Question:

A wire carrying current \(I\) is tied between points P and Q and is in the shape of a circular arch of radius \(R\) due to a uniform magnetic field \(B\) (perpendicular to the plane of the paper, shown by xxx) in the vicinity of the wire. If the wire subtends an angle \(2\theta_0\) at the centre of the circle (of which it forms an arch) then the tension in the wire is :

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The magnetic force on the arc equals that on its chord, \(IB(2R\sin\theta_0)\); balance it against the perpendicular components of the two end tensions, \(2T\sin\theta_0\).
Updated On: Nov 11, 2026
  • \(IBR\)
  • \(\frac{IBR}{\sin\theta_0}\)
  • \(\frac{IBR}{2\sin\theta_0}\)
  • \(\frac{IBR\theta_0}{\sin\theta_0}\)
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The Correct Option is A

Solution and Explanation

The chord PQ has length \(2R\sin\theta_0\). The net magnetic force on a current-carrying curved wire in a uniform field equals that on the straight chord joining its ends: \(F = I B (2R\sin\theta_0)\), perpendicular to the chord (pointing away from the centre, or towards it, depending on direction).
At each end the tension T acts along the tangent, which makes angle \(\theta_0\) with the chord. The components along the chord cancel; the components perpendicular to the chord add up to \(2T\sin\theta_0\), directed against the magnetic force.
Equilibrium: \(2T\sin\theta_0 = 2IBR\sin\theta_0\).
\(T = IBR\).
Answer: (1) \(IBR\)
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