
𝑉 2 𝜀0 (𝜅−1) 𝑉 2 𝜀0 (𝜅−1)
(a) 𝜌𝑔𝑏𝑑
(b) 2𝜌𝑔𝑏2
𝑉 2 𝜀0 (𝜅−1) 𝑉 2 𝜀0 (𝜅−1)
(c) 2𝜌𝑔𝑑 2
(d) 𝜌𝑔𝑑 2

13. The electric potential on the boundary of a

the inner cylinder carries a charge +𝜆 per unit spherical cavity of radius 𝑅 as a function of the
length and the outer cylinder carries a charge 𝜃
polar angle 𝜃 is 𝑉0 cos2 . The charge density
2
−𝜆 per unit length. The electrostatic energy per
inside the cavity is zero everywhere. The
unit length of this system is 𝑅
𝜆2 𝜆2 𝑅2 potential at a distance 2 from the center of the
(a) 𝜋𝜀 ln (b) 4𝜋𝜀 (𝑅22 )
0 0 1 sphere is [CSIR JUNE 2023]
𝜆2 𝑅 𝜆2 𝑅
(c) 4𝜋𝜀 ln (𝑅2 ) (d) 2𝜋𝜀0
ln (𝑅2 ) 𝑉 co s(𝜃)
(a) 20 (1 + 2 )
𝑉
(b) 20 𝑐𝑜 𝑠(𝜃)
0 1 1

22
 𝑉0 𝑆𝑖 𝑛(𝜃) 𝑉0 5. A conducting sphere of radius 𝑅 is placed in a
(c) 2
(1 + 2 ) (d) 2
sin (𝜃)
uniform electric field 𝐸⃗0 directed along +𝑧 axis.
The electric potential for outside points is given
𝑅3
❖ GATE PYQ’s as 𝑉out = −𝐸0 (1 − 𝑟3 ) 𝑟cos 𝜃, where 𝑟 is the
distance from the centre and 𝜃 is the polar
1. The space between the plates of a parallel plate angle. The charge density on the surface of the
capacitor is filled with two dielectric slabs of sphere is
dielectric constants k1 and k 2 as shown in the [GATE 2004]
figure. If the capacitor is charged to a potential (a) 3𝜀0 𝐸0 cos 𝜃 (b) 𝜀0 𝐸0 cos 𝜃
V, then at the interface between the two (c) 3𝜀0 𝐸0 cos 𝜃
𝜀
(d) 0 𝐸0 cos 𝜃
3
dielectrics.
[GATE 2000]
6. A conducting sphere of radius 𝑅 has charge +𝑄
on its surface. If the charge on the sphere is
doubled and its radius is halved, the energy
associated with the electric field will
[GATE 2004]
(a) increase four times
(a) ⃗E is discontinuous and 𝐷
⃗ is continuous
⃗ is discontinuous and 𝐷
⃗ is discontinuous (b) increase eight times
(b) E
⃗ is continuous and 𝐷
⃗ is continuous (b) remain the same
(c) E
⃗ ⃗ (d) decrease four times
(d) E is continuous and D is discontinuous

2. Consider an electric field ⃗E existing in the 7. If the electrostatic potential were given by 𝜙 =
interface between a conductor and free space. 𝜙0 (𝑥 2 + 𝑦 2 + 𝑧 2 ), where 𝜙0 is constant, then
Then the electric field ⃗E is : [GATE 2001] the charge density giving rise to the above
potential would be :
(a) External to the conductor and normal to the
[GATE 2005]
conductor's surface
(a) 0 (b) −6𝜙0 𝜀0
(b) Internal to the conductor and normal to the
6𝜙0
conductor's surface (c) −2𝜙0 𝜀0 (d) − 𝜀0
(c) External to the conductor and tangential to
the conductor's surface Statement for Linked Answer Q. 8 and Q. 9 :
(d) Both external and internal to the conductor A dielectric sphere of radius R carries
and normal to the conductor's surface polarization P⃗ = 𝑘𝑟 2 𝑟ˆ, where 𝑟 is the distance
from the centre and 𝑘 is a constant. In the
3. A coaxial cable of uniform cross-section spherical polar coordinate system, 𝑟ˆ, 𝜃ˆ and 𝜑ˆ
contains an insulating material of dielectric are the unit vectors.
constant 3.5. The radius of the central wire is
0.01 m and that of the sheath is 0.02 m. The 8. The bound volume charge density inside the
capacitance per kilo meter of a cable is : sphere at a distance 𝑟 from the centre is
[GATE 2001] [GATE 2006]
(a) 280.5nF (b) 28.05nF (a) −4𝑘R (b) −4𝑘𝑟
(c) 56.10nF (d)2.805nF (c) −4𝑘𝑟 2 (d) −4𝑘𝑟 3

4. An electric field applied along the length of a 9. The electric field inside the sphere at a distance
long cylinder produces a polarization P. The 𝑑 from the centre is
depolarization field produced in this [GATE 2006]
configuration is −𝑘𝑑 2 −𝑘R2
(a) 𝜀0
𝑟ˆ (b) 𝜀0
𝑟ˆ
[GATE 2003]
−𝑘𝑑 2 −𝑘R2
(a) 4𝜋𝑃/3 (b) −4𝜋𝑃/3 (c) 𝜀 𝜃ˆ (d) 𝜀 𝜃ˆ
0 0
(c) 2𝜋𝑃 (d) 0

23
 Statement for Linked Answer Questions 10 & [GATE 2009]
11: (a) zero (b) 10𝜋𝑟 2 𝐿
A sphere of radius R carries a polarization 𝑃⃗ =
𝑘𝑟, where k is a constant and 𝑟 is measured (c) −5𝜋𝑟 2 𝐿 (d) −5𝜋𝑟 2 𝐿2
from the centre of the sphere.
14. A spherical conductor of radius 𝑎 is placed in a
10. The bound surface and volume charge densities
uniform electric field 𝐸⃗ = 𝐸0 𝑘ˆ. The potential at a
are given, respectively, by
point 𝑃(𝑟, 𝜃) for 𝑟 > 𝑎, is given by 𝜑(𝑟, 𝜃) =
[GATE 2007]
𝐸0 𝑎 3
(a) −𝑘|𝑟| and 3𝑘 (b) 𝑘|𝑟| and −3𝑘 Constant −𝐸0 𝑟cos 𝜃 + cos 𝜃 where 𝑟 is the
𝑟2
(c) 𝑘|𝑟| and −4𝜋𝑘𝑅 (d) −𝑘|𝑟| and 4𝜋𝑘𝑅 distance of 𝑃 from the centre O of the sphere and
𝜃 is the angle OP makes with the z-axis
11. The electric field 𝐸⃗ at a point 𝑟 outside the
sphere is given by
[GATE 2007]
𝑘𝑅(𝑅2 −𝑟 2 )
(a) 𝐸⃗ = 0 (b) 𝐸⃗ = 𝜀0 𝑟 3
𝑟ˆ
𝑘𝑅(𝑅2 −𝑟 2 ) 3𝑘(𝑟−𝑅)
(c) 𝐸⃗ = 𝜀0 𝑟 5
𝑟ˆ (d) 𝐸⃗ = 4𝜋𝜀0 𝑟 4
𝑟ˆ
The charge density on the sphere at 𝜃 = 30∘ is
12. A dielectric sphere is placed in a uniform [GATE 2011]
electric field directed along the positive y-axis. (a) 3√3𝜀0 𝐸0 /2 (b) 3𝜀0 𝐸0 /2
Which one of the following represents the (c) √3𝜀0 𝐸0 /2 (d) 𝜀0 𝐸0 /2
correct equal potential surfaces?
[GATE 2008] 15. For a scalar function 𝜑 satisfying the Laplace
equation, ∇𝜑 has [GATE 2013]
(a) zero curl and non-zero divergence
(c) non-zero curl and zero divergence
(c) zero curl and zero divergence
(d) non-zero curl and non-zero divergence

16. A ray of light inside Region 1 in the 𝑥𝑦-plane is

incident at the semicircle boundary that carries
no free charges. The electric field at the point
𝑃(𝑟0 , 𝜋/4) in plane polar coordinates is 𝐸⃗1 =
13. A cylindrical rod of length L and radius r, made
7𝑒ˆ𝑟 − 3𝑒ˆ𝜑 , where 𝑒ˆ𝑟 and 𝑒ˆ𝜑 are the unit vectors.
of an inhomogeneous dielectric is placed with
The emerging ray in Region 2 has the electric
its axis along the z direction with one end at the
field 𝐸⃗2 parallel to 𝑥-axis. If 𝜀1 and 𝜀2 are the
origin as shown below
dielectric constants of Region 1 and Region 2
𝜀
respectively, then 𝜀2 is [GATE 2014]
1

If the rod carries a polarization, 𝑃⃗ = (5𝑧 2 + 7)𝑘ˆ,

the volume bound charge inside the dielectric is

24
17. The space between two plates of a capacitor
carrying charges +𝑄 and −𝑄 is filled with two
different dielectric materials, as shown in the
figure. Across the interface of the two dielectric
materials, which one of the following
statements is correct?
[GATE 2015]

The electric field at a radial distance 𝑟 from the

center and between the shells (𝑎 < 𝑟 < 𝑏) is
[GATE 2021]
𝑄 𝑟ˆ
(a) 2𝜋(𝜀 ) 2 everywhere
0 +𝜀1 𝑟
𝑄 𝑟ˆ 𝑄 𝑟ˆ
(b) 4𝜋𝜀 𝑟2 on the air side and 4𝜋𝜀 𝑟2 on the
0 1
dielectric side
𝑄 𝑟ˆ 𝑄 𝑟ˆ
(c) 2𝜋𝜀 𝑟2
on the air side and 2𝜋𝜀 𝑟2
on the
(a) 𝐸⃗ and 𝐷⃗ are continuous 0 1
dielectric side
(b) 𝐸⃗ is continuous and 𝐷
⃗ is discontinuous
𝑄 𝑟ˆ
⃗ is continuous and 𝐸⃗ is discontinuous (d) 4𝜋(𝜀 everywhere
(c) 𝐷 0 +𝜀1 ) 𝑟 2

(d) 𝐸⃗ and 𝐷
⃗ are discontinuous
21. A parallel plate capacitor with spacing 𝑑 and
18. An infinite, conducting slab kept in a horizontal area of cross-section 𝐴 is connected to a source
plane carries a uniform charge density 𝜎. of voltage 𝑉. If the plates are pulled apart
Another infinite slab of thickness 𝑡, made of a quasistatically to a spacing of 2𝑑, then which of
linear dielectric material of dielectric constant the following statements are correct?
𝑘, is kept above the conducting slab. The bound [GATE 2022]
charge density on the upper surface of the (a) The force between the plates at spacing 2𝑑
1 𝜀0 𝐴𝑉 2
dielectric slab is is ( ).
8 𝑑2
[GATE 2016] (b) The work done in moving the plates is
𝜎 𝜎
(a) (b) 1 𝜀0 𝐴𝑉𝑖2
2𝑘 𝑘 ( 𝑑 ).
𝜎(𝑘−2) 𝜎(𝑘−1) 8
(c) 2𝑘 (d) 𝑘 (c) The energy transferred to the voltage source
1 𝜀0 𝐴𝑉 2
is 2 ( 𝑑
).
19. A parallel plate capacitor with square plates of
side 1 m separated by 1 micro meter is filled (d) The energy of the capacitor reduces by
1 𝜀0 𝐴𝑉 2
with medium of dielectric constant of 10 . If the 4
( 𝑑 ).
charges on the two plates are 1C and −1C, the
voltage across the capacitor is kV. 22. On the surface of a spherical shell enclosing a
(up to two decimal places). charge free region, the electrostatic potential
(𝜀0 = 8.854 × 10−12 F/m ) - values are as follows: One quarter of the area
[GATE 2017] has potential 𝜙0 , another quarter has potential
2𝜙0 and the rest has potential 4𝜙0 . The
20. Two concentric shells as shown in the figure. The potential at the Centre of the shell is
inner shell has a radius 𝑎 and carries a charge (You can use a property of the solution of
+𝑄. The outer shell has a radius 𝑏 and carries a Laplace's equation [GATE 2022]
charge −𝑄. The empty space between them is 11 11
(a) 𝜙
4 0
(b) 2 0
𝜙
half-filled by a hemispherical shell of a dielectric 7 7
having permittivity 𝜀1 . The remaining space (c) 3 𝜙0 (d) 4 𝜙0
between the shells is filled with air having the
permittivity 𝜀0 . 23. Two independent electrostatic configurations
are shown in the figure. Configuration (I)

25
 consists of an isolated point charge 𝑞 = 1C, C, [JEST 2013]
and configuration (II) consists of another (a) The electric field inside the sphere, 𝑟 < 𝑎, is
identical charge surrounded by a thick given by 𝐸(𝑟)/𝜖r .
conducting shell of inner radius 𝑅1 = 1 m and (b) The field outside the sphere, 𝑟 > 𝑎, is given
outer radius 𝑅2 = 2 m, with the charge being at by 𝐸(𝑟).
∈0
the centre of the shell. 𝑊𝐼 = ∫ 𝐸𝐼2 𝑑𝑉 and 𝑊𝐼𝐼 = (c) The total charge inside a sphere of radius
2
𝜖0 𝑟 > 𝑎 is given by 𝑞.
2
∫ 𝐸𝐼𝐼2 𝑑𝑉, where 𝐸𝐼 and 𝐸𝐼𝐼 are the magnitudes
(d) The total charge inside a sphere of radius
of the electric fields for configurations (I) and 𝑟 < 𝑎 is given by 𝑞.
(II) respectively, 𝜖0 is the permittivity of
vacuum, and the volume integrations are carried 3. The electric fields outside (𝑟 > 𝑅) and inside
8𝜋 1
out over all space. If |𝑊𝐼 − 𝑊𝐼𝐼 | = , what is (𝑟 < 𝑅) a solid sphere with a uniform volume
𝜖0 2
1 𝑞
the value of the integer 𝑛 ? charge density are given by 𝐸⃗𝑟>𝑅 = 2𝑟ˆ and
4𝜋𝜀0 𝑟
[GATE 2023] 1 𝑞
𝐸⃗𝑟<𝑅 = 𝑟𝑟ˆ respectively, while the electric
4𝜋𝜀0 𝑅3
field outside a spherical shell with a uniform
surface charge density is given by 𝐸⃗𝑟∝𝑅 =
1 𝑞
4𝜋𝜀0 𝑟 2
𝑟ˆ, 𝑞 bing the total charge. The correct ratio
of the electrostatic energies for the second case
to the first case is
[JEST 2013]
(a) 1: 3 (b) 9: 16
(c) 3: 8 (d) 5: 6
24. In a parallel plate capacitor, the plate at 𝑥 = 0 is
grounded and the plate at 𝑥 = 𝑑 is maintained at 4. A spherical shell of inner and outer radii 𝑎 and
a potential 𝑉0 . The space between the two plates 𝑏, respectively, is made of a dielectric material
is filled with a linear dielectric of permittivity 𝑘
with frozen polarization 𝑃⃗(𝑟) = 𝑟ˆ, where k is a
𝑥 𝑟
𝜖 = 𝜖0 (1 + 𝑑), where 𝜖0 is the permittivity of
constant and r is the distance from the it's
free space. centre. The electric field in the region 𝑎 < 𝑟 < 𝑏
Neglecting the edge effects, the electric field (𝐸⃗ ) is, [JEST 2015]
inside the capacitor is [GATE 2024] 𝑘 𝑘
(a) 𝐸⃗ = 𝑟ˆ (b) 𝐸⃗ = − 𝑟ˆ
0 𝑉 𝑉 𝜖0 𝑟 𝜖0 𝑟
(a) − (𝑑+𝑥)ln 𝑥ˆ (b) − 𝑑0 𝑥ˆ 𝑘
2 (c) 𝐸⃗ = 0 (d) 𝐸⃗ = 𝑟ˆ
0 𝑉 0 𝑉𝑑 ∈0 𝑟 2
(c) − (𝑑+𝑥) 𝑥ˆ (d) − (𝑑+𝑥)𝑥 𝑥ˆ
5. The electrostatic potential due to a change
❖ JEST PYQ’s 𝑒 −𝜆𝑟
distribution is given by 𝑉(𝑟) = 𝐴 𝑟
where 𝐴
and 𝜆 are constants. The total charge enclosed
1. A cube has a constant electric potential V on its 1
surface. If there are no charges inside the cube, within a sphere of radius 𝜆, with its origin at 𝑟 =
the potential at the centre of the cube is 0 is given by, [JEST 2015]
8𝜋𝜖 𝐴 4𝜋𝜖 𝐴
[JEST 2012] (a) 𝑒0 (b) 𝑒0
(a) V (b) V/8 𝜋𝜖 𝐴
(c) 𝑒0 (d) 0
(c) 0 (d) V/6

2. A charge 𝑞 is placed at the centre of an 6. Two conductors are embedded in a material of

otherwise neutral dielectric sphere of radius a conductivity 10−4 ohm − m and dielectric
and relative pernitivity 𝜖.𝑟 . We denote the constant 𝜀 = 80𝜀0. The resistance between the
expression 𝑞/4𝜋𝜖0 𝑟 2 by 𝐸(𝑟). Which of the two conductors is 106 ohm. What is the
following statements is false capacitance (in pF) between the tow
conductors? ignore the decimal part of the

26
 answer. the rest and is held at a potential Φ (see figure).
[JEST 2018]

7. A rectangular dielectric slab partly fills two

identical rectangular parallel plate capacitors
which are maintained at potentials 𝑉1 and 𝑉2
with 𝑉1 > 𝑉2 . The slab can freely move in the
space between the capacitor plates without any The potential at the center O of the cube is
friction. Which of the following is true? [TIFR 2012]
[JEST 2022] (a) 0 (b) Φ/6
(c) Φ/5 (d) 2Φ/3

3. A parallel plate capacitor of circular cross

(a) The slab will not move. section with radius 𝑟 ≫ 𝑑, where 𝑑 is the
(b) The slab will move towards lower potential. spacing between the plates, is charged to a
(c) The slab will move towards higher potential. potential 𝑉 and then disconnected from the
(d) The slab will position itself at 1/𝑉1 : 1/𝑉2 charging circuit. If, now, the plates are slowly
ratio between capacitors 1 and 2. pulled apart (keeping them parallel) so that
their separation is increased from 𝑑 to 𝑑′ , the
8. A conducting sphere of radius 𝑅 is placed in a work done will be
uniform electric field 𝐸0 directed along +𝑧 axis. [TIFR 2013]
The electric potential for outside points is given 𝜋𝜀0 𝑟 2 𝑉 2 𝑑 𝜋𝜀0 𝑟 2 𝑉 2 𝑑 ′
(a) (1 − 𝑑′ ) (b)
by 𝑉out = −𝐸0 (1 − (𝑅/𝑟)3 )𝑟cos 𝜃, where 𝑟 is 2𝑑 2𝑑 𝑑
𝜋𝜀 𝑟 2 𝑉 2 𝑑 ′ 𝜋𝜀0 𝑟 2 𝑉 2 𝑑
the distance from the center and 𝜃 is the polar (c) 0 ( − 1) (d)
2𝑑 𝑑 2𝑑 𝑑′
angle. The charge density on the surface of the
sphere is 4. Solving Poisson's equation ∇2 𝜑 = −𝜌0 /𝜀0 for
[JEST 2022] the electrostatic potential 𝜑(𝑥 ) in a region with
(a) 3𝜀0 𝐸0 cos 𝜃 (b) 𝜀0 𝐸0 cos 𝜃 a constant charge density 𝜌0 , two students find
1
(c) −3𝜀0 𝐸0 cos 𝜃 (d) 3 𝜀0 𝐸0 cos 𝜃 different answers, viz.
1 𝜌0 𝑥 2 1 𝜌0 𝑦 2
𝜑1 (𝑥 ) = − and 𝜑2 (𝑥 ) = −
❖ TIFR PYQ’s 2 𝜀0 2 𝜀0
The reason why these different solutions are
1. Three equal charges Q are successively brought both correct is because [TIFR 2014]
from infinity and each is placed at one of the (a) space is isotropic and hence 𝑥 and 𝑦 are
three vertices of an equilateral tringle. physically equivalent.
Assuming the rest of the Universe as a whole to (b) we can add solutions of Laplace's equation
be neutral, the energy 𝐸0 of the electrostatic to both 𝜑1 (𝑥 ) and 𝜑2 (𝑥 ).
field will increase, successively, to (c) the electrostatic energy is infinite for a
𝐸0 + Δ1 , 𝐸0 + Δ1 + Δ2 , 𝐸0 + Δ1 + Δ2 + Δ3 constant charge density.
Where Δ1 : Δ2 : Δ3 = [TIFR 2012] (d) the boundary conditions are different in the
(a) 1: 2: 3: (b) 1: 1: 1 two cases.
(c) 0: 1: 1 (d) 0: 1: 2
5. A solid spherical conductor has a conical hole
made at one end, ending in a point B, and a
2. Five sides of a hollow metallic cube are
small conical projection of the same shape and
grounded and the sixth side is insulated from
size at the opposite side, ending in a point A. A
cross-section through the Centre of the
conductor is shown in the figure on the right.
[TIFR 2014]

27
 where the angle 𝜃 is shown in the figure. There
are no charges except for those on the shell. The
potential outside the shell at the point P a
distance 2𝑅 away from its center C (see figure)
is [TIFR 2017]

If now, a positive charge 𝑄 is transferred to the

sphere, then
(a) The charge density at both A and B will be
undefined.
(b) The charge density at A will be the same as
the charge density at B.
(c) The charge density at 𝐴 will be more than 𝑉0
the charge density at 𝐵. (a)𝑉 = (1 + cos2 𝜃)
8
𝑉
(d) The charge density at 𝐵 will be more than (b)𝑉 = 80 (1 + 2cos2 𝜃)
the charge density at 𝐴 𝑉
(c)𝑉 = 40 (1 − cos 2 𝜃)
𝑉
6. Consider an infinitely long cylinder of radius 𝑅, (d)𝑉 = 20 (−2cos 𝜃 + cos3 𝜃)
placed along the 𝑧-axis, which carries a static
charge density 𝜌(𝑟) = 𝑘𝑟, where 𝑟 is the 10. The electrostatic charge density 𝜌(𝑟)
perpendicular distance from the axis of the corresponding to the potential
cylinder and 𝑘 is a constant. The electrostatic
potential 𝜙(𝑟) inside the cylinder is 𝑞 1 𝛼𝑟
𝜑(𝑟) = (1 + ) exp (−𝛼𝑟)
proportional to 4𝜋𝜖0 𝑟 2
[TIFR 2015] is 𝜌 = [TIFR 2018]
3
2 𝑟3 𝑟 (a) 𝑞𝛿(𝑟) − 2𝑞𝛼 exp(−𝛼𝑟)
(a) − 3 (𝑅3 + 1) (b) −2ln (𝑅)
𝛼3
2 𝑟3 𝑅 (b) 𝑞𝛿(𝑟) − 𝑞 exp(−𝛼𝑟)
4
(c) − 3 (𝑅3 − 1) (d) −2ln (𝑟 ) 3
𝛼
(c) 𝑞𝛿(𝑟) − 𝑞 exp (−𝛼𝑟)
2
3
7. A long, solid dielectric cylinder of radius 𝑎 is (d) −𝑞𝛿(𝑟) − 2𝑞𝛼 exp (−𝛼𝑟)
permanently polarized so that the polarization
is everywhere radially outward, with a 11. Calculate the self-energy, in Joules, of a
magnitude proportional to the distance from spherical conductor of radius 8.5 cm, which
1
the axis of the cylinder, i.e., 𝑃⃗ = 𝑃0 𝑟𝑟ˆ. The carries a charge 100𝜇C [TIFR 2018]
2
bound charge density in the cylinder is given by
12. An atom of atomic number 𝑍 can be modelled as
[TIFR 2016]
a point positive charge surrounded by a rigid
(a) −𝑃0 (b) 𝑃0
uniformly negatively charged solid sphere of
(c) − 𝑃0 /2 (d) 𝑃0 /2
radius 𝑅. The electric polarisability 𝛼 of this
𝑝
system is defined as 𝛼 = 𝐸𝐸
8. A beam of plane microwaves of wavelength
12 cm strikes the surface of a dielectric at 45∘ . If where 𝑝𝐸 is the dipole moment induced on
the refractive index of the dielectric is 4/3, what application of electric field 𝐸 which is small
will be the wavelength, in units of mm, of the compared to the binding electric field inside the
microwaves inside the dielectric? [TIFR 2017] atom. It follows that 𝛼 = [TIFR 2018]
8𝜋𝜖0 4𝜋𝜖0
(a) 𝑅3
(b) 𝑅3
9. Consider a spherical shell with radius 𝑅 such (c)8𝜋𝜖0 𝑅3 (d)4𝜋𝜖0 𝑅3
that the potential on the surface of the shell in
spherical coordinates is given by,
𝑉(𝑟 = 𝑅, 𝜃, 𝜑) = 𝑉0 cos2 𝜃

28
13. The electric field lines due to a uniformly
polarized dielectric sphere (polarization along
the positive z-axis as shown in the figure)

will look like [TIFR 2023]

❖ Answer Key
CSIR PYQ
1. b 2. a 3. d 4. b 5. b
6. a 7. d 8. d 9. c 10. c
11. b 12. c 13. a
GATE PYQ
1. b 2. a 3. a 4. d 5. c
6. b 7. b 8. b 9. a 10. b
11. a 12. d 13. c 14. a 15. c
16. 2.33 17. d 18. d 19. 11.3 20. a
21. acd 22. a 23. MTA 24. a
JEST PYQ
1. a 2. d 3. d 4. b 5. a
6. * 7. c 8. a
TIFR PYQ
1. d 2. b 3. b 4. d 5. c
6. c 7. a 8. 090 9. a 10. c
11. 529 12. d 13. a

29
 ❖ EMT 04 : Multipole Expansion

❖ CSIR-NET PYQ’s 3. Four charges (two +𝑞 and two −𝑞 ) are kept

fixed at the four vertices of a square of side ' 𝑎 '
1. An electric point charge +q is placed at the point as shown At the point 𝑃 which is at a distance 𝑅
(1,1) of the xy-plane in which two grounded from the centre (𝑅 >> 𝑎), the potential is
semiinfinite conducting plates along the positive proportional to
𝑥 and 𝑦-axes meet see figure. The electric [CSIR DEC 2012]
potential in the positive quadrant at a large
distance 𝑟 goes as
[NET 2008]

1 1
(a) (b)
𝑅 𝑅2
1 1
(c) 𝑅3 (d) 𝑅4
(a) 𝑉(𝑟) ∼ 𝑟 −1 (b) 𝑉(𝑟) ∼ 𝑟 −2
4. A particle of charge 𝑒 and mass 𝑚 is located at
(c) 𝑉(𝑟) ∼ 𝑟 −3 (d) 𝑉(𝑟) ∼ 𝑟 −4 the midpoint of the line joining two mixed
collinear dipoles with unit charges as shown in
2. Charges 𝑄, 𝑄 and −2𝑄 are placed on the vertices the figure. (The particle is constrained to move
of an equilateral triangle 𝐴𝐵𝐶 of sides of length only along the line joining the dipoles).
𝑎, as shown in the figure Assuming that the length of the dipoles is much
The dipole moment of this configuration of shorter than their separation, the natural
charges, irrespective of the choice of origin, is frequency of oscillation of the particle is
[CSIR JUNE 2012] [CSIR JUNE 2013]

6e2 R2 6e2 R
(a) √𝜋𝜀 5 (b) √𝜋𝜀 4
0 𝑚𝑑 0 md

6e2 d2 6e2 d
(c) √𝜋𝜀 5 (d) √𝜋𝜀 4
(a) +2𝑎𝑄î (b) +√3𝑎𝑄𝑗ˆ 0 mR 0 𝑚𝑅

(c) −√3𝑎𝑄𝑗ˆ (d) 0

30
5. Consider an axially symmetric static charge [CSIR DEC 2017]
distribution of the form, 1 𝑑2 1 2𝑑
(a) 4𝜋𝜀 𝑧3
𝑄 (b) 4𝜋𝜀 𝑧2
𝑄
𝑟 2 0 0
𝜌 = 𝜌0 ( 0 ) 𝑒 −𝑟/𝑟0 cos2 𝜑. 1 3𝑑 1 𝑑2
𝑟 (c) 𝑄 (d) − 𝑄
4𝜋𝜀0 𝑧 2 4𝜋𝜀0 𝑧 3
The radial component of the dipole moment due
to this charge distribution is
9. Two points charges +2𝑄 and −𝑄 are kept at
[CSIR JUNE 2013]
4 points with Cartesian coordinates (1,0,0) and
(a) 2𝜋𝜌0 𝑟0 (b) 𝜋𝜌0 r04
(2,0, 0), respectively, in front of an infinite
(c) 𝜌0 𝑟04 (d) 𝜋𝜌0 r04 /2
grounded conducting plate at 𝑥 = 0. The
potential at (𝑥, 0,0) for 𝑥 ⩾ 1 depends on 𝑥 as
6. Let four point charges 𝑞, −𝑞/2, 𝑞 and −𝑞/2 be
[CSIR JUNE 2018]
placed at the vertices of a square of side 𝑎. Let −3
(a) 𝑥 (b) 𝑥 −5
another point charge −𝑞 be placed at the centre
(c) 𝑥 −2 (d) 𝑥 −4
of the square (see the figure).
Let 𝑉(𝑟) be the electrostatic potential at a point
P at a distance 𝑟 ≫ 𝑎 from the centre of the 10. An electric dipole of dipole moment 𝑃⃗ = 𝑞𝑏𝑖ˆ is
square. Then 𝑉(2𝑟)/𝑉(𝑟) is placed at the origin in the vicinity of two charges
[CSIR DEC 2013] +𝑞 and −𝑞 at (𝐿, 𝑏) and (𝐿, −𝑏), respectively, as
shown in the figure below.

1
(a) 1 (b) 𝐿
2 The electrostatic potential at the point (2 , 0) is
1 1
(c) 4 (d) 8 [CSIR DEC 2018]
𝑞𝑏 1 2 4𝑞𝑏𝐿
(a) ( + ) (b)
𝜋𝜀0 𝐿2 𝐿2 +4𝑏2 𝜋𝜀0 [𝐿2 +4𝑏2 ]3/2
7. The electrostatic lines of force due to a system of
𝑞𝑏 3𝑞𝑏
four point charges is sketched below. (c) 𝜋𝜀 𝐿2 (d) 𝜋𝜀 𝐿2
0 0

11. A linear diatomic molecule consists of two

identical small electric dipoles with an
equilibrium separation 𝑅, which is assumed to
be a constant. Each dipole has charges +𝑞 of
At a large distance 𝑟, the leading asymptotic mass 𝑚 separated by 𝑟 when the molecule is at
behaviour of the electrostatic potential is equilibrium. Each dipole can execute simple
proportional to harmonic motion of angular frequency 𝜔.
[NET Dec. 2014]
−1
(a) 𝑟 (b) 𝑟 (c) 𝑟 −2 (d) 𝑟 −3

8. Two point charges +3𝑄 and −𝑄 are placed at

(0,0, 𝑑) and (0,0,2𝑑) respectively, above an Recall that the interaction potential between
infinite grounded conducting sheet kept in the two dipoles of moments 𝑝1 and 𝑝2 , separated by
𝑥𝑦-plane. At a point (0,0, 𝑧), where 𝑧 ≫ 𝑑, the R12 = 𝑅12 𝑛ˆ is . (𝑝1 ⋅ 𝑝2 − 3(𝑝1 ⋅ 𝑛ˆ)(𝑝2 ⋅ 𝑛ˆ))/
3 ).
(4𝜋𝜀0 𝑅12
electrostatic potential of this charge
configuration would approximately be 𝑞2
Assume that 𝑅 ≫ 𝑟 and let Ω2 = 4𝜋𝜀 3. The
0 𝑚𝑅

31
 angular frequencies of small oscillations of the placed at the centre of the square as shown in the
diatomic molecule are figure. Then,
[CSIR JUNE 2021] [GATE 2001]
(a) √𝜔 2 + Ω2 and √𝜔 2 − Ω2
(b) √𝜔 2 + 3Ω2 and √𝜔 2 − 3Ω2
(c) √𝜔 2 + 4Ω2 and √𝜔 2 − 4Ω2
(d) √𝜔 2 + 2Ω2 and √𝜔 2 − 2Ω2

12. Two positive and two negative charges of

magnitude q are placed on the alternate vertices
of a cube of side a (as shown in the figure).
[CSIR JUNE 2022] (a) there is no force acting on the dipole
(b) there is no torque about the centre of O on
the dipole
(c) the dipole has minimum energy if it is in 𝑒ˆ𝑥
direction
(d) the force on the dipole is increased if the
medium is replaced by another medium with
larger dielectric constant

The electric dipole moment of this charge 2. Four charges are placed at the four corners of a
configuration is [CSIR JUNE 2022] square of side 𝑎 as shown in the figure. The
(a)−2qak̂ (b)2qak̂ electric dipole moment of this configuration is
(c)2qa(î + ĵ) (d)2qa(î − ĵ) [GATE 2002]

13. A point electric dipole 𝑃⃗ = 𝑝𝑥 𝑖ˆ is placed at a

vertical distance 𝑑 above a grounded infinite
conducting 𝑥𝑦 plane as shown in the figure.

(a) 𝑝 = 𝑞𝑎𝑖ˆ + 𝑞𝑎𝑗ˆ (b) 𝑝 = −𝑞𝑎𝑖ˆ + 𝑞𝑎𝑗ˆ

(c) 𝑝 = −𝑞𝑎𝑖ˆ − 𝑞𝑎𝑗ˆ (d) 𝑝 = 𝑞𝑎𝑖ˆ − 𝑞𝑎𝑗ˆ

3. Three point charges 𝑞, 𝑞 and −2𝑞 are located at

(0, −𝑎, 𝑎), (0, 𝑎, 𝑎) and (0,0, −𝑎), respectively.
The net dipole moment of this charge
At a point 𝑟(𝑟 ≫ 𝑑, 𝑧 > 0) far away from the
distribution is
dipole, the electrostatic potential 𝑉(𝑟) varies
[GATE 2006]
approximately as [CSIR JUNE 2024]
1 1 (a) 4𝑞𝑎𝑘 ˆ (b) 2𝑞𝑎𝑘ˆ
(a)𝑟2 (b)𝑟6
(c) −4𝑞𝑎𝑖ˆ (d) −2𝑞𝑎𝑗ˆ
1 1
(c)𝑟3 (d)𝑟4
4. Four point charges are placed in a plane at the
following positions: +𝑄 at (1,0), −𝑄 at
❖ GATE PYQ’s
(−1,0), +𝑄 at (0,1) and −𝑄 at (0, −1). At large
distances the electrostatic potential due to this
1. Four point charges are placed at the corners of a
charge distribution will be dominated by the
square whose center is at the origin of a
[GATE 2007]
Cartesian coordinate system. A point dipole 𝑝 is
(a) monopole moment

32
 (b) dipole moment
(c) quadrupole moment
(d) octopole moment

5. A circular disc of radius a on the 𝑥𝑦 plane has a

𝜎0 𝑟cos 𝜃
surface charge density 𝜎 = 𝑎
. The electric
dipole moment of this charge distribution is
[GATE 2008]
𝜎0 𝜋𝑎 4 𝜎0 𝜋𝑎 3 9. Consider a system of three charges as shown in
(a) 4
𝑥ˆ (b) 4
𝑥ˆ
the figure below:
𝜎 𝜋𝑎 3 𝜎 𝜋𝑎 4
(c) − 0 𝑥ˆ (d) − 0 𝑥ˆ
4 4

6. An insulating sphere of radius a carries a charge

density 𝜌(𝑟) = 𝜌0 (𝑎2 − 𝑟 2 )cos 𝜃, 𝑟 < 𝑎. The
leading order term for the electric field at a
distance 𝑑, far away from the charge
distribution, is proportional to
[GATE 2010]
−1 −2
(a) 𝑑 (b) 𝑑
−3
(c) 𝑑 (d) 𝑑−4 For 𝑟 = 10 m; 𝜃 = 60 degrees; 𝑞 = 10−6
Coulomb, and 𝑑 = 10−3 m, the electric dipole
7. A charge −𝑞 is distributed uniformly over a potential in volts (rounded off to three decimal
sphere, with a positive charge 𝑞 at its center in places) at a point (𝑟, 𝜃) is
(i) also in (ii), a charge −q is distributed [GATE 2019]
uniformly over an ellipsoid with a positive 1 Nm 2
charge q at its center. With respect to the origin [ Use : = 9 × 109 2 ]
4𝜋𝜖0 C
of the coordinate system, which one of the
following statements is correct? ❖ JEST PYQ’s
[GATE 2015]
1 Two equal positive charges of magnitude +𝑞
separated by a distance 𝑑 are surrounded by a
uniformly charged thin spherical shell of radius
2𝑑 bearing a total charge −2𝑞 and centred at the
midpoint between the two positive charges. The
(a) The dipole moment is zero in both (i) and net electric field at distance 𝑟 from the midpoint
(ii) (≫ 𝑑) is
(b) The dipole moment is non-zero in (i) but [JEST 2017]
zero in (ii) (a) zero
(c) The dipole moment is zero in (i) but non- (b) proportional to 𝑑
zero in (ii) (c) proportional to 1/𝑟 3
(d) The dipole moment is non-zero in both (i) (d) proportional to 1/𝑟 4
and (ii)
2 Charges are placed as follows: 𝑞 at (𝑎, 𝑎, 0) and
8. Three charges (2C, −1C, −1C) are placed at the (−𝑎, −𝑎, 0) and −𝑞 at (𝑎, −𝑎, 0) and (−𝑎, 𝑎, 0). At
vertices of an equilateral triangle of side 1 m as large distances, how does the electrostatic
shown in the figure. The component of the potential behave as a function of the distance 𝑟
electric dipole moment about the marked origin from the centre (0,0,0)?
along the 𝑦ˆ direction is___________ Cm. [JEST 2020]
3 2
[GATE 2017] (a) 1/𝑟 (b) 1/𝑟 (c) 1/𝑟 (d) 1/𝑟 4

33
3 A solid sphere of radius 𝑅 has a volume charge
density 𝜌 = 𝜌0 sin 2𝜃. How does the leading
term in the electrostatic potential depend on the
distance 𝑟 far away from the charged sphere?
[JEST 2024]
1
(a) Does not depend on 𝑟 (b) 𝑟
1
(c) 𝑟 (d) 𝑟2

❖ TIFR PYQ
4. A grounded conducting sphere of radius 𝑎 is
1. Consider two charges +𝑄 and −𝑄 placed at the placed with its centre at the origin. A point dipole
points (𝑎, 0) and (−𝑎, 0) in a plane, as shown in of dipole moment 𝑝 = 𝑝𝑘ˆ is placed at a distance
the figure on the right. If the origin is moved to 𝑑 along the 𝑥-axis, where 𝑖ˆ, 𝑘ˆ are the units vector
the point (𝑋, 𝑌), the magnitude of the dipole along the 𝑥 and 𝑧-axes respectively. This leads to
moment of the given charge distribution with the formation of an image dipole of strength 𝑝′
⋅ (𝑋, 𝑌) at a distance 𝑑 ′ from the centre along the 𝑥-axis.
If 𝑑′ = 𝑎2 /𝑑, then 𝑝′ =
−𝑄 +𝑄 [TIFR 2016]
𝑎4 𝑝 𝑎3 𝑝
(−𝑎, 0, (𝑎, 0) (a) − 𝑑4
𝑘ˆ (b) − 𝑑3
𝑘ˆ
respect to this origin will be [TIFR 2013] 𝑎2 𝑝 𝑎𝑝
(c) − 𝑑2 𝑘ˆ (d) − 𝑑 𝑘ˆ
(a) 𝑄√(𝑎 − 𝑋)2 + 𝑦2
− 𝑄√(𝑎 + 𝑋)2 + 𝑦 2
(c) 𝑄(𝑎 − 𝑋) − 𝑄(−𝑎 + 𝑋) 5. Two conducting uncharged spheres of radii 𝑅1
(b) 2𝑄𝑎 and 𝑅2 are connected by an infinitesimally thin
(d) 2𝑄𝑎√𝑋 2 + 𝑌 2 ⃗1
wire. The centres of the spheres are located at 𝒓
⃗ 2 respectively with respect to the origin 𝑂.
and 𝒓
2. An electric dipole is constructed by fixing two The system is subjected to an uniform external
circular charged rings, each of radius 𝑎, with an electric field ⃗𝑬0 .
insulating contact (see figure). One of these rings
has total charge +𝑄 and the other has total
charge −𝑄. If the charge is distributed uniformly
along each ring, the dipole moment about the
point of contact will be
[TIFR 2014]

If the wire cannot support a net charge and the

two spheres are separated by distance much
larger than the radii of each of them, the induced
𝑄𝑎 dipole moment in the system would be
(a) 𝜋
𝑧ˆ (b) 4𝜋𝑄𝑎𝑧ˆ [TIFR 2020]
(c) 2𝑄𝑎𝑧ˆ (d) zero 𝑅1 𝑅2
(a)4𝜋𝜖0 ⃗⃗⃗⃗ ⋅ (𝑟⃗⃗⃗2 − ⃗⃗⃗
{𝐸 𝑟1 )}(𝑟⃗⃗⃗2 − ⃗⃗⃗
𝑟1 )
𝑅1 + 𝑅2 0
3. The electrostatic potential 𝜑(𝑟) of a distribution 1 𝑅1 𝑅2
(b) ⃗⃗⃗⃗ ⋅ (𝑟⃗⃗⃗2 − ⃗⃗⃗
{𝐸 𝑟1 )}(𝑟⃗⃗⃗2 − ⃗⃗⃗
𝑟1 )
of point charges has the form 𝜑(𝑟) ∝ 𝑟 −3 at a 4𝜋𝜖0 (𝑅1 + 𝑅2 ) 0
distance 𝑟 from the origin (0,0,0), where 𝑟 ≫ 𝑎. 𝑅1 + 𝑅2
(c)4𝜋𝜖0 ⃗⃗⃗⃗0 ⋅ (𝑟⃗⃗⃗2 − ⃗⃗⃗
{𝐸 𝑟1 )}(𝑟⃗⃗⃗2 − ⃗⃗⃗
𝑟1 )
Which of the following distributions can give rise 𝑅1 𝑅2
to this potential? [TIFR 2015] (d) zero

34
 figure) w.r.t. the point of intersection of the axis
6. Consider 6 charges fixed at the vertices of a with the conducting plane as origin.
regular hexagon of side 𝑎, as shown in the figure The electrostatic potential along the axis will
below. correspond to the graph in [TIFR 2022]

The behavior of the electrostatic potential at

distance 𝑟 → ∞ in the 𝑥𝑦 plane is proportional to
[TIFR 2021]
(a) 1/𝑟 5 (b) 1/𝑟 4
(c) 1/𝑟 3 (d) 1/𝑟 2

7. Consider an infinite uniform layer of point-like

dipoles, placed in the 𝑦 − 𝑧 plane, with a
constant dipole strength 𝑝 = 𝑝𝑥ˆ per unit area, as
shown in figure below.

9. Consider a system of three electric charges: (i) a

charge −𝑞 placed at the point (𝑥, 𝑦, 𝑧) = (0,0, 𝑑),
(ii) a charge +𝛼𝑞 placed at the origin and (iii) a
charge −𝛽𝑞 placed at the point (𝑥, 𝑦, 𝑧) =
(0,0, −𝑑).
Which graph best represents the variation of
potential along the 𝑥 direction? [TIFR 2021]

The values of 𝛼 and 𝛽 are such that the monopole

and dipole terms vanish in the multipole
expansion of the electrostatic potential. What is
the quadrupole term of the potential at a point
8. Two equal positive point charges 𝑄 = +1 are (𝑥, 𝑦, 0) ? [TIFR 2024]
placed on either side of an 𝑥-axis normal to a 𝑞 𝑑2 𝑞 𝑑2
(a) 2𝜋𝜖 (𝑥 2 +𝑦2 )3/2
(b) 4𝜋𝜖 (𝑥 2 +𝑦 2 )3/2
grounded infinite conducting plane at distances 0
𝑞
0
1
of 𝑥 = +2 units and 𝑥 = -1 unit respectively (see (c) 0 (d) 4𝜋𝜖 (𝑥 2 +𝑦2 )1/2
0

35
 ❖ Answer Key
CSIR PYQ
1. c 2. c 3. c 4. d 5. a
6. d 7. d 8. b 9. d 10. c
11. c 12. b 13. c
GATE PYQ
1 b 2 d 3 b 4 c 5 b
6 c 7 a 8 1.73 9 0.045
JEST PYQ
1 a 2 a 3 d
TIFR PYQ
1. b 2. c 3. c 4. b 5. c
6. b 7. a 8. a 9. b

36
 ❖ EMT 05 : Magnetic Field Induction & Trajectories

❖ CSIR-NET PYQ’s positive 𝑦-direction, the center of the circular

orbit
1. The magnetic field at a distance R from a long [NET June 2015]
straight wire carrying a steady current I is (a) remains stationary
proportional to (b) moves at 1 m/s along the negative 𝑥-
[CSIR JUNE 2012] direction
(a) 𝐼𝑅 (b) 𝐼/𝑅 2 (c) moves at 1 m/s along the positive 𝑧-
2 2 direction
(c) 𝐼 /𝑅 (d) 𝐼/𝑅
(d) moves at 1 m/s along the positive 𝑥-
2. The force between two long and parallel wires direction
carrying currents I1 and I2 and separated by a
distance D is proportional to 5. The 𝑥 - and 𝑧-components of a static magnetic
[CSIR DEC 2013] field in a region are 𝐵𝑥 = 𝐵0 (𝑥 2 − 𝑦 2 ) and 𝐵𝑧 =
(a) I1 I2 /D (b) (I1 + I2 )/D 0, respectively Which of the following solutions
(c) (I1 I2 /D)2 (d) I1 I2 /D2 for its 𝑦-component is consistent with the
Maxwell equations?
3. A charged particle moves in a helical path under [NET June 2016]
the influence of a constant magnetic field. The (a) 𝐵𝑦 = 𝐵0 𝑥𝑦
initial velocity such that the component along (b) 𝐵𝑦 = −2𝐵0 𝑥𝑦
the magnetic field is twice the component in the (c) 𝐵𝑦 = −𝐵0 (𝑥 2 − 𝑦 2 )
plane normal to the magnetic field. The ratio 1
(d) 𝐵𝑦 = 𝐵0 (3 𝑥 3 − 𝑥𝑦 2 )
𝑙/𝑅 of the pitch 𝑙 to the radius 𝑅 of the helical
path is
[NET Dec. 2014] 6. A parallel plate capacitor is formed by two
circular conducting plates of radius 𝑎 separated
by a distance 𝑑, where 𝑑 ≪ 𝑎. It is being slowly
charged by a current that is nearly constant. At
an instant when the current is 𝐼, the magnetic
induction between the plates at a distance 𝑎/2
(a) 𝜋/2 (b) 4𝜋 from the centre of the plate, is
(c) 2𝜋 (d) 𝜋 [CSIR DEC 2016]
𝜇0 𝐼 𝜇0 𝐼
(a) (b)
𝜋𝑎 2𝜋𝑎
4. A proton moves with a speed of 300 m/s in a 𝜇0 𝐼 𝜇0 𝐼
(c) 𝑎 (d) 4𝜋𝑎
circular orbit in the 𝑥𝑦-plane in a magnetic field
I tesla along the positive 𝑧-direction. When an
7. A set 𝑁 concentric circular loops of wire, each
electric field of IV/m is applied along the
carrying a steady current 𝐼 in the same
direction, is arranged in a plane. The radius of

37
 the first loop is 𝑟1 = 𝑎 and the radius of the 𝑛hi 11. Two current-carrying circular loops, each of
loop is given by 𝑟𝑛 = 𝑛𝑟𝑛−1 . The magnitude 𝐵 of radius 𝑅, are placed perpendicular to each other,
the magnetic field at the centre of the circles in as shown in the figure below.
the limit 𝑁 → ∞, is
[CSIR JUNE 2017]
𝜇0 𝐼(𝑒 2 −1) 𝜇0 𝐼(𝑒−1)
(a) 4𝜋𝑎
(b) 𝜋𝑎
𝜇0 𝐼(𝑒 2 −1) 𝜇0 𝐼(𝑒−1)
(c) 8𝑎
(d) 2𝑎

8. A constant current 𝐼 is flowing in a piece of wire

that is bent into a loop as shown in the figure.

The loop in the 𝑥𝑦-plane carries a current 𝐼0

while that in the 𝑥𝑧-plane carries a current 2𝐼0.
⃗ at the origin is
The resulting magnetic field 𝐵
The magnitude of the magnetic field at the point [CSIR DEC 2018]
𝑂 is [CSIR JUNE 2017] 𝜇0 𝐼0 𝜇 𝐼
(a) 2𝑅
[2𝑗ˆ + 𝑘ˆ ] (b) 0 0 [2𝑗ˆ − 𝑘ˆ ]
2𝑅
𝜇0 𝐼 𝑎 𝜇0 𝐼 1 1
(a) ln ( ) (b) ln ( − ) 𝜇0 𝐼0 𝜇0 𝐼0
4𝜋√5 𝑏 4𝜋√5 𝑎 𝑏 (c) [−2𝑗ˆ + 𝑘ˆ ] (d) [−2𝑗ˆ − 𝑘ˆ ]
𝜇0 𝐼 1 𝜇 𝐼 1 2𝑅 2𝑅
(c) ( ) (d) 0 ( )
4𝜋√5 𝑎 4𝜋√5 𝑏
12. Consider a planar wire loop as an 𝑛-sided regular
9. A circular current carrying loop of radius 𝑎 polygon, in which 𝑅 is the distance from the
carries a steady current. A constant electric centre to a vertex. If a steady current 𝐼 flows
charge is kept at the centre of the loop. The through the wire, the magnitude of the magnetic
electric and magnetic fields, 𝐸⃗ and 𝐵⃗ field at the centre of the loop is
respectively, at a distance 𝑑 vertically above the [CSIR JUNE 2019]
𝜇0 𝐼 2𝜋 𝜇0 𝑛𝐼 𝜋
centre of the loop satisfy (a) 2𝑅
sin ( 𝑛 ) (b) 4𝜋𝑅
sin (𝑛)
[NET Dec. 2017] 𝜇0 𝑛𝐼 2𝜋 𝜇0 𝑛𝐼 𝜋
(c) 2𝜋𝑅 tan ( 𝑛 ) (d) 2𝜋𝑅 tan (𝑛)
(a) 𝐸⃗ ⊥ 𝐵
⃗ (b) 𝐸⃗ = 0
(c) ⃗∇(𝐸⃗ ⋅ 𝐵
⃗)=0 (d) ⃗∇ ⋅ (𝐸⃗ × 𝐵
⃗)=0
13. A positively charged particle is placed at the
origin (with zero initial velocity) in the presence
10. The loop shown in the figure below carries a
of a constant electric and a constant magnetic
steady current 𝐼. The magnitude of the magnetic
field along the positive 𝑧 and 𝑥-directions,
field at the point 𝑂 is
respectively. At large times, the overall motion of
[CSIR JUNE 2018]
the particle is adrift along the
[CSIR DEC 2019]
(a) positive 𝑦-direction
(b) negative 𝑧-direction
(c) positive z-direction
(d) negative 𝑦-direction
𝜇0 𝐼 𝜇0 𝐼
(a) 2𝑎
(b) 6𝑎 14. Three infinitely long wires, each carrying equal
𝜇0 𝐼 𝜇0 𝐼 current are placed in the 𝑥𝑦-plane along 𝑥 =
(c) 4𝑎 (d) 3𝑎
0, +𝑑 and −𝑑. On the 𝑥𝑦-plane, the magnetic
field vanishes at [CSIR JUNE 2020]

38
 𝑑 1
(a) 𝑥 = ± (b) 𝑥 = ±𝑑 (1 + )
2 √3

1 𝑑
(c) 𝑥 = ±𝑑 (1 − ) (d) 𝑥 = ±
√3 √3

15. In an experiment to measure the charge to mass

ratio e/m of the electron by Thomson's method,
the value of the deflecting electric field and the
accelerating potential are 6 × 106 N/C (Newton
per coulomb) and 150 V, respectively. The
magnitude of the magnetic field that leads to
zero deflection of the electron beam is closest to
[NET June 2021] ❖ GATE PYQ’s
(a) 0.6 T (b) 1.2 T
(c) 0.4 T (d) 0.8 T
1. Two large parallel plates move with a constant
speed 𝑣 in the positive 𝑦-direction as shown in
16. A part of an infinitely long wire, carrying a the figure. If both the plates have a surface
current I, is bent in a semicircular arc of radius r charge density 𝜎 > 0, the magnetic field at the
(as shown in the figure). point P just above the top plate will have:
[GATE 2000]

The magnetic field at the centre 0 of the arc is (a) Larger magnitude than the field at the mid-
[CSIR JUNE 2022] point between the plates and point towards −x̂
μ I μ I
(a) 4r0 0
(b)4πr (b) Smaller magnitude than the field at the mid-
(c)
μ0 I
(d)
μ0 I point between the plates and point towards +x̂.
2r 2πr
(c) Larger magnitude than the field at the mid-
point between the plates and point towards +𝑥ˆ
17. Two parallel conducting rings, both of radius 𝑅,
(d) Smaller magnitude than the field at the mid-
are separated by a distance 𝑅. The planes of the
point between the plates and point towards −𝑥ˆ
rings are perpendicular to the line joining their
centers, which of is taken to be the 𝑥-axis.
2. The 𝑥𝑜𝑦 plane carries a uniform surface current
[NET June 2022]
⃗ = 50𝑒ˆ𝑧 A/m. The magnetic field at
of density 𝐾
the point 𝑧 = −0.5 m is
[GATE 2001]
(a) 10 × 10−6 Wb (b) 1 × 10−6 Wb
(c) 𝜋 × 10−6 Wb (d) 10𝜋 × 10−6 Wb

3. A current I flows in the anticlockwise direction

through a square loop of side a lying in the xoy
If both the rings carry the same current 𝑖 along plane with its center at the origin. The magnetic
the same direction, the magnitude of the induction at the center of the square loop is :
magnetic field along the 𝑥-axis is best [GATE 2001]
represented by 2√2𝜇0 I1 2√2𝜇0 I2
(a) 𝜋a
êx (b) 𝜋a
ê𝑧

39
 (c)
2√2𝜇0 I
êz (d)
2√2𝜇0 I
êx [GATE 2005]
𝜋a2 𝜋a2 2𝜇 𝐼
(a) 0 (b) 𝜋0 𝑟
4. Consider an infinitely long straight cylindrical 2𝜇0 𝐼 2𝜇 𝐼𝑎
(c) − (d) 𝜋0 𝑟2
conductor of radius R with its axis along the 𝑧- 𝜋 𝑟

direction, which carries a current of 1 A 8. A long cylindrical kept along z-axis carries a
uniformly distributed over its cross section. current density Ĵ = J0 r𝑘ˆ, where J0 is a constant
Which of the following statements is correct? and r is the radial distance form the axis of the
[GATE 2002] cylinder. The magnetic induction B̂ inside the
⃗ ⃗
(a) ∇ × 𝐵 = 0 everywhere conductor at a distance d from the axis of the
𝜇 cylinder is : [GATE 2006]
(b) ⃗∇ × ⃗B = 𝜋R02 ẑ everywhere 𝜇0 J0 d
ˆ
(a) 𝜇0 J0 𝜙 (b) 𝜙ˆ
(c) ⃗∇ × 𝐵
⃗ = 0 for 𝑟 > 𝑅 2
𝜇 J d2 𝜇 𝐽 d3
(d) ∇⃗ ×𝐵⃗ = 𝜇02 𝑧ˆ for 𝑟 > 𝑅 (c) 0 0 𝜙ˆ (d) − 0 0 𝜙ˆ
𝜋𝑅 3 4
where 𝑟 is the radial distance from the axis of
the cylinder. 9. A toroidal coil has N closely-wound turns.
Assume the current through the coil to be 𝐼 and
5. An infinite conducting sheet in the 𝑥 − 𝑦 plane the toroid is filled with a magnetic material of
carries a surface current density K along the 𝑦- relative permittivity 𝜇𝑟 . The magnitude of
axis. The magnetic field B for 𝑧 > 0 is magnetic induction 𝐵 ⃗ inside the toroid, at a
[GATE 2003] radial distance 𝑟 from the axis, is given by
(a) 𝐵 = 0 [GATE 2007]
𝜇𝑟 𝜇0 𝑁𝐼
(b) 𝐵 = 𝜇0 𝐾𝑘ˆ /2 (a) 𝜇𝑟 𝜇0 𝑁𝐼𝑟 (b) 𝑟
(c) 𝐵 = 𝜇0 𝐾𝑖ˆ/2 𝜇𝑟 𝜇0 𝑁𝐼
(c) (d) 2𝜋𝜇𝑟 𝜇0 𝑁𝐼𝑟
ˆ /(𝑥 2 + 𝑧 2 )0.5
(d) 𝐵 = 𝜇0 𝐾𝑗 2𝜋𝑟

10. The magnetic field (in Am−1 ) inside a long solid

6. A circular arc QTS is kept in an external magnetic
⃗ 0 as shown in figure. The arc carries a cylindrical conductor of radius 𝑎 = 0.1 m is,
field 𝐵 4
⃗ = 10 [ 12 sin (𝛼𝑟) − 𝑟 cos (𝛼𝑟)] 𝜙ˆ where 𝛼 =
𝐻
current 𝐼. The magnetic field is directed normal 𝑟 𝛼 𝛼
𝜋
and into the page. The force acting on the arc is . What is the total current (in 𝐴) in the
2𝑎
[GATE 2004] conductor?
[GATE 2009]
𝜋 800
(a) 2𝑎 (b) 𝜋
400 300
(c) 𝜋 (d) 𝜋

11. A uniform surface current is flowing in the

positive 𝑦-direction over in infinite sheet lying in
(a) 2𝐼𝐵0 𝑅𝑗ˆ (b) 𝐼𝐵0 𝑅𝑗ˆ
𝑥 − 𝑦 plane. The direction of the magnetic field
(c) −2𝐼𝐵0 𝑅𝑗ˆ (d) −𝐼𝐵0 𝑅𝑗ˆ
is
[GATE 2011]
7. Three infinitely long wires are placed equally
(a) along 𝑖ˆfor 𝑧 > 0 and along −𝑖ˆ for 𝑧 < 0
apart on the circumference of a circle of radius 𝑎,
(b) along 𝑘ˆfor 𝑧 > 0 and along −𝑘ˆfor 𝑧 < 0
perpendicular to its plane. Two of the wires
(c) along −𝑖ˆfor 𝑧 > 0 and along 𝑖ˆfor 𝑧 < 0
carry current 𝐼 each, in the same direction, while
(d) along −𝑘ˆfor 𝑧 > 0 and along 𝑘ˆfor 𝑧 < 0
the third carries current 2𝐼 along the direction
opposite to the other two. The magnitude of the
⃗ , where 𝐵
12. Given 𝐹 = 𝑟 × 𝐵 ⃗ = 𝐵0 (𝑖ˆ + 𝑗ˆ + 𝑘ˆ ) is a
magnetic induction 𝐵 ⃗ at a distance r from the
constant vector and 𝑟 is the position vector. The
centre of the circle, for 𝑟 > 𝑎, is
value of ∮ 𝐶 𝐹 ⋅ 𝑑𝑟, where 𝐶 is a circle of unit
radius centered at origin is [GATE 2012]

40
 It consists of a magnetic material (𝜇 =
20000𝜇0 ) and is driven by a coil having 𝑁𝐼 =
104 A, where 𝑁 is the number of tums and 𝐼 is
the current in Ampere.
[GATE 2021]

(a) 0 (b) 2𝜋𝐵0

(c) −2𝜋𝐵0 (d) 1

13. The value of the magnetic field required to

maintain non-relativistic protons of energy
1MeV in a circular orbit of radius 100 mm is
Tesla.
[𝐆𝐀𝐓𝐄 𝟐𝟎𝟏𝟒]
−27
(Given: 𝑚𝑝 = 1.67 × 10 𝑘𝑔, 𝑒 = 1.6 × 𝐶

Ignoring the fringe fields, the magnitude of the

14. An infinitely long wire parallel to the 𝑥-axis is
magnetic field 𝐵⃗ (in Tesla, rounded off to two
kept at 𝑧 = 𝑑 and carries a current 𝐼 in the
positive 𝑥 direction above a superconductor decimal places) in the air-gap between the
filling the region 𝑧 ≤ 0 (see figure). The magnetic poles is………………
magnetic field 𝐵⃗ inside the superconductor is
❖ JEST PYQ’s
zero so that the field just outside the
superconductor is parallel to its surface. The
1. A magnetic field 𝐵 ⃗ = 𝐵0 (𝑖ˆ + 2𝑗 − 4𝑘) exists at
magnetic field due to this configuration at a point
(𝑥, 𝑦, 𝑧 > 0) is point. If a test charge moving with a velocity,
[GATE 2019] 𝑣 = 𝑣0 (3𝑖ˆ − 𝑗 + 2𝑘) experiences no force at a
certain point, the electric field at that point in SI
units is
[JEST 2012]
(a) 𝐸⃗ = 𝑣0 𝐵0 (3𝑖ˆ + 2𝑗 − 4𝑘)
(b) 𝐸⃗ = −𝑣0 𝐵0 (𝑖ˆ + 𝑗 + 7𝑘)
(c) 𝐸⃗ = 𝑣0 𝐵0 (14𝑗 + 7𝑘)
(d) 𝐸⃗ = −𝑣0 𝐵0 (14𝑗 + 7𝑘)

2. Consider a particle of electric charge ' 𝑒 ' and

mass ' 𝑚 ' moving under the influence of a
𝜇 𝐼 −(𝑧−𝑑)𝚥ˆ+𝑦𝑘ˆ
0 constant horizontal electric field E and constant
(a) ( 2𝜋 ) [𝑦2 +(𝑧−𝑑)2 ]
vertical gravitational field described by
acceleration due to gravity g. If the particle starts
𝜇 𝐼
0 −(𝑧−𝑑)𝚥ˆ+𝑦𝑘ˆ (𝑧+𝑑)𝚥ˆ−𝑦𝑘ˆ
(b) ( 2𝜋 ) [ 𝑦2 +(𝑧−𝑑)2 + 𝑦2 +(𝑧+𝑑)2 ] from rest, what will be its trajectory?
[JEST 2012]
𝜇 𝐼
0 −(𝑧−𝑑)𝚥ˆ+𝑦𝑘ˆ (𝑧+𝑑)𝚥ˆ−𝑦𝑘ˆ (a) parabolic (b) elliptic
(c) ( 2𝜋 ) [ 𝑦2 +(𝑧−𝑑)2 − 𝑦2 +(𝑧+𝑑)2 ]
(c) straight line (d) circular
𝜇 𝐼
0 𝑦𝚥ˆ+(𝑧−𝑑)𝑘ˆ 𝑦𝚥ˆ−(𝑧+𝑑)𝑘ˆ
(d) ( 2𝜋 ) [𝑦2 +(𝑧−𝑑)2 + 𝑦2 +(𝑧+𝑑)2 ] 3. A system of two circular co-axial coils carrying
equal currents I along same direction having
15. Consider a cross-section of an electromagnet equal radius R and separated by a distance R (as
having an air-gap of 5 cm as shown in the figure. shown in figure below). The magnetic field at

41
 the midpoint P is given by [JEST 2014] a trajectory parallel to the wire. What is the
speed of the charge?
[JEST 2019]

𝜆 𝜆
𝜇 𝐼 4𝜇0 𝐼 (a) (b)
(a) 2 02𝑅 (b) 5 5𝑅 𝐼 2𝐼
√ √ 𝜆 4𝜆
8𝜇0 𝐼 (c) 3𝐼 (d) 𝐼
(c) 5 5𝑅 (d) 0
√

7. A very long solenoid (axis along 𝑧-direction) of

4. A charged particle is released at time 𝑡 = 0, from
𝑛 turns per unit length carries a current which
the origin in the presence of uniform static
increases linearly with time, 𝑖 = 𝐾𝑙. What is the
electric and magnetic fields given by 𝐸 = 𝐸0 𝑦
magnetic field inside the solenoid at a given
and 𝐵 = 𝐵0 𝑧ˆ, respectively. Which of the
time 𝑡 ?
following statements is true for 𝑡 > 0 ?
[𝐉𝐄𝐒𝐓𝟐𝟎𝟏𝟗]
[JEST 2015]
(a) 𝐵 = 𝜇0 𝑛𝐾𝑡𝑧ˆ (b) 𝐵 = 𝜇0 𝑛𝑘𝑧ˆ
(a) The particle moves along the 𝑥-axis
(c) 𝐵 = 𝜇0 𝑛𝐾𝑡(𝑥ˆ + 𝑦ˆ) (d) 𝐵 = 𝜇0 𝑐𝑛𝐾𝑡𝑧
(b) The particle moves in a circular orbit
(c) The particle moves in the (𝑥, 𝑦) plane
8. Consider three infinitely long, straight, and
(d) the particle moves in the (𝑦, 𝑧) plane
coplanar wires which are placed parallel to each
other. The distance between the adjacent wires
5. A conducting wire is in the shape of a regular
is 𝑑. Each wire carries a current 𝐼 in the same
hexagon, which is inscribed inside an imaginary
direction. Consider points on either side of the
circle of radius R, as shown. A current I flows
middle wire where the magnetic field vanishes.
through the wire. The magnitude of the
What is the distance of these points from the
magnetic field at the centre of the circle is
middle wire?
[JEST 2016]
[JEST 2020]
2𝑑 2𝑑
(a) 3
(b)
√3
𝑑 𝑑
(c) 3 (d) 3
√

9. A circular ring of radius 𝑅 with total charge

𝑄ring has uniform linear charge density. It
rotates about an axis passing through its centre
√3𝜇0 𝐼 𝜇0 𝐼 and perpendicular to its plane with a constant
(𝑎) (b) angular speed 𝜔. The magnetic field at the
2𝜋𝑅 2√3𝜋𝑅
centre is found to be 𝐵0 . Another thin circular
√3𝜇0 𝐼 3𝜇0 𝐼 disk of the same radius 𝑅 has a constant surface
(c) (d) charge density with a total charge 𝑄disk . This
𝜋𝑅 2𝜋𝑅
disk too rotates about the same axis as the ring
6. A wire with uniform line charge density 𝜆 per with the same constant angular speed 𝜔. The
unit length carries a current 𝐼 as shown in the magnetic field at the centre in this case is found
figure. Take the permittivity and permeability of to be 10−3 𝐵0. What is the value of 𝑄ring /𝑄disk ?
the medium to be 𝜀0 = 𝜇0 = 1. A particle of [JEST 2021]
charge 𝑞 is at a distance 𝑟 and is travelling along

42
10. An electron of kinetic energy 100MeV moving in mass per unit length 𝑚. If the wires A and C are
a region of uniform magnetic field penetrates a held fixed and the wire B is displaced by a
layer of lead. In the process it looses half of its small distance x from its position, then it (B)
kinetic energy. The radius of curvature of the will execute simple harmonic motion with a
path has changed by a factor time period
[JEST 2022] [TIFR 2012]
𝑚 𝑑 2𝜋𝑚 𝑑
11. Two semi-infinite wires are placed on the 𝑥 - (a)2𝜋√ ( ) (b)2𝜋√ ( )
𝜋𝜇0 𝑇 𝜇0 𝑇
axis, one from −∞ to the −𝑑, and the the other
from 𝑑 to ∞. Both wires carry a steady current 𝐼 𝜋𝑚 𝑑 𝑚 𝑑
in the same direction. The magnitude of (c)2𝜋√ ( ) (d) 2𝜋√ ( )
𝜇0 𝑇 2𝜋𝜇0 𝐼
the magnetic field at a distance 𝑑 away from the
center of this gap in the 𝑦 − 𝑧 plane (ignore the
2. A short solenoid with 𝑛 turns per unit length
charge accumulation) is: [JEST 2023]
𝜇0 𝐼 0𝜇 𝐼 1 has diameter 𝐷 and length 𝐿 = 8𝐷/15, as
(a) √2 (b) 2𝜋𝑑 (1 − )
𝜋𝑑 √2 shown in the figure, and it carries a constant
𝜇 𝐼 1 𝜇0 𝐼 1
(c) 0 (d) current 𝐼.
𝜋𝑑 √2 𝜋𝑑 2
The magnetic field 𝐵 at a point P on the axis of
12. A semi-infinite, thin wire extending from −∞ to the solenoid at a distance 𝐻 = 2𝐷/3 from its
zero along the 𝑧-axis carries a constant current near end (see figure) is
𝐼 in the positive 𝑧-direction. The wire is charge- [use ∫ 𝑑𝑥(1 + 𝑥 2 )−3/2 = 𝑥(1 + 𝑥 2 )−1/2 ]
neutral except at 𝑧 = 0, where the inflowing [TIFR 2014]
charge is accumulate(d) What is the absolute
4
value of the line integral ∮ 𝐵⃗ ⋅ 𝑑𝑙 along the
𝜇0 𝐼
2 2
circle 𝑥 + 𝑦 = 1 ? 𝐵 ⃗ is the magnetic field and
𝜇0 is the permeability in free space. Assume that
the accumulated charge at 𝑧 = 0 is a point
charge.
[JEST 2024]

❖ TIFR PYQ 4 4
(a) 65 𝜇0 𝑛𝐼 (b) 13 𝜇0 𝑛𝐼
24 112
1. Consider three identical infinite straight wires (c) 15 𝜇0 𝑛𝐼 (d) 65 0
𝜇 𝑛𝐼
A, B and C arranged in parallel on a plane as
shown in the figure. 3. A circular loop of fine wire of radius 𝑅 carrying
a current 𝐼 is placed in a uniform magnetic field
𝐵 perpendicular to the plane of the loop. If the
breaking tension of the wire is 𝑇𝑏 , the wire will
break when the magnetic field exceeds
[TIFR 2016]
(a) 𝑇𝑏 /𝐼𝑅 (b) 𝑇𝑏 /2𝜋𝐼𝑅
(c) 𝜇0 𝑇𝑏 /2𝜋𝐼𝑅 (c) 𝜇0 𝑇𝑏 /4𝜋𝐼𝑅

4. Consider three straight, coplanar, parallel wires

of infinite length where the distance between
adjacent wires is 𝑑. Each wire carries a current 𝐼
The wires carry equal currents 𝐼 with in the same direction. The perpendicular
directions as shown in the figure and have

43
 distance from the middle wire (on either side) Answer Key
where the magnetic field vanishes is CSIR PYQ
[TIFR 2019] 1. d 2. a 3. b 4. d 5. b
(a) 𝑑/√3 (b) 2𝑑/3 6. d 7. d 8. b 9. d 10. b
(c) 𝑑/3 (d) 2𝑑/√3 11. c 12. d 13. a 14. b 15. d
16. a 17. a
5. An electromagnet is made by winding 𝑁 turns GATE PYQ
of wire around a wooden cylinder of diameter 𝑑 1. c 2. d 3. b 4. c 5. c
and passing a current 𝐼 through it. When the 6. b 7. a 8. c 9. c 10. b
current flows, a magnetic field of magnitude 𝐵 11. a 12. c 13. 1.44 14. b 15. 0.25
is produced at a perpendicular distance 𝑧0 from JEST PYQ
the axis of the cylinder, where 𝑧0 ≫ 𝑑. 1. d 2. c 3. c 4. c 5. c
If the number of turns 𝑁, the diameter of the 6. a 7. a 8. d 9. 2000 10. 0.71
wooden cylinder 𝑑 and the current 𝐼 are all 11. b 12. 2
doubled, then the magnitude of the magnetic TIFR PYQ
field will be 𝐵/2 at a distance 𝑧 = [TIFR 2022] 1. c 2. a 3. a 4. a 5. d
(a) 2.4𝑧0 (b) 0.5𝑧0 6. b 7. c
(c) 4.8𝑧0 (d) 3.2𝑧0

6. Two particles, as specified in the table below,

both enter a region of uniform magnetic field in
a direction perpendicular to the field direction.
Particle Rest Mass Kinetic Energy

Alpha 3.7GeV 11.2GeV

Deuteron 1.9GeV 20.0MeV

If both the particles then follow circular
trajectories in the magnetic field, the ratio of
their time periods for one full revolution must be
[TIFR 2022]
(a) 3.0 (b) 4.0
(c) 2.0 (d) 1.0

7. An electromagnet is made by winding 𝑁 turns

of wire around a wooden cylinder of diameter 𝑑
and passing a current 𝐼 through it. When the
current flows, a magnetic field of magnitude 𝐵
is produced at a perpendicular distance 𝑧0 from
the axis of the cylinder, where 𝑧0 ≫ 𝑑. If the
number of turns 𝑁, the diameter of the wooden
cylinder 𝑑 and the current 𝐼 are all doubled,
then the magnitude of the magnetic field will be
𝐵/2 at a distance 𝑧 is equal to
[TIFR 2022]
(a) 0.5𝑧0 (b) 2.4𝑧0
(c) 3.2𝑧0 (d)4.8𝑧0

44
 ❖ EMT 06 : Magnetic Vector potential & Magnetic Material

❖ CSIR-NET PYQ’s

1. A current carrying loop lying in the plane of the

paper is in the shape of an equilateral triangle of
side a. It carries a current I in the clockwise sense.
If 𝑘ˆ denotes the outward
normal to the plane of the paper, the magnetic
moment 𝑚 ˆ due to the current loop is The vector potential 𝐴 at a distance 𝑅 from the
[CSIR NET 2008] axis.
1 (a) Is constant inside and varies as 𝑅 outside the
(a)𝑚 ⃗⃗ = 𝑎2 𝐼𝑘ˆ (b)𝑚 ⃗⃗ = − 𝑎2 𝐼𝑘ˆ
2 solenoid.
√3 2 ˆ √3 2 ˆ (b) Varies as 𝑅 inside and is constant outside the
(c)𝑚 ⃗⃗ = 𝑎 𝐼𝑘 (d) 𝑚 ⃗⃗ = − 𝑎 𝐼𝑘
2 4 solenoid.
(c) Varies as 1/𝑅 inside and as 𝑅 outside the
2. The magnetic field corresponding to the vector
1 10
solenoid.
potential, 𝐴 = 2 𝐹 × 𝑟 + 𝑟3 𝑟 where 𝐹 is a constant (d) Varies as 𝑅 inside and as 1/𝑅 outside the
vector, is solenoid.
[CSIR JUNE 2012]
(a) 𝐹 (b) −𝐹 5. A thin infinitely long solenoid placed along the z-
(c) 𝐹
30
+ 𝑟4 𝑟 (d) 𝐹 −
30
𝑟 axis contains a magnetic flux 𝜙. Which of the
𝑟4
following vector potentials corresponds to the
magnetic field at an arbitrary point (𝑥, 𝑦, 𝑧) ?
3. The vector potential 𝐴 due to a magnetic moment
[CSIR JUNE 2014]
⃗⃗⃗ ×𝑟
𝑚
' 𝑚 ' at a point ' 𝑟 ' is given by 𝐴 = 𝑟3
. If 𝑚
⃗⃗ is 𝜙 𝑦 𝜙 𝑥
(a) (𝐴𝑥 , 𝐴𝑦 , 𝐴𝑧 ) = (− 2𝜋 𝑥 2 +𝑦2 , 2𝜋 𝑥 2 +𝑦2 , 0)
directed along the positive 𝑧-axis, the 𝑥- 𝜙 𝑦 𝜙 𝑥
component of the magnetic field, at the point 𝑟, is (b) (𝐴𝑥 , 𝐴𝑦 , 𝐴𝑧 ) = (− , , 0)
2𝜋 𝑥 2 +𝑦2 +𝑧 2 2𝜋 𝑥 2 +𝑦 2 +𝑧 2
[CSIR JUNE 2012] 𝜙 𝑥+𝑦 𝜙 𝑥+𝑦
(c) (𝐴𝑥 , 𝐴𝑦 , 𝐴𝑧 ) = (− 2𝜋 𝑥 2 +𝑦2 , 2𝜋 𝑥 2 +𝑦2 , 0)
3myz 3mxy
(a) r5
(b) − r5 𝜙 𝑥 𝜙 𝑦
(d) (𝐴𝑥 , 𝐴𝑦 , 𝐴𝑧 ) = (− , , 0)
3𝑚𝑥𝑧 3 m(z2 −xy) 2𝜋 𝑥 2 +𝑦 2 2𝜋 𝑥 2 +𝑦 2
(c) (d)
𝑟5 r5
6. Given a uniform magnetic field 𝑩 = 𝐵0 𝑘ˆ (where 𝐵0
4. An infinite solenoid with its axis of symmetry is a constant), a possible choice for the magnetic
along the z-direction carries a steady current I. vector potential 𝑨 is
[NET Dec, 2012]

45
 [CSIR DEC 2015] 11. A stationary magnetic dipole 𝐦 = m𝐤 ˆ is placed
(a) 𝐵0 𝑦𝑖ˆ (b) −𝐵0 𝑦𝑖ˆ above an infinite surface (z = 0) carrying a
(c) 𝐵0 (𝑥𝑗ˆ + 𝑦𝑖ˆ) (d) 𝐵0 (𝑥𝑖ˆ − 𝑦𝑗ˆ) uniform surface current density 𝛋 = κ𝐢ˆ. The
torque on the dipole is Options:-
7. A small magnetic needle is kept at (0,0) with its [CSIR JUNE 2022]
moment along the 𝑥-axis. Another small magnetic μ0 μ
(a) mκ𝐢ˆ,
2
(b)− 0 mκ𝐢ˆ
2
needle is at the point (1,1) and is free to rotate in μ μ0
(c) 20 mκȷ̂ (d)− mκȷ̂
the 𝑥𝑦-plane. In equilibrium the angle 𝜃 between 2

their magnetic moments is such that

[CSIR DEC 2015] 12. A small bar magnet is placed in a magnetic field
(a) tan 𝜃 = 1/3 (b) tan 𝜃 = 0 𝐵(𝑟) = 𝐵(𝑥)𝑧ˆ. The magnet is initially at rest with
(c) tan 𝜃 = 3 (d) tan 𝜃 = 1 its magnetic moment along 𝑦ˆ. At later times, it will
undergo [CSIR DEC 2023]
8. A loop of radius 𝑎, carrying a current 𝐼, is placed in (a)angular motion in the 𝑦𝑧 plane and
a uniform magnetic field 𝑩. If the normal to the translational motion along 𝑦ˆ
loop is denoted by 𝑛ˆ, the force 𝐹 and the torque 𝑇 (b)angular motion in the 𝑦𝑧 plane and
on the loop are translational motion along 𝑥ˆ
[CSIR JUNE 2016] (c)angular motion in the 𝑧𝑥 plane and
2
(a) 𝐹 = 0 and 𝑇 = 𝜋𝑎 𝐼𝑛ˆ × 𝐵 translational motion along 𝑧ˆ
𝜇 (d)angular motion in the 𝑥𝑦 plane and
(b) 𝐹 = 0 𝐼 × 𝐵 and 𝑇 = 0
4𝜋 translational motion along 𝑧ˆ
𝜇
(c) 𝐹 = 4𝜋0 𝐼 × 𝐵 and 𝑇 = 𝐼𝑛ˆ × 𝐵
1
(d) 𝐹 = 0 and 𝑇 = 𝜇 𝐼𝐵 ❖ GATE PYQ’s
0 𝜀0

STATEMENT FOR LINKED ANSWER Q.1 AND Q. 2

9. A rotating spherical shell of uniform surface
An infinitely long hollow cylinder of radius 𝑅
charge and mass density has total mass 𝑀 and
carrying a surface charge density 𝜎 is rotated
charge 𝑄. If its angular momentum is 𝐿 and
about its cylindrical axis with a constant angular
magnetic moment is 𝜇, then the ratio 𝜇/𝐿 is
speed 𝑤 Then
[CSIR DEC 2018]
(a) 𝑄/3𝑀 (b) 2𝑄/3𝑀 1. magnitude of the surface current is:
(c) 𝑄/2𝑀 (d) 3𝑄/4𝑀 [GATE 2005]
(a) 𝜎𝑅𝜔 (b) 2𝜎𝑅𝜔
10. The vector potential for an almost point like (c) 𝜋𝜎𝑅𝜔 (d) 2𝜋𝜎𝑅𝜔
magnetic dipole located at the origin is 𝐴 =
𝜇sin 𝜃
̂
2 𝜙 , where (𝑟, 𝜃, 𝜙) denote the spherical polar 2. The magnitude of vector potential inside the
4𝜋𝑟
coordinates and 𝜙ˆ is the unit vector along 𝜙. A cylinder at a distance from its axis is:
particle of mass 𝑚 and charge 𝑞, moving in the [GATE 2005]
equatorial plane of the dipole, starts at time = 𝑡 = (a) 2𝜇0 𝜎R𝜔𝑟 (b) 𝜇0 𝜎R𝜔𝑟
0 with an initial speed 𝑣0 and an impact 1 1
(c) 𝜇0 𝜎𝑅𝜔r (d) 𝜇0 𝜎𝑅𝜔𝑟
parameter 𝑏. Its instantaneous speed at the point 2 4
of closest approach is [CSIR JUNE 2021]
(a) 𝑣0 (b) 0/0 3. The vector potential in a region is given as
2 𝐴(𝑥, 𝑦, 𝑧) = −𝑦𝑖ˆ + 2𝑥𝑗ˆ. The associated magnetic
𝜇𝑞 𝜇𝑞
(c) 𝑣0 + 4𝜋𝑚𝑏2 (d)√𝑣02 + (4𝜋𝑚𝑏2 ) induction is 𝐵⃗ is [GATE 2006]
ˆ
(a) 𝑖ˆ + 𝑘 ˆ
(b) 3𝑘
(c) −𝑖ˆ + 2𝑗ˆ (d) −𝑖ˆ + 𝑗ˆ + 𝑘ˆ

46
 ⃗ along a square loop of side 𝐿
4. The value of ∮ 𝐴 ⋅ 𝑑ℓ 8. A magnetic dipole of dipole moment 𝑚 ⃗⃗ is placed
in a uniform field 𝐴 is : [GATE 2006] ⃗ . If the position
in a non-uniform magnetic field 𝐵
(a) 0 (b) 2LA vector of the dipole is 𝑟, the torque acting on the
(c) 4LA (d) 𝐿2 A dipole about the origin is
[GATE 2011]
5. An atom with net magnetic moment 𝜇 and net (a) 𝑟 × (𝑚 ⃗
⃗⃗ × 𝐵)
angular momentum 𝐿⃗(𝜇 = 𝛾𝐿⃗) is kept in a uniform (b) 𝑟 × ⃗∇(𝑚 ⃗)
⃗⃗ ⋅ 𝐵
magnetic induction 𝐵 ⃗ = 𝐵0 𝑘ˆ. The magnetic (c) 𝑚
⃗⃗ × 𝐵⃗
moment 𝜇(= 𝜇𝑥 ) is (d) 𝑚 ⃗ +𝑟×∇
⃗⃗ × 𝐵 ⃗ (𝑚 ⃗)
⃗⃗ ⋅ 𝐵
[GATE 2006]
𝑑2 𝜇 9. Which of the following expressions for a vector
(a) 𝑑𝑡 2𝑥 + 𝛾𝐵0 𝜇𝑥 = 0
𝑑2 𝜇 𝑑𝜇 potential 𝐴 does not represent a uniform magnetic
(b) 𝑑𝑡 2𝑥 + 𝛾𝐵0 𝑑𝑡𝑥 + 𝜇𝑥 =0
field of magnitude 𝐵0 along the z-direction?
𝑑2 𝜇
(c) 𝑑𝑡 2𝑥 + 𝛾 2 𝐵02 𝜇𝑥 = 0 [GATE 2011]
𝑑2 𝜇 (a) 𝐴 = (0, 𝐵0 𝑥, 0) (b) 𝐴 = (−𝐵0 𝑦, 0,0)
(d) 2𝑥 + 2𝛾𝐵0 𝜇𝑥 = 0 𝐵0 𝑥 𝐵0 𝑥 𝐵0 𝑦 𝐵0 𝑥
𝑑𝑡
(c) 𝐴 = ( 2
, 2 , 0) (d) 𝐴 = (− 2
, 2 , 0)
6. Which one of the following current densities, 𝑗,
can generate the magnetic vector potential 𝐴ˆ = 10. At a surface current, which one of the magneto
(𝑦 2 𝑖ˆ + 𝑥 2 𝑗ˆ) ? [GATE 2009] static boundary condition is NOT CORRECT?
2 −2 (a) Normal component of the magnetic field is
(a) (𝑥𝑖ˆ + 𝑦𝑗ˆ) (b) (𝑖ˆ + 𝑗ˆ) continuous. [GATE 2013]
𝜇0 𝜇0
(b) Normal component of the magnetic vector
2 2 potential is continuous.
(c) (𝑖ˆ − 𝑗ˆ) (d) (𝑥𝑖ˆ − 𝑦𝑗ˆ) (c) Tangential component of the magnetic vector
𝜇0 𝜇0
potential is continuous.
7. Two magnetic dipoles of magnitude 𝑚 each are (d) Tangential component of the magnetic vector
placed in a plane as shown The energy of potential is not continuous.
interaction is given by
[GATE 2010] 11. In a constant magnetic field of 0.6 Tesla along the
𝑧 direction, find the value of the path integral
⃗ in the units of (Tesla m2 ) on a square
∮ 𝐴 ⋅ 𝑑ℓ
loop of side length (1/√2 ) meters. The normal to
the loop makes, an angle of 60∘ to the 𝑧-axis, as
shown in the figure. The answer should be up to
two decimal places. [GATE 2013]

𝜇 𝑚2
(a) 0 (b) 4𝜋0 𝑑3
3𝜇0 𝑚2 3𝜇0 𝑚2
(c) 2𝜋 𝑑 3
(d) − 8𝜋 𝑑 3

47
12. Given that magnetic flux through the closed loop 17. Far from the Earth, the Earth's magnetic field can
𝑅 be approximated as due to a bar magnet of
PQRSP is 𝜙. If ∫𝑃 𝐴 ⋅ 𝑑 𝑙 = 𝜙1 along 𝑃𝑄𝑅, the value
𝑅 magnetic pole strength 4 × 1014 Am. Assume this
of ∫𝐴 𝐴 ⋅ 𝑑𝑙 along PSR is
magnetic field is generated by a current carrying
|GATE 2015| loop encircling the magnetic equator. The current
required to do so is about 4 × 10𝑛 A, where 𝑛 is
an integer. The value of 𝑛 is………. (Earth's
circumference: 4 × 107 m )
[GATE 2020]

18. A material is placed in a magnetic field intensity 𝐻.

(a) 𝜙 − 𝜙1 (b) 𝜙1 − 𝜙 As a result, bound current density 𝐽𝑏 is induced
(c) −𝜙1 (d) 𝜙1 and magnetization of the material is 𝑀. The
magnetic flux density is 𝐵. Choose the correct
13. The magnitude of the magnetic dipole moment option(s) valid at the surface of the material
associated with a square shaped loop carrying a [GATE 2021]
steady current 𝐼 is 𝑚. If this loop is changed to a (a) ∇ ⋅ 𝑀 = 0 (b) ∇ ⋅ 𝐵 = 0
circular shape with the same current 𝐼 passing (c) ∇ ⋅ 𝐻 = 0 (d) ∇ ⋅ 𝐽𝑏 = 0
through it, the magnetic dipole moment becomes
𝑝𝑚
𝜋
. The value of 𝑝 is________________. 19. Consider a solenoid of length 𝐿 and radius 𝑅,
[GATE 2016] where 𝑅 ≪ 𝐿. A steady-current flows through the
solenoid. The magnetic field is uniform inside the
14. The 𝑥 − 𝑦 plane is the boundary between free solenoid and zero outside.
space and a magnetic material with relative
permeability 𝜇𝑟 . The magnetic field in the free
space is 𝐵𝑥 𝑖ˆ + 𝐵𝑧 𝑘ˆ. The magnetic field in the
magnetic material is [GATE 2016]
ˆ
(a) 𝐵𝑥 𝑖ˆ + 𝐵𝑧 𝑘 (b) 𝐵𝑥 𝑖ˆ + 𝜇𝑟 𝐵𝑧 𝑘ˆ
1
(c) 𝐵𝑥 𝑖ˆ + 𝐵𝑧 𝑘ˆ
𝜇𝑟
(d) 𝜇𝑟 𝐵𝑥 𝑖ˆ + 𝐵𝑧 𝑘ˆ
Among the given options, choose the one that best
15. Which of the following magnetic vector potentials represents the variation in the magnitude of the
gives rise to a uniform magnetic field 𝐵0 𝑘ˆ ? vector potential, (0, 𝐴𝜑 , 0) at 𝑧 = 𝐿/2, as a function
[GATE 2016] of the radial distance (𝑟) in cylindrical
ˆ
(a) 𝐵0 𝑧𝑘 (b) −𝐵0 𝑥𝑗ˆ coordinates.
𝐵0 𝐵0
(c) (−𝑦𝑖ˆ + 𝑥𝑗ˆ) (d) (𝑦𝑗ˆ + 𝑥𝑗ˆ) Useful information: The curl of a vector 𝐹 , in
2 2
cylindrical coordinates is ⃗∇ × 𝐹 (𝑟, 𝜑, 𝑧) =
1 ∂𝐹 ∂𝐹𝜑 ∂𝐹 ∂𝐹𝑧 1 ∂(𝑟𝐹𝜑 ) ∂𝐹
16. A solid cylinder of radius 𝑅 has total charge 𝑄 𝑟ˆ [𝑟 ∂𝜑𝑧 − ] + 𝜑ˆ [ ∂𝑧𝑟 − ] + 𝑧ˆ 𝑟 [ − ∂𝜑𝑟]
∂𝑧 ∂𝑟 ∂𝑟
distributed uniformly over its volume. It is
[GATE 2021]
rotating about its axis with angular speed 𝜔. The
magnitude of the total magnetic moment of the
cylinder is
[GATE 2019]
1
(a) 𝑄𝑅 2 𝜔 (b) 2 𝑄𝑅 2 𝜔
1 1
(c) 4 𝑄𝑅 2 𝜔 (d) 8 𝑄𝑅 2 𝜔

48
 [GATE 2024]
(a) 0 (b) 𝜇0 𝑘𝑒 −𝑅 𝑍ˆ
(a) (b) (c) 𝜇0 𝑘𝑒 −𝑠 𝑍ˆ
𝑅
(d) 𝜇0 𝑘𝑒 −𝑠 ( ) 𝑍ˆ
𝑠

❖ JEST PYQ
1. A spherical shell of radius 𝑅 carries a constant
surface charge density 𝜎 and is rotating about one
of its diameters with an angular velocity 𝜔. The
magnitude of the magnetic moment of the shell is:
(c) (d) [JEST 2016]
4𝜋𝜎𝜔𝑅4
(a) 4𝜋𝜎𝜔𝑅 4 (b) 3
4𝜋𝜎𝜔𝑅4 4𝜋𝜎𝜔𝑅4
(c) (d)
15 9

2. Two identical magnetic dipoles of length ℓ, which

are free to rotate, are kept fixed at a distance
𝑑(𝑑 ≫ ℓ). In their minimum energy
configuration, they will orient themselves
20. Consider an isolated magnetized sphere of radius [JEST 2023]
𝑅 with a uniform magnetization 𝑀 ⃗⃗ along the (a) anti-parallel to each other and perpendicular
positive 𝑧-direction, with the north and south to the line joining them
poles of the sphere lying on the 𝑧 axis. It is given (b) parallel to each other and aligned to the line
that the magnetic field inside the sphere is 𝐵 ⃗ = joining them
2𝜇0
⃗⃗ ,
𝑀 where 𝜇0 is the permeability of vacuum. (c) anti-parallel to each other and aligned to the
3
line joining them
Which of the following statements is (are)
(d) parallel to each other and perpendicular to
CORRECT? [GATE 2023]
the line joining them
(a) The bound volume current density is zero
(b) The bound surface current density has
3. A magnetic vector potential is given as 𝐴 = 6𝑖ˆ +
maximum magnitude at the equator, where this
⃗⃗ | 𝑦𝑧 2 𝑗ˆ + (3𝑦 + 𝑧)𝑘ˆ. Find the corresponding
magnitude equals |𝑀
outgoing magnetic flux through the five faces
⃗ = −2𝑀
(c) The auxiliary field 𝐻 ⃗⃗
3 (excluding the shaded one) of a unit cube with
(d) Far from the sphere, the magnetic field is due one corner at the origin, as shown in the figure.
⃗⃗⃗
𝑚 𝐵
to a dipole of moment 𝑚
⃗⃗ , where = 𝑧ˆ
4𝜋𝑅3 2𝜇0

21. An infinitely long cylinder of radius 𝑅 carries a

frozen-in magnetization 𝑀⃗⃗ = 𝑘𝑒 −𝑠 𝑧ˆ, where 𝑘 is a
constant and 𝑠 is the distance from the axis of
cylinder. The magnetic permeability of free space
is 𝜇0 . There is no free current present anywhere.
The magnetic flux density (𝐵 ⃗ ) inside the cylinder
is

[JEST 2024]

49
❖ TIFR PYQ
Answer Key
1. Two semi-infinite solenoids placed next to each CSIR NET PYQ
other are separated by a small gap of width 𝑊 as 1. d 2. a 3. c 4. d 5. a
shown in the figure. 6. b 7. c 8. a 9. c 10. a
11. a 12. b
GATE PYQ
1. a 2. c 3. b 4. a 5. c
6. b 7. d 8. d 9. b 10. d
11. 0.15 12. a 13. 4 14. d 15. c
The current 𝐼0 in the solenoids flows in the
16. c 17. 7 18. bd 19. c 20. ab
direction as shown. If the solenoids have a
21. c
circular cross-section of radius 𝑅 and are filled
JEST PYQ
with a magnetic material of permeability
1. b 2. b 3. 0
𝜇(𝜇 > 𝜇0 ), then the magnetic energy densities 𝑢𝑖
TIFR PYQ
inside the solenoid and 𝑢𝑔 in the gap are best
1. a 2. d 3. a
related by [TIFR 2015]
(a) 𝑢𝑔 > 𝑢𝑖 (b) 𝑢𝑔 < 𝑢𝑖
(c) 𝑢𝑔 = 𝑐𝑢𝑖 (d) 𝑢𝑔 > 𝑐𝑢𝑖

2. Four students were asked to write down possible

⃗ (𝒙
forms for the magnetic vector potential 𝑨 ⃗)
corresponding to a uniform magnetic field of
magnitude 𝐵 along the positive 𝑧 direction. Three
returned correct answers and one returned an
incorrect answers. Their answers are reproduced
below. Which was the incorrect answer?
[TIFR 2020]
(a)𝐵𝑥𝒋ˆ (b) −𝐵𝑦𝑖ˆ
1 1
(c)2 (𝐵𝑥𝑖ˆ − 𝐵𝑦𝑗ˆ) (d)2 (−𝐵𝑦𝑖ˆ + 𝐵𝑥𝑗ˆ)

3. The magnetic vector potential 𝐴 ≡ 𝐴𝑥 𝑖ˆ + 𝐴𝑦 𝑗ˆ +

𝐴𝑧 𝑘̂ is defined in a region R of space by
𝐴𝑥 = 5cos 𝜋𝑦 𝐴𝑦 = 2 + sin 𝜋𝑥 𝐴𝑧 = 0
in an appropriate unit.
If 𝐿 be a square loop of wire in the 𝑥 − 𝑦 plane,
with its ends at
(0 0) (0, 0.25) (0.25,0.25) (0.25,0)
in an appropriate unit and it lies entirely in the
region 𝑅, the numerical value of the flux of the
above magnetic field (in the same units) passing
through 𝐿 is [TIFR 2020]
(a) 0.543 (b) 3.31
(c) -0.75 (d) zero

50
 ❖ EMT 07: EMF, Displacement Current

❖ CSIR-NET PYQ’s

1. Consider a solenoid of radius R with n turns per

unit length, in which a time dependent current
𝐼 = 𝐼0 sin 𝜔𝑡 (where 𝜔𝑅/𝑐&1 ) flows. The
magnitude of the electric field at a perpendicular
distance r < R from the axis of symmetry of the
solenoid, is:
[CSIR DEC 2011]
1 Which of the following graph represents the
(a) 0 (b)2𝑟 𝜔𝜇0 𝑛𝐼0 𝑅2 cos 𝜔𝑡
current 𝑖𝑠 in the secondary coil?
[CSIR JUNE 2014]
1 1
(c) 2 𝜔𝜇0 𝑛𝐼0 𝑟sin 𝜔𝑡 (d) 2 𝜔𝜇0 𝑛𝐼0 𝑟cos 𝜔𝑡

2. A horizontal metal disc rotates about the vertical

axis in a uniform magnetic field pointing up as
shown in the figure. A circuit is made by
connecting one end A of a resistor to the centre
of the disc and the other end B to its edge
through a sliding contact S. The current that
flows through the resistor is
[CSIR DEC 2013]

4. A uniform magnetic field in the positive 𝑧-

direction passes through a circular wire loop of
radius 1 cm and resistance 1Ω lying in the 𝑥𝑦-
plane. The field strength is reduced from 10
tesla to 9 tesla in 1 s. The charge transferred
(a) zero (b) DC from A to B across any point in the wire is approximately
[NET June 2015]
(c) DC from B to A (d) AC −4
(a) 3.1 × 10 coulomb
3. A current ip flows through the primary coil of a
transformer. The graph of 𝑖𝑝 (𝑡) as a function of (b) 3.4 × 10−4 coulomb
time ' 𝑡 ' is shown in figure below
Which of the following graph represents the (c) 4.2 × 10−4 coulomb
current 𝑖𝑠 in the secondary coil?
(d) 5.2 × 10−4 coulomb

51
5. A magnetic field 𝐵 is 𝐵𝑧 in the region 𝑥 > 0 and 8. A circular conducting wire loop is placed close
zero elsewhere. 𝐴 rectangular loop, in the 𝑥𝑦- to a solenoid as shown in the figure below. Also
plane, of sides / (along the 𝑥-direction) and ℎ shown is the current through the solenoid as a
(along the 𝑦-direction) is inserted into the 𝑥 > function of time.
0 region from the 𝑥 < 0 region at a constant
velocity 𝑣 v 𝑥ˆ. Which of the following values of l
and ℎ will generate the larged EMF ?
[NET June 2016]
(a) 𝑙 = 8, ℎ = 3 (b) 𝑙 = 4, ℎ = 6

(c) 𝑙 = 6, ℎ = 4 (d) 𝑙 = 12, ℎ = 2

The magnitude |𝑖(𝑡)| of the induced current in
6. A conducting circular disc of radius 𝑟 and the wire loop, as a function of time 𝑡, is best
resistivity 𝜌 rotates with an angular velocity 𝜔 in represented as
a magnetic field 𝐵 perpendicular to it. A [NET Dec. 2019]
voltmeter is connected as shown in the figure
below.
[CSIR DEC 2016]

9. A conducting wire in the shape of a circle lies on

the (𝑥, 𝑦)-plane with its centre at the origin. A
Assuming its internal resistance to be infinite, bar magnet moves with a constant velocity
the reading on the voltmeter towards the wire along the 𝑧-axis (as shown in
(a) depends on 𝜔, 𝐵, 𝑟 and 𝜌 the figure below)
(b) depends on 𝜔, 𝐵 and 𝑟, but not on 𝜌
(c) is zero because the flux through the loop is
not
changing
(d) is zero because a current flows in the
direction of B

7. A parallel plate capacitor is formed by two

circular conducting plates of radius 𝑎 separated We take 𝑡 = 0 to be the instant at which the
by a distance 𝑑, where 𝑑 ≪ 𝑎. It is being slowly midpoint of the magnet is at the centre of the
charged by a current that is nearly constant. At wire loop and the induced current to be positive
an instant when the current is 𝐼, the magnetic when it is counter-clockwise as viewed by the
induction between the plates at a distance 𝑎/2 observer facing the loop and the incoming
from the centre of the plate, is magnet. In these conventions, the best schematic
[NET Dec. 2016] representation of the induced current 𝐼(𝑡) as a
𝜇0 𝐼 𝜇 𝐼
0
function of 𝑡, is
(a) 𝜋𝑎
(b) 2𝜋𝑎 [CSIR JUNE 2021]

𝜇0 𝐼 𝜇 𝐼
0
(c) 𝑎
(d) 4𝜋𝑎

52
10. The figure below shows an ideal capacitor
consisting of two parallel circular plates of
radius 𝑅. Points 𝑃1 and 𝑃2 are at a transverse 12. A small circular wire loop of radius a and
distance 𝑟1 > 𝑅 from the line joining the centres number of turns 𝑁, is oriented with its axis
of the plates, while points 𝑃3 and 𝑃4 are at a parallel to the direction of the local magnetic
transverse distance 𝑟2 < 𝑅. field B.A resistance and Galvano meter are
[CSIR JUNE 2021] connected to the coil as shown in then figure
When the coil is flipped (i.e. the direction of its
axis is reversed) the galvanometer measures the
total charge 𝑄 that flow through it. If the induce
emf through the coil 𝐸𝐹 = 𝐼𝑅 then 𝑄 is
[CSIR JUNE 2023]

If 𝐵(𝑥) denotes the magnitude of the magnetic

fields at these points, which of the following
holds while the capacitor is charging?
(a) 𝐵(𝑃1 ) < 𝐵(𝑃2 ) and 𝐵(𝑃3 ) < 𝐵(𝑃4 )

(b) 𝐵(𝑃1 ) > 𝐵(𝑃2 ) and 𝐵(𝑃3 ) > 𝐵(𝑃4 )

(c) 𝐵(𝑃1 ) = 𝐵(𝑃2 ) and 𝐵(𝑃3 ) < 𝐵(𝑃4 ) (a) 𝜋𝑁𝑎2 𝐵/2𝑅 (b) 𝜋𝑁𝑎2 𝐵/𝑅

(d) 𝐵(𝑃1 ) = 𝐵(𝑃2 ) and 𝐵(𝑃3 ) > 𝐵(𝑃4 ) (c) √2𝜋𝑁𝑎2 𝐵/𝑅 (d) 2𝜋𝑁𝑎2 𝐵/𝑅

11. A square conducting loop in the yz-plane, falls

downward under gravity along the negative z- 13. An infinitely long solenoid of radius 𝑟0 centred
axis. Region 1, defined by z > 0 has a uniform at origin which produces a timedependent
𝛼
magnetic field 𝐁 = B0 1̂, while region 2 (defined magnetic field 𝜋𝑟2 cos 𝜔𝑡 (where 𝛼 and 𝜔 are
0
by z < 0 ) has no magnetic field.
constants) is placed along the 𝑧-axis. A circular
loop of radius 𝑅, which carries unit line charge
density is placed, initially at rest, on the 𝑥𝑦-
plane with its centre on the 𝑧-axis. If 𝑅 > 𝑟0 , the
magnitude of the angular momentum of the
loop is [CSIR DEC 2023]

(a)𝛼𝑅(1 − cos 𝜔𝑡) (b)𝛼𝑅sin 𝜔𝑡

The time dependence of the speed v(t) of the
loop, as it starts to fall from well within the 1
(c)2 𝛼𝑅(1 − cos 2𝜔𝑡)
1
(d)2 𝛼𝑅sin 2𝜔𝑡
region 1 and passes into the region 2, is best
represented by
[CSIR JUNE 2022]

53
❖ GATE PYQ’s
(b) non-zero inside and zero outside the
1. A solenoid with an iron core is connected in solenoid
series with a battery of emf V and it is found
that a constant current I0 passes through the (c) non-zero inside as well as outside the
solenoid
solenoid. If at t = 0, the iron core is pulled out
from the solenoid quickly in a time Δt, which (d) zero inside and non-zero outside the
one of the following could be a correct solenoid
description of the current passing through the
solenoid? 5. Consider a parallel plate air filled capacitor with
[GATE 2000] a plate area of 10 cm2 separated by a distance of
2 mm. The potential difference across the plates
varies as
V = 360sin (2𝜋 × 106 𝑡) volts,
where 𝑡 is measured in seconds. Neglecting
fringe effects, calculate the displacement current
flowing through the capacitor.
[GATE 2002]

6. A large circular coil of N turns and radius R

carries a time varying current 𝑖 = 𝑖0 sin (𝑤𝑡). A
small circular coil of 𝑛 turns and radius 𝑟(𝑟 <<
𝑅) is placed at the center of the large coil such
that the coils are concentric and coplanar. The
induced emf in the small coil
[GATE 2002]
2. A current 𝐼 flows in the anticlockwise direction (a) Leads the current in the large coil by 𝜋/2
through a square loop of side 𝑎 lying in the 𝑥𝑜𝑦
plane with its centre at the origin. The magnetic (b) Lags the current in the large coil by 𝜋
induction at the centre of the square loop is
[GATE 2001] (c) Is in phase with the current in the large coil
2√2𝜇 𝐼 2√2𝜇 𝐼
(a) 𝜋𝑎 0 𝑒ˆ𝑥 (b) 𝜋𝑎 0 𝑒ˆ𝑧
(d) lags the current in the large coil by 𝜋/2
2√2𝜇0 𝐼 2√2𝜇0 𝐼
(c) 𝜋𝑎 2
𝑒ˆ𝑧 (d) 𝜋𝑎 2
𝑒ˆ𝑥
7. Which one of the following Maxwell's equations
implies the absence of magnetic monopoles?
3. A thin conducting wire is bent into a circular
[GATE 2003]
loop of radius 𝑟 and placed in a time dependent 𝜋
magnetic field of magnetic induction. (a) ∇. 𝐸 = 𝜀
0
⃗ (𝑡) = 𝐵0 𝑒 −𝛼𝑡 𝑒ˆ𝑧 , (𝐵0 > 0 and 𝛼 > 0),
𝐵
such that, the plane of the loop is perpendicular (b) ∇ ⋅ B = 0
⃗ (𝑡). Then the induced emf in the loop is
to 𝐵
[GATE 2001] (c) ∇ × E = − ∂B/ ∂t
2 −𝛼𝑡
(a) 𝜋𝑟 𝛼𝐵0 𝑒 (b) 𝜋𝑟 𝐵0 𝑒 −𝑎𝑟
2

(d) ∇ × B = (1/c 2 ) ∂B/ ∂t + 𝜇0 J

(c) −𝜋𝑟 2 𝛼𝐵0 𝑒 −𝛼𝑟 (d) −𝜋𝑟 2 𝐵0 𝑒 −𝛼𝑟
8. An infinitely long wire carrying a current 𝐼(𝑡) =
4. An infinitely long closely wound solenoid carries 𝐼0 cos (𝜔𝑡) is placed at a distance 𝑎 froma square
a sinusoidally varying current. The induced loop of side 𝑎 as shown in the figure. If the
electric field is resistance of the loop is 𝑅, then the amplitude of
[GATE 2002] the induced current in the loop is
(a) zero everywhere

54
 [GATE 2005]

(a) 𝜙0 (b) u
(c) R (d) C
𝜇0 𝑎𝐼0 𝜔 𝜇0 𝑎𝐼0 𝜔
(a) ln 2 (b) ln 2
2𝜋 𝑅 𝜋 𝑅 12. A long solenoid is embedded in a conducting
medium and is insulated from the medium. If
2𝜇0 𝑎𝐼0 𝜔 𝜇 𝑎𝐼0 𝜔
(c) 𝜋 𝑅
ln 2 (d) 2𝜋0 𝑅
the current through the solenoid is increased
at a constant rate, the induced current in the
9. A charge capacitor (𝐶) is connected in series medium as a function of the radial distance 𝑟
with an inductor (𝐿). When the displacement from the axis of the solenoid is proportional to
current reduces to zero, the energy of the LC [GATE 2015]
1
circuit is (a) 𝑟 2 inside the solenoid and 𝑟 outside
[GATE 2007]
(a) stored entirely in its magnetic field 1
(b) 𝑟 inside the solenoid and outside
𝑟2
(b) stored entirely in its electric field
1
(c) 𝑟 2 inside the solenoid and 𝑟2 outside
(c) distributed equally among its electric and
magnetic fields. 1
(d) 𝑟 inside the solenoid and 𝑟 outside
(d) radiated out of the circuit.
13. An infinite solenoid carries a time varying
10. A conducting loop 𝐿 of surface area 𝑆 is moving current 𝐼(𝑡) = 𝐴𝑡 2 , with 𝐴 ≠ 0. the axis of the
with a velocity 𝑣 in a magnetic field 𝐵 ⃗ (𝑟, 𝑡) = solenoid is along the 𝑧ˆ direction. 𝑟ˆ and 𝜃ˆ are the
⃗ 0 𝑡 , 𝐵0 is a positive constant of suitable
𝐵 2 usual radial and polar directions in cylindrical
dimensions. The emf induced, 𝑉𝑒𝑚𝑓 , in the loop polar coordinates. 𝐵 ⃗ = 𝐵𝑟 𝑟ˆ + 𝐵0 𝜃ˆ + 𝐵𝑧 𝑧ˆ is the
is given by : magnet ic field at a point outside the solenoid.
[GATE 2009] Which one of the following statements is true?
∂B⃗⃗ [GATE 2017]
(a) −∫ ⋅ dS⃗
𝑠 ∂t ˙
(a) 𝐵𝑟 = 0, 𝐵0 = 0, 𝐵𝑧 = 0

⃗ × ⃗B) ⋅ dL
(b) ∮ L (v ⃗ (b) 𝐵𝑟 ≠ 0, 𝐵0 ≠ 0, 𝐵𝑧 = 0

⃗⃗
∂B (c) 𝐵r ≠ 0, 𝐵0 ≠ 0, 𝐵𝑧 ≠ 0
(c) −∫𝑠 dt
⋅ dS⃗ ⃗ × ⃗B) ⋅ dL
− ∮ L (v ⃗

⃗⃗
(d) 𝐵𝑟 = 0, 𝐵0 = 0, 𝐵𝑧 ≠ 0
∂B
(d) −∫s dt
⋅ dS⃗ + ∮ L (v ⃗ ) ⋅ dL
⃗ ×B ⃗
14. Consider an infinitely long solenoid with 𝑁 turns
11. Consider a conducting loop of radius a and total per unit length, radius 𝑅 and carrying a current
loop resistance R placed in a region with a 𝐼(𝑡) = 𝛼cos 𝜔𝑡, where 𝛼 is a constant and 𝜔 is
magnetic field B thereby enclosing a flux 𝜙0 . the angular frequency. The magnitude of electric
The loop is connected to an electronic circuit as field at the surface of the solenoid is
shown, the capacitor being initially uncharged. [GATE 2018]
1 1
If the loop is pulled out of the region of the (a) 2 𝜇0 𝑁𝑅𝜔𝛼sin 𝜔𝑡 (b) 2 𝜇0 𝜔𝑁𝑅cos 𝜔𝑡
magnetic field at a constant speed ' 𝑢 ', the final
output voltage Vout is independent of (c) 𝜇0 𝑁𝑅𝜔𝛼sin 𝜔𝑡 (d) 𝜇0 𝜔𝑁𝑅cos 𝜔𝑡
[GATE 2010]

55
15. A circular loop made of a thin wire has radius 2. A time-dependent magnetic field ⃗B(t) is
2 cm and resistance 2Ω. It is placed produced in a circular region of space, infinitely
perpendicular to a uniform magnetic field of long and of radius R, The magnetic field is given
magnitude |𝐵 ⃗ 0 | = 0.01 Tesla. At time 𝑡 = 0 the as 𝐵⃗ = 𝐵0 𝑡𝑧ˆ for 0 ≤ 𝑟 < 𝑅 and is zero for 𝑟 > 𝑅.
field starts decaying as 𝐵 ⃗ =𝐵 ⃗ 0 𝑒 −𝑡/𝑡0 , where Where 𝐵0 is a positive constant, The electric
𝑡0 = 1 s. The total charge that passes through a field for 𝑟 > 𝑅 is
cross section of the wire during the decay is 𝑄. [JEST 2012]
The value of 𝑄 in 𝜇C (rounded off to two 𝐵0 𝑅2 B0 R2
(a) 𝑟
𝑟ˆ (b) 2r
𝜃ˆ
decimal places) is
[GATE 2019] 𝐵0 𝑅2 B0 R2
(c) − 𝑟
𝑟ˆ (d) − 2r
𝜃ˆ
16. A sinusoidal voltage of the form 𝑉(𝑡) =
𝑉0 cos (𝜔𝑡) is applied across a parallel plate 3. Which of the following expressions represents
capacitor placed in vacuum. Ignoring the edge an electric field due to a time varying magnetic
effects, the induced emf within the region field?
between the capacitor plates can be expressed [JEST 2015]
as a power series in 𝜔. The lowest non
vanishing exponent in 𝜔 is (a) 𝐾(𝑥𝑥ˆ + 𝑦𝑦ˆ + 𝑧𝑧ˆ) (b) 𝐾(𝑥𝑥ˆ + 𝑦𝑦ˆ − 𝑧𝑧ˆ)
[GATE 2020] (c) 𝐾(𝑥𝑥ˆ − 𝑦𝑦ˆ) (d) 𝐾(𝑦𝑦ˆ − 𝑥𝑦ˆ + 2𝑧𝑧ˆ)
17. A medium (𝜀𝑟 > 1, 𝜇𝑟 = 1, 𝜎 > 0) is semi-
transparent to an electromagnetic wave when 4. Self-inductance per unit length of a long
(a) Conduction current ≫ Displacement current solenoid of radius 𝑅 with 𝑛 turns per unit
length is:
(b) Conduction current ≪ Displacement current [JEST 2016]
(a) 𝜇0 𝜋𝑅 2 𝑛2 (b) 2𝜇0 𝜋𝑅 2 𝑛
(c) Conduction current = Displacement current
(c) 2𝜇0 𝜋𝑅 2 𝑛2 (d) 𝜇0 𝜋𝑅 2 𝑛
(d) Both Conduction current and Displacement
current are zero [GATE 2020] 5. Two parallel rails of a railroad track are
insulated from each other and from the ground.
18. A plane electromagnetic wave of wavelength 𝜆 The distance between the rails is 1 meter. A
is incident on a circular loop of conducting wire. voltmeter is electrically connected between the
The loop radius is 𝑎(𝑎 ≪ 𝜆). The angle (in rails. Assume the vertical components of the
degrees), made by the Poynting vector with the earth's magnetic field to be 0.2 gauss. What is
normal to the plane of the loop to generate a the voltage developed between the rails when a
maximum induced electrical signal, is train travels at a speed of 180 km/h along the
[GATE 2020] track ? give the answer in milli-volts.
[JEST 2018]
❖ JEST PYQ
6. Two conductors are embedded in a material of
1. A circular conducting ring of radius R rotates conductivity 10−4 ohm − m and dielectric
with constant angular velocity 𝜔 about its constant ϵ = 80ϵ0 . The resistance between the
diameter placed along the 𝑥-axis. A uniform two conductors is 106 ohm. What is the
magnetic field B is applied along the 𝑦-axis. If at capacitance (in pF) between the conductors?
time 𝑡 = 0 the ring is entirely in the xy plane, Ignore the decimal part of the answer.
the emf induced in the ring at time t > 0 is [JEST 2018]
[JEST 2012]
2
(a) 𝐵𝜔 𝜋𝑅 𝑡 2
(b) 𝐵𝜔 𝜋𝑅 2 tan (𝜔t)
2 7. A circular metal loop of radius 𝑎 = 1 m spins
with a constant angular velocity 𝜔 = 20𝜋rad/s
in a magnetic field 𝐵 = 3 Tesla, as shown in the
(c) 𝐵𝜔2 𝜋𝑅 2 sin (𝜔t) (d) 𝐵𝜔2 𝜋𝑅 2 cos (𝜔t)
figure. The resistance of the loop is 10 ohms. Let

56
 𝑃 be the power dissipated in one complete ❖ TIFR PYQ
𝑃
cycle. What is the value of 𝜋3 in Watts?
[JEST 2019] 1. A small but very powerful bar magnet falls from
rest under gravity through the centre of a
horizontal ring of conducting wire, as shown in
the figure below (on the left). The speed-
versus-time graph, in arbitrary units, of the
magnet will correspond most closely to which
of the four plots below (on the right)?
[TIFR 2011]

8. A very long solenoid (axis along 𝑧 direction) of

𝑛 turns per unit length carries a current which
increases linearly with time, 𝑖 = 𝐾𝑡. What is the
magnetic field inside the solenoid at a given
time 𝑡 ? [JEST 2019]
(a) 𝐵 = 𝜇0 𝑛𝐾𝑡𝑧ˆ (b) 𝐵 = 𝜇0 𝑛𝐾𝑧ˆ

(c) 𝐵 = 𝜇0 𝑛𝐾𝑡(𝑥ˆ + 𝑦ˆ) (d) 𝐵 = 𝜇0 𝑐𝑛𝐾𝑡𝑧ˆ

9. Two rails of a railroad track are insulated from

2. Consider the following system. Two circular
each other and from the ground, and are loops of wire are placed horizontally, having a
connected by a millivoltmeter. What is the common axis passing vertically through the
reading of the millivoltmeter when a train centre of each coil (see figure). The lower loop
travels at the speed 90 km/hr down the track? has radius 𝑟 and carries a current 𝑖 as shown in
Assume that the vertical component of the the figure. The upper loop has a radius 𝑅(𝑅 ≫
𝑟) and is at distance 𝑥(𝑥 ≫ 𝑅) above it.
earth's magnetic field is 0.2 gauss and that the
If the lower loop is held fixed and the upper
tracks are separated by two meters. Use 1 gauss
loop moves upwards with a uniform velocity
= 10−4 Tesla = 10−4 𝑉 ⋅ sec/m2 𝑣 = 𝑑𝑥/𝑑𝑡, then the induced e.m.f. and the
[JEST 2020] direction of the induced current in this loop will
(a) 10 (b) 1 be
[TIFR 2016]
(c) 0.2 (d) 180

(a) 3𝑖𝜇0 𝜋 2 𝑟 2 𝑅2 𝑣/2𝑥 4 ; anti-clockwise

(b) 2𝑖𝜇0 𝜋 2 𝑟 2 𝑅2 𝑣/2𝑥 4 ; clockwise

(c) 3𝑖𝜇0 𝜋 2 𝑟 2 𝑅2 𝑣/2𝑥 3 ; anti-clockwise

(d) 2𝑖𝜇0 𝜋 2 𝑟 2 𝑅2 𝑣/3𝑥 3 ; clockwise

3. A rectangular metallic loop with sides 𝐿1 and 𝐿2

is placed in the vertical plane, making an angle
𝜑 with respect to the 𝑥-axis, as shown in the

57
 figure, and a spatially uniform magnetic field
⃗ = 𝐵𝑦ˆ is applied. The loop is free to rotate
𝐵
about the 𝑧ˆ axis (shown in the figure with a
double line). The magnetic field changes with
𝑑𝐵
time at a constant rate 𝑑𝑡 = 𝜅

(d)

If the resistance of the loop is R, the torque 𝜏

required to prevent the loop from rotating will
be 5. A metallic wire of uniform cross-section and
resistance 𝑅 is bent into a circle of radius 𝑎. The
[TIFR 2017]
(𝐿1 𝐿2 )2 circular loop is placed in a magnetic field 𝐵⃗ (𝑡)
(a) −𝜅𝐵 sin 2𝜑𝑧ˆ which is perpendicular to the plane of the wire.
2𝑅
This magnetic field is uniform over space, but
(𝐿1 𝐿2)2 its magnitude decreases with time at a constant
(b) 𝜅𝐵 𝑅
sin 𝜑cos 𝜑𝑧ˆ ⃗⃗ (𝑡)|
𝑑|𝑩
rate 𝑘, where 𝑘 = 𝑑𝑡
The tension in the
(𝐿1 𝐿2 )2
metallic wire is [TIFR 2020]
(c) 𝜅𝐵 2𝑅
sin 𝜑𝑧ˆ

𝜋𝑎 3 𝑘 𝜋𝑎 3 𝑘
(𝐿1 𝐿2 )2 (a) ⃗ (𝑡)|
|𝐵 (b) ⃗ (𝑡)|
|𝐵
(d) −𝜅𝐵 𝑅
sin 𝜑2 2𝑅 𝑅

2𝜋𝑎 3 𝑘
(c) ⃗ (𝑡)|
|𝐵 ⃗ (𝑡)|
(d) |𝐵
4. A circular coil of conducting wire, of radius 𝑎 𝑅
and 𝑛 turns, is placed in a uniform magnetic
⃗ along the axis of the coil and is then
field 𝐵 6. Two co-axial solenoids 𝐴 and 𝐵, one placed
made to undergo simple harmonic oscillations completely inside the other, have the following
along the direction of the axis. The current parameters:
through the coil will be best described by
[TIFR 2019] Solenoid No of turns Length Diameter
(a)
A 1000 50 cm 2 cm

B 2000 50 cm 4 cm
The mutual inductance between the solenoids is
[TIFR 2022]
(a) 395.0mH (b) 125.7mH

(b) (c) 1.58mH (d) 12.57mH

(c)

58
7. Consider the following situation. A uniform Answer Key
⃗ pointing into the plane of the
magnetic field 𝐵 CSIR-NET PYQ
paper is present everywhere inside the 1. D 2. c 3. c 4. a 5. b
rectangular region shown shaded in the 6. b 7. b 8. d 9. d 10. c
adjoining figure. Outside the rectangular region, 11. b 12. d 13. a
there is no magnetic field. GATE PYQ
1. 2. b 3. a 4. c 5.
6. D 7. d 8. b 9. b 10. d
11. b 12. d 13. d 14. a 15. 6.28
16. 2 17. b 18. 90
JEST PYQ
1. C 2. d 3. d 4. a 5. 1Mv
6. 7080 7. 18 8. a 9. b
A closed loop of conducting wire is placed TIFR PYQ
inside the rectangular region as shown in the 1. a 2. a 3. a 4. c 5. a
figure at time 𝑡 = 0. The loop is then rotated 6. c 7. a
counterclockwise with a uniform angular
velocity 𝜔 about an axis perpendicular to the
paper passing through the point O.
If the direction along PQOP is taken to be
positive, then a correct graph for the EMF ℰ
generated in the loop is
[TIFR 2023]

59
 ❖ EMT 08 : Applications Of Maxwell’s Equations , Wave In Matter

❖ CSIR-NET PYQ’s 1
(a) 𝜀𝑟 = 4 andA = −
√3
1 In a certain region R, Maxwell's equations for
the electric and magnetic fields are given by 1
(b) 𝜀𝑟 = 4 andA = +
⃗ √3
∂𝐵
∇ ⋅ 𝐸⃗ = 0, ∇ ⋅ 𝐵
⃗ = 0, ∇ × 𝐸⃗ = − ,
∂𝑡
(c) 𝜀𝑟 = 4 and A = √3
∂𝐸⃗
⃗ = 𝜇0 𝜀0
∇×𝐵
∂𝑡
(d) 𝜀𝑟 = 4 and A = −√3
We may conclude that [CSIR NET 2008]
(a) Both the scalar and the vector potential are 3 The electric field of an electromagnetic wave is
necessarily constant in the region R. given by 𝐸⃗ = 𝐸0 cos [𝜋(0.3𝑥 + 0.4𝑦 − 1000𝑡)]𝑘ˆ.
⃗ is
The associated magnetic field 𝐵
(b) The electric field 𝐸⃗ and the magnetic field 𝐵
⃗ [CSIR DEC 2013]
must necessarily be uniform in R. (a) 10 𝐸0 cos [𝜋(0.3𝑥 + 0.4𝑦 − 1000𝑡)]𝑘ˆ
−3

(c) There are no sources for electric charges (b) 10−4 𝐸0 cos [𝜋(0.3𝑥 + 0.4𝑦 − 1000𝑡)](4𝑖ˆ − 3𝑗ˆ)
and currents in R.
(c) 𝐸0 cos [𝜋(0.3𝑥 + 0.4𝑦 − 1000𝑡)](0.3𝑖ˆ + 0.4𝑗ˆ)
(d) The electric field 𝐸⃗ is necessarily
perpendicular to the magnetic field 𝐵 ⃗ at every (d) 102 𝐸0 cos [𝜋(0.3𝑥 + 0.4𝑦 − 1000𝑡)](3𝑖ˆ + 4𝑗ˆ)
point in R.
4 An electromagnetically-shielded room is
2 A plane electromagnetic wave is propagating in designed so that at a frequency 𝜔 = 107 rad/s
a lossless dielectric. The electric field is given by the intensity of the external radiation that
penerates the room is 1% of the incident
𝐸(𝑥, 𝑦, 𝑧, 𝑡) = 𝐸0 (𝑥ˆ + 𝐴𝑧ˆ)exp [𝑖𝑘0 {−𝑐𝑡 + (𝑥 + 1
radiation. If 𝜎 = 2𝜋 × 106 (Ωm)−1 is the
√3𝑧)}], where c is the speed of light in vacuum,
𝐸0 , 𝐴 and 𝑘0 are constants and 𝑥ˆ and 𝑧ˆ are unit conductivity of the shielding material, its
vectors along the 𝑥 - and 𝑧-axes. The relative minimum thickness should be (given that
dielectric constant of the medium, 𝜀𝑟 and the ln 10 = 2.3 )
constant 𝐴 are [CSIR JUNE 2014]
[CSIR JUNE 2011] (a) 4.60 mm (b) 2.30 mm

(c) 0.23 mm (d) 0.46 m

60
5 Consider an electromagnetic wave at the
interface between two homogeneous dielectric 9 The electric field of a plane wave in a
media of the dielectric constants 𝜀1 and 𝜀2 . conducting medium is given by
Assuming 𝜀2 > 𝜀1 and non charges on the 𝑧
𝐸⃗ (𝑧, 𝑡) = 𝑖ˆ𝐸0 𝑒 −𝑠/3𝑎 cos ( − 𝜔𝑡)
surfice, the electric field vector 𝐸⃗ and the √3𝑎
⃗ in the two media satisfy where 𝜔 is the angular frequency and 𝑎 > 0 is a
displacement vector 𝐷
constant. The phase difference between the
the following inequalities
magnetic field 𝐵 ⃗ and the electric field 𝐸⃗ is
[CSIR JUNE 2014]
[CSIR JUNE 2018]
(a) |𝐸⃗2 | > |𝐸⃗1 | and |𝐷
⃗ 2 | > |𝐷
⃗ 1|
(a) 30 and 𝐸⃗ lags behind 𝐵
∘ ⃗

(b) |𝐸⃗2 | < |𝐸⃗1 | and |𝐷

⃗ 2 | < |𝐷
⃗ 1|
⃗ lags behind 𝐸⃗
(b) 30∘ and 𝐵

(c) |𝐸⃗2 | < |𝐸⃗1 | and |𝐷

⃗ 2 | > |𝐷
⃗ 1|
(c) 60∘ and 𝐸⃗ lags behind 𝐵
⃗

(d) |𝐸⃗2 | > |𝐸⃗1 | and |𝐷

⃗ 2 | < |𝐷
⃗ 1|
⃗ lags behind 𝐸⃗
(d) 60∘ and 𝐵

10 An electromagnetic wave propagates in a

6 Suppose that free charges are present in a
nonmagnetic medium with relative permittivity
material of dielectric constant 𝜀 = 10 and
𝜀 = 4. The magnetic field for this wave is
resistivity 𝜌 = 1011 Ω − m. Using Ohm's law and
𝐻⃗ (𝑥, 𝑦) = 𝑘ˆ 𝐻0 cos (𝜔𝑡 − 𝛼𝑥 − 𝛼√3𝑦),
the equation of continuity for charge, the time
where 𝐻0 is a constant. The corresponding
required for the charge density inside the
1 electric field 𝐸⃗ (𝑥, 𝑦) is [CSIR DEC 2018]
material to decay by 𝑒 is closest to 1
(a) 𝜇0 𝐻0 𝑐(−√3𝑖ˆ + 𝑗ˆ)cos (𝜔𝑡 − 𝛼𝑥 − 𝛼√3𝑦)
[NET DEC 2016] 4
−6
(a) 10 s (b) 106 s
1
(b) 4 𝜇0 𝐻0 𝑐(√3𝑖ˆ + 𝑗ˆ)cos (𝜔𝑡 − 𝛼𝑥 − 𝛼√3𝑦)
(c) 1012 s (d) 10 s
1
(c) 4 𝜇0 𝐻0 𝑐(√3𝑖ˆ − 𝑗ˆ)cos (𝜔𝑡 − 𝛼𝑥 − 𝛼√3𝑦)
7 An electromagnetic wave (of wavelength 𝜆0 in
free space) travels through an absorbing 1
(d) 4 𝜇0 𝐻0 𝑐(−√3𝑖ˆ − 𝑗ˆ)cos (𝜔𝑡 − 𝛼𝑥 − 𝛼√3𝑦)
medium with dielectric permittivity given by 𝜀 =
𝜀𝐼 𝜆0
𝜀𝑅 + 𝑖𝜀𝐽 , where 𝜀𝑅
= √3. If the skin depth is 4𝜋
,
11 Which of the following is not a correct boundary
the ratio of the amplitude of electric field 𝐸 to condition at an interface between two
that of the magnetic field 𝐵, in the medium (in homogeneous dielectric media? (In the
ohms) is following 𝑛ˆ is a unit vector normal to the
[CSIR JUNE 2017] interface, 𝜎 and 𝐣𝑠 are the surface charge and
(a) 120𝜋 (b) 377 current densities, respectively).
[CSIR JUNE 2019]
(c) 30√2𝜋 (d) 30𝜋 (a) 𝑛ˆ × (D1 − D2 ) = 0 (b) 𝑛ˆ × (H1 − H2 ) = j𝑠

8 The charge distribution inside a material of (c) 𝑛ˆ ⋅ (D1 − D2 ) = 𝜎 (d) 𝑛ˆ ⋅ (B1 − B2 ) = 0

conductivity 𝜎 and permittivity 𝜀 at initial tine
𝑡 = 0 is 𝜌(𝑟, 0) = 𝜌0 . constant. At subsequent 12 The permittivity tensor of a uniaxial
times 𝜌(𝑟, 𝑡) is given by [NET JUNE 2017] anisotropic medium, in the standard Cartesian
𝜎𝑡 1 𝜎𝑡
(a) 𝜌0 exp (− )
𝜀
(b) 𝜌𝑂 [1 + exp ( )]
2 𝜀 basis, is
𝜌0 𝜎𝑙
(c) 𝜎𝑙 (d) 𝑃𝑂 , cosh 𝜀
[1−exp( )]
𝜀

61
 4𝜀0 0 0 16 The permittivity of a medium 𝜀(𝑘⃗ , 𝜔), where 𝜔
( 0 4𝜀0 0 ) , where 𝜀0 is a constant. and 𝑘⃗ are the frequency and wavevector,
0 0 9𝜀0 respectively, has no imaginary part. For a
The wave number of an electromagnetic plane
longitudinal wave, 𝑘⃗ is parallel to the electric
wave polarized along the 𝑥-direction, and
field such that 𝑘⃗ × 𝐸⃗ = 0, while for a transverse
propagating along the 𝑦-direction in this
wave 𝑘⃗ ⋅ 𝐸⃗ = 0. In the absence of free charges
medium (in terms of the wave number 𝑘0 of
and free currents, the medium can sustain
the wave in vacuum) is [NET June 2019]
[CSIR DEC 2023]
(a) 4𝑘𝑜 (b) 2𝑘0 (c) 9𝑘0 (d) 3𝑘
(a)longitudinal waves with 𝑘⃗ and 𝜔 when
𝜀(𝑘⃗ , 𝜔) > 0
13 Let 𝐸⃗ (𝑥, 𝑦, 𝑧, 𝑡) = 𝐸⃗0 co s(2𝑥 + 3𝑦 − 𝜔𝑡), where
𝜔 is a constant, be the electric field of an
electromagnetic wave travelling in vacuum. (b)transverse waves with 𝑘⃗ and 𝜔 when
Which of the following vectors is a valid choice 𝜀(𝑘⃗ , 𝜔) < 0
for 𝐸⃗0 ? [CSIR JUNE 2020]
3
(a)𝑖ˆ − 2 𝑗ˆ
3
(b)𝑖ˆ + 2 𝑗ˆ (c)longitudinal waves with 𝑘⃗ and 𝜔 when
𝜀(𝑘⃗ , 𝜔) = 0
2 2
(c)𝑖ˆ + 3 𝑗ˆ (d) 𝑖ˆ − 3 𝑗ˆ
(d)both longitudinal and transverse waves with
𝑘⃗ and 𝜔 when 𝜀(𝑘⃗ , 𝜔) > 0
14 A perfectly conducting fluid, of permittivity 𝜀
and permeability 𝜇, flows with a uniform 17 In a non-magnetic material with no free charges
velocity 𝒱 in the presence of time dependent and no free currents, the permittivity 𝜖 is a
electric and magnetic fields 𝐸 and 𝐵,
function of position. If 𝐸⃗ represents the electric
respectively. If there is a finite current density in
field and 𝜇0 , 𝜖0 are free space permeability and
the fluid, then
permittivity respectively, which one of the
[CSIR JUNE 2021]
following expressions is correct?
∂𝐵
(a)∇ × (𝑣 × 𝐵) =
∂𝑡
[CSIR JUNE 2024]
∂2 (𝜖𝐸⃗ ) 1
∂𝐵 (a)∇2 𝐸⃗ − 𝜇0 ∂𝑡 2 − 𝜖 ⃗∇(𝐸⃗ ⋅ ⃗∇𝜖) = 0
(b)∇ × (𝑣 × 𝐵) = − 0
∂𝑡

∂𝐸 ∂2 (𝜖𝐸⃗ ) 1
(c)∇ × (𝑣 × 𝐵) = √𝜀𝜇 (b)∇2 𝐸⃗ − 𝜇0 ∂𝑡 2
+𝜖 ∇⃗ (𝐸⃗ ⃗ 𝜖) = 0
⋅∇
∂𝑡 0

∂𝐸
(d) ∇ × (𝑣 × 𝐵) = −√𝜀𝜇 ∂2 (𝜖𝐸⃗ ) 1
∂𝑡 (c)∇2 𝐸⃗ − 𝜇0 ∂𝑡 2
+ ⃗∇ (𝜖 𝐸⃗ ⋅ ⃗∇𝜖) = 0

15 An electromagnetic wave is incident from

∂2 (𝜖𝐸⃗ )
vacuum normally on a planar surface of a non- (d)∇2 𝐸⃗ − 𝜇0 − ⃗∇ (1 𝐸⃗ ⋅ ⃗∇𝜖) = 0
∂𝑡 2 𝜖
magnetic medium. If the amplitude of the
electric field of the incident wave is 𝐸0 and
2𝐸0
that of the transmitted wave is , then
3
neglecting any loss, the refractive index of the
medium is
[NET June 2022]
(a) 1.5 (b) 2.0 (c) 2.4 (d) 2.7

62
❖ GATE PYQ’s where 𝐸0 , 𝜔 and a constants. Calculate the
⃗ . [GATE 2002]
corresponding magnetic field 𝐵
1. The region 𝑧 > 0 of a Cartesian coordinate
system contains a linear isotropic dielectric of 5. Which one of the following Maxwell's equations
dielectric constant 2.0. The region 𝑧 < 0 is the implies the absence of magnetic monopoles?
free space. A free space charge density of
5nC/m2 is at the interface 𝑧 = 0. If the [GATE 2003]
displacement vector in the dielectric is 𝐷 ⃗2= (a) ∇ ⋅ 𝐸 = 𝜋/𝜀0
3𝑒ˆ𝑥 + 4𝑒ˆ𝑦 + 6𝑒ˆ𝑧 nC/m2 , find the corresponding
displacement vector 𝐷 ⃗ 1 in the free space. (b) ∇ ⋅ 𝐵 = 0
[GATE 2001]
(c) ∇ × 𝐸 = − ∂𝐵/ ∂𝑡
2. The electric field 𝐸(𝑟, 𝑡) at a point 𝑟 at time 𝑡 in a
metal due to the passage of electrons can be (d) ∇ × 𝐵 = (1/𝑐 2 ) ∂𝐵/ ∂𝑡 + 𝜇0 𝐽
described by the equation
1 ∂2 𝐸⃗ (𝑟, 𝑡) 6. An electromagnetic wave is propagating in free
∇2 𝐸⃗ (𝑟, 𝑡) = 2 [ + 𝜔′2 𝐸⃗ (𝑟, 𝑡)] space in the 𝑧-direction. If the electric field is
𝑐 ∂𝑡 2
given by 𝐸 = cos (𝜔𝑡 − 𝑘𝑧)𝑖, where 𝜔𝑡 = 𝑐𝑘,
where 𝜔′ is a characteristic associated with the
then the magnetic field is given by
metal and 𝑐 is the speed of light in vacuum. The
[GATE 2003]
dispersion relation corresponding to the plane
(a) 𝐵 = (1/𝑐)cos (𝜔𝑡 − 𝑘𝑧)𝑗
wave solutions of the form exp [𝑖(𝑘⃗ ⋅ 𝑟 − 𝜔𝑡)] is
given by [GATE 2001]
(b) 𝐵 = (1/𝑐)sin (𝜔𝑡 − 𝑘𝑧)𝑗
(a) 𝜔2 = 𝑐 2 𝑘 2 − 𝜔′2 (b) 𝜔 = 𝑐 2 𝑘 2 + 𝜔′2
2

(c) 𝐵 = (1/𝑐)cos (𝜔𝑡 − 𝑘𝑧)𝑖

(c) 𝜔 = 𝑐𝑘 − 𝜔′ (d)
(d) 𝐵 = (1/𝑐)cos (𝜔𝑡 − 𝑘𝑧)𝑗
3. Consider an infinitely long straight cylindrical
conductor of radius R with its axis along the 𝑧-
Data for Q. No. 7 to 8
direction, which carries a current of 1 A
Consider two conducting plates of infinite
uniformly distributed over its cross section.
extent, one plate at 𝑧 = 0 and the other at 𝑧 = 𝐿,
Which of the following statements is correct?
both parallel to the 𝑥𝑦 plane. The vector and
[GATE 2002]
scalar potential in the region between the plates
⃗ ×𝐵
(a) ∇ ⃗ = 0 everywhere
is given by
𝐴(𝑟, 𝑡) = 𝐴0 𝑖ˆcos (𝑘𝑧 + 𝛼)cos (𝑘𝑐𝑡)
𝜇
⃗ ×𝐵
(b) ∇ ⃗ = 02 𝑧ˆ everywhere, 𝜙(𝑟, 𝑡) = 0
𝜋𝑅

⃗ ×𝐵
(c) ∇ ⃗ = 0 for 𝑟 > 𝑅, 7. For this to represent a standing wave in the
empty region between the plates [GATE 2003]
(d) ⃗∇ × 𝐵
⃗ = 𝜇0
𝑧ˆ for 𝑟 > 𝑅 (a) 𝑘 = 𝜋/𝐿 and 𝛼 = 0
𝜋𝑅2
where 𝑟 is the radial distance from the axis of
(b) 𝑘 = 2𝜋/𝐿 and 𝛼 = 𝜋/2
the cylinder.
(c) 𝑘 = 𝜋/(2𝐿) and 𝛼 = 𝜋/2
4. Consider a plane electromagnetic wave
propagating in free space and having an electric
(d) 𝑘 = 𝜋/2𝐿 and 𝛼 = 0
field distribution given by
√3 1 √3 1 8. The energy density at 𝑧 = 0 and 𝑡 = 0 is
𝐸⃗ = 𝐸0 ( 𝑗ˆ − 𝑖ˆ) exp [𝑖 (𝜔𝑡 − 𝛼𝑥 − 𝛼𝑦)],
2 2 2 2 [GATE 2003]
(a) 0

63
 (b) 𝜀0 𝑐 2 𝑘 2 𝐴20 12. Which one of the following statements is TRUE?
[GATE 2004]
(c) (1/2)𝜇0 𝐴0 2 𝑘 2 (a) The magnitude of the electric field is
attenuated as the wave propagates
(d) (1/2)𝜇0 𝐴0 2 𝑘 2 + (1/2)𝜀0 𝑐 2 𝑘 2 𝐴0 2 (b) The energy of the e.m. wave flows along the
𝑥-direction
9. Consider the given statements about E(r, t) and (c) The magnitude of the electric field of the
B(r, t), the electric and magnetic vectors wave is a constant
respectively in a region of free space (d) The speed of the wave is the same as 𝑐
[GATE 2003] (speed of light in free space)
P. Both 𝐸 and 𝐵 are conservative vector fields
Q. Both 𝐸 and 𝐵 are central force fields 13. The magnetic field 𝐵˜ of the wave is
R. E and 𝐵 are mutually perpendicular in the [GATE 2004]
𝑘
region (a) 𝑦ˆ 𝜔 𝐸0 exp (−𝑧𝑘sin 𝜙)exp [𝑖(𝑧𝑘cos 𝜙 − 𝜔𝑡)]
S. Work done by B on a moving charge in the
region is zero 𝑘
(b) 𝑦ˆ 𝜔 𝐸0 exp (−𝑧𝑘sin 𝜙)exp [𝑖(𝑧𝑘cos 𝜙 −
Choose the right combination of correct
statements from the following : 𝜔𝑡 + 𝜙)]
(a) P and R (b) R and S
𝑘
(c) 𝑦ˆ 𝜔 𝐸0 exp [𝑖(𝑧𝑘cos 𝜙 − 𝜔𝑡 + 𝜙)]
(c) S only (d) P and Q
𝑘
(d) 𝑦ˆ 𝜔 𝐸0 exp (−𝑧𝑘cos 𝜙)exp [𝑖(𝑧𝑘sin 𝜙 − 𝜔𝑡)]
10. The electric field of a plane e.m. wave is 𝐸⃗ =
𝐸⃗0 exp [𝑖(𝑥𝑘cos 𝛼 + 𝑦𝑘sin 𝛼 − 𝜔𝑡)]. If 𝑥ˆ, 𝑦ˆ and 𝑧ˆ 14. At the interface between two linear dielectrics
are cartesian unit vectors, the wave vector k of (with dielectric constants 𝜀1 and 𝜀2 ), the
the e.m. wave is electric field lines bend, as shown in the figure.
[GATE 2004] Assume that there are no free charges at the
(a) 𝑧ˆ𝑘 (b) 𝑥ˆ𝑘sin 𝛼 + 𝑦ˆ𝑘cos 𝛼 interface. The ratio 𝜀1 /𝜀2 is
[GATE 2006]
(c) 𝑥ˆ𝑘cos 𝛼 + 𝑦ˆ𝑘sin 𝛼 (d) −𝑧ˆ𝑘

11. The dispersion relation for a low density plasma

is 𝜔2 = 𝜔02 + 𝑐 2 𝑘 2 , where 𝜔0 is the plasma
frequency and 𝑐 is the speed of light in free
space. The relationship between the group
tan 𝜃 cos 𝜃
velocity (𝑣𝑔 ) and phase velocity (𝑣𝑝 ) is (a) tan 𝜃1 (b) cos 𝜃1
2 2
[GATE 2004]
1/2 sin 𝜃 cot 𝜃
(a) 𝑣𝑝 = 𝑣𝑔 (b) 𝑣𝑝 = 𝑣𝑔 (c) sin 𝜃1 (d) cot 𝜃1
2 2

1/2
(c) 𝑣𝑝 𝑣𝑔 = 𝑐 2 (d) 𝑣𝑔 = 𝑣𝑝 15. Which one of the following sets of Maxwell's
equations for time-independent charge density
Common Data for Q. 12 and Q. 13 𝜌 and current density 𝐉ˆ is correct?
Let 𝐸˜ = 𝑥ˆ𝐸0 exp [𝑖𝑘⃗ ⋅ 𝑟 − 𝜔𝑡], where 𝑘⃗ = [GATE 2006]
𝑧ˆ(𝑘cos 𝜙 + 𝑖𝑘sin 𝜙), 𝑘 = 1|𝑘⃗ | and 𝑥ˆ, 𝑦ˆ and 𝑧ˆ
are cartesian unit vectors, represent an electric
field of plane electro magnetic wave of
frequency 𝜔.

64
 (a) ⃗∇ ⋅ ⃗E = 𝜌/𝜀0 (b) ⃗∇ ⋅ ⃗E = 𝜌/𝜀0 [GATE 2010]
⃗∇ ⋅ ⃗B = 0 ⃗∇ ⋅ ⃗B = 0 (a) 𝑘⃗ , 𝐸⃗ = 0; 𝑘⃗ ⋅ 𝐻‾ = 0; 𝑘⃗ × 𝐸⃗ = 𝜔𝜀𝐻‾ ; 𝑘⃗ × 𝐻‾ =
⃗
∂B −𝜔𝜇𝐸⃗
⃗∇ × ⃗E = − ⃗∇ × ⃗E = 0
∂𝑡
⃗
∂E (b) 𝑘⃗ ⋅ 𝐸⃗ = 0; 𝑘⃗ ⋅ 𝐻‾ = 0; 𝑘⃗ × 𝐸⃗ = −𝜔𝜀𝐻‾ ; 𝑘⃗ ×
⃗ ×B
∇ ⃗ = 𝜇0 𝜀0 ⃗ ×B
∇ ⃗ = 𝜇0 Ĵ
∂𝑡 𝐻‾ = 𝜔𝜇𝐸⃗
⃗ ⋅E
(c) ∇ ⃗ =0 ⃗ ⋅E
(d) ∇ ⃗ = 𝜌/𝜀0
⃗ ⋅B
∇ ⃗ =0 ⃗ ⋅B
∇ ⃗ = 𝜇0 Ĵ (c) 𝑘⃗ ⋅ 𝐸⃗ = 0; 𝑘⃗ ⋅ 𝐻‾ = 0; 𝑘⃗ × 𝐸⃗ = −𝜔𝜀𝐻‾ ; 𝑘⃗ × 𝐻‾ =
⃗ ×E
∇ ⃗ =0 ⃗ ×E
∇ ⃗ =0 𝜔𝜇𝐸⃗
⃗
∂E
⃗ ×B
∇ ⃗ = 𝜇0 Ĵ ⃗ ×B
∇ ⃗ = 𝜇0 𝜀0
∂𝑡 (d) 𝑘⃗ ⋅ 𝐸⃗ = 0; 𝑘⃗ ⋅ 𝐻‾ = 0; 𝑘⃗ × 𝐸⃗ = 𝜔𝜇𝐻‾ ; 𝑘⃗ ×
𝐻‾ = −𝜔𝜀𝐸⃗
16. A plane electromagnetic wave is given by
𝐸0 (𝑥ˆ + 𝑒 𝑙𝛿 𝑦ˆ)exp {𝑖(𝑘𝑧 − 𝜔𝑡)}. At a given 19. A plane polarized electromagnetic wave in free
location, that number of times 𝐸⃗ vanishes in one space at time 𝑡 = 0 is given by 𝐸⃗ (𝑥, 𝑧) =
second is 10ĵexp [𝑖(6𝑥 + 8𝑧)]. The magnetic field
[GATE 2008] ⃗ (𝑥, 𝑧, 𝑡) is given by
𝐵
𝜔
(a) An integer near when 𝛿 = 𝑛𝜋 and zero [GATE 2012]
𝜋
1
when 𝛿 ≠ 𝑛𝜋, 𝑛 is integer ⃗ ˆ
(a) 𝐵(𝑥, 𝑧, 𝑡) = (6𝑘 − 8𝑖ˆ)exp [𝑖(6𝑥 + 8𝑧 −
𝑐
𝜔
(b) An integer near 𝜋 and is independent of 𝛿 10𝑐𝑡)]
𝜔
(c) An integer near 2𝜋 when 𝛿 = 𝑛𝜋 and zero
1
⃗ (𝑥, 𝑧, 𝑡) = (6𝑥 + 8𝑖ˆ)exp [𝑖(6𝑥 + 8𝑧 −
(b) 𝐵
when 𝛿 ≠ 𝑛𝜋, 𝑛 is integer 𝑐
𝜔 10𝑐𝑡)]
(d) An integer near 2𝜋 and is independent of 𝛿

⃗ (𝑥, 𝑧, 𝑡) = 1 (6𝑥 − 8𝑖ˆ)exp [𝑖(6𝑥 + 8𝑧 − 𝑐𝑡)]

(c) 𝐵
17. In a non-conducting medium characterized by 𝑐
𝜀 = 𝜀0 , 𝜇 = 𝜇0 and conductivity 𝜎 = 0, the
electric field (in Vm−1 ) is given by ⃗E = ⃗ (𝑥, 𝑧, 𝑡) = 1 (6𝑥 + 8𝑖ˆ)exp [𝑖(6𝑥 + 8𝑧 +
(d) 𝐵
𝑐
⃗⃗ ( in
20 sin[108 t − kz]ĵ. The magnetic field, H 10𝑐𝑡)]
Am−1 ), is given by:
[GATE 2009] 20. Two infinitely extended homogeneous isotropic
(a) 20 kcos[108 t − kz]î dielectric media (medium-1 and medium-2 with
𝜀 𝜀
dielectric constants 𝜀1 = 2 and 𝜀2 = 5,
20k 0 0
(b) 108 𝜇 sin[108 t − kz]ĵ respectively) meet at the z = 0 plane as shown
0
in the figure. A uniform electric field exists
20k
(c) − 108 𝜇 sin[108 t − kz]î everywhere. For 𝑧 ≥ 0, the electric field is given
0
by 𝐸⃗1 = 2𝑖ˆ − 3𝑗ˆ + 5𝑘ˆ. The interface separating
the two media is charge free. The electric
(d) −20 kcos[108 t − kz]ĵ
displacement vector in the medium-2 is given by

18. Consider the propagation of electromagnetic

[GATE 2012]
waves in a linear, homogenous and isotropic
material medium with electric permittivity 𝜀,
and magnetic permeability 𝜇.
For a plane wave of angular frequency 𝜔 and
propagation vector 𝑘⃗ propagating in the medium
Maxwell's equations reduce to

65
 ⃗ 2 = 𝜀0 [10𝑖ˆ + 15𝑗 + 10𝑘]
(a) 𝐷 25. Which one of the following relations determines
the manner in which the electric field lines are
⃗ 2 = 𝜀0 [10𝑖ˆ − 15𝑗ˆ + 10𝑘ˆ]
(b) 𝐷 refracted across the interface between two
dielectric media having dielectric constants 𝜀1
⃗ 2 = 𝜀0 [4𝑖ˆ − 6𝑗 + 10𝑘] and 𝜀2 (see figure)?
(c) 𝐷
[GATE 2020]
⃗ 2 = 𝜀0 [4𝑖ˆ + 6𝑗 + 10𝑘]
(d) 𝐷

21. The electric field of a uniform plane wave

propagating in a dielectric, non-conducting
medium is given by
𝐸⃗ = 𝑥ˆ10cos (16𝜋 × 107 𝑡 − 0.4𝜋𝑧)V/m
The phase velocity of the wave is……….. (a) 𝜀1 sin 𝜃1 = 𝜀2 sin 𝜃2
× 108 m/s.
[GATE 2014] (b) 𝜀1 cos 𝜃1 = 𝜀2 cos 𝜃2

22. A uniform volume charge density is placed (c) 𝜀1 tan 𝜃1 = 𝜀2 tan 𝜃2

inside a conductor (with resistivity 10−2 Ωm ).
1
The charge density becomes 2.718 of its original (d) 𝜀1 cot 𝜃1 = 𝜀2 cot 𝜃2
value after time femto seconds. (up to two
decimal places) 26. A matter wave is represented by the wave
[GATE 2017] function
Ψ(𝑥, 𝑦, 𝑧, 𝑡) = 𝐴𝑒 𝑖(4𝑥+3𝑦+5𝑧−10𝜋𝑡)
10−12 F
(𝜀0 = 8.854 × ) where 𝐴 is a constant. The unit vector
m representing the direction of the propagation of
this matter wave is [GATE 2021]
23. Consider a metal with free electron density of 4 3 1
(a) 5 𝑥ˆ +5 𝑦ˆ + 𝑧ˆ
6 × 1022 cm−3. The lowest frequency √2 √2 √2
electromagnetic radiation to which this metal is
3 4 1
transparent is 1.38 × 1016 Hz. If this metal had (b) 5 𝑥ˆ +5 𝑦ˆ +5 𝑧ˆ
√2 √2 √2
a free electron density of 1.8 × 1023 cm−3
instead, the lowest frequency electromagnetic 1 3 1
(b) 5 𝑥ˆ +5 𝑦ˆ + 𝑧ˆ
radiation to which it would be transparent is √2 √2 √2

1016 𝐻𝑧 (up to two decimal places).

1 4 3
[GATE 2017] (d) 5 𝑥ˆ +5 𝑦ˆ +5 𝑧ˆ
√2 √2 √2

24. An electromagnetic plane wave is propagating 27. For the refractive index 𝑛 = 𝑛𝑟 (𝜔) + 𝑖𝑛𝑖𝑚 (𝜔) of
with an intensity 𝐼 = 1.0 × 105 Wm−2 in a a material, which of the following statements
medium with 𝜖 = 3𝜖0 and 𝜇 = 𝜇0 . The are correct? [GATE 2022]
amplitude of the electric field inside the (a) 𝑛𝑟 can be obtained from 𝑛𝑖𝑚 and vice-versa.
medium is × 103 Vm−1 (up to one decimal (b) 𝑛𝑖𝑚 could be zero.
place). (c) 𝑛 is an analytic function in the upper half of
[GATE 2018] the complex 𝜔 plane.
(𝜖0 = 8.85 × 10−12 𝐶 2 𝑁 −1 m−2 , 𝜇0 (d) 𝑛 is independent of 𝜔 for some materials.
= 4𝜋 × 10−7 𝑁𝐴−2 , 𝑐
= 3 × 108 ms −1 )

66
❖ JEST PYQ’s medium)
[JEST 2015]
1. An electromagnetic wave of frequency 𝜔 travels 𝜎 1
(a) 𝑑 ∝ √𝜔 (b) 𝑑 ∝ √𝜎𝜔
in the 𝑥-direction through vacuum. It is
polarized in the 𝑦 direction and the amplitude
of the electric field is 𝐸0 . With k = 𝜔/c where c 𝜔
(c) 𝑑 ∝ √𝜎𝜔 (d) 𝑑 ∝ √ 𝜎
is the speed of light in vacuum, the electric and
the magnetic fields are then conventionally
given by 5. Suppose 𝑦𝑧-plane forms the boundary between
[JEST 2013] two linear dielectric media 𝐼 and 𝐼𝐼 with
⃗
(a) 𝐸 = 𝐸0 cos (𝑘𝑦 − 𝜔𝑥)𝑦ˆ and dielectric constant 𝜖1 = 3 and 𝜖2 = 4,
⃗ = 𝐸0 cos (𝑘𝑦 − 𝜔𝑥)𝑧ˆ
𝐵 respectively. If the electric field in region. 𝐼 at
𝑐
the interface is given by 𝐸⃗1 = 4𝑥ˆ + 3𝑦ˆ + 5𝑧ˆ,
then the electric field 𝐸⃗𝑙𝑙 at the interface in
(b) 𝐸⃗ = 𝐸0 cos (𝑘𝑥 − 𝜔𝑥)𝑦ˆ and
region 𝐼 is:
⃗ = 𝐸0 cos (𝑘𝑥 − 𝜔𝑥)𝑧ˆ
𝐵 𝑐 [JEST 2016]
(a) 4𝑥ˆ + 3𝑦ˆ + 5𝑧ˆ
(c) 𝐸⃗ = 𝐸0 cos (𝑘𝑥 − 𝜔𝑥)𝑧ˆ and
⃗ = 𝐸0 cos (𝑘𝑦 − 𝜔𝑥)𝑦ˆ
𝐵 (b) 4𝑥ˆ + 0.75𝑦ˆ − 1.25𝑧ˆ
𝑐

(c) −3𝑥ˆ + 3𝑦ˆ + 5𝑧ˆ

(d) 𝐸⃗ = 𝐸0 cos (𝑘𝑥 − 𝜔𝑥)𝑥ˆ and
𝐵⃗ = 𝐸0 cos (𝑘𝑦 − 𝜔𝑥)𝑦ˆ
𝑐 (d) 3𝑥ˆ + 3𝑦ˆ + 5𝑧ˆ

2. At 'equilibrium' there can not be any free charge 6. A plane electromagnetic wave propagating in
inside a metal. However, if you forcibly put
air with 𝐸⃗ = (8𝑖ˆ + 6𝑗ˆ + 5𝑘ˆ )𝑒 𝑖(𝜔𝑡+3𝑥−4𝑦) is
charge in the interior then it takes some finite
incident on a perfectly conducting slab
time to 'disappear', i.e. move to the surface. If
positioned at 𝑥 = 0. 𝐸⃗ field of the reflected wave
the conductivity, 𝜎, of a metal is 106. (Ωm)−1 and
10−12 Farad
is
the dielectric constant 𝜖0 = 8.85 × , [JEST 2017]
m
this time will be approximately: (a) (−8𝑖ˆ − 6𝑗ˆ − 5𝑘ˆ )𝑒 𝑖(𝜔𝑡+3𝑥−4𝑦)
[JEST 2013]
−5 −11
(a) 10 sec (b) 10 sec (b)(−8𝑖ˆ + 6𝑗ˆ − 5𝑘ˆ )𝑒 𝑖(𝜔𝑡+3𝑥−4𝑦)

(c) 10−9 sec (d) 10−17 sec (c) (−8𝑖ˆ + 6𝑗ˆ − 5𝑘ˆ )𝑒 𝑖(𝜔𝑡−3𝑥−4𝑦)

3. Which of the following expressions represents (d)(−8𝑖ˆ − 6𝑗ˆ − 5𝑘ˆ )𝑒 𝑖(𝜔𝑡−3𝑥−4𝑦)

an electric field due to a time varying magnetic
field? [JEST 2015] 7. The magnetic field (Gaussian units) in an empty
(a) 𝐾(𝑥𝑥ˆ + 𝑦𝑦ˆ + 𝑧𝑧ˆ) (b) 𝐾(𝑥𝑥ˆ + 𝑦𝑦ˆ − 𝑧𝑧ˆ) space is described by
𝐵 = 𝐵0 exp (𝑎𝑥)sin (𝑘𝑦 − 𝜔𝑡)𝑧ˆ
(c) 𝐾(𝑥𝑥ˆ − 𝑦𝑦ˆ) (d) 𝐾(y𝑦ˆ − 𝑥𝑦ˆ + 2𝑧𝑧ˆ) What is the 𝑦-component of the electric field?
[JEST 2019]
4. The skin depth of a metal is dependent on the 𝑎𝑐
(a) − 𝜔 𝐵0 sin (𝑘𝑦 − 𝜔𝑡)
conductivity ( 𝜎 ) of the metal and the angular
frequency 𝜔 of the incident field. For a metal of 𝑎𝑐
high conductivity, which of the following (b) − 𝐵 exp (𝑎𝑥)cos (𝑘𝑦 − 𝜔𝑡)
𝜔 0
relations is correct? (Assume that 𝜎 ≫∈ 𝜔,
where ∈ is the electrical permittivity of the (c) −𝐵0 sin (𝑘𝑦 − 𝜔𝑡)

67
 (d) 0 (f) the wave was travelling along ±𝑘ˆ but
directions of 𝐸⃗ and 𝐵
⃗ are not uniquely defined
8. An electromagnetic field is given by
1 𝑞 2. A plane electromagnetic wave travelling in a
𝐸⃗ (𝑟, 𝑡) = − ⃗ (𝑟, 𝑡)
𝜃(𝑣𝑡 − 𝑟)𝑟˙, 𝐵
4𝜋𝜖0 𝑟 2 vacuum is characterized by the electric and
1 for 𝑥 > 0 magnetic fields [TIFR 2013]
= 0, where 𝜃(𝑥) = {
0 for 𝑥 ≤ 0
The corresponding charge density 𝜌 and 𝐸⃗ = 𝑖ˆ(30𝜋Vm−1 )exp 𝑖(𝜔𝑡 + 𝑘𝑧)
𝐻⃗ = 𝑗ˆ(𝐻0 Am−1 )exp 𝑖(𝜔𝑡 + 𝑘𝑧)
current density 𝐽 are given by [JEST 2020]
𝑞 If 𝜔, 𝑘 > 0, the value of 𝐻0 must be
(a) 𝜌 = −𝑞𝛿 3 (𝑟)𝜃(𝑣𝑡 − 𝑟) + 4𝜋𝑟2 𝜃(𝑣𝑡 − 𝑟); 𝐽 =
(a) 2𝜋 (b) 0.67
0
(c) 0.25 (d) 0.94
(b) 𝜌 = −𝑞𝛿 3 (𝑟)𝜃(𝑣𝑡 − 𝑟); 𝐽 = 0
3. Two semi-infinite slabs A and B of dielectric
𝑞 𝑞𝑣
(c) 𝜌 = 4𝜋𝑟2 𝛿(𝑣𝑡 − 𝑟); 𝐽 = 4𝜋𝑟2 𝛿(𝑣𝑡 − 𝑟)𝑟ˆ constant 𝜖𝐴 and 𝜖𝐵 meet in a plane interface, as
shown in the figure below.
𝑞
(d) 𝜌 = −𝑞𝛿 3 (𝑟)𝜃(𝑣𝑡 − 𝑟) + 𝛿(𝑣𝑡 − 𝑟); 𝐽 =
4𝜋𝑟 2
𝑞𝑣
4𝜋𝑟 2
𝛿(𝑣𝑡 − 𝑟)𝑟ˆ

❖ TIFR PYQ
If the electric field in slab 𝐴 makes an angle 𝜃𝐴
with the normal to the boundary and the electric
1. Measurement of the electric field (𝐸) and the
field in slab B makes an angle 𝜃𝐵 with the same
magnetic field (𝐵) in a plane-polarized
normal (see figure), then
electromagnetic wave in vacuum led to the
[TIFR 2016]
following: 𝜖𝐴
∂𝐸 ∂𝐸 ∂𝐸 ∂𝐵 (a) cos 𝜃A = 𝜖 cos 𝜃B
𝐵
= =0 =−
∂𝑥 ∂𝑦 ∂𝑧 ∂𝑡
𝜖𝐴
∂𝐵 ∂𝐵 ∂𝐵 ∂𝐸 (b) sin 𝜃𝐴 = sin 𝜃𝐵
= =0 =+ 𝜖𝐵
∂𝑥 ∂𝑦 ∂𝑧 ∂𝑡
It follows that [TIFR 2009] 𝜖𝐴
(c) tan 𝜃A = tan 𝜃B
𝜖𝐵
(a) 𝐸⃗ = 𝐸𝑖ˆ, 𝐵
⃗ = 𝐵𝑗ˆ and the wave was travelling
along 𝑘ˆ 𝜖𝐵
(d) sin 𝜃𝐴 = sin 𝜃𝐵
𝜖𝐴

(b) 𝐸⃗ = 𝐸𝑗ˆ, 𝐵
⃗ = 𝐵𝑖ˆ and the wave was travelling
along022. 𝑘ˆ 4. A beam of plane microwaves of wavelength
12 cm strikes the surface of a dielectric at 45∘ . If
4
⃗ = 𝐵𝑘ˆ and the wave was travelling
(c) 𝐸⃗ = 𝐸𝑗ˆ, 𝐵 the refractive index of the dielectric is , what
3
along −𝑖ˆ will be the wavelength, in units of mm, of the
microwaves inside the dielectric? [TIFR 2017]
(d) 𝐸⃗ = 𝐸𝑘ˆ , 𝐵
⃗ = 𝐵𝑖ˆ and the wave was travelling
along 𝑗ˆ

⃗ = 𝐵𝑘ˆ and the wave was travelling

(e) 𝐸⃗ = 𝐸𝑖ˆ, 𝐵
along −𝑗ˆ

68
5. The components of the electric and magnetic
fields corresponding to a plane electromagnetic
field propagating in vacuum satisfy
|𝐸⃗ | ⃗|
|𝐵
𝐸𝑥 = 𝐸𝑦 = −𝐸𝑧 = 𝐵𝑥 = −𝐵𝑦 = 𝐵𝑧 = 0
√3 √2
A unit vector along the direction of propagation
of the plane wave is [TIFR 2020]
̂
𝚤ˆ+𝑗ˆ+2𝑘 ̂
𝚤ˆ+𝑗ˆ+2𝑘
(a) (b)−
√6 √6

̂
2𝚤ˆ−2𝑗ˆ+𝑘 ̂
2𝚤ˆ−2𝑗ˆ+𝑘
(c) (d)−
√3 √3

Answer Key
CSIR-NET PYQ
1. d 2. a 3. b 4. b 5. c
6. d 7. d
8. a 9. b 10. a 11. a 12. b
13. d 14. a 15. b 16.c 17.c
GATE PYQ
1. 2. b 3. c 4. b 5. b
6. a 7. b 8. a 9. b 10. c
11. c 12. a 13. b 14. a 15. b
16. a 17. c 18. d 19. a
20. b 21. 1.5 22. 88.50 23. 2.39
24. 6.6 25. d 26. a 27. a,c
JEST PYQ
1. b 2. d 3. d 4. b 5. d
6. c 7. d 8. d
TIFR PYQ
1. 2. c 3. c 4. 90 5. b

69
 ❖ EMT 09 : Poynting Vector , Radiation

❖ CSIR-NET PYQ’s
I2
(c) S̅ ∥ u̅ and |S̅| = 4𝜋2 𝜖 ̅ ]r2
0 ∣u
1. When a charged particle emits electromagnetic
⃗ and the Poynting
radiation, the electric field E 𝐼2
1 (d) 𝑆‾||𝑢
⃗ and |𝑆| = 4𝜋2 𝜖
vector 𝑆 = 𝜇 𝐸⃗ × 𝐵⃗ at a large distance ' 𝑟 'from ⃗ |𝑟 4
0 |𝑢
0
1 1
the emitter vary as 𝑛 and 𝑚 respectively. Which 4. An oscillating current in the direction of the 𝑦-
𝑟 𝑟
of the following choices for ' 𝑛 ' and ' 𝑚 ' are axis through a thin metal sheet of area
correct? 1.0 cm2 kept in the 𝑥𝑦-plane. The rate of total
[CSIR DEC 2012] energy radiated per unit area from the surfaces
(a) n = 1 and m = 1 (b) n = 2 and m = 2 of the metal sheet at a distance of 100 m is
[CSIR JUNE 2013]
(c) 𝑛 = 1 and 𝑚 = 2 (d) n = 2 and m = 4 (a) I0 𝜔/(12𝜋𝜀0 c 3 ) (b) I0 2 𝜔2 /(12𝜋𝜀0 c 3 )

2. Consider the interference of two coherent (c) I02 𝜔/(12𝜋𝜀0 c 3 ) (d) I0 𝜔2 /(24𝜋𝜀0 c 3 )
electromagnetic waves whose electric field
vectors are given by ⃗E1 = îE0 cos 𝜔t and ⃗E2 = 5. A non-relativistic particle of mass 𝑚 and charge
jÊE0 cos(𝜔t + 𝜑) where 𝜑 is the phase 𝑒, moving with a velocity 𝑣 and acceleration 𝑎,
difference. The intensity of the resulting wave is emits radiation of intensity 𝐼. What is the
𝜀 intensity of the radiation emitted by a particle of
given by 20 ⟨𝐸 2 ⟩, where ⟨𝐸 2 ⟩ is the time average
mass 𝑚/2, charge 2𝑒, velocity 𝑣 /2 and
of 𝐸 2 . The total intensity is acceleration 2𝑎 ?
[CSIR Dec. 2012] [CSIR DEC 2014]
(a) 0 (b) 𝜀0 𝐸02 (a) 16𝐼 (b) 8𝐼

(c) 𝜀0 E02 sin2 𝜑 (d) 𝜀0 E02 cos2 𝜑 (c) 4𝐼 (d) 2𝐼

3. A current 𝐼 is created by a narrow beam of 6. A plane electromagnetic wave is travelling along

protons moving in vacuum with constant the positive 𝑧-direction. The maximum electric
velocity u̅ . The direction and magnitude, field along the 𝑥-direction is 10 V/m. The
respectively, of the Poynting vector 𝑆 outside the approximate maximum values of the power per
beam at a radial distance 𝑟 (much larger than the unit area and the magnetic induction 𝐵,
width of the beam) from the axis, are respectively, are
[CSIR JUNE 2013] [CSIR JUNE 2015]
I2 (a) 3.3 × 10−7 watts /m2 and 10 tesla
(a) S⃗ ⊥ u̅ and |S⃗| = 2 2̅ |r
4𝜋 𝜖0 |u
(b) 3.3 × 10−7 watts/ /m2 and 3.3 × 10−4 tesla
I2
(b) S⃗ ∥ (−u̅) and |S⃗| = 4𝜋2 𝜖 4
0 |ũ|r
(c) 0.265 watts /m2 and 10 tesla

(d) 0.265watts/m2 and 3.3 × 10−8 tesla

70
7. A dipole of moment 𝑝, oscillating at frequency 0𝜇 𝑒2𝑢 0𝜇 𝑒2𝑢
(c) 8𝜋𝑚𝑐𝑠 (d) 16𝜋𝑚𝑐𝑠
𝜔, radiates spherical waves. The vector
𝜇 𝑒 𝑖𝑘𝑟
potential at large distance is 𝐴(𝑟) = 4𝜋0 𝑖𝜔 𝑟 𝑝. 11. An electromagnetic wave is travelling in free
To order (1/𝑟) the magnetic field 𝐵 ⃗ at a point space (of permittivity 𝐸0 ) with electric field
𝑟 = 𝑟𝑛ˆ is 𝐸⃗ = 𝑘ˆ 𝐸0 cos 𝑞(𝑥 − 𝑐𝑡). The average power (per
[CSIR Dec. 2015] unit area) crossing planes parallel to 4𝑥 + 3𝑦 =
2
𝜇0 𝜔 4𝜋 0 will be
(a) − (𝑛ˆ ⋅ 𝑝˙)𝑛ˆ
4𝜋 𝑐 𝑟 [CSIR DEC 2017]
4 2
(a) 5 𝜀0 𝑐𝐸0 (b) 𝜀0 𝑐𝐸02
𝜇0 𝜔2 𝑒 𝑖𝑘𝑟
(b) − (𝑛ˆ × 𝑝˙)
4𝜋 𝑐 𝑟 1 16
(c) 2 𝜀0 𝑐𝐸02 (d)25 𝜀0 𝑐𝐸02
𝜇0 2 𝑒 𝑖𝑘𝑟
(c) − 𝜔 𝑘(𝑛ˆ ⋅ 𝑝˙)𝑝˙
4𝜋 𝑟 12. In the region far from a source, the time
dependent electric field at a point (𝑟, 𝜃, 𝜙) is
𝜋0 𝜔 𝑒 𝑖𝑘𝑟 sin 𝜃 𝑟
(d) − 𝑝 𝐸⃗ (𝑟, 𝜃, 𝜙) = 𝜙ˆ𝐸0 𝜔2 ( ) cos [𝜔 (𝑡 − )]
4𝜋 𝑐 𝑟 𝑟 𝑐
where 𝜔 is angular frequency of the source. The
8. The electric and magnetic fields in the charge total power radiated (average over a cycle) is
free region 𝑧 > 0 are given by [CSIR JUNE 2018]
𝐸˙ (𝑟˙, 𝑡) = 𝐸0 𝑒 −𝑘1 z cos(𝑘2 𝑥 − 𝜔𝑡)𝑗ˆ 2𝜋 𝐸02 𝜔4 4𝜋 𝐸02 𝜔4
(a) (b)
𝐸 3 𝜇0 𝑐 3 𝜇0 𝑐
𝐵˙ (𝑟˙, 𝑡) = 0 𝑒 −𝑘1 𝑧
𝜔
4 𝐸02 𝜔4 2 𝐸02 𝜔4
|𝑘1 sin(𝑘2 𝑥 − 𝜔𝑡)𝑖ˆ + 𝑘2 cos(𝑘2 𝑥 − 𝜔𝑡)𝑘ˆ | (c) 3𝜋 (d) 3
𝜇0 𝑐 𝜇0 𝑐
where 𝜔, 𝑘1 &𝑘2 are positive constants. The
average energy flow in the 𝑥-direction is 13. The electric field of an electromagnetic wave is
[CSIR June 2015] 𝐸⃗ = 𝑖ˆ√2sin (𝑘𝑧 − 𝜔𝑡)Vm−1. The average flow of
energy per unit area per unit time, due to this
𝐸2𝑘 𝐸02 𝑘2 −2𝑘 z
2
(a) 2𝜇0 (1) 𝑒 −2𝑘1 z (b) 𝜇0 𝜔
𝑒 1 wave, is
0
[CSIR DEC 2019]
4 2
𝐸02 𝑘1 −2𝑘 z: 1 (a) 27 × 10 W/m (b) 27 × 10−4 W/m2
(c) 𝑒 1 (d) 𝑐𝜀0 𝐸02 𝑒 −2𝑥1 𝑧
2𝜇0 𝜔 2
(c) 27 × 10−2 W/m2 (d) 27 × 102 W/m2
9. A particle with charge −𝑞 moves with a uniform
angular velocity 𝜔 in a circular orbit of radius 𝑎 14. An alternating current 𝐼(𝑡) = 𝐼0 cos (𝜔𝑡) flows
in the 𝑥𝑦-plane, around a fixed charge +𝑞, through a circular wire loop of radius 𝑅, lying in
which is at the centre of the orbit at (0,0,0). Let the 𝑥𝑦-plane, and centered at the origin. The
the intensity of radiation at the point (0,0, 𝑅) be electric field 𝐸⃗ (𝑟, 𝑡) and the magnetic field
𝐼1 and at (2𝑅, 0,0) be 𝐼2 . The ratio 𝐼2 /𝐼1, for 𝑅 ≫ ⃗ (𝑟, 𝑡) are measured at a point 𝑟 such that 𝑟 ≫
𝐵
𝑎, is 𝑐
[CSIR DEC 2016] 𝜔
≫ 𝑅, where 𝑟 = |𝑟|. Which one of the following
(a) 4
1
(b) 4 statements is correct?
[CSIR DEC 2019]
1
1 (a) The time-averaged |𝐸⃗ (𝑟, 𝑡)| ∝ 2 .
(c) (d) 8 𝑟
8

10. An electron is decelerated at-a constant rate (b) The time-averaged |𝐸⃗ (𝑟, 𝑡)| ∝ 𝜔2 .
starting from an initial velocity 𝑢 (where 𝑢 ≪ 𝑐 )
to 𝑢/2 during which it travels a distance 𝑠. The ⃗ (𝑟, 𝑡)| as a function of
(c) The time-averaged |𝐵
amount of energy lost to radiation is 𝜋
[CSIR JUNE 2017] the polar angle 𝜃 has a minimum at 𝜃 = 2 .
0𝜇 𝑒 2 𝑢2 0𝜇 𝑒 2 𝑢2
(a) 3𝜋𝑚𝑐 2𝑠 (b) 6𝜋𝑚𝑐 2𝑠
⃗ (𝑟, 𝑡)| is along the azimuthal direction
(d) |𝐵

71
 19. The radius of a sphere oscillates as a function of
15. A spacecraft of mass 𝑚 = 1000 kg has a fully time as 𝑅 + 𝑎cos 𝜔𝑡, with 𝑎 < 𝑅. It carries a
reflecting sail that is oriented perpendicular to charge 𝑄 uniformly distributed on its surface at
the direction of the sun. The sun radiates all times. If 𝑃 is the time averaged radiated
1026 W and has a mass 𝑀 = 1030 kg. Ignoring power through a sphere of radius 𝑟, such that
𝑐
the effect of the planets, for the gravitational 𝑟 ≫ 𝑅 + 𝑎 and 𝑟 ≫ 𝜔, then
pull of the sun to balance the radiation pressure [CSIR DEC 2023]
on the sail, the area of the sail will be 𝑄 2 𝜔4 𝑎 2 𝑄 2 𝜔2
[CSIR JUNE 2020] (a)𝑃 ∝ 𝑐3
(b)𝑃 ∝ 𝑐
2 2
(a) 10 𝑚 (b) 104 m2
𝑄 2 𝜔6 𝑎 4
(c)𝑃 = 0 (d)𝑃 ∝
𝑐5
(c) 108 𝑚2 (d) 106 𝑚2
20. The electric field of an electromagnetic wave in
16. The electric and magnetic fields at a point due free space is given by
to two independent sources are 𝐸1 = 𝐸(𝛼𝑖ˆ + 𝐸⃗ = 𝐸0 sin (𝜔𝑡 − 𝑘𝑧 𝑧)𝑗ˆ
𝛽𝑗ˆ), B1 = 𝐵𝑘ˆ and E2 = 𝐸𝑖ˆ, B2 = −2𝐵𝑘ˆ, where The magnetic field 𝐵 ⃗ vanishes for 𝑡 = 𝑘𝑍𝑧. The
𝜔
𝛼, 𝛽, 𝐸 and 𝐵 are constants. If the Poynting
vector is along 𝑖ˆ + 𝑗ˆ, then Poynting vector of the system is
[CSIR JUNE 2023] [CSIR JUNE 2024]
𝑘𝑧
(a) 𝛼 + 𝛽 + 1 = 0 (b) 𝛼 + 𝛽 − 1 = 0 (a) 2
𝐸0 sin2 (𝜔𝑡
− 𝑘𝑧 𝑧)𝑘ˆ
2𝜇0 𝜔

(c) 𝛼 + 𝛽 + 2 = 0 (d) 𝛼 + 𝛽 − 2 = 0
4𝑘𝑧 2
(b)𝜇 𝐸0 sin2 (𝜔𝑡 − 𝑘𝑧 𝑧)𝑘ˆ
0𝜔
17. A long cylindrical wire of radius R and
conductivity 𝜎, lying along the 𝑧-axis, carries a 2𝑘𝑧 2
uniform axial current density 𝐼. The Poynting (c)𝜇 𝐸0 sin2 (𝜔𝑡 − 𝑘𝑧 𝑧)𝑘ˆ
0𝜔
vector on the surface of the wire is (in the
following 𝜌ˆ and 𝜑ˆ denote the unit vectors along 𝑘𝑧
(d) 𝐸 2 sin2 (𝜔𝑡 − 𝑘𝑧 𝑧)𝑘ˆ
𝜇0 𝜔 0
the radial and azimuthal directions
respectively)
21. A radio station antenna on the earth's surface
[CSIR JUNE 2023]
radiates 50 kW power isotropically. Assume the
𝐼2 𝑅 𝐼2 𝑅 electromagnetic waves to be sinusoidal and the
(a) 2𝜎 𝜌ˆ (b)− 2𝜎 𝜌ˆ
ground to be a perfect absorber. Neglecting any
transmission loss and effects of earth's
𝐼2 𝜋𝑅 𝐼2 𝜋𝑅
(c)− 4𝜎
𝜑ˆ (d) 4𝜎
𝜑ˆ curvature, the peak value of the magnetic field
(in Tesla) detected at a distance of 100 km is
18. An infinitely long solenoid of radius 𝑟0 centred at closest to
origin which produces a time-dependent [CSIR JUNE 2024]
𝛼
magnetic field 𝜋𝑟 2 co s(𝜔𝑡) (where 𝛼 and 𝜔 are (a)1.5 × 10 −11
(b)5.5 × 10−11
0
constants) is placed along the z-axis. A circular
loop of radius 𝑅, which carries unit line charge (c)8.5 × 10−11 (d)3.5 × 10−11
density is placed, initially at rest, on the xy-plane
with its centre on the z-axis. If 𝑅 > 𝑟0 , the
magnitude of the angular momentum of the loop
is
[CSIR JUNE 2023]
(a) 𝛼𝑅(1 − co s 𝜔 𝑡) (b) 𝛼𝑅 sin(𝜔𝑡)
𝛼𝑅 𝛼𝑅
(c) (1 − co s 2 𝜔𝑡) (d) si n(2𝜔𝑡)
2 2

72
❖ GATE PYQ’s

1. The electric (𝐸) and magnetic (𝐵) field

amplitudes associated with an electromagnetic
radiation from a point source behave at a
distance 𝑟 from the source as
[GATE 2005]
(a) 𝐸 = constant, 𝐵 = constant
1 1
(b) 𝐸 ∝ 𝑟 , 𝐵 ∝ 𝑟
(a) Along the wire in the positive z axis
1 1
(c) 𝐸 ∝ 𝑟2
,𝐵 ∝ 𝑟2
(b) Radially inward (−𝑟ˆ)
1 1
(d) 𝐸 ∝ 𝑟3 , 𝐵 ∝ 𝑟3
(c) Radially outward (r̂)
2. Consider the following three independent
cases: (d) Circumferential (𝜙)
(i) Particle 𝐴 of charge +𝑞 moves in free space
with a constant velocity 𝑣 ( 𝑣 ≪ speed of light) Statement for Linked Answer Q.5 and Q. 6:
(ii) Particle 𝐵 of charge +𝑞 moves in free space A plane electromagnetic wave has the magnetic
in a circle of radius 𝑅 with same speed 𝑣 as in field given by
case (i)
⃗ (𝑥, 𝑦, 𝑧, 𝑡) = 𝐵0 sin [(𝑥 + 𝑦) 𝑘 + 𝜔𝑡] 𝑘ˆ
𝐵
(iii) Particle 𝐶 having charge −𝑞 moves as in √2
case (ii) Where k is the wave number and 𝑖ˆ, 𝑗ˆ and k̂ are
If the power radiated by 𝐴, 𝐵 and 𝐶 are 𝑃𝐴 , 𝑃𝐵 the Cartesian unit vectors is x, y and 𝑧
and 𝑃𝐶 , respectively, then
directions, respectively.
[GATE 2005]
(a) 𝑃𝐴 = 0, 𝑃𝐵 > 𝑃𝐶 (b) 𝑃𝐴 = 0, 𝑃𝐵 = 𝑃𝐶
5. The electric field 𝐸˙ (𝑥, 𝑦, 𝑧, 𝑡) corresponding to
(c) 𝑃𝐴 > 𝑃𝐵 > 𝑃𝐶 (d) 𝑃𝐴 = 𝑃𝐵 = 𝑃𝐶 the above wave is given by
[GATE 2011]
𝑘 (𝑖ˆ−𝑗ˆ)
(a) 𝑐𝐵0 sin [(𝑥 + 𝑦) + 𝜔𝑡]
3. An electromagnetic wave with 𝐸⃗ (𝑧, 𝑡) = √2 √2

𝐸0 cos (𝜔𝑡 − 𝑘𝑧)𝑖ˆ is travelling in free space and

𝑘 (𝑖ˆ+𝑗ˆ)
crosses a disc of radius 2 m placed perpendicular (b) 𝑐𝐵0 sin [(𝑥 + 𝑦) + 𝜔𝑡]
√2 √2
to the 𝑧-axis. If 𝐸0 = 60Vm−1, the average power,
in Watt, crossing the disc along the 𝑧-direction is 𝑘
(c) 𝑐𝐵0 sin [(𝑥 + 𝑦) + 𝜔𝑡] 𝑖ˆ
[GATE 2007] √2
(a) 30 (b) 60
𝑘
(d) 𝑐𝐵0 sin [(𝑥 + 𝑦) + 𝜔𝑡] 𝑗
√2
(c) 120 (d) 270
6. The average Poynting vector is given by
4. A parallel plate capacitor is being discharged.
[GATE 2011]
What is the direction of the energy flow in
𝑐𝐵2 (𝑖ˆ−𝑗ˆ) 𝑐𝐵2 (𝑖ˆ−𝑗ˆ)
terms of the poynting vector in the space (a) 2𝜇0 (b) − 2𝜇0
0 √2 0 √2
between the plates?
[GATE 2008] 𝑐𝐵02 (𝑖ˆ+𝑗ˆ) 𝑐𝐵02 (𝑖ˆ+𝑗ˆ)
(c) (d) −
2𝜇0 √2 2𝜇0 √2

7. The space-time dependence of the electric field

of a linearly polarized light in free space is given
by 𝑥ˆ0 cos(𝜔𝑡 − 𝑘𝑧) where 𝐸0 , 𝜔 and 𝑘 are the
amplitude, the angular frequency and the wave

73
 vector, respectively. The time averaged energy
density associated with the electric field is (b) 𝐼 2 𝑟/2𝜋𝑎, perpendicular to axis of the wire
[GATE 2012] and pointing outwards
1 1
(a) 4 𝜀0 𝐸02 (b) 2 𝜀0 E02
(c) 𝐼 2 𝑟/𝜋𝑎, perpendicular to axis of the wire
and pointing inwards
(c) 𝜀0 E02 (d) 2𝜀0 E02

150 mW (d) 𝐼 2 𝑟/𝜋𝑎, perpendicular to axis of the wire

8. The intensity of a laser in free space is m2
.
and pointing outwards
The corresponding amplitude of the electric
V
field of the laser is . 13. The electric field of an electromagnetic wave in
m
[GATE 2014] vacuum is given by
10 −12 2
𝐶 𝐸⃗ = 𝐸0 cos (3𝑦 + 4𝑧 − 1.5 × 109 𝑡)𝑥ˆ.
(𝜀0 = 8.854 × . 𝑚2 ) The wave is reflected from the 𝑧 = 0 surface. If
𝑁
the pressure exerted on the surface is 𝛼𝜖0 𝐸02, the
9. The electric field component of a plane value of 𝛼 (rounded off to one decimal place) is
[GATE 2019]
electromagnetic wave travelling in vacuum is
given by 𝐸⃗ (𝑧, 𝑡) = 𝐸0 cos (𝑘𝑧 − 𝜔𝑡)𝑖ˆ. The 14. Consider a tiny current loop driven by a
pointing vector for the wave is sinusoidal alternating current. If the surface
[GATE 2016] integral of its time-averaged Poynting vector is
(a) (𝑐𝜀0 /2)𝐸02 cos2 (𝑘𝑧 − 𝜔𝑡)𝑗ˆ constant, then the magnitude of the time
averaged magnetic field intensity, at any
arbitrary position, 𝑟, is proportional to
(b) (𝑐𝜀0 /2)𝐸02 cos2 (𝑘𝑧 − 𝜔𝑡)𝑘ˆ
[GATE 2021]
1 1
(a) 3 (b) 2
(c) 𝑐𝜀0 𝐸02 cos2 (𝑘𝑧 − 𝜔𝑡)𝑗ˆ 𝑟 𝑟

1
(c) 𝑟 (d) 𝑟
(d) 𝑐𝜀0 𝐸02 cos2 (𝑘𝑧 − 𝜔𝑡)𝑘ˆ

10. An infinitely long straight wire is carrying a 15. A point charge 𝑞 is performing simple harmonic
steady current 𝐼. The ratio of magnetic energy oscillations of amplitude 𝐴 at angular frequency
density at distance 𝑟1 to that at 𝑟2 (= 2𝑟1 ) from 𝜔 Using Lamor's formula, the power radiated
the wire is. by the change is proportional to [GATE 2022]
[GATE 2018] (a) 𝑞𝜔2 𝐴2 (b) 𝑞𝜔4 𝐴2

(c) 𝑞 2 𝜔2 𝐴2 (d) 𝑞 2 𝜔4 𝐴2
11. A light beam of intensity 𝐼0 is falling normally on
a surface. The surface absorbs 20% of the 16. A current of 1𝐴 is flowing through a very long
intensity and the rest is reflected. The radiation solenoid made of winding density 3000 turns
pressure on the surface is given by 𝑋𝐼0 /𝑐, where /𝑚. As shown in the figure, a parallel plate
𝑋 is (up to one decimal place). Here 𝑐 is the capacitor, with plates oriented parallel to the
speed of light. solenoid axis and carrying surface charge
density 6 ∈0 Cm−2 , is placed at the middle of the
[GATE 2018]
solenoid. The momentum density of the
electromagnetic field at the
12. A long straight wire, having radius a and [GATE 2022]
resistance per unit length 𝑟, carries a current
𝐼. The magnitude and direction of the Poynting
vector on the surface of the wire is
[GATE 2018]
2
(a) 𝐼 𝑟/2𝜋𝑎, perpendicular to axis of the wire
and pointing inwards

74
 ❖ JEST PYQ

1. The electric and magnetic fields caused by an

accelerated charged particle are found to scale
as 𝐸 ∝ 𝑟 −𝑛 and B ∝ 𝑟 −𝑚 at large distances. What
are the values of n and m ?
[JEST 2013]
(a) n = 1, m = 2 (b) n = 2, m = 1
midpoint 𝑋 of the capacitor is 𝑛 × 10−13 Nsm−3.
The value of 𝑛 is
(c) n = 1, m = 1 (d) n = 2, m = 2
(Round off to the nearest integer)
(speed of light 𝑐 = 3 × 108 ms−1 )
2. An electron is executing simple harmonic
17. Consider an electromagnetic wave propagating motion along the y-axis in right handed
in the z-direction in vacuum, with the magnetic coordinate system. Which of the following
field given by 𝐵 ⃗ =𝐵⃗ 0 𝑒 𝑖(𝑘𝑧−𝜔𝑡) . If 𝐵0 = 10−8 T, statements is true for emitted radiation?
the average power passing through a circle of [JEST 2014]
radius 1.0 m placed in the 𝑥𝑦 plane is P (in (a) The radiation will be most intense in 𝑥𝑧
c2 plane
Watts). Using ∈0 = 10−11 Nm2 , what is the value
103 𝑃
of (rounded off to one decimal place)? (b) The radiation will be most intense in 𝑥𝑦
𝜋
[GATE 2023] plane

(c) The radiation will violate causality

18. An oscillating electric dipole of moment 𝑑(𝑡) =
𝑑0 cos (𝜔𝑡)𝑧ˆ is placed at origin as shown in
(d) The electron's rest mass energy will reduce
figure.
due to radiation loss
Consider a point P(𝑟, 𝜃, 𝜙) at a very large
distance from the dipole. Here 𝑟, 𝜃 and 𝜙 are
3. The approximate force exerted on a perfectly
spherical polar coordinates. Which of the
reflecting mirror by an incident laser beam of
following statement is/are true for intensity of
power 10 mW at normal incidence is
radiation?
[JEST 2015]
[GATE 2024]
𝜋 𝜋 (a) 10−13 N (b) 10−11 N
(a) Intensity at P (𝑟 = 𝑅, 𝜃 = 2 , 𝜙 = 4 ) is equal
𝜋 𝜋
to that at P (𝑟 = 𝑅, 𝜃 = 4 , 𝜙 = 4 ) (c) 10−9 N (d) 10−15 N
𝜋 𝜋
(b) Intensity at P (𝑟 = 𝑅, 𝜃 = , 𝜙 = ) is
2 4 4. A laser has output power of 150 mW with beam
𝜋 𝜋
greater than that at P (𝑟 = 𝑅, 𝜃 = 4 , 𝜙 = 4 ) diameter of 2 mm at a wavelength 630 nm.
𝜋 𝜋 What is the value of the electric field in units of
(c) Intensity is zero at P (𝑟 = 𝑅, 𝜃 = , 𝜙 = )
2 4 V/m is? Use Coulomb's constant, ¼𝜋𝜖0 =
(d) Intensity is zero if P is on the 𝑧 axis 9 × 109 N m2 C −2 . [JEST 2020]

75
❖ TIFR PYQ 5. Consider a dipole antenna with length ℓ, charge
𝑞 and frequency 𝜔. The power emitted by the
1. The instantaneous electric and magnetic fields antenna at a large distance 𝑟 is 𝑃. Now suppose
created at a distance 𝑟 by a point source at the the length ℓ is increased to √2ℓ, the charge is
origin are given by increased to √3𝑞 and the frequency is increased
𝐴cos 𝜔𝑡 𝐵cos 𝜔𝑡
𝐸⃗ = 𝜃ˆ 𝐻
⃗ = 𝜑ˆ to √5𝜔. By what factor is the radiated power
2𝜋𝜀0 𝑟 𝜇0 𝑟 increased? [TIFR 2018]
where 𝜔, 𝐴, 𝐵 are constants, and the unit vectors
(𝑟ˆ, 𝜃ˆ , 𝜑ˆ) form an orthonormal set. The time-
averaged power radiated by the source is 6. A plane electromagnetic wave travelling
[TIFR 2014]
through vacuum has electric field 𝐸⃗ and
𝜔𝜀0 𝑐3
(a) 𝐴𝐵 (b) 𝐴𝐵 ⃗ defined as
magnetic field 𝐵
𝜇0 2𝜋
[TIFR 2019]
2𝜋𝜔
(c)𝑐 2 𝐴𝐵 (d) 𝐴𝐵 𝐸⃗ = (𝑖ˆ + 𝑗ˆ)𝐸0 exp 𝑖(𝜔𝑡 − 𝑘⃗ ⋅ 𝑥 )
𝑐
𝐵⃗ = (𝑖ˆ − 𝑗ˆ − 𝑘ˆ )𝐵0 exp 𝑖(𝜔𝑡 − 𝑘⃗ ⋅ 𝑥 )
2. A light source has a small filament at the centre
of a spherical glass bulb of radius 5 cm and where 𝐸0 and 𝐵0 are real constants. The time-
negligible thickness. If this source emits 100 averaged Poynting vector will be given by
Watts of power in the form of spherical 𝜀
electromagnetic waves, the r.m.s. electric field 𝐸 (a) 𝑆 = √6𝜇0 𝐸02 (−𝑖ˆ + 𝑗ˆ − 2𝑘ˆ )
0
at the surface of the bulb (in units of Volt/m)
will be approximately
1 3𝜀
[TIFR 2015] (b) 𝑆 = − √ 0 𝐸02 (𝑖ˆ − 𝑗ˆ + 2𝑘ˆ )
2 𝜇 0
(a) 1547 (b) 1094
2
(c) 109.4 (d) 15.47 (c) 𝑆 = − 𝐸0 𝐵0 (𝑖ˆ − 𝑗ˆ + 2𝑘ˆ )
√𝜀0 𝜇0

3. An electromagnetic wave in free space is

described by 1 𝜀
(d) 𝑆˙ = 2 √𝜇0 𝐵02 (𝑖ˆ − 𝑗ˆ + 2𝑘ˆ )
1 0
𝐸⃗ (𝑥, 𝑦, 𝑧, 𝑡) = 𝑧ˆ𝐸0 cos (𝑘𝑥 − √3𝑘𝑦 − 2𝜔𝑡)
2
The Poynting vector associated with this wave 7. An oscillating point dipole of moment 𝑝(𝑡) =
is along the direction [TIFR 2017] 𝑧ˆ𝑝0 cos 𝜔𝑡 generates time-dependent electric
(a) 𝑥ˆ + √3𝑦ˆ (b) √3𝑥ˆ + 𝑦ˆ and magnetic fields. At distances 𝑟 far away from
the dipole, the vector potential due to this dipole,
𝜇0 𝑝0 𝜔 𝑟
(c) −√3𝑥ˆ + 𝑦ˆ (d) 𝑥ˆ − √3𝑦ˆ in SI units, is 𝐴 = 𝑧ˆ sin 𝜔 (𝑡 − 𝑐 )
4𝜋𝑟
The total power radiated from this dipole is
4. A plane electromagnetic wave, which has an [TIFR 2021]
𝑍
electric field 𝐸⃗ (𝑥 , 𝑡) = (𝑃𝑖ˆ + 𝑄𝑗ˆ)exp 𝑖𝜔 (𝑡 − )
𝑐 𝜇0 𝑝0 2 𝜔4 𝜇0 𝑝0 2 𝜔4
(a) 12𝜋𝑐
(b) 8𝜋𝑐
is passing through vacuum. Here 𝑃, 𝑄 and 𝜔 are
all constants, while 𝑐 is the speed of light in
𝜇0 𝑝0 2 𝜔4 𝜇0 𝑝0 2 𝜔4
vacuum. What is the average energy flux per (c) 16𝜋2 𝑐
(d) 24𝜋𝑐
unit time (in SI units) crossing a unit area
placed normal to the direction of propagation of 8. If an electron is set into oscillatory motion by
this wave, in terms of the above constants? the electric field of a laser of intensity
150 𝑊 m−2 and wavelength 554 𝑛𝑚, the
[TIFR 2018] amplitudes of its displacement and velocity,
respectively, are expected to be

76
 [TIFR 2022]
5.1 × 10 𝑚,−18 ❖ Answer Key
(a)
1.7 × 10 𝑚 s −1
−2 CSIR PYQ
1. c 2. b 3. c 4. b
(b) 3.4 × 10−17 𝑚 5. a 6. d 7. b 8. a 9. c
1.0 × 10−1 m s −1 10. d 11. a 12. b 13. b 14. b
15. d 16. d 17. b 18. a 19. c
(c) 3.4 × 10−16 m 20. d 21. b
1.7 × 10−1 m s −1
GATE PYQ
3.4 × 10−18 m 1. b 2. b 3. c 4. b 5. a
(d) 6. d 7. a 8. 10.6 9. d 10. 4
1.7 × 10−2 m s−1
11. 1.8 12. a 13. 0.8 14. c 15. d
9. The power radiated by a point charge 𝑞 moving 16. 2 17. 11.5-13.7 18. bd
rapidly with a uniform speed 𝑣 in a circle of JEST PYQ
radius 𝑅 will be [TIFR 2022] 1. c 2. a 3. b 4. 6000
2
𝑞2 𝑐 3 𝑣2 𝑞2 𝑐 𝑣2 TIFR PYQ
(a) 6𝜋𝜀 𝑅3 𝑐 2 −𝑣2 (b) 6𝜋𝜀 𝑅2 (𝑐 2 −𝑣2 ) .
0 0
1. c 2. b 3. d 4. 5. 150
𝑞4 𝑐 2 𝑣2
2
𝑞2 𝑐 𝑣2
6. a 7. a 8. a 9. b 10. b
(c) 6𝜋𝜀 2 ( 2 2 ) (d) 6𝜋𝜀 4 2 2 11. a
0𝑅 𝑐 −𝑣 0 𝑅 𝑐 −𝑣

10. A charge 𝑒 is moving with an angular frequency

𝜔 along a circle of radius 𝑎 always keeping a
small distance 𝑑(𝑑 ≪ 𝑎) from a grounded
infinite conducting plane.

The leading dependence of the radiated power

𝑃(𝜔) at a distance 𝑟(𝑟 ≫ 𝑎) will be
[TIFR 2023]
6
(a) 𝑃(𝜔) ∝ 𝜔 (b) 𝑃(𝜔) ∝ 𝜔4

(c) 𝑃(𝜔) ∝ 𝜔3 (d) 𝑃(𝜔) ∝ 𝜔2

11. A smartphone emits electromagnetic radiation

with a power of 1 Watt. What is the
approximate value of the r.m.s. magnetic field at
a distance 25 cm from the phone?
[TIFR 2024]
−7 −5
(a) 10 Tesla (b) 10 Tesla

(c) 10−9 Tesla (d) 10−11 Tesla

77
 ❖ EMT 10 : Time Varying Potentials

❖ CSIR-NET PYQ’s
4. If the electric and magnetic fields are
unchanged when the vector potential A ̅ changes
1. For constant uniform electric and magnetic
⃗ =E
⃗ 0 and B
⃗ =B ⃗ 0 , it is possible to choose ⃗ →A
(in suitable units) according to A ⃗ + r̂,
fields E
a gauge such that the scalar potential 𝜙 and where r = r(t)r̂, then the scalar potential Φ
must simultaneously change to
vector potential 𝐴 are given by
[NET June 2011] [CSIR JUNE 2013]
1 (a) Φ − 𝑟 (b) Φ + 𝑟
(a) 𝜙 = 0 and A⃗ = (B ⃗ 0 × r)
2
(c) Φ − ∂r/ ∂t (d) Φ + ∂r/ ∂t
1
(b) 𝜙 = −E ⃗ = (B
⃗ 0 ⋅ r and A ⃗ 0 × r)
2
5. Let (𝑉, 𝐴) and (𝑉 ′ , 𝐴′ ) denote two sets of scalar
⃗ 0 ⋅ r and ⃗A = 0 and vector potentials, and 𝜓 a scalar function.
(c) 𝜙 = −E
Which of the following transformations leave the
electric and magnetic fields (and hence
(d) 𝜙 = 0 and ⃗A = −E
⃗ 0t
Maxwell's equations) unchanged?
[CSIR DEC 2013]
2. A constant electric current I in an infinitely long ′ ∂𝜓
(a) 𝐴 = 𝐴 + ∇𝜓 and 𝑉 = 𝑉 −
straight wire is suddenly switched on at 𝑡 = 0. ∂𝑡
The vector potential at a perpendicular distance
∂𝜓
𝑟 from the wire is given by 𝐴 =
𝑘ˆ 𝜇0 𝐼 1
ℓ𝑛 [ (𝑐𝑡 + (b) 𝐴′ = 𝐴 − ∇𝜓 and 𝑉 ′ = 𝑉 + 2 ∂𝑡
2𝜋 𝑟
√𝑐 2 𝑡 2 − 𝑟 2 )]. The electric field at a distance ∂𝜓
(c) 𝐴′ = 𝐴 + ∇𝜓 and 𝑉 ′ = 𝑉 +
𝑟(< 𝑐𝑡) is: ∂𝑡
[CSIR DEC 2011] ∂𝜓
(a) 0
𝜇0 𝐼 1
(b) 2𝜋𝑡 (𝑖ˆ − 𝑗ˆ) (d) 𝐴′ = 𝐴 − 2∇𝜓 and 𝑉 ′ = 𝑉 − ∂𝑡
2 √

(c)
𝑐𝜇0 𝐼 1
(𝑖ˆ + 𝑗ˆ) (d) −
𝑐𝜇0 𝐼
𝑘ˆ 6. A time-dependent current 𝐼 (𝑡) = 𝐾𝑡𝑧ˆ (where K
2𝜋√𝑐 2 𝑡 2 −𝑟 2 √2 2𝜋√𝑐 2 𝑡 2 −𝑟 2 is a constant) is switched on at 𝑡 = 0 in an
3. Consider an infinite conducting sheet in the xy- infinite current-carrying wire. The magnetic
plane with a time dependent current density Ktî, vector potential at a perpendicular distance ' 𝑎 '
where K is a constant. The vector potential at from the wire is given (for time 𝑡 > 𝑎/𝑐 ) by
(x, y, z) is given by [CSIR JUNE 2014]
𝜇0 K 𝜇 𝐾 √𝑐 2 𝑡 2 −𝑎2 𝑐𝑡−√𝑎 2 +𝑧 2
𝐴ˆ = (ct − z)2 î 0
(a) 𝑧ˆ 4𝜋𝑐 ∫−√𝑐 2 𝑡 2 −𝑎2 𝑑𝑧 (𝑎2 +𝑧2 )1/2
4c
The magnetic field ⃗B is;
[CSIR DEC 2012] 𝜇0 𝐾 𝑐𝑡 𝑡
(b) 𝑧ˆ ∫ 𝑑𝑧 (𝑎2 2 )1/2
𝜇0 Kt 𝜇 Kz 4𝜋 −𝑎𝑡 +𝑧
(a) 2 ĵ (b) − 02c ĵ
0𝜇 𝐾 𝑐𝑡 𝑐𝑡−√𝑎 2 +𝑧 2
𝜇0 K 𝜇0 𝐾 (c) 𝑧ˆ 4𝜋𝑐 ∫−𝑐𝑡 𝑑𝑧 (𝑎2 +𝑧2 )1/2
(c) − 2c (ct − z)î (d) − 2𝑐 (𝑐𝑡 − 𝑧)𝑗ˆ

78
 10. Consider the operator 𝜋 ⃗ = 𝑝 − 𝑞𝐴, where 𝑝 is
𝜇 𝐾 √𝑐 2 𝑎2 𝑡 the momentum operator, 𝐴 = (𝐴𝑥 , 𝐴𝑦 , 𝐴𝑧 ) is the
(d) 𝑧ˆ 0 ∫−√𝑐 2 𝑡 2 −𝑎2 𝑑𝑧 (𝑎2 2 )1/2
4𝜋 +𝑧
vector potential and 𝑞 denotes the electric
charge. If 𝐵⃗ = (𝐵𝑥 , 𝐵𝑦 , 𝐵𝑧 ) denotes the magnetic
7. The scalar and vector potentials 𝜑(𝑥 , 𝑡) and
field, the 𝑧 − component of the vector operator
𝐴(𝑥 , 𝑡) are determined up to a gauge 𝜋
⃗ ×𝜋 ⃗ is
∂𝜉
transformation 𝜑 → 𝜑′ = 𝜑 − ∂𝑡 and 𝐴 → 𝐴′ = [CSIR DEC 2016]
𝐴 + ⃗∇𝜉 where 𝜉 is an arbitrary continuous and (a) 𝑖𝑞ℏ𝐵𝑧 + 𝑞(𝐴𝑥 𝑝𝑦 − 𝐴𝑦 𝑝𝑥 )
differentiable function of 𝑥 and 𝑡. If we further
impose the Lorenz gauge condition ⃗∇ ⋅ 𝐴 + (b) −𝑖𝑞ℏ𝐵𝑧 − 𝑞(𝐴𝑥 𝑝𝑦 − 𝐴𝑦 𝑝𝑥 )
1 ∂𝜑
𝑐 ∂𝑡
= 0 then a possible choice for the gauge
(c) −𝑖𝑞ℏ𝐵𝑧
function 𝜉(𝑥 , 𝑡) is (where 𝜔, 𝑘⃗ are nonzero
constants with 𝜔 = 𝑐|𝑘⃗ | ) (d) 𝑖𝑞ℏ𝐵𝑧
[CSIR DEC 2014]
(a) cos 𝜔𝑡cosh 𝑘⃗ ⋅ 𝑥 (b) sinh 𝜔𝑡cos 𝑘⃗ ⋅ 𝑥 11. The vector potential 𝐴 = 𝑘𝑒 −𝑎𝑡 𝑟𝑟ˆ, (where 𝑎 and
𝑘 are constants) correspond ing to an
(c) cosh 𝜔𝑡cos 𝑘⃗ ⋅ 𝑥 (d) cosh 𝜔𝑡 cosh 𝑘⃗ ∙ 𝑥 electromagnetic field is changed to 𝐴′ =
−𝑘𝑒 −𝑎𝑡 𝑟𝑟ˆ. This will be a gauge transformation
8. Which of the following transformations (𝑉, 𝐴) → if the corresponding change 𝜙 ′ − 𝜙 in the
(𝑉 ′ , 𝐴′ ) of the electrostatic potential 𝑉 and the scalar, potential is
[NET June 2017]
vector potential 𝐴 is a gauge transformation? 2 −𝑎𝑡
(a) 𝑎𝑘𝑟 𝑒 (b) 2𝑎𝑘𝑟 2 𝑒 −𝑎𝑡
[CSIR JUNE 2015]
(c) −𝑎𝑘𝑟 2 𝑒 −𝑎𝑡 (d) −2𝑎𝑘𝑟 2 𝑒 −𝑎𝑡
(a) (𝑉 = 𝑉 + 𝑎𝑥, 𝐴 = 𝐴 + 𝑎𝑡𝑘ˆ )
′ ⃗⃗⃗′

12. The electric field 𝐸⃗ and the magnetic field 𝐵 ⃗

(b) (𝑉 ′ = 𝑉 + 𝑎𝑥, 𝐴′ = 𝐴 − 𝑎𝑡𝑘ˆ ) corresponding to the scalar and vector
potentials, 𝑉(𝑥, 𝑦, 𝑧, 𝑡) = 0 and 𝐴(𝑥, 𝑦, 𝑧, 𝑡) =
(c) (𝑉 ′ = 𝑉 + 𝑎𝑥, 𝐴′ = 𝐴 + 𝑎𝑡𝑖ˆ) 1
2
𝑘ˆ 𝜇0 𝐴0 (𝑐𝑡 − 𝑥), where 𝐴0 is a constant, are
[CSIR JUNE 2018]
(d) (𝑉 ′ = 𝑉 + 𝑎𝑥, ⃗⃗⃗
𝐴′ = 𝐴 − 𝑎𝑡𝑖ˆ) 1
⃗ ⃗
(a) 𝐸 = 0 and 𝐵 = 𝑗ˆ𝜇0 𝐴0
2
9. A dipole of moment 𝑝, oscillating at frequency
1
𝜔, radiates spherical waves. The vector ⃗ = 1 𝑗ˆ𝜇0 𝐴0
(b) 𝐸⃗ = − 2 𝑘ˆ 𝜇0 𝐴0 𝑐 and 𝐵 2
𝜇 𝑒 𝑖𝑘𝑟
potential at large distance is 𝐴(𝑟) = 4𝜋0 𝑖𝜔 𝑟 𝑝.
⃗ . at a point ⃗ = − 1 𝑖ˆ ⋅ 𝜇0 𝐴0
(c) 𝐸⃗ = 0 and 𝐵
To order (1/𝑟) the magnetic field 𝐵 2
𝑟 = 𝑟𝑛ˆ is
1 1
[CSIR DEC 2015] (d) 𝐸⃗ = 2 𝑘ˆ 𝜇0 𝐴0 𝑐 and 𝐵
⃗ = − 𝑖ˆ𝜇0 𝐴0
2
𝜇0 𝜔2 𝑒 𝑖𝑘𝑟
(a) − (𝑛ˆ ⋅ 𝑝)𝑛ˆ
4𝜋 𝑐 𝑟

𝜇 𝜔2 𝑒 𝑖𝑘𝑟
(b) − 4𝜋0 𝑐
(𝑛ˆ × 𝑝) 𝑟

𝜇 𝑒 𝑖𝑘𝑠
(c) − 4𝜋0 𝜔2 𝑘(𝑛ˆ ⋅ 𝑝)𝑝 𝑟

𝜋 𝜔 𝑒 𝑖𝑘𝑟
(d) − 4𝜋0 𝑐 𝑝 𝑟

79
❖ GATE PYQ’s 5. A constant and uniform magnetic field 𝐵 ⃗ = 𝐵0 𝑘ˆ
pervades all space. Which one of the following is
1. For a vector potential 𝐴, the divergence of 𝐴 is the correct choice for the vector potential in
⃗∇ ⋅ 𝐴 = − 𝜇0 𝑄2 , where 𝑄 is a constant of Coulomb gauge?
4𝜋 𝑟
appropriate dimension. The corresponding [GATE 2018]
scalar potential 𝜑(𝑟, 𝑡) that makes 𝐴 and 𝜑 (a) −𝐵0 (𝑥 + 𝑦)𝑖ˆ (b) 𝐵0 (𝑥 + 𝑦)𝑗ˆ
Lorentz gauge invariant is
[GATE 2005] 1
1 𝑄 1 𝑄𝑡 (c) 𝐵0 𝑥𝑗ˆ (d) − 2 𝐵0 (𝑥𝑖ˆ − 𝑦𝑗ˆ)
(a) (b)
4𝜋𝜀0 𝑟 4𝜋𝜀0 𝑟

6. The vector potential inside a long solenoid, with

1 𝑄 1 𝑄𝑡
(c) (d) 𝑛 turns per unit length and carrying current 𝑙,
4𝜋𝜀0 𝑟 2 4𝜋𝜀0 𝑟 2
written it cylindrical coordinates is 𝐴(𝑠, 𝜙, 𝑧) =
2. Can the following scalar and vector potentials 𝜇0 𝑛𝐼 𝜇 𝑛𝐼
𝑠𝜙ˆ. If the term 0 𝑠(𝛼cos 𝜙𝜙ˆ + 𝛽sin 𝜙𝑠ˆ),
2 2
describe an electromagnetic field?
𝜙(𝑥 , 𝑡) = 3𝑥𝑦𝑧 − 4𝑡 where 𝛼 ≠ 0,⋅ 𝛽 ≠ 0, is added to 𝐴(𝑠: 𝜙, 𝑧), the
magnetic field remains the same if
𝐴(𝑥 , 𝑡) = (2𝑥 − 𝜔𝑡)𝑖ˆ + (𝑦 − 2𝑧)𝑗ˆ
[GATE 2019]
+ (𝑧 − 2𝑥𝑒 𝑖𝑎𝑥 )𝑘ˆ
(a) 𝛼 = 𝛽 (b) 𝛼 = −𝛽
where 𝜔 is a constant
[GATE 2007] 𝛽
(a) Yes, in the Coulomb gauge (c) 𝛼 = 2𝛽 (d) 𝛼 =
2

(b) Yes, in the Lorentz gauge ❖ JEST PYQ

(c) Yes, provided 𝜔 = 0

1. Consider magnetic vector potential 𝐴 and scalar
potential Φ which define the magnetic field 𝐵 ⃗
(d) No
and electric field 𝐸⃗ and electric field 𝐸⃗ . If one
3. The electric and the magnetic fields 𝐸(𝑧, 𝑡) and adds −∇𝜆 to 𝐴 for a well - defined 𝜆, then what
𝐵(𝑧, 𝑡), respectively corresponding to the scalar should be added to Φ so that 𝐸⃗ remains
potential 𝜙(𝑧, 𝑡) = 0 and vector potential unchanged up to an arbitrary function of time,
𝐴(𝑧, 𝑡) = 𝑖ˆ𝑧 are 𝑓(𝑡) ?
[GATE 2012] [JEST 2017]
∂𝜆 ∂𝜆
(a) 𝐸⃗ = 𝑖ˆ𝑧 and 𝐵
⃗ = −𝑗𝑡 (a) ∂𝑡 (b) − ∂𝑡

(b) 𝐸⃗ = 𝑖ˆ𝑧 and 𝐵

⃗ = 𝑗𝑡 1 ∂𝜆 1 ∂𝜆
(c) 2 ∂𝑡 (d) − 2 ∂𝑡

(c) 𝐸⃗ = −𝑖ˆ𝑧 and 𝐵

⃗ = −𝑗𝑡
2. Consider a sphere of radius 𝑅 containing a
charge with volume density 𝜌(𝑟) = 4𝜋 ∈0 𝛼/𝑟.
(d) 𝐸⃗ = −𝑖ˆ𝑧 and 𝐵
⃗ = 𝑗𝑡
The charge is zero outside the sphere. The
electromagnetic potentials ( 𝜙 and 𝐴 ) inside
4. If the vector potential
the sphre may be written in many ways. Which
𝐴 = 𝛼𝑥𝑥ˆ + 2𝑦𝑦ˆ − 3𝑧𝑧ˆ
of the following values of 𝜙 and 𝐴 inside the
satisfies the Coulomb gauge, the value of the
sphere describe the situation correctly?
constant 𝛼 is……
[JEST 2021]
[GATE 2014]
(a) 𝜙 = 0, 𝐴 = −2𝜋𝛼𝑡𝑟ˆ (b) 𝜙 = 2𝜋𝛼𝑟, 𝐴 = 0

(c) 𝜙 = 0, 𝐴 = −𝜋𝛼𝑡𝑟ˆ (d) 𝜙 = 𝜋𝛼𝑟, 𝐴 = 0

80
❖ TIFR PYQ
1. The magnetic vector potential
𝐴(𝑟) Answer Key
⃗ is
corresponding to a uniform magnetic field 𝐵 CSIR PYQ
1 1. b 2. d 3. d 4. c 5. a
taken in the form𝐴 = 𝐵⃗ ×𝑟
2 6. a 7. d 8. d 9. b 10. d
where 𝑟 is the position vector. If the electric field 11. c 12. b
has the timedependent form 𝐸⃗ = 𝐸⃗0 (𝑟)𝑒 𝑖𝜔𝑡 , GATE PYQ
where 𝜔 is a constant, the gauge choice 1. d 2. d 3. d 4. 1 5. c
corresponding to this potential is a 6. d
[TIFR 2013] JEST PYQ
(a) Lorenz gauge (c) Coulomb gauge 1. a 2. a
TIFR PYQ
(b) non-linear gauge (d) time-varying 1. c 2. b
gauge

2. The magnetic vector potential corresponding to

⃗ is often taken as
a uniform magnetic field 𝐵
1
𝐴= 𝐵⃗ ×𝑥
2
This choice is [TIFR 2019]
(a) valid in the Lorenz gauge.

(b) valid in the Coulomb gauge. ∇

(c) valid in the Weyl gauge.

(d) gauge invariant.

81
 ❖ EMT 11 : Relativistic Electrodynamics

❖ CSIR-NET PYQ’s 4 A rod of length 𝐿 carrics a total charge 𝑄

distributed uniformly. If this is observed in a
1 In a given frame of reference, it is found that the frame moving with a speed 𝑣 along the rod, the
electric field 𝐸⃗ (𝑟, 𝑡) and the magnetic field charge per unit length (as measured by the
⃗ (𝑟, 𝑡) are perpendicular to each other at all
𝐵 moving observer) is
[NET June 2015]
points, i.e., 𝐸⃗ (𝑟, 𝑡) ⋅ 𝐵
⃗ (𝑟, 𝑡) = 0. If the fields
𝑄 𝑣2 𝑄 𝑣2
observed in any other inertial frame are 𝐸⃗ ′ and (a) 𝐿 (1 − 𝑐 2 ) (b) 𝐿 √1 − 𝑐 2
⃗ , then
𝐵
[NET 2008] 𝑄 𝑄
(c) (d) 𝑣2
(a) 𝐸⃗ || 𝐵
′ ⃗ at all points
′ 𝑣2
𝐿√1− 2 𝑙(1− 2 )
𝑐
𝑐

(b) 𝐸⃗ ′ ⋅ 𝐵
⃗ ′ < 0 at all points 5 The values of the electric and magnetic fields in
a particular reference frame (in (Gaussian
(c) 𝐸⃗ ′ ⋅ 𝐵
⃗′>0 units) are 𝐸= 3𝑥 + 4𝑖 and 𝐵 = 3z, respectively.
An inertial observer moving with respect to this
(d) 𝐸⃗ ′ ⋅ 𝐵
⃗′=0 frame measures the magnitude of the electric
field to te |𝑬′ | = 4. The magnitude of the
2 Which of the following quantities is Lorentz magnetic field |𝑩| measured by him is
invariant? [NET June 2016]
[NET June 2009] (a) 5 (b) 9
2
(a) |E × B| (b) |E|2 − C 2 |B|2
(c) 0 (d) 1
2 2 2 2
(c) |E| + |B| (d) |E| | B|
6 In an inertial frame S, the magnetic vector
3 Which of the following quantities is Lorentz potential in a region of space is given by 𝐴 = 𝑎𝑧𝑖ˆ
invariant? (where 𝑎 is a constant) and the scalar potential
[CSIR JUNE 2012] is zero. The electric and magnetic fields seen by
2
(a) |𝐸 × 𝐵| (b) |𝐸|2 − |𝐵|2 an inertial observer moving with a velocity 𝑣𝑖ˆ
with respect to S, are respectively. [In the
(c) |𝐸|2 + |𝐵|2 (d) |𝐸|2 |𝐵|2 following 𝛾 =
1
].
√1−𝑣 2 /𝑐 2
[CSIR DEC 2017]
(a) 0 and 𝛾𝑎𝑗ˆ (b) −𝑣𝑎𝑘ˆ and 𝛾𝑎𝑖ˆ

(c) 𝑟𝛾𝑎𝑘ˆ and 𝑟𝛾𝑎𝑗ˆ (d) 𝑣𝛾𝑎𝑘ˆ and 𝛾𝑎𝑗ˆ

82
7 In the rest frame 𝑆1 of a point particle with
electric charge 𝑞1 , another point particle with
electric charge 𝑞2 moves with a speed 𝑣 parallel
to the 𝑥-axis at a perpendicular distance 𝑙. The
magnitude of the electromagnetic force felt by 𝑞1
due to 𝑞2 when the distance between them is
1
minimum, is [In the following 𝛾 = 2
.
√1−𝑣2
𝑐

[CSIR DEC 2017] The wavelength electromagnetic radiation

1 𝑞1 𝑞2 1 𝛾𝑞 𝑞 received by an observer along the direction of
(a) 4𝜋𝜀 𝛾𝑙 2 (b) 4𝜋𝜀 𝑙12 2
0 0
motion is
𝐿
1 𝛾𝑞1 𝑞2 𝑣2 1 𝑞1 𝑞2 𝑣2 (a) √1 − 𝛽 2 (b) 𝐿 ⋅ √1 − 𝛽 2
(c) (1 + ) (d) 4𝜋𝜀 𝛾𝑙 𝛽
4𝜋𝜀0 𝑙 2 𝑐2 2 (1 + 𝑐2
)
0

(c) L𝛽√1 − 𝛽 2 (d) L

8 In an inertial frame, uniform electric and
magnetic fields 𝐸⃗ and 𝐵
⃗ are perpendicular to
11 The electric field due to a uniformly charged
each other and satisfy |𝐸⃗ |2 − |𝐵 ⃗ |2 = 29 (in
infinite line along the 𝑧-axis, as observed in the
suitable units). In another inertial frame, which
rest frame 𝑆 of the line charge, is 𝐸⃗ (𝑟) =
moves at a constant velocity with respect to the 𝜆 𝑥𝑖ˆ+𝑦𝑗ˆ
. In a frame 𝑀 moving with a constant
first frame, the magnetic field is 2√5𝑘ˆ. In the 2𝜋𝜖0 (𝑥 2 +𝑦 2 )
second trame, an electric field consistent with speed 𝑣 with respect to 𝑆 along the 𝑧 - direction,
the previous observations is the electric field 𝐸⃗ ′ is (in the following 𝛽 = 𝑣/𝑐
[CSIR DEC 2018] and 𝛾 = 1/√1 − 𝛽 2 )
7
(a) (𝑖ˆ + 𝑗ˆ) (b) 7(𝑖ˆ + 𝑘ˆ ) [CSIR JUNE 2020]
√2
(a) 𝐸𝑥′ = 𝐸𝑥 and 𝐸𝑦′ = 𝐸𝑦
7
(c) (𝑖ˆ + 𝑘ˆ ) (d) 7(𝑖ˆ + 𝑗ˆ)
√2
(b) 𝐸𝑥′ = 𝛽𝛾𝐸𝑥 and 𝐸𝑦′ = 𝛽𝛾𝐸𝑦

9 An inertial observer 𝐴 at rest measures the

(c) 𝐸𝑥′ = 𝐸𝑥 /𝛾 and 𝐸𝑦′ = 𝐸𝑦 /𝛾
electric and magnetic field 𝐸 = (𝛼, 0,0) and 𝐵 =
(𝛼, 0,2𝛼) in 2 region, where 𝛼 is a constant.
Another inertial observer 𝐵, moving with a (d) 𝐸𝑥′ = 𝛾𝐸𝑥 and 𝐸𝑦′ = 𝛾𝐸𝑦
constant velocity with respect to 𝐴 measures
the field as E ′ = (𝐸1′ , 𝛼, 0) and B ′ = (𝛼, 𝐵,′ , 𝛼). 12 The charge density and current of an infinitely
long perfectly conducting wire of radius 𝑎,
Then, in units 𝑐 = 1, 𝐸, and 𝐵′, are given,
which lies along the 𝑧-axis, as measured by a
respectively, by
static observer are zero and a constant 𝐼,
[NET June 2019]
respectively. The charge density measured by
(a) −2𝛼 and 𝛼 (b) 2𝛼 and −𝛼
an observer, who moves at a speed 𝑣 = 𝛽𝑐
parallel to the wire along the direction of the
(c) 𝛼 and −2𝛼 (d) −𝑎 and 2𝛼
current, is
[CSIR JUNE 2023]
10 A point charge is moving with a uniform
𝐼𝛽 𝐼𝛽√1−𝛽2
velocity 𝛽𝑐 along the positive 𝑥-direction, (a) − (b) − 𝜋𝑎 2 𝑐
𝜋𝑎 2 𝑐√1−𝛽 2
parallel to and very 𝑐𝑙𝑜𝑠𝑒 𝑡𝑜 a corrugated metal
sheet (see the figure below). 𝐼𝛽 𝐼𝛽√1−𝛽2
[NET June 2019] (c) (d) 𝜋𝑎 2 𝑐
𝜋𝑎 2 𝑐√1−𝛽2

83
❖ GATE PYQ’s

1. Which one of the following remains invariant

under Lorentz transformations?
[GATE 2004]
∂ ∂ ∂ 1 ∂
(a) ∂𝑥 + ∂𝑦 + ∂𝑧 − 𝑐 2 ∂𝑡

∂2 ∂2 ∂2 1 ∂2
(b) ∂𝑥 2 + ∂𝑦2 + ∂𝑧2 + 𝑐 2 ∂𝑡 2 (a) maximum along 𝑧 ′

∂2 ∂2 ∂2 1 ∂2 (b) maximum along 𝑦 ′

(c) ∂𝑥2 + ∂𝑦2 + ∂𝑧2 − 𝑐 2 ∂𝑡 2

(c) maximum along 𝑥 ′

∂2 ∂2 ∂2
(d) ∂𝑥 2 + ∂𝑦2 + ∂𝑧 2
(d) uniform over the sphere
2. In an electromagnetic field, which one of the
following remains invariant under Lorentz ❖ JEST PYQ’s
transformation?
[GATE 2006] 1. An observer in an inertial frame finds that at a
point 𝑃 the electric field vanishes but the
(a) 𝐸⃗ × 𝐵
⃗ (b) 𝐸 2 − 𝑐 2 𝐵2
magnetic field does not. This implies that in any

(c) 𝐵2 (d) 𝐸 2 other inertial frame the electric field 𝐸⃗ and the
⃗ satisfy.
magnetic field 𝐵
3. Which one of the following quantities is [JEST 2012]
invariant under Lorentz transformation? (a) |𝐸⃗ |2 = |𝐵
⃗ |2 ⃗ ⃗ =0
(b) 𝐸 × 𝐵
[GATE 2014]
(a) Charge density (b) Charge (c) 𝐸⃗ ⋅ 𝐵
⃗ =0 (d) 𝐸⃗ = 0

(c) Current (d) Electric field A

Answer Key
4. uniform magnetic field 𝐵 ⃗ = 𝐵0 𝑦ˆ exists in an CSIR PYQ
internal frame 𝐾. A perfect conducting sphere 1. d 2. b 3. b 4. c 5. c
moves with a constant velocity 𝑣 = 𝑣0 𝑥ˆ with 6. d 7. b 8. a 9. d 10. *
respect to this inertial frame. The rest frame of 11. d 12. a
the sphere is 𝐾 ′ (see figure). The electric and GATE PYQ
magnetic fields in 𝐾 and 𝐾 ′ are related as 1. c 2. b 3. b 4. a
𝐸⃗∥′ = 𝐸⃗∥ 𝐸⃗⊥′ = 𝛾(𝐸⃗⊥ + 𝑣 × 𝐵⃗) JEST PYQ
𝑣 }, 1. c
⃗ ∥′ = 𝐵
𝐵 ⃗∥ ⃗ ⊥′ = 𝛾 (𝐵
𝐵 ⃗⊥− × 𝐸⃗ )
𝑐 2

1 * No Answer matches
𝛾=
√1 − (𝑣/𝑐)2
The induced surface charge density on the
sphere (to the lowest order in 𝑣/𝑐 ) in the frame
𝐾 ′ is
[GATE 2020]

84
 ❖ EMT 12 : Waveguide , Transmission line

❖ CSIR-NET PYQ’s [CSIR JUNE 2015]

(a) TE10 , TE01 and TE20
1. The magnetic field of the 𝑇𝐸11 mode of a
rectangular waveguide of dimensions a × b as (b) TE10 , TE11 and TE20
shown in the figure is given by 𝐻𝑧 = 20
𝐻0 cos (0.3𝜋𝑥)cos (0.4𝜋𝑦), where 𝑥 and 𝑦 are in (c) TE01 , TE10 and TE11
cm. [CSIR JUNE 2011]
(d) TE01 , TE10 and TE2

3. A wavelength has a square cross-section of side

2𝑎. For the TM modes of wavevector 𝑘, the
transverse electromagnetic modes are obtained
in terms of a function 𝜓(𝑥, 𝑦) which obeys the
equation
∂2 ∂2 𝜔2
[ 2 + 2 + ( 2 − 𝑘 2 )] 𝜓(𝑥, 𝑦) = 0
∂𝑥 ∂𝑦 𝑐
with the boundary condition 𝜓(±𝑎, 𝑦) =
(A) The dimensions of the waveguide are
𝜓(𝑥, ±𝑎) = 0. The frequency 𝜔 of the lowest
(a) 𝑎 = 3.33 cm, 𝑏 = 2.50 cm
mode is given by
(b) 𝑎 = 0.40 cm, 𝑏 = 0.30 cm [CSIR JUNE 2016]
4𝜋2
(a) 𝜔2 = 𝑐 2 (𝑘 2 + 𝑎2
)
(c) 𝑎 = 0.80 cm, 𝑏 = 0.60 cm
𝜋2
(d) 𝑎 = 1.66 cm, 𝑏 = 1.25 cm (b) 𝜔2 = 𝑐 2 (𝑘 2 + 𝑎2 )

(B) The entire range of frequencies 𝑓 for which 𝜋2

the TE mode will propagate is: (c) 𝜔2 = 𝑐 2 (𝑘 2 + 2𝑎2 )
[CSIR JUNE 2011]
(a) 6.0GHz < 𝑓 < 7.5GHz 𝜋2
(d) 𝜔2 = 𝑐 2 (𝑘 2 + )
4𝑎 2
(b) 7.5GHz < 𝑓 < 9.0GHz
4. A hollow waveguide supports transverse electric
(c) 7.5GHz < 𝑓 < 12.0GHz (TE) modes with the dispersion relation 𝑘 =
1 2 , where 𝜔
√𝜔 2 − 𝜔𝑚𝑛 𝑚𝑛 is the mode frequency.
𝑐
(d) 7.5GHz < 𝑓 The speed of flow of electromagnetic energy at
the mode frequency is
2. Consider a rectangular wave guide with [CSIR JUNE 2018]
transverse dimensions 2 m × 1 m driven with an (a) 𝑐 (b) 𝜔𝑚𝑛 /𝑘
angular frequency 𝜔 = 109 rad/s. Which
transverse electric (TE) modes will propagate in (c) 0 (d) ∞
this wave guide?

85
5. A metallic wave guide of square cross-section of
side 𝐿 is excited by an electromagnetic wave of
wave number 𝑘. The group velocity of the 𝑇𝐸11
mode is
[CSIR DEC 2019]
𝑐𝑘𝐿 𝑐
(a) 2 2 2 (b) √𝑘 2 𝐿2 − 2𝜋 2
√𝑘 𝐿 +𝜋 𝑘𝐿

𝑐 𝑐𝑘𝐿
(c) √𝑘 2 𝐿2 − 𝜋2 (d)
𝑘𝐿 √𝑘 2 𝐿2 +2𝜋2

6. A transmission line has the characteristic

impedance of (50 + 1𝑗)Ω and is terminated in a
load resistance of (70 − 7𝑗)Ω (where 𝑗 2 = −1).
The magnitude of the reflection coefficient will
be closest to
[CSIR DEC 2023]
5 1
(a)7 (b)2

1 1
(c) (d)
6 7

7. A 2-dimensional resonant cavity supports a TM

mode built from a function
𝜓(𝑥, 𝑦, 𝑡) = sin (𝑘⃗𝑎 ⋅ 𝑟 − 𝜔𝑡) + sin (𝑘⃗𝑏 ⋅ 𝑟 − 𝜔𝑡)
+ sin (𝑘⃗𝑎 ⋅ 𝑟 + 𝜔𝑡)
+ sin (𝑘⃗𝑏 ⋅ 𝑟 + 𝜔𝑡)
where 𝑘⃗𝑎 and 𝑘⃗𝑏 lie in the 𝑥𝑦-plane and make ❖ TIFR PYQ
𝜋 3𝜋
angles 4 and 4 with the 𝑥-axis, respectively. If
1. For an electromagnetic wave propagating
0 < |𝑘⃗𝑎 | < |𝑘⃗𝑏 |, then which of the following
through a rectangular waveguide, the electric
closely describes the outline of the cavity?
[CSIR DEC 2023] and magnetic fields [TIFR 2023]
(a) are never perpendicular to each other
(b) are always perpendicular to each other
(c) are perpendicular to each other only in the
TE mode
(d) are perpendicular to each other only in the
TM mode

Answer Key
CSIR PYQ
1. a/d 2. a 3. c 4. c 5. d
6. c 7. d
TIFR PYQ
1. a

86
 ❖ EMT 13 : Miscellaneous Topics

❖ CSIR-NET PYQ’s
4. A laser beam propagates from fiber 1 to fiber 2
1. The components of a vector potential in a cavity made up of two optical fibers (as
𝐴𝜇 = (𝐴0 , 𝐴1 , 𝐴2 , 𝐴3 ) are given by shown in the figure). The loss factor of fiber 2 is
𝐴𝜇 = 𝑘(−𝑥𝑦𝑧, 𝑦𝑧𝑡, 𝑧𝑥𝑡, 𝑥𝑦𝑡) where 𝑘 is a 10 dB
.
constant. The three components of the electric km

field are [NET June 2021]

[CSIR JUNE 2013]
(a) k(yz, zx, xy) (b) 𝑘(𝑥, 𝑦, 𝑧)

(c) (0,0,0) (d) k(xt, yt, zt)

If 𝐸2 (𝑑) denotes the magnitude of the electric
field in fiber 2 at a distance 𝑑 from the interface,
𝐸 (0)
2. Consider the laser resonator cavity shown in the the ratio 𝐸2(𝑑) for 𝑑 = 10 km, is
2
figure. If 𝐼1 is the intensity of the radiation at
(a) 102 (b) 103
mirror 𝑀1 and 𝛼 is the gain coefficient of the
medium between the mirrors, then the energy
density of photons in the plane 𝑃 at a distance 𝑥 (c) 105 (d) 107
from 𝑀1 is
[CSIR JUNE 2013] 5. The components of the electric field, in a region
of space devoid of any charge or current sources,
are given to be 𝐸𝑖 = 𝑎𝑖 + ∑𝑗=1,2,3 𝑏𝑖𝑗 𝑥𝑗 , where 𝑎𝑖
and 𝑏𝑖𝑗 are constants independent of the
coordinates. The number of independent
components of the matrix 𝑏𝑖𝑗 is
[CSIR JUNE 2021]
(a) 5 (b) 6

(a) (I1 /c)e−𝛼𝑥 (b) (I1 /c)e𝛼x (c) 3 (d) 4

(c) (𝐼1 /𝑐)(𝑒 𝛼𝑥 + 𝑒 −𝛼𝑥 ) (d) (I1 /c)e2𝛼𝑥

6. Electrons polarized along the 𝑥-direction are in
3. Two monochromatic sources, L1 , and L2 , emit a magnetic field
light at 600 and 700 nm, respectively. If their 𝐵1 𝑖ˆ + 𝐵2 (cos 𝜔𝑡𝑗ˆ + sin 𝜔𝑡𝑘ˆ )
frequency bandwidths are 10−1 and 10−3 GHz, where 𝐵1 > 𝐵2 and 𝜔 are positive constants. The
respectively, then the ratio of linewidth of L1 and value of ℏ𝜔 for which the polarization-flip
L2 is approximately process is a resonant one, is
[CSIR DEC 2013] [CSIR JUNE 2023]
|𝐵
(a) 2𝜇𝐵 2 | (b) 𝜇𝐵 |𝐵1 |
(a) 100: 1 (b) 1: 85
(c) 𝜇𝐵 |𝐵2 | (d) 2𝜇𝐵 |𝐵1 |
(c) 75: 1 (d) 1: 75

87
❖ GATE PYQ’s
5. Consider the operations 𝑃: 𝑟 → 𝑟 (parity) and
1. A circular conducting loop C1 of radius 2 m is 𝑇: 𝑡 → −𝑡 (time-reversal). For the electric and
located in the XOY plane such that its centre is at magnetic fields 𝐸‾ and 𝐵‾, which of the following
(0,0,0). Another circular conducting loop C2 of set of transformations is correct?
radius 2 m is located at (0,0,4) such that the [GATE 2010]
plane of C2 is parallel to the XOY plane. A current ⃗ ⃗ ‾
𝑃: 𝐸 → −𝐸 , 𝐵 → 𝐵 ⃗
of 5 A is flowing in each of these loops such that (a)
𝑇: 𝐸⃗ → 𝐸⃗ , 𝐵
⃗ → −𝐵⃗
the positive Z-axis lies to the left of the directions
of the currents. Find the magnetic induction 𝐵 ⃗ ( b ) 𝑃: 𝐸⃗ → −𝐸⃗ , 𝐵
⃗ →𝐵⃗
produced at (0,0,0), neglecting the mutual ⃗ ⃗ ⃗
𝑃: 𝐸 → 𝐸 , 𝐵 → −𝐵 ⃗
induction of the loops in 𝜇𝑇.
[GATE 2001] (c) 𝑃: 𝐸⃗ → −𝐸⃗ , 𝐵
⃗ →𝐵
⃗;
𝑇: 𝐸⃗ → −𝐸⃗ , 𝐵
⃗ → −𝐵
⃗
2. An electron propagating along the 𝑥-axis passes
through a slit of width Δ𝑦 = 1 nm. The 𝑃: 𝐸⃗ → 𝐸⃗ , 𝐵
⃗ → −𝐵
⃗
uncertainty in the 𝑦-component of its velocity (d)
𝑇: 𝐸⃗ → −𝐸⃗ , 𝐵⃗ →𝐵
⃗
after passing through the slit is
[GATE 2002] 6. Among electric field (𝐸⃗ ), magnetic field (𝐵
⃗ ),
5
(a) 7.322 × 10 m/s (b) 1.166 × 105 m/s angular momentum (𝐿⃗) and vector potential (𝐴),
which is/are odd under parity (space inversion)
(c) 3.436 × 105 m/s (d) 2.326 × 104 m/s operation?
[GATE 2018]
3. A charged capacitor (C) is connected in series
(a) 𝐸⃗ only (b) 𝐸⃗ and 𝐴 only
with an inductor (L). When the displacement
current reduces to zero, the energy of the LC
(c) 𝐸⃗ and 𝐵
⃗ only ⃗ and 𝐿⃗ only
(d) 𝐵
circuit is
[GATE 2007]
7. The number of independent components of a
(a) stored entirely in its magnetic field
general electromagnetic field tensor is
[GATE 2018]
(b) stored entirely in its electric field

(c) distributed equally among its electric and 8. If 𝐸⃗ and 𝐵

⃗ are the electric and magnetic fields
magnetic fields respectively, then 𝐸⃗ ⋅ 𝐵
⃗ is [GATE 2020]
(a) odd under parity and even under time
reversal
(d) radiated out of the circuit
(b) even under parity and odd under time
4. Match the following reversal
P. rest mass 1. time like vector
Q. charge 2. Lorentz invariant (c) odd under parity and odd under time
R. four-momentum 3. tensor of rank 2 reversal
S. electromagnetic field 4. conserved and
Lorentz invariant (d) even under parity and even under time
[GATE 2007] reversal
(a) (b) (c) (d)
P-2 P-4 P-2 P-4
Q-4 Q-2 Q-4 Q-2
R-3 R-1 R-1 R-3
S-1 S-3 S-3 S-1

88
9. An electromagnetic pulse has a pulse width of ❖ JEST PYQ
10−3 s. The uncertainty in the momentum of the
corresponding photon is of the order of 1. The equation describing the shape of a curved
10−𝑁 kg m s−1, where 𝑁 is an integer. The value mirror with the property that the light from a
of 𝑁 is [Speed of light = 3 × 108 m s −1 , ℎ = point source at the origin will be reflected in a
6.6 × 10−34 J s ] [GATE 2022] beam of rays parallel to the x-axis is (with a as
some constant) [JEST 2013]
10. A spectrometer is used to detect plasma (a) 𝑦 2 = 𝑎𝑥 + 𝑎2 (b) 2𝑦 = 𝑥 2 + 𝑎2
oscillations in a simple. The spectrometer can
work in the range of 3 × 1012 rads−1 to (c) 𝑦 2 = 2𝑎𝑥 + 𝑎2 (d) 𝑦 2 = 𝑎𝑥 3 + 2𝑎2
30 × 1012 rads−1. The minimum carrier
concentration that can be detected by using this 2. Assume the earth to be an uniform sphere of
spectrometer is 𝑛 × 1021 m−3. The value of 𝑛 is . radius 6400 km and having a uniform electric
(Round off to two decimal places) permittivity of 8.85 × 10−12 Farad/m. What
[GATE 2022] would be the self capacitance (in micro-Farads)
[Charge of an electron = −1.6 × 10−1 C, massof of the earth? Round off your answer to the
an electron = 9.1 × 10−31 kg and 𝜀0 = 8.85 × nearest integer. [JEST 2021]
10−12 C2 N−1 m−2 ]

11. Under parity and time reversal transformations, Answer Key

which of the following statements is (are) TRUE CSIR-NET PYQ
about the electric dipole moment 𝑝 and the 1. c 2. c 3. c 4. c 5. a
magnetic dipole moment 𝜇 ? 6. d
[GATE 2023] GATE PYQ
1. 1.7 2. b 3. b 4. c 5. a
(a) 𝑝 is odd under parity and 𝜇 is odd under
6. b 7. 6 8. c 9. 39 10. 2.70 to
time reversal
to 40 2.96
11. a
(b) 𝑝 is odd under parity and 𝜇 is even under JEST PYQ
time reversal 1. c 2. 0712

(c) 𝑝 is even under parity and 𝜇 is odd under

time reversal

(d) 𝑝 is even under parity and 𝜇 is even under

time reversal

89
 ❖ EMT 14 : Optics

• INTEREFERENCE & DIFRACTION 𝑐

[CSIR JUNE 2014]
𝑐
(a) 𝑣 +𝑣 (b) 𝑣 −𝑣
2 1 2 1

❖ CSIR-NET PYQ’s
𝑐 𝑐
(c) 2(𝑣 (d) 2(𝑣
2 −𝑣1 ) 2 +𝑣1 )
1. In a Young's double slit interference experiment,
the slits are at a distance 2 L from each other and 4. A parallel beam of light of wavelength 𝜆 is
the screen is at a distance D from the slits. If a incident normally on a thin polymer film with air
glass slab of refractive index 𝜇 and thickness d is on both sides. If the film has a refractive index
placed in the path of one of the beams, the 𝑛 > 1, then second-order bright fringes can be
minimum value of d for the central fringe to be observed in reflection when the thickness of the
dark is film is
[CSIR DEC 2011] [CSIR DEC 2014]
𝜆𝐷 𝜆𝐷
(a) (b) (a) 𝜆/4𝑛 (b) 𝜆/2𝑛
(𝜇−1)√𝐷2 +𝐿2 (𝜇−1)𝐿

𝜆 𝜆 (c) 3𝜆/4𝑛 (d) 𝜆/𝑛

(c) (𝜇−1) (d) 2(𝜇−1)
5. A plane electromagnetic wave incident normally
2. Consider the interference of two coherent on the surface of a material is partially reflected.
electromagnetic waves whose electric field Measurements on the standing wave in the
vectors are given by 𝐸⃗1 = 𝑖ˆ𝐸0 cos 𝜔𝑡 and 𝐸⃗2 = region in front of the interface show that the
𝑗ˆ𝐸0 cos (𝜔𝑡 + 𝜑) where 𝜑 is the phase difference. ratio of the electric field amplitude at the
The intensity of the resulting wave is given by maxima and the minima is 5. The ratio of the
𝜀0
⟨𝐸 2 ⟩, where ⟨𝐸 2 ⟩ is the time average of 𝐸 2 . The reflected intensity to the incident intensity is
2
total intensity is [CSIR DEC 2014]
[CSIR DEC 2012] (a) 4/9 (b) 2/3
(a) 0 (b) 𝜀0 𝐸02
(c) 2/5 (d) 1/5
(c) 𝜀0 𝐸02 sin2 𝜑 (d) 𝜀0 𝐸02 cos2 𝜑
6. A screen has two slits, each of width 𝑤, with their
centres at a distance 2𝑤 apart. It is illuminated
3. A double slit interference experiment uses a
by a monochromatic plane wave travelling along
laser emitting light of two adjacent frequencies
the 𝑥-axis. The intensity of the interference
𝑣1 and 𝑣2 (𝑣1 < 𝑣2 ). The minimum path
pattern, measured on a distant screen, at an
difference between the interfering beams for
angle 𝜃 = 𝑛𝜆/𝑤 to the 𝑥 axis is
which the interference pattern disappears is
[CSIR DEC 2016]

90
 [CSIR DEC 2016]
(a) 12𝜇m (b) 24𝜇m

(c) 60𝜇m (d) 120𝜇m

8. The figure below describes the arrangement of

slits and screens in a Young's double slit
experiment. The width of the slit in 𝑆1 is 𝑎 and
the slits in 𝑆2 are of negligible width.
[CSIR JUNE 2017]

(a) zero for 𝑛 = 1,2,3 …

(b) maximum for 𝑛 = 1,2,3 …

1 3 5
(c) maximum for 𝑛 = 2 , 2 , 2

If the wavelength of the light is 𝜆, the value of 𝑑

(d) zero for 𝑛 = 0 only
for which the screen would be dark is
𝑎 2 𝑏 𝑎 2
7. A pair of parallel glass plates separated by a (a) 𝑏√( ) − 1 (b) √( ) − 1
𝜆 2 𝜆
distance 𝑑 is illuminated by white light as shown
in the figure below. Also shown is the graph of 𝑎 𝑏 2 𝑎𝑏
the intensity of the reflected light light 𝐼 as a (c) 2 (𝜆) (d) 𝜆
function of the wavelength 𝜆 recorded by a
spectrometer. 9. The following configuration of three identical
[CSIR DEC 2016] narrow slits are illuminated by monochromatic
light of wavelength 𝜆 (as shown in the figure
below). The intensity is measured at angle 𝜃
(where 𝜃 is the angle with the incident beam) at
2𝜋𝑑
a large distance from the slits. If 𝛿 = 2
sin 𝜃,
the intensity is proportional to
[CSIR JUNE 2018]

(a) 2cos 𝛿 + 2cos 2𝛿

1
Assuming that the interference takes place only (b) 3 + 82 sin2 3𝛿
between light reflected by the bottom surface of
the top plate and the top surface of bottom plate, (c) 3 + 2cos 𝛿 + 2cos 2𝛿 + 2cos 3𝛿
the distance 𝑑 is closest to
1
(d) 2 + sin2 3𝛿
𝛿2

91
 [CSIR JUNE 2020]
10. A monochromatic and linearly polarized light is
used in a Young's double slit experiment. A linear
polarizer, whose pass axis is at an angle 45∘ to
the polarization of the incident wave, is placed in
front of one of the slits. If 𝐼max and 𝐼min,
respectively, denote the maximum and minimum
intensities of the interference pattern on the
screen, the visibility, defined as the ratio
𝐼max −𝐼min
𝐼max +𝐼min
, is
[CSIR DEC 2018]
√2 2
(a) 3
(b)3

2√2 2
(c) 3
(d)√3

11. The phase difference between two small

oscillating electric dipoles, separated by a
distance 𝑑, is 𝜋. If the wavelength of the radiation
is 𝜆, the condition for constructive interference
between the two dipolar radiations at a point 𝑃
when 𝑟 ≫ 𝑑 (symbols are as shown in the figure,
and 𝑛 is an integer) is
[CSIR DEC 2019]

1
(a) 𝑑sin 𝜃 = (𝑛 + 2) 𝜆 (b) 𝑑sin 𝜃 = 𝑛𝜆

1
(c) 𝑑cos 𝜃 = 𝑛𝜆 (d) 𝑑cos 𝜃 = (𝑛 + 2) 𝜆

13. A high frequency voltage signal Vi = Vm sin ωt is

12. The following figure shows the intensity of the
applied to a parallel plate deflector as shown in
interference pattern in the Young's double-slit
the figure
experiment with two slits of equal width is
observed on a distant screen
If the separation between the slits is doubled and
the width of each of the slits is halved, then the
new interference pattern is best represented be
An electron beam is passing through the
deflector along the central line. The best
qualitative representation of the intensity I(t) of

92
 the beam after it goes through the narrow below).
circular aperture D, is The distance ℎ between the reflectors 𝑀1 and
[CSIR JUNE 2022] 𝑀2 (assumed to be much larger than the
aperture of the lens), is increased till the
interference fringes (at 𝑃0 , 𝑃 on the plane as
shown) vanish for the first time. This happens
for ℎ = 3 m for a star which emits radiowaves
of wavelength 2.7 cm. The measured value of 𝜃
(in degrees) is closest to
[CSIR JUNE 2023]
(a)0.63 (b)0.32
(c)0.52 (d)0.26

16. For a flat circular glass plate of thickness 𝑑, the

refractive index 𝑛(𝑟) varies radially, where 𝑟 is
the radial distance from the centre of the plate. A
coherent plane wavefront is normally incident
on this plate as shown in the figure below.

14. A charged particle moves uniformly on the 𝑥𝑦-

plane along a circle of radius 𝑎 centred at the If the emergent wavefront is spherical and
origin. A detector is put at a distance 𝑑 on the 𝑥-
centered on the axis of the plate, the 𝑛(𝑟) − 𝑛(0)
axis to detect the electromagnetic wave
should be proportional to
radiated by the particle along the 𝑥-direction. If
[CSIR DEC 2023]
𝑑  𝑎, the wave received by the detector is
1/2
[CSIR JUNE 2023] (a)𝑟 (b)𝑟

(a)Unpolarized (c)𝑟 2 (d)𝑟 3/2

(b)Circularly polarized with the plane of 17. A finite sized light source is used in a double slit
polarization being the 𝑦𝑧-plane
experiment. The observed intensity pattern
(c)Linearly polarized along the 𝑦-direction changes from figure (a) to figure (b), as shown
below. [CSIR JUNE 2024]
(d)Linearly polarized along the 𝑧-direction

15. The angular width 𝜃 of a distant star can be

measured by the Michelson radiofrequency
stellar interferometer (as shown in the figure

93
 (b) increasing the width of the slit in screen S1

(c) decreasing the momentum of the electrons

(d) increasing the momentum of the electrons

The observed change can occur due to

4. A Michelson interferometer is illuminated with
(a)narrowing of the slits.
monochromatic light. When one of the mirrors is
moved through a distance of 25.3𝜇m, 92 fringes
(b)a reduction in the distance between the slits.
pass through the cross-wire. The wavelength of
the monochromatic light is
(c)a decrease in the coherence length of the
[GATE 2004]
light source.
(a) 500 nm (b) 550 nm

(d)a reduction in the size of the light source.

(c) 600 nm (d) 650 nm

❖ GATE PYQ’s 5. A monochromatic plane wave at oblique

incidence undergoes reflection at a dielectric
1. In a two beam interference pattern, the interface. If 𝑘ˆ𝑖 , 𝑘ˆ𝑟 and 𝑛ˆ are the unit vectors in the
maximum and minimum intensity values are directions of incident wave, reflected wave and
found to be 25𝐼0 and 9𝐼0 respectively, where 𝐼0 is the normal to the surface respectively, which one
a constant. The intensities of the two interfering of the following expressions is correct?
beams are
[GATE 2002] [GATE 2013]
(a) 16𝐼0 and 𝐼0 (b) 5𝐼0 and 3𝐼0 (a) (𝑘ˆ𝑖 − 𝑘ˆ𝑟 ) × 𝑛ˆ ≠ 0 (b) (𝑘𝑖 − 𝑘ˆ𝑟 ) ⋅ 𝑛ˆ = 0
ˆ

(c) 17𝐼0 and 8𝐼0 (d) 8𝐼0 and 2𝐼0

(c) (𝑘ˆ𝑖 × 𝑛ˆ) ⋅ 𝑘ˆ𝑟 = 0 (d) (𝑘ˆ𝑖 × 𝑛ˆ) ⋅ 𝑘ˆ𝑟 ≠ 0

2. A parallel beam of infrared radiation of

6. In a Young's double slit experiment using light;
wavelength of 1.01 × 10−6 m is incident
the apparatus has two slits of unequal widths.
normally on a screen with two slits 5 × 10−6 m
When only slit-1 is open, the maximum observed
apart and the resulting interference pattern is
intensity on the screen is 4𝐼0. When only slit-2 is
observed on a distant screen. What is the largest
open, the maximum observed intensity is 𝐼0 .
number of maxima that can be observed on the
When both the slits are open, an interference
screen?
pattern appears on the screen. The ratio of the
[GATE 2003]
intensity of the principal maximum to that of the
(a) 4 (b) 9
nearest minimum is________________.
[GATE 2016]
(c) 13 (d) infinitely many
7. A student sets up Young's double slit
3. A parallel beam of electrons of a given experiment with electrons of momentum 𝑝
momentum pass through a screen 𝑆1 containing incident normally on the slits of width 𝑤
a slit and then produces a diffraction pattern on separated by distance 𝑑. In order to observe
a screen S2 placed behind it. The width of the interference fringes on a screen at a distance 𝐷
central maximum observed on the screen S2 can from the slits, which of the following conditions
be increased by should be satisfied?
[GATE 2003] [GATE 2022]
(a) decreasing the distance between the screens
ℏ 𝐷𝑤 ℏ 𝑑𝑤
S1 and S2 (a) 𝑝 > 𝑑
(b) 𝑝 > 𝐷

94
 ℏ 𝑑2 ℏ 𝑑2 (d) The reflected wave is unpolarized
(c) > (d) >
𝑝 𝐷 𝑝 √𝐷𝑤
❖ JEST PYQ’s
8. Young's double slit experiment is performed
using a beam of C60 (fullerene) molecules, each 1. For an optical fiber with core and cladding
molecule being made up of 60 carbon atoms. index of 𝑛1 = 1.45 and 𝑛2 = 1.44, respectively,
When the slit separation is 50 nm, fringes are what is the approximate cut-off angle of
formed on a screen kept at a distance of 1 m from incidence? Cut-off angle of incidence is defined
the slits. Now, the experiment is repeated with as the incidence angle below which light will be
C70 molecules with a slit separation of 92.5 nm. guided.
The kinetic energies of both the beams are the [JEST 2014]
same. The position of the 4th bright fringe for C60 (a) 7∘ (b) 22∘
will correspond to the 𝑛th bright fringe for C70 .
What is the value of 𝑛 (rounded off to the nearest (c) 5∘ (d) 0∘
integer)?
[GATE 2023] 2. The resolving power of a grating spectrograph
(a) 5 (b) 6 can be improved by [JEST 2014]
(a) recording the spectrum in the lowest order
(c) 7 (d) 8
(b) using a grating with longer grating period
9. Different spectral lines of the Balmer series
(transitions 𝑛 → 2, with 𝑛 being the principal (c) masking a part of the grating surface.
quantum number) fall one at a time on a Young's
double slit apparatus. The separation between (d) illuminating the grating to the maximum
the slits is 𝑑 and the screen is placed at a possible extent.
constant distance from the slits. What factor
should 𝑑 be multiplied by to maintain a constant 3. Three sinusoidal waves have the same
fringe width for various lines, as 𝑛 takes different frequency with amplitude 𝐴, 𝐴/2 and 𝐴/3 while
allowed values? their phase angles are 0, 𝜋/2 and 𝜋 respectively.
[GATE 2023] The amplitude of the resultant wave is
𝑛2 −4 𝑛2 +4 [JEST 2014]
(a) 4𝑛2
(b) 4𝑛2
(a) 11 A/6 (b) 2 A/3
4𝑛2 4𝑛2
(c) (d) (c) 5 A/6 (d) 7 A/6
𝑛2 −4 𝑛2 +4

10. An unpolarized plane electromagnetic wave in a 4. A thin air film of thickness 𝑑 is formed in a glass
dielectric medium 1 is incident on a plane medium. For normal incidence, the condition
interface that separates medium 1 from another for constructive interference in the reflected
dielectric medium 2. Medium 1 and medium 2 beam is (in terms of wavelength 𝜆 and integer
have refractive indices 𝑛1 and 𝑛2 , respectively, 𝑚 = 0,1,2, … )
with 𝑛2 > 𝑛1. If the angle of incidence is
𝑛 [JEST 2017]
tan−1 (𝑛2 ), which one of the following (a) 2𝑑 = (𝑚 − 1/2)𝜆 (b) 2𝑑 = 𝑚𝜆
1
statements is true?
[GATE 2024] (c) 2𝑑 = (𝑚 − 1)𝜆 (d) 2𝜆 = (𝑚 − 1/2)𝑑
(a) There is no transmitted wave

(b)The reflected wave is polarized 5. A collimated white light source illuminates the
perpendicular to the plane of incidence slits of a double slit interference setup and
forms the interference pattern on a screen. If
(c)The reflected wave is polarized parallel to one slit is covered with a blue filter, which one
the plane of incidence of the following statements is correct?

95
 [JEST 2019]
(a) No interference pattern is observed after the 𝑛𝑅
(c) − 2(𝑛−1)2
𝑛𝑅
(d) + 2(𝑛−1)2
slit is covered with the blue filter

(b) Interference pattern remains unchanged 10. A flat soap film has a uniform thickness of
with and without the blue filter 510 nm. White light (having wavelengths in the
range of about 390 − 700 nm ) is incident
(c) A blue interference pattern is observed
normally on the film. If the refractive index of
(d) The central maximum is blue with colored the soap is 1.33, what will be the dominant
higher order maxima colour of the reflected light?
[JEST 2021]
6. The refractive index (𝑛) of the entire (a) Violet (b) Green
environment around a double slit interference
setup is changed from 𝑛 = 1 to 𝑛 = 2. Which (c) Red (d) White
one of the following statements is correct about
the change in the interference pattern?
11. A thin film surrounded by air has an index of
[JEST 2019]
(a) The fringe pattern disappears refraction of 1.4. A region of the film appears
bright blue (𝜆 = 400 nm) when white light is
(b) The central bright maximum turns dark, i.e. incident perpendicular to the surface. What
becomes a minimum might be the minimum thickness of the film?
[JEST 2022]
(c) Fringe width of the pattern increases by a (a) 70 nm (b) 280 nm
factor 2
(c) 420 nm (d) 140 nm
(d) Fringe width of the pattern decreases by a
factor 2
12. A right-angled prism is placed in air (the
7. In the Young's double slit experiment (screen refractive index of air is 1 ) and a light beam is
distance 𝐷 = 50 cm and 𝑑 = 0.1 cm ), a thin incident perpendicular to the base of the prism
mica sheet of refractive index 𝑛 = 1.5 is as shown in the figure. In order to get the light
introduced in the path of one of the beams. If beam totally reflected, the minimum value of
the central fringe gets shifted by 0.2 , what is the refractive index of the prism should be
the thickness (in micrometer) of the mica
[JEST 2023]
sheet?
[JEST 2019]

8. A thin film of water having refractive index 𝑛 =

1.333 floats on the surface of a beaker of
silicone oil having refractive index 𝑛𝑠 = 1.40.
The arrangement is illuminated by 600 nm light
√3
incident normally from top and a large region of (a) 1 (b) 2
the film appears bright red. What is the
𝜋
minimum possible thickness of the film (in (c) (d) √2
2
nm)?
[JEST 2020] 13. A beam of light of intensity 𝐼0 = 120 W/m2 is
incident on the optical system shown in the
figure. BS1 , BS2 , BS3 , and BS4 are ideal, 50/50
9. A glass of radius 𝑅 and refractive index 𝑛 acts beamsplitters (reflects 50% and transmits 50%
like a lens with focal length of incident light intensity). 𝐼1 , 𝐼2 , 𝐼3 , and 𝐼4 are
[JEST 2021] the total intensities measured by detectors.
𝑛𝑅 𝑛𝑅
(a) − 2(𝑛−1) (b) + 2(𝑛−1)2 What will be the intensity 𝐼3 ?

96
 [JEST 2023]
2. The Michelson interferometer in the figure
below can be used to study properties of light
emitted by distant sources.

(a) 32 W/m2 (b) 20 W/m2

(c) 16 W/m2 (d) 12 W/m2

A Source 𝑆1 , when at rest, is known to emit light

14. A step index optical fiber has refractive indices
of wavelength 632.8 nm. In this case, if the
𝑛1 = 1.474 for core region and 𝑛2 = 1.470 for
the cladding region. A ray of light is incident Movable Mirror is translated through a distance
from air into the core through the cross section 𝑑, it is seen that 99,565 interference fringes
of the fiber at an angle 𝜃 with the normal. What pass across the Photo-Detector. For another
is the limiting value of 𝜃 below which the light Source S2 , moving at an uniform speed of
ray will be totally internally reflected? 1.5 × 107 m s−1 towards the interferometer
Refractive index of air is taken as 1 . along the straight line joining it to the Beam
[JEST 2024] Splitter, one sees 100,068 interference fringes
pass across the Photo-Detector for the same
displacement 𝑑 of the Movable Mirror. It follows
that S2 , in its own rest frame, must be emitting
light of wavelength
[TIFR 2011]
(a) 661.9 nm (b) 662.8 nm

(a) 6.229∘ (b) 58.194∘ (c) 598.9 nm (d) 631.2 nm

(c) 2.862∘ (d) 4.222∘ (e) 599.6 nm (f) 628.0 nm

15. An object of height 10 mm is located 150 mm to 3. A ray of light is incident on the surface of a thin
the left of a thin lens of focal length +50 mm. A prism at a small angle 𝜃1 with the normal, as
second thin lens of focal length −100 mm is to shown in the figure on the right. The material of
be placed to the right of the first lens such that the prism has refractive index 𝑛 and you may
the real image of the object is located 100 mm assume the outside refractive index to be unity.
If the (small) apex angle of the prism is 𝛼, the
to the right of the second lens. What should be
deviation angle 𝛿 (angle between the incident
the separation in mm between the two lenses? and exited ray; see figure) is given by
[TIFR 2013]

❖ TIFR PYQ

1. A narrow beam of light of wavelength 589.3 nm

from a sodium lamp is incident normally on a
diffraction grating of transmission type. If the
grating constant is 1000000 m−1, the number of
principal maxima observed in the transmitted (a) 𝛼 (b) 𝛼𝑛
light will be [TIFR 2011]
(a) 7 (b) 5 (c) 𝛼(𝑛 + 1) (d) 𝛼(𝑛 − 1)

4. A parallel beam of light of wavelength 𝜆 is

(c) 3 (d) 1
incident on a transmission grating with

97
 6. The rate of deposition of a dielectric thin film on
a thick dielectric substrate was monitored by
the following experiment: a laser beam of
wavelength 𝜆 = 633 nm, at nearnormal
incidence 𝜃𝑖 , was reflected from the thin film
(see inset figure on the right), and the reflection
coefficient 𝑅 was measured. As the film
groove spacing 𝑑, at an angle 𝜃𝑖 , as shown in the thickness increased 𝑅 varied with time as
figure on the left. The plane of incidence is shown on the
normal to the grooves. After diffraction, the
transmitted beam is seen to be at an angle 𝛼
relative to the normal. Which of the following
conditions must be satisfied for this to happen?
[TIFR 2013]
(a) 𝑑(sin 𝜃𝑖 − sin 𝛼) = 𝑛𝜆

(b) 𝑑(sin 𝜃𝑖 + sin 𝛼) = 𝑛𝜆

(c) 2𝑑sin (𝜃𝑖 − 𝛼) = 𝑛𝜆

(d) 2𝑑sin (𝛼 + 𝜃𝑖 ) = 𝑛𝜆

5. A cross-shaped opening is illuminated by a

parallel beam of white light. A thin plano-
convex cylindrical glass lens is placed 20 cm in
front of it, as shown in the figure below.
right. The refractive index of the film is 3.07 and
is less than that of the substrate. Using the
graph, the approximate thickness of the film at
the end of 25 seconds can be estimated to be
[TIFR 2013]
(a) 0.017𝜇m (b) 0.26𝜇m

(c) 0.51𝜇m (d) 2.2𝜇m

The radius of curvature of the curved surface of
the lens is 5 cm and 1.5 is the refractive index of 7. The negative image on the right represents a
very small portion of the night sky at a very
glass. On a screen placed as shown at the plane
high resolution. Notice the broken ring(s)
where a real image forms on the other side of around the central bright object in the middle of
the lens, the image of the opening will appear as the picture. These are most likely to be due to
[TIFR 2013] [TIFR 2013]

(a) debris from a smaller object torn apart by

tidal forces

(b) gas clouds forming the remnant of a

supernova explosion

(c) ice collected on the lens used for taking the

picture

98
 refractive index 𝑛𝐶 = 1.6. In order to have
(d) gravitational lensing of a distant object by enhanced reflection from this coated glass for
the central massive object near-normal incident light of wavelength 𝜆, the
thickness of the coating material C must be
8. Two telescopes X and Y have identical objective [TIFR 2014]
(a) even multiples of 𝜆/2𝑛𝐶
lenses, but the single-lens eyepiece of X is
converging whereas the single-lens eyepiece of (b) even multiples of 𝜆/4𝑛𝐶
Y is diverging. If the magnification 𝑀 of these
two telescopes for objects at infinity is the (c) odd multiples of 𝜆/4𝑛𝐶
same, the lengths 𝐿𝑋 and 𝐿𝑌 of the two
telescopes (length of a telescope is defined as (d) integral multiples of 𝜆/4𝑛𝐶
the distance between the objective lens and the
12. The focal length in air of a thin lens made of
eyepiece) must be in the ratio 𝐿𝑋 /𝐿𝑌 =
glass of refractive index 1.5 is ℓ. When
[TIFR 2014] immersed in water (refractive index = 4/3 ), its
2𝑀+1 2𝑀−1
(a) 2𝑀−1 (a) 𝑀+1
focal length becomes
[TIFR 2015]
𝑀+1 𝑀−1 (a) 4ℓ (b) ℓ/4
(c) 𝑀−1 (d)𝑀+1
(c) 3ℓ/4 (d) 4ℓ/3
9. A lens can be constructed using a flat circular
glass plate whose refractive index 𝑛 varies 13. A light beam of intensity 𝐼0 passes at normal
radially, i.e. 𝑛 = 𝑛(𝑟), where 𝑟 is the radial incidence through a flat plate of plastic kept in
air. If reflection at the interface reduces the
distance from the centre of the plate. In order to
intensity by 20% and absorption on passing
make a convex lens by this method 𝑛(𝑟) should through the plate reduces the intensity by 2%,
vary (in terms of positive constants 𝑛(0) and 𝛼 the intensity of the emergent beam will be
) as [TIFR 2014] about
2 [TIFR 2015]
(a) 𝑛(0) − 𝛼/𝑟 (b) 𝑛(0) − 𝛼/𝑟
(a) 0.60𝐼0 (b) 0.63𝐼0
(c) 𝑛(0) − 𝛼𝑟 (d) 𝑛(0) − 𝛼𝑟 2
(c) 0.65𝐼0 (d) 0.78𝐼0
10. In a laboratory, the double-slit experiment is 14. In a transmission diffraction grating, there are
performed with free nonrelativistic electrons,
104 lines /mm. Which of the following ranges of
each having energy 𝐸, emitted from a source S
(see figure below). The screen consists of a wavelength (in nm ) will produce at least one
uniform sheet of charge-sensitive pixels of size principal maximum? [TIFR 2015]
𝑟. If the slit-screen distance is 𝑧 and the spacing (a) 1 − 200 (b) 201 − 500
between slits is 𝑑, which of the following
restrictions on the electron energy 𝐸 should be (c) 501 − 1000 (d) 1001 − 5000
satisfied so that the fringes can be distinctly
observed? [TIFR 2014]
15. In a glass fibre, light propagates by total internal
reflection from the inner surface. A very short
pulse of light enters a perfectly uniform glass
fibre at 𝑡 = 0 and emerges from the other end of
the fibre with negligible losses. If the refractive
index of the glass used in the fibre is 1.5 and its
1 ℎ𝑧 2 1 ℎ𝑧 2
(a) 𝐸 ≤ ( ) (b) 𝐸 ≥ ( ) length is exactly 1.0 km, the time 𝑡 at which the
2𝑚𝑒 𝑟𝑑 2𝑚𝑒 𝑟𝑑
output pulse will have completely exited the
ℎ𝑧
(c) 𝐸 ≤ 𝑐 (𝑟𝑑) (d) 𝐸 ≥ 𝑐 (𝑟𝑑)
ℎ𝑧 fibre will be
[TIFR 2016]
(a) 5.0𝜇s (b) 7.5𝜇s
11. A glass plate 𝑃 (refractive index 𝑛𝑝 = 1.54 ) is
coated with a dielectric material C with the

99
 (c) 25𝑛 s (d) 750 ns

16. An observer stands at the edge of a swimming

pool, as sketched in the figure below.

If the instantaneous angle of the star above the

horizon is denoted 𝛼, the receiver R will detect
This observer will perceive the pool as the first interference maximum when 𝛼 =
[TIFR 2016] [TIFR 2018]
𝜆 1/3 𝜆 1/3
(a)arcsi n ( ) (b)arcsi n (2𝑎)
𝑎

𝜆 𝜆
(c)arcsi n 𝑎 (d) arcsin 2𝑎

19. The lower half of a single slit of width 𝑑 is

covered with a half-wave plate P as shown in
the figure below.
17. Light passes through a narrow slit and gives the
Fraunhofer diffraction pattern shown in the
adjacent figure.

As a result, a beam of coherent monochromatic

light of wave vector 𝑘 = 2𝜋/𝜆 incident on the
single slit, transmits with an amplitude
1 for 0 < 𝑥 ≤ 𝑑/2
𝑇(𝑥) = {−1 for − 𝑑/2 < 𝑥 ≤ 0
Which of the following could be the shape of the 0 otherwise
slit? and a Fraunhofer diffraction pattern is formed
[TIFR 2017] on a screen S placed parallel to the slit. The
intensity at a point on the screen at an angle 𝜃
measured from the centre of the slit (see
figure), is proportional to
[TIFR 2021]
1 2 1
(a) Φ2 sin Φwhere Φ = 2 𝑘𝑑sin 𝜃

1
(b) Φ2
sin4 Φwhere Φ = 𝑘𝑑tan 𝜃

18. The sketch below shows a radio antenna 1

(c) Φ
sin Φwhere Φ = 𝑘𝑑cos 𝜃
located at the edge of a calm lake, which has a
receiver R at the centre of the dish at a height 1 1
(d) Φ2 cos2 Φwhere Φ = 2 𝑘𝑑sin 𝜃
𝑎/2 above the ground. This is picking up a
signal from a distant radio-emitting star which
20. A collimated coherent light beam of wavelength
is just rising above the horizon. However, the
𝜆 is incident normally on an assembly of a
receiver also picks up a reflected signal from the
mirror and a photographic plate as shown
surface of the lake, which, at the relevant radio-
below. The photographic plate is placed at the
wavelength, may be taken to be a plane.
position A with a small angle 𝜃 with respect to
the mirror surface as shown in the figure below.
Assume that the photographic plate is almost

100
 transparent to the incident light and has a
negligible thickness. After sufficient exposure, 23. According to a standard table, the refractive
the plate is developed. index of water at 4∘ C is 1.33 at a wavelength of
[TIFR 2021] 590 nm. However, a carefully performed
experiment in the lab yielded a refractive index
of 1.41 . Which one of the following statements
could be the explanation of this discrepancy?
[TIFR 2022]
(a) The experiment was performed at a
wavelength lower than 590 nm.

(b) The experiment was performed at a

Which of the following statements is true for wavelength higher than 590 nm.
the above experimental setup?
(c) The water sample was at a temperature
(a) The plate will show dark strips separated by lower than 4∘ C.
𝜆
distances sin 𝜃 with the first strip at the point of
contact. (d) The water sample was at a temperature
much higher than 4∘ C.
(b) The plate will show dark strips separated by
𝜆 24. Consider an electron double slit experiment as
distances with the first strip at a distance
2sin 𝜃 shown in the figure below, with slits 𝑆1 and S2 .
𝜆
from the point of contact
4sin 𝜃

(c) The plate will show dark strips separated by

𝜆
distances sin 𝜃 with the first strip at a distance
𝜆
from the point of contact
2sin 𝜃

(d) The plate will show dark strips separated by

𝜆
distances 2sin 𝜃 with the first strip at the point
If now, within the shaded region marked C, a
of contact.
constant uniform magnetic field pointing
outside the page is turned on, the fringe pattern
21. Since the refractive index of water is 4/3, the
[TIFR 2023]
angular velocity (in degrees per hour) of the
(a) will become dimmer.
Sun at noon is perceived by a fish in the ocean
deep below the surface as around (b) will disappear.
[TIFR 2022]
(a) 20.0 (b) 15.0 (c) will remain unchanged.

(c) 13.2 (d) 11.3 (d) will get shifted.

22. On a wet monsoon day at 12 noon, a thin film of 25. The following Fraunhofer diffraction pattern
oil of thickness 0.3𝜇m is formed on a wet road. was observed in an experiment.
If the refractive index of oil and water are 1.475
and 1.333, respectively, which of the following
wavelengths of light will be reflected with
maximum intensity? [TIFR 2022]
(a) 407 nm (b) 590 nm

(c) 443 nm (d) 640 nm

101
 The aperture arrangement that would yield ❖ POLARISATION
such a fringe pattern is
[TIFR 2023]
❖ CSIR-NET PYQ’s

1. Circularly polarized light with intensity I0 is

incident normally on a glass prism as shown in
the figure. The index of refraction of glass is 1.5.
The intensity 𝐼 of light emerging from the prism
is: [CSIR JUNE 2011]

26. A diffraction grating spectrograph is used to

resolve the two sodium D lines (589 and
589.6 nm ) in the first order of diffraction. If the (a) I0 (b) 0.96I
width of the grating is 2 cm and the focal length
of the spectrograph camera is 20 cm, what the (c) 0.92I (d) 0.88I0.
linear separation at the focal plane of the two D
lines will be about [TIFR 2023] 2. A beam of light of frequency 𝜔⃗ is reflected from
(a) 6 mm (b) 6𝜇m a dielectric-metal interface at normal incience.
The refractive index of the dielectric medium is
(c) 60𝜇m (d) 60 nm n and that of the metal is 𝑛2 = 𝑛(1 + 𝑖𝜌). If the
beam is polarised parallel to the interface, then
Answer Key
the phase change experienced by the light upon
CSIR PYQ
reflection is
1. d 2. a 3. d 4. c 5. a
6. b 7. a 8. b 9. c 10. b [CSIR JUNE 2014]
2 1
11. a 12. b 13. a 14. c 15. a (a) tan (𝜌) (b) tan−1 (𝜌)
16. c 17. c
GATE PYQ 2
1. a 2. a 3. c 4. a 5. C (c) tan−1 (𝜌) (d) tan−1 (2𝜌)
6. 9.1 7. b 8. d 9. c 10. b
JEST PYQ 3. A beam of unpolarized light in a medium with
1. a 2. d 3. c 4. a 5. c
dielectric constant 𝜖1 is reflected from a plane
6. d 7. 8 8. 0225 9. b 10. b
11. d 12. d 13. c 14. a 15. 25 interface formed with another medium of
TIFR PYQ dielectric constant 𝜖2 = 3𝜖1 . The two media have
1. d 2. b 3. D identical magnetic permeability. If the angle of
4. b 5. a 6. b 7. d 8. c incidence is 60∘ , then the reflected light
9. d 10. a 11. c 12. a 13. c [CSIR DEC 2015]
14. a 15. b 16. a 17. a 18. d (a) is plane polarized perpendicular to the
19. a 20. b 21. d 22. b 23. a plane of incidence
24. d 25. a 26. b
(b) is plane polarized parallel to the plane of
incidence

(c) is circularly polarized

102
 (d) has the same polarization as the incident
light (c) linearly polarized along the 𝑦-direction

(d) linearly polarized along the 𝑧-direction

4. The electric field of an electromagnetic wave is
𝐸⃗ (𝑧, 𝑡) = 𝐸0 cos (𝑘𝑧 + 𝜔𝑡)𝑖ˆ + 2𝐸0 sin (𝑘𝑧 + 𝜔𝑡)𝑗ˆ,
❖ GATE PYQ’s
where 𝜔 and 𝑘 are positive constants. This
represents
1. A left circularly polarized light beam of
[CSIR DEC 2016]
wavelength 600 nm is incident on a crystal of
(a) a linearly polarized wave travelling in the
thickness 𝑑 and propagates perpendicular to its
positive 𝑧-direction
optic axis. The ordinary and extraordinary
refractive indices of the crystal are 𝑛0 = 1.54
(b) a circularly polarised wave travelling in the
and 𝑛𝑒 = 1.55 respectively. The emergent light
negative 𝑧-direction
will be right circularly polarized if 𝑑 is
[GATE 2002]
(c) an elliptically polarised wave travelling in
(a) 120𝜇m (b) 60𝜇m
the negative 𝑧-direction
(c) 30𝜇m (d) 15𝜇m
(d) an unpolarised wave travelling in the
positive 𝑧-direction
2. The state of polarization of light with the electric
field vector 𝐸⃗ = 𝑖ˆ𝐸0 cos (𝑘𝑧 − 𝜔𝑡) −
5. Two coherent plane electromagnetic waves of
𝑗ˆ𝐸0 cos (𝑘𝑧 − 𝜔𝑡) is
wavelength 0.5𝜇m (both have the same
[GATE 2004]
amplitude and are linearly polarized along the 𝑧-
(a) linearly polarized along 𝑧-direction
direction) fall on the 𝑦 = 0 plane. Their wave
vectors 𝐤1 and 𝐤 2 are as shown in the figure.
(b) linearly polarized at −45∘ to 𝑥-axis

(c) circularly polarized

(d) elliptically polarized with the major axis

along 𝑥-axis

If the angle 𝜃 is 30∘ , the fringe spacing of the 3. The electric field 𝐸⃗ (𝑟, 𝑡) for a circularly polarized
interference pattern produced on the plane is electromagnetic wave propagating along the
[CSIR JUNE 2019] position direction is
(a) 1.0𝜇m (b) 0.29𝜇m [GATE 2005]
(a) 𝐸0 (𝑥ˆ + 𝑦ˆ)exp [𝑖(𝑘𝑧 − 𝜔𝑡)]
(c) 0.58𝜇m (d) 0.5𝜇m
(b) 𝐸0 (𝑥ˆ + 𝑖𝑦ˆ)exp [𝑖(𝑘𝑧 − 𝜔𝑡)]
6. A charged particle moves uniformly on the 𝑥𝑦-
plane along a circle of radius a centered at the (c) 𝐸0 (𝑥ˆ + 𝑖𝑦ˆ)exp [𝑖(𝑘𝑧 + 𝜔𝑡)]
origin. A detector is put at a distance 𝑑 on the 𝑥
axis is to detect the electromagnetic wave (d) 𝐸0 (𝑥ˆ + 𝑦ˆ)exp [𝑖(𝑘𝑧 + 𝜔𝑡)]
radiated by the particle along the x direction. If
𝑑 >> 𝑎, the wave received by detector is 4. A classical charged particle moving with
[CSIR JUNE 2023] frequency 𝜔 in a circular orbit of radius 𝑎,
(a) unpolarized centred at the origin in the 𝑥𝑦-plane,
electromagnetic radiation. At points (𝑏, 0,0) and
(b) circularly polarized with the plane of (0,0, 𝑏), where 𝑏 ≫ 𝑎, the electromagnetic waves
polarization being the yz-plane are

103
 [GATE 2006] 7. A circularly polarized monochromatic plane
(a) circularly polarized and elliptically wave is incident on a dielectric interface at
polarized, respectively Brewster angle. Which one of the following
statements is correct?
(b) plane polarized and elliptically polarized, [GATE 2013]
respectively (a) The reflected light is plane polarized in the
plane of incidence and the transmitted light is
(c) plane polarized and circularly polarized, circularly polarized
respectively
(b) The reflected light is plane polarized
(d) circularly polarized and plane polarized, perpendicular to the plane of incidence and the
respectively transmitted light is plane polarized in the plane
of incidence
5. Unpolarized light falls from air to a planar air-
glass interface (refractive index of glass is 1.5) (c) The reflected light is plane polarized
and the reflected light is observed to be plane perpendicular to the plane of incidence and the
polarized. The polarization vector and the angle transmitted light is elliptically polarized
of incidence 𝜃𝑖 are
[GATE 2008] (d) there will be no reflected light and the
(a) perpendicular to the plane of incidence and transmitted light is circularly polarized
𝜃𝑖 = 42′′
8. A quarter wave plate introduces a path
(b) parallel to the plane of incidence and 𝜃𝑖 =
difference of 𝜆/4 between the two components
56′′
of polarization parallel and perpendicular to the
optic axis. An electromagnetic wave with 𝐸⃗ =
(c) perpendicular to the plane of incidence and
𝜃𝑖 = 56” (𝑥ˆ + 𝑦ˆ)𝐸0 𝑒 (𝑛𝑘𝑧−𝑛𝑡) is incident normally on a
quarter wave plate which has its optic axis
(d) parallel to the plane of incidence and 𝜃𝑖 = making an angle 135∘ with the 𝑥-axis as shown.
42′′ The emergent electromagnetic wave would be
[GATE 2018]
6. A non-relativistic charged particles moves along
the positive 𝑥-axis with a constant positive
acceleration 𝑎𝑥ˆ. The particle is at the origin at
𝑡 = 0 at a distant point (0, 𝑑, 0) on the 𝑦-axis.
Which one of the following statements is
correct?
(a) elliptically polarized
[GATE 2008]
(a) The radiation in unpolarized
(b) circularly polarized

(b) The radiation is plane polarized with

(c) linearly polarized with polarization as that
polarization parallel to the 𝑥-axis
of incident wave

(c) The radiation is plane polarized with

(d) linearly polarized but with polarization at
polarization parallel to the 𝑥𝑦 plane along a line
90∘ to that of the incident wave
inclined to the 𝑥 axis

(d) The radiation is elliptically polarized 9. The electric field of an electromagnetic wave is
given by 𝐸⃗ = 3sin (𝑘𝑧 − 𝜔𝑡)𝑥ˆ + 4cos (𝑘𝑧 −
𝜔𝑡)𝑦ˆ. The wave is

104
 [GATE 2019]
4
(a) linearly polarized at an angle tan−1 (3) from
the 𝑥-axis

3
(b) linearly polarized at an angle tan−1 (4) from
the 𝑥-axis
Choose the correct statement(s)
(c) elliptically polarized in clockwise direction [GATE 2021]
when seen travelling towards the observer 0
(a) 𝑅 = 0 if 𝜃𝐼 = 0 and polarization of incident
light is parallel to the plane of incidence.
(d) elliptically polarized in counter-clockwise
direction when seen travelling towards the (b) 𝑇 = 1 if 𝜃𝐼 = 60∘ and polarization of incident
observer light is parallel to the plane of incidence

10. In a set of 𝑁 successive polarizers, the 𝑚th (c) 𝑅 = 0 if 𝜃𝐼 = 60∘ and polarization of incident
𝑚𝜋
polarizer makes an angle ( 2𝑁 ) with the vertical. light is perpendicular to the plane of incidence
A vertically polarized light beam of intensity 𝐼0 is
incident on two such sets with 𝑁 = 𝑁1 and 𝑁 = (d) 𝑇 = 1 if 𝜃𝐼 = 60∘ and polarization of incident
𝑁2 , where 𝑁2 > 𝑁1 . Let the intensity of light light is perpendicular to the plane of incidence
beams coming out be 𝐼(𝑁1 ) and 𝐼(𝑁2 ),
respectively. Which of the following statements 12. A plane polarized electromagnetic wave
propagating in 𝑦 − 𝑧 plane is incident at the
is correct about the two outgoing beams?
interface of two media at Brewster's angle.
[GATE 2019]
Taking 𝑧 = 0 as the boundary between the two
(a) 𝐼(𝑁2 ) > 𝐼(𝑁1 ); the polarization in each case
media, the electric field of the reflected wave is
is vertical
given by

(b) 𝐼(𝑁2 ) < 𝐼(𝑁1 ); the polarization in each case √3 1

is vertical 𝐸⃗𝑅 = 𝐴𝑅 cos [𝑘0 { 𝑦 − 𝑧} − 𝜔𝑡] 𝑥ˆ
2 2

(c) 𝐼(𝑁2 ) > 𝐼(𝑁1 ); the polarization in each case then which among the following statements are
is horizontal correct?
𝜋
(a) The angle of refraction is 6
(d) 𝐼(𝑁2 ) < 𝐼(𝑁1 ); the polarization in each case
is horizontal (b) Ratio of permittivity of the medium of
refraction (𝜖2 ) with respect to the medium on
𝜖
11. As shown in the figure, an electromagnetic wave incidence (𝜖1 ), 𝜖2 = 3
1
with intensity 𝐼𝐼 is incident at the interface of two
media having refractive indices 𝑛1 = 1 and 𝑛2 = (c) The incident wave can have components of
√3. The wave is reflected with intensity 𝐼𝑅 and its electric field in 𝑦 − 𝑧 plane
transmitted with intensity 𝐼𝑇 . Permeability of 𝜋
each medium is the same. (Reflection coefficient (d) The angle of reflection is 6
𝑅 = 𝐼𝑅 /𝐼𝐼 and Transmission coefficient
𝑇 = 𝐼𝑇 /𝐼𝐼 ). 13. An unpolarized plane electromagnetic wave in a
dielectric medium 1 is incident on a plane
interface that separates medium 1 from another
dielectric medium 2. Medium 1 and medium 2
have refractive indices 𝑛1 and 𝑛2 , respectively,
with 𝑛2 > 𝑛1. If the angle of incidence is

105
 𝑛 [JEST 2020]
tan−1 ( 2 ), which one of the following
𝑛1 𝐼
statements is true? (a) 𝐼(𝑡) = (160 ) {1 − cos (4𝜔𝑡)}
[GATE 2024]
𝐼
(a) The reflected wave is unpolarized (b) 𝐼(𝑡) = ( 0 ) {1 − cos (2𝜔𝑡)}
8

(b) The reflected wave is polarized parallel to the 𝐼

(c) 𝐼(𝑡) = ( 40 ) {1 − 2cos 𝜔𝑡}
plane of incidence

𝐼
(c) The reflected wave is polarized (d) 𝐼(𝑡) = ( 20 ) cos 2 𝜔𝑡
perpendicular to the plane of incidence
4. A monochromatic linearly polarized light with
(d) There is no transmitted wave electromagnetic field 𝐸⃗ = 𝐸0 sin (𝜔𝑡 − 𝑘𝑧)(𝑥ˆ +
𝑦ˆ) is incident normally on a birefringent calcite
❖ JEST PYQ
crystal. The wavelength of the wave is 590 nm
and the refractive indices of the crystal along
1. When unpolarized light is incident on a glass the 𝑥-directions and 𝑦-directions ar e 1.66 and
plate at a particular angle, it is observed that
1.49, respectively. If the thickness of the crystal
the reflected beam is linearly polarized. What is is 434 nm, what will be the polarization of the
the angle of the refracted beam with respect to light that emerges from the crystal?
the surface normal? Refractive index of glass is [JEST 2021]
1.52 (a) Linearly polarized along the same axis as
[JEST 2012] the incident light
∘
(a) 56.7
(b) 33.4∘ (b) Linearly polarized but along a different axis
(c) 23.3∘ than the incident light
(d) The light is completely reflected and there is
no refracted beam. (c) Circularly polarized

2. The electric field 𝐸⃗ = 𝐸0 sin (𝜔𝑡 − 𝑘𝑧)𝑥 + (d) Neither linearly nor circularly polarized but
𝜋 elliptically polarized
2𝐸0 sin (𝜔𝑡 − 𝑘𝑧 + ) 𝑦 represents:
2
[JEST 2016] 5. A pair of crossed ideal linear polarizers allow
(a) a linearly polarized wave no light to pass through. To produce some
output one can insert optical elements between
(b) a right hand circularly polarized wave the crossed polarizers. For given light beam of
input intensity 𝐼0 , Nirmalya inserts a quarter-
(c) a left hand circularly polarized wave wave plate between the mercury crossed
polarizers and records an output intensity 𝛼𝐼∘.
(d) an elliptically polarized wave
On the other hand, Ayan inserts two linear
polarizers having orientations 30∘ and 60∘ w.r.t.
3. Three polarizers are stacked, normal to a the first polarizer of the crossed pair, and
central axis, along which is incident a beam of records an output intensity of 𝛽𝐼∘ . What is the
𝛼
unpolarized light of intensity 𝐼0 . The first and ratio 𝛽 ? [JEST 2022]
the third polarizers are perpendicular to each
other and the middle polarizer is rotated at an 6. If linearly polarized light is sent through two
angular frequency 𝜔 about the central axis polarizers, the first at 45∘ to the original axis of
(light beam). The time dependent intensity of polarization and the second at 90∘ to the
light emerging after the third polarizer will be original axis of polarization, what fraction of the
given by original intensity passes through the last

106
 polarizer? with respect to one another.
[JEST 2023]
1 1
(a) 2 (b) 4

1
(c) 0 (d) 8

Assuming A and B to be perfect polarizers (i.e.

7. Two linear polarizers are placed coaxially with no absorption losses), the intensity of the
the transmission axis of the first polarizer in the transmitted light will be IT =
vertical orientation and the second polarizer in [TIFR 2012]
the horizontal orientation. A half wave plate (a) I0 /4 (b) I0 /2√2
placed coaxially between these crossed
polarizers is rotating about its axis at an (c) I0 /2 (d) I0 /√2
angular frequency 𝜔. At 𝑡 = 0, the fast axis of
the half waveplate was oriented vertically. A 2. A plane polarized light wave with electric field
beam of unpolarized light of intensity 𝐼0 is ⃗ (𝑧, 𝑡) = 𝐸0 𝑱ˆcos (𝑘𝑧 − 𝜔𝑡)
expressed as 𝑬
incident along the axis of this optical system. is incident from the left on the apparatus as
The output intensity measured by a detector sketched below.
after the beam passes through this optical
system is [JEST 2023]
𝐼0 𝐼0
(a) [1 + cos (𝜔𝑡)] (b) [1 − cos (2𝜔𝑡)]
4 4

𝐼0 𝐼0
(c) [1 − cos (4𝜔𝑡)] (d) [1 − cos (𝜔𝑡)]
4 2
The apparatus consists of (from left to right) a
polarizer with transmission axis at 𝜋/4 w.r.t. the
8. What is the right sequence of optical
components to convert unpolarized light into 𝑦-axis, followed by a quarter-wave plate with
circularly polarized light? fast axis along the 𝑦-axis, and finally, a polariser
[JEST 2024] with transmission axis at 𝜋/3 about the 𝑥-axis.
(a) Light source → quarter wave plate → half If the incident intensity of the wave is 𝐼0 , What
wave plate will be the intensity of the light emerging out of
the apparatus (on the right)?
(b) Light source → linear polarizer → quarter [TIFR 2020]
wave plate (a) 𝐼0 /4 (b) 𝐼0 /8

(c) Light source → linear polarizer → half wave (c) 3𝐼0 /8 (d) 𝐼0 /16
plate
3. An electromagnetic wave is described by the
(d) Light source → half wave plate → quarter following expression
wave plate 𝜋
𝐸⃗ (𝑧, 𝑡) = 𝐸0 sin 𝑘𝑧 {𝑖ˆcos 𝜔𝑡 + 𝑗ˆcos (𝜔𝑡 − )}
2
Which of the following correctly describes this
❖ TIFR PYQ
waveform?
[TIFR 2023]
1. Unpolarized light of intensity I0 passes
(a) A right circular-polarized travelling wave
successively through two identical linear along the positive z-axis.
polarisers A and B, placed such that their
polarisation axes are at angle of 45∘ (see figure) (b) A right circular-polarized standing wave
along the positive z-axis.

(c) A left circular-polarized travelling wave

along the positive z-axis.

107
 (d) A left circular-polarised standing wave ❖ FRESNEL EQAUTIONS:
along the positive z-axis.

4. Unpolarized light of intensity 200 W/m2 is ❖ CSIR-NET PYQ

incident on a set of two perfect polarisers
arranged one behind the other. The first 1. An electromagnetic wave is incident on a water-
polariser has its transmission axis at +550 with air interface. The phase of the perpendicular
respect to the vertical and the second polariser component of the electric field, 𝐸⊥ , of the
has its transmission axis at +100∘ with respect reflected wave into the water is found to remain
to the vertical. What is the intensity of the the same
transmitted light? for all angles of incidence. The phase of the
[TIFR 2024] magnetic field 𝐻.
(a) 3.01 W/m2 (b) 100 W/m2 [CSIR JUNE 2012]
(a) does not change (b) changes by 3𝜋/2
(c) 1.98 W/m2 (d) 50 W/m2
(c) changes by 𝜋/2 (d) changes by 𝜋

2. A plane electromagnetic wave from within a

Answer Key
CSIR PYQ dielectric medium (with 𝜀 = 4𝜀0 and 𝜇 = 𝜇0 ) is
1. c 2. c 3. a 4. a 5. d incident on its boundary with air, at 𝑧 = 0. The
6. c magnetic field in the medium is 𝐻¨ =
GATE PYQ 𝑗ˆ𝐻0 cos (𝜔𝑡 − 𝑘𝑥 − 𝑘√3𝑧), where 𝜔 and 𝑘 are
1. c 2. b 3. b 4. c 5. c positive constants. The angles of reflection and
6. b 7. c 8. c 9. d 10. c refraction are, respectively,
11. b 12. abc 13. c
[CSIR DEC 2017]
JEST PYQ ∘ ∘
1. b 2. d 3. a 4. d 5. 1.19 (a) 45 and 60 (b) 30∘ and 90∘
6. b 7. c 8. b
(c) 30∘ and 60∘ (d) 60∘ and 90∘
TIFR PYQ
1. a 2. a 3. d 4. d 3. An electromagnetic wave is incident from
vacuum normally on a planar surface of a non-
magnetic medium. If the amplitude of the
electric field of the incident wave is 𝐸0 and that
2𝐸0
of the transmitted wave is 3
, then neglecting
any loss, the refractive index of the medium is

[NET June 2022]

(a) 1.5 (b) 2.0

(c) 2.4 (d) 2.7

❖ GATE PYQ

1. A plane electromagnetic wave of frequency 𝜔 is

incident on an air-dielectric interface. The
dielectric is linear, isotropic, non-magnetic and
its refractive index is 𝑛. The reflectance (𝑅) and
transmittance (𝑇) from the interface are

108
 [GATE 2004]
𝑛−1 2 4𝑛 4. The coordination for the reflected ray to be
(a) 𝑅 = ( ) ,𝑇 =
𝑛+1 (𝑛+1)2 completely polarized is
[GATE 2007]
𝑛−1 2
(b) 𝑅 = − (𝑛+1) , 𝑇 = (𝑛+1)2 (a) 𝜇cos 𝑖 = cos 𝑟 (b) cos 𝑖 = 𝜇cos 𝑟
𝑛−1 3 4𝑛3
(c) 𝑅 = − (𝑛+1) , 𝑇 = (𝑛+1)3 (c) 𝜇cos 𝑖 = −cos 𝑟 (d) cos 𝑖 = −𝜇cos 𝑟
𝑛−12 4𝑛2
(d) 𝑅 = − ( 𝑛+1 ) , 𝑇 = (𝑛+1)2
5. For an normal Incidence at an air – glass
interface, the fraction of energy reflected is
2. A plane electromagnetic wave travelling in given by [GATE 2007]
vacuum is incident normally on a non-magnetic, (a)0.40 (b)0.20
non-absorbing medium of refractive index 𝑛. The (c)0.16 (d)0.04
incident (𝐸𝑖 ), reflected (𝐸𝑟 ) and transmitted (𝐸𝑡 )
electric fields are given as, 𝐸𝑖 = 𝐸exp [𝑖(𝑘𝑧 − 6. An electromagnetic wave having electric field
𝜔𝑡)], 𝐸𝑟 = 𝐸0r exp [𝑖(𝑘𝑟 𝑧 − 𝜔𝑡)], 𝐸𝑡 = 𝐸 = 8cos (𝑘𝑧 − 𝜔𝑡)𝑦ˆ𝑉 cm−1 is incident at 90∘
𝐸0𝑡 exp [𝑖(𝑘𝑡 𝑧 − 𝜔𝑡)]. If 𝐸 = 2 V/m and 𝑛 = 1.5, (normal incidence) on a square slab from
then the application of appropriate boundary vacuum (with refractive index 𝑛0 = 1.0 ) as
conditions leads to
shown in the figure. The slab is composed of two
[GATE 2005] different materials with refractive indices 𝑛1 and
3 7
(a) 𝐸0𝑟 = − 5 V/m, 𝐸0𝑡 = 5 V/m 𝑛2 . Assume that the permeability of each
medium is the same. After passing through the
1 8 slab for the first time, the electric field
(b) 𝐸0𝑟 = − 5 V/m, 𝐸0𝑡 = 5 V/m
amplitude, in 𝑉 cm−1, of the electromagnetic
2 8 wave, which emerges from the slab in region 2, is
(c) 𝐸0𝑟 = − 5 V/m, 𝐸0𝑡 = 5 V/m
closest to
[GATE 2021]
4 6 11 11
(d) 𝐸0𝑟 = 5 V/m, 𝐸0𝑡 = 5 V/m (a) 1.6 (b) 3.2

3. For normal incidence at an air-glass interface (c)

11
(d)
11
with 𝜇 = 1.5 the fraction of energy reflected is 25.6 13.8

given by
❖ TIFR PYQ
[GATE 2007]
(a) 0.40 (b) 0.20
1. Consider the following situation.
An infinite plane metallic plate of thickness
(c) 0.16 (d) 0.04
1.8 cm is placed along the 𝑥 − 𝑦 plane, with the
𝑧 axis normal to the sheet (see figure).
Common Data for Questions 4 , 5: A plane radio wave of intensity 𝐼0 and frequency
The Fresnel relations between the amplitudes 29.5MHz propagates in vacuum along the
of incident and reflected electromagnetic waves negative 𝑧-axis and strikes the metal foil at
at an interface between air and a dielectric of normal incidence.
refractive index 𝜇, are
cos 𝑟 − 𝜇cos 𝑖 incident
𝐸∥reflected = 𝐸 and 𝐸⊥reflected
cos 𝑟 + 𝜇cos 𝑖 ∥
𝜇cos 𝑟 − cos 𝑖 incident
= 𝐸
𝜇cos 𝑟 + cos 𝑖 ⊥

The subscripts | and ⊥ refer to polarization,

parallel and normal to the plane of incidence
respectively. Here, 𝑖 and 𝑟 are the angles of
incidence and refraction respectively

109
 If the metal of the foil has conductivity
9Ω−1 m−1 and magnetic permeability 𝜇 ≃ 1, the
intensity 𝐼𝐸 of the emergent wave will be
approximately [TIFR 2020]
(a) 0.26𝐼0 (b) 0.51𝐼0

(c) 0.29 × 10−7 𝐼0 (d) 2.08 × 10−4 𝐼0

Answer Key
CSIR PYQ
1. d 2. b 3. b
GATE PYQ
1. a 2. c 3. d 4. a 5. d
6. a
TIFR PYQ
1. a

110
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