Define alternating current and direct current.

Alternating Current (A.C.): - Alternating current is an electric current that changes its direction and strength continuously with time. It flows in one direction for a short time and then reverses to flow in the opposite direction. This happens many times in one second. For example, in most countries, A.C. changes direction 100 times per second (50 cycles per second or 50 Hz). Direct Current (D.C.): - Direct current is the type of electric current that flows in one constant direction and has a steady value. It does not change with time. Batteries and cells produce direct current.

Mention and explain the function of an earth wire. Why it is necessary to earth metallic appliances?

An earth wire is a safety wire that connects the metal body of an electrical appliance to the ground. Its main function is to provide a path for electric current to flow safely into the ground in case there is a fault. Why is it necessary to earth metallic appliances? To prevent electric shock: If the live wire touches the metal body of the appliance, the metal can become live and dangerous. The earth wire carries this current safely into the ground, so anyone touching the appliance does not get an electric shock. To protect the appliance: Earthing helps prevent damage to the appliance by carrying away leakage current. To help the fuse work properly: When a large current flows through the earth wire during a fault, it helps the fuse to blow quickly and stop the electricity supply.

What precaution should be taken to avoid the overloading of the domestic electric circuit?

To avoid overloading of the domestic electric circuit, several precautions should be taken: Avoid Using Too Many Appliances at Once Do not plug in too many high-power appliances (like AC, geyser, microwave) into a single socket or extension board. This prevents the circuit from drawing more current than it is designed to handle. Use Proper Fuses or Circuit Breakers Install a fuse or Miniature Circuit Breaker (MCB) of the correct rating in your home circuit. They automatically cut off power in case of overloading, preventing overheating and fire. Do Not Use Damaged Wires or Equipment Old or damaged wires have higher resistance and can overheat quickly. Replace any frayed or exposed wiring immediately. Distribute Electrical Load Properly Ensure that heavy appliances are spread across different circuits and not concentrated on one. Have separate circuits for high-power devices. Regular Maintenance and Inspection Have a qualified electrician inspect the wiring and load capacity of your household periodically. Upgrade wiring if you are adding new or more powerful appliances.

List three methods of producing a magnetic field.

The three common methods of producing a magnetic field: 1. Using a Current-Carrying Conductor - When electric current flows through a straight wire, it generates a magnetic field around it. Example: A simple straight conductor connected to a battery. 2. Using a Solenoid (Coiled Wire) A solenoid is a coil of wire. When current flows through it, it creates a strong and uniform magnetic field inside the coil, similar to that of a bar magnet. Example: Electromagnets. 3. Using a Permanent Magnet Permanent magnets have a natural magnetic field around them without any external energy. They continuously produce a magnetic field as long as they remain magnetized. Example: Bar magnets, horseshoe magnets.

What is an electromagnet? Write two uses of an electromagnet?

An electromagnet is a type of temporary magnet made by winding a coil of wire around a soft iron core and passing electric current through the coil. When current flows, the coil produces a magnetic field, magnetizing the iron core. The magnetism disappears when the current is switched off. Two Uses of an Electromagnet: In Electric Bells and Buzzers: - Electromagnets are used to attract a metal arm, which helps in producing sound when the circuit is completed. In Cranes for Lifting Heavy Iron Objects: - Large electromagnets are used in junkyards and scrap industries to lift and move heavy pieces of iron or steel.

Why is the earth pin thicker and longer than the live and the neutral pins?

The earth pin of a plug is thicker and longer than the live and neutral pins for safety reasons: Longer Length:The earth pin connects first when you plug in the device. This ensures that the appliance is grounded before the live and neutral pins make contact, providing protection against electric shocks. Thicker Size:The earth pin is thicker so it can carry higher fault currents safely without melting or breaking. This helps to quickly divert any leakage current away from the user to the ground, preventing electric shocks or fires. So, the design of the earth pin ensures safety by establishing grounding early and handling fault currents reliably.

Electric appliances like electric -press, toaster, fans etc are connected to electric mains through three-pin plug. Why?

Electric appliances like electric press, toaster, fans, etc., are connected to the electric mains using a three-pin plug for the following important reasons: Safety (Earthing/Grounding): The third (thicker) pin in the plug is connected to the earth wire. It provides a path for electric current to safely flow to the ground in case of insulation failure or leakage of current. This helps prevent electric shocks and protects users from harm. Proper Polarity (Live and Neutral): The other two pins are for the live (phase) and neutral wires. A three-pin plug ensures that appliances are connected with correct polarity, which is important for the proper operation and safety of certain devices. Firm and Stable Connection: The three-pin design provides a more stable and secure connection to the socket. The earth pin is longer, so it connects first, ensuring safety even before the appliance is powered.

Explain why alternating current is preferred over direct current for transmission over long distances.

Alternating current (A.C.) is preferred over direct current (D.C.) for transmission over long distances because of the following reasons: Voltage can be changed easily: - The voltage of A.C. can be increased or decreased easily using transformers. For long-distance transmission, the voltage is increased to reduce the current. Less energy is lost: - When the current is low, less energy is lost as heat in the wires. This makes A.C. more efficient for sending electricity over long distances. It is more economical: - Thinner and cheaper wires can be used for A.C. because of the lower current. Also, A.C. generators and transformers are less expensive than D.C. systems. Easy to use at homes and industries: - A.C. can be stepped down to a safe voltage level for use in homes and factories.

Fuse acts like a watchman in an electric circuit. Justify this statement.

Fuse acts like a watchman in an electric circuit because it protects the circuit from damage. Just like a watchman keeps an eye on any unusual activity and takes action to prevent harm, a fuse monitors the electric current in a circuit. When the current becomes too high due to a fault like a short circuit or overload, the fuse wire melts and breaks the circuit. This stops the flow of electricity and prevents damage to appliances or even fire. In this way, the fuse acts as a safety device, just like a watchman protects people or property from danger.

In Faradays experiment if instead of moving the magnet towards the coil we move the coil towards the magnet. Will there be any induced current? Justify your answer. Compare the two cases.

Faraday’s Law of Electromagnetic Induction says:"An electric current is induced in a coil when there is a change in the magnetic field through the coil." Yes, current is induced when the coil moves toward the magnet because the magnetic field through the coil changes — just like when the magnet moves toward the coil. Faraday discovered that an electric current is produced (induced) in a coil only when there is a change in the magnetic field around it.This change can happen in two main ways: Moving the magnet near the coil — this brings more or less magnetic field through the coil, causing a current. Moving the coil near a magnet — this also changes how much magnetic field is passing through the coil, which again causes a current. So, both ways work, because it's the relative motion between the coil and the magnet that causes the change in the magnetic field.

Why does a compass needle deflect when brought near a bar magnet?

A compass needle deflects when brought near a bar magnet because the compass needle itself is a small magnet. It experiences a magnetic force due to the magnetic field of the bar magnet. This external magnetic field interacts with the magnetic field of the needle, causing it to rotate and align with the direction of the bar magnet's field lines.

Write the frequency of alternating current (AC) in India. How many times per second it changes its direction?

The frequency of alternating current (AC) in India is 50 Hz. Since the current changes direction twice in each cycle, it changes direction:50 × 2 = 100 times per second.

State two properties of magnetic lines of force?

Two key properties of magnetic lines of force are: They never intersect each other: If they did, it would mean the magnetic field has two directions at the same point, which is not possible. They emerge from the north pole and enter the south pole outside the magnet: Inside the magnet, they move from the south pole back to the north pole, forming continuous closed loops.

A current-carrying straight conductor is placed in the east-west direction. What will be the direction of the force experienced by this conductor due to earth’s magnetic field? How will this force get affected?

If a current-carrying conductor is placed in the east-west direction and the Earth’s magnetic field points north to south, the force on the conductor will be upward or downward, perpendicular to both the current and the magnetic field. If current flows from east to west, the force is upward. If current flows from west to east, the force is downward. The force will be strongest because the conductor is perpendicular to the magnetic field. If the conductor’s direction changes and is not perpendicular anymore, the force will become smaller.

Mention the frequency of D.C that is given by a cell.

The frequency of Direct Current (D.C.) given by a cell is 0 Hz. Explanation:D.C. flows in one constant direction and does not alternate like A.C. Since frequency refers to the number of times the current changes direction in one second, and D.C. never changes direction, its frequency is zero.

Name and state rule used to determine the direction of magnetic field produced around a straight conductor carrying current?

The rule used to determine the direction of the magnetic field around a straight current-carrying conductor is called the Right-Hand Thumb Rule. Statement of the Right-Hand Thumb Rule: "If you hold a straight conductor in your right hand such that the thumb points in the direction of the current, then the fingers curled around the conductor will show the direction of the magnetic field lines." Explanation: Thumb → Direction of current Curled fingers → Direction of magnetic field lines (in circular loops around the wire)

What is the role of the split ring in an electric motor?

The split ring in an electric motor acts as a commutator. Its main role is to: Reverse the direction of current in the coil after every half rotation. This reversal ensures that the torque (rotational force) on the coil always acts in the same direction. As a result, the coil keeps rotating continuously in one direction, producing continuous rotary motion. Without the split ring, the coil would stop and oscillate back and forth instead of rotating smoothly.

What is electric fuse? Where is it connected in a circuit?

An electric fuse is a safety device used in electrical circuits to protect appliances and wiring from excess current. It contains a thin wire made of a low melting point metal (like tin or lead alloy). If too much current flows through the circuit, the fuse wire heats up and melts, breaking the circuit and stopping the flow of electricity. This prevents damage due to overloading or short-circuiting. Where is it connected in a circuit? An electric fuse is always connected in series with the live (positive) wire of the circuit. This placement ensures that when the fuse blows, the entire circuit is broken, and current cannot reach the appliance or device. It must be placed before the appliance so that the current passes through the fuse before entering the device.

State the factors on which strength of magnetic field at a point due to a current carrying conductor depends?

The strength of the magnetic field at a point due to a current-carrying conductor depends on the following factors: Magnitude of Current (I): The magnetic field strength increases with an increase in the current flowing through the conductor.More current = stronger magnetic field Distance from the Conductor (r): The magnetic field strength decreases as the distance from the conductor increases.Farther from the wire = weaker magnetic field Nature of the Medium Around the Conductor: The magnetic permeability of the surrounding material affects the magnetic field strength. A medium with higher permeability increases the field strength. Shape of the Conductor: For example: A straight wire produces circular magnetic lines. A circular loop or solenoid concentrates the magnetic field, making it stronger in specific regions like the center of the loop or inside the solenoid.

State the effect of a magnetic field on the path of a moving charged particle.

When a charged particle moves through a magnetic field, the magnetic field exerts a force on the particle that is perpendicular to both its direction of motion and the magnetic field. Because of this force, the particle’s path bends or curves instead of moving in a straight line. The exact shape of the path depends on the angle between the particle’s velocity and the magnetic field: If the particle moves perpendicular to the magnetic field, it moves in a circular path. If the particle moves at an angle, it follows a spiral or helical path. If the particle moves parallel to the magnetic field, it continues in a straight line without bending. This bending of the path is called the magnetic force or Lorentz force effect.

Write two ways to induce current in a coil?

Two ways to induce current in a coil are: By moving a magnet near the coil: When a magnet is moved toward or away from a coil, the magnetic field through the coil changes, which induces an electric current (this is known as electromagnetic induction). By changing the current in a nearby coil: If a current-carrying coil is placed near another coil, changing the current in the first coil changes the magnetic field around the second coil, inducing a current in it. This is the principle behind a transformer.

State and define S.I unit of magnetic field?

The S.I. unit of magnetic field is the tesla (T). One tesla is the magnetic field strength that exerts a force of one newton on a one-meter length of a conductor carrying one ampere of current, when the conductor is placed perpendicular to the magnetic field. In short:1 tesla = 1 newton per ampere per meter (1 T = 1 N / (A·m)

What is meant by magnetic field?

A magnetic field is a region around a magnetic material or a moving electric charge within which the force of magnetism acts.In simple terms It is the invisible area of influence around a magnet or current-carrying wire. If another magnet, piece of iron, or charged particle enters this area, it will experience a force due to the magnetic field. Key Points: Represented by magnetic field lines (from north to south pole). Measured in tesla (T) or gauss (G) (1 T = 10,000 G). The strength and direction of the magnetic field determine the force on other magnetic materials or moving charges. Examples: The Earth has a natural magnetic field that causes compass needles to point north. A current-carrying wire produces a magnetic field around it (basis of electromagnets).

Define the term induced electric current.

Induced electric current is the electric current that is created in a wire when the magnetic field around the wire changes. This can happen if a magnet moves near the wire or if the magnetic field gets stronger or weaker. This changing magnetic field makes electricity flow in the wire without needing a battery or power source. According to Faraday’s law of electromagnetic induction, whenever the magnetic field through a conductor changes, it causes a voltage (called electromotive force or emf) to be generated in the conductor. This voltage pushes electric charges in the conductor, creating an electric current, which is called the induced current. In simple terms, an induced current is the electric current produced in a wire due to the change in magnetic field around it. This is the basic principle behind devices like electric generators and transformers.

State the principle of an electric generator.

The principle of an electric generator is: "Whenever a conductor cuts magnetic lines of force, an electromotive force (emf) is induced in the conductor." An electric generator works on the principle of electromagnetic induction. This means: When a wire or coil moves through a magnetic field, the magnetic lines of force get cut by the wire. This cutting of magnetic lines causes an electric current to be produced in the wire. The faster the wire or coil moves, the more magnetic lines it cuts, and the stronger the current generated. In a generator, a coil is rotated inside a magnetic field (or a magnet is rotated near a coil), which continuously cuts the magnetic field lines, producing a steady flow of electricity. So basically, mechanical energy (like turning a handle or turbine) is converted into electrical energy using this principle.

Alternating current has a frequency of 50 Hz. What is meant by this statement? How many times does it change its direction in one second? Give reason for your answer

When we say that alternating current (AC) has a frequency of 50 Hz, it means that the current completes 50 full cycles in one second. In each cycle, the current flows in one direction and then reverses to flow in the opposite direction. How many times does it change direction in one second? The current changes direction 2 times in one cycle — once in the forward direction and once in the reverse direction.So, if AC completes 50 cycles in one second, it changes direction:50 × 2 = 100 times per second Reason:Each cycle of AC includes two direction changes: From positive to negative (forward to reverse) From negative to positive (reverse to forward) Therefore, with a frequency of 50 Hz, AC changes direction 100 times every second.

If field lines of a magnetic field are crossed at a point, what does it indicate ?

What Are Magnetic Field Lines? Magnetic field lines are imaginary lines used to show the direction and strength of a magnetic field. They help us visualize how the magnetic force behaves around a magnet. They go from the north pole to the south pole outside the magnet. The closer the lines are, the stronger the magnetic field. A compass needle placed in the field lines will point along the direction of the field. What Happens if Field Lines Cross? If two magnetic field lines crossed at a point, it would mean that at that point: The magnetic field has two different directions at the same time. But this is not physically possible. A magnetic field at any given point can only have one unique direction. Why Magnetic Field Lines Never Cross Field lines represent the path a compass needle would follow. A compass needle always points in just one direction. So, only one field line can pass through a point — otherwise the compass would be confused and try to point in two directions, which it can't do.

NCERT solutions for Class 10th Science Magnetic Effects of Electric Current

Q: At the time of short circuit, the current in the circuit (a) reduces substantially. (b) does not change. (c) increases heavily. (d) vary continuously

The correct answer is: (c) increases heavily.

Updated on June 1, 2025 | By Learnzy Academy

Q1. Why do not two magnetic field lines intersect each other?

Two magnetic field lines do not intersect each other because:

If they did, it would mean that at the point of intersection, the magnetic field has two different directions — one along each line. However, this is not possible, because the magnetic field at a point has a unique direction.

So, intersecting field lines would violate the basic property of magnetic fields — that the magnetic field vector at any point in space is well-defined and single-valued. Therefore, magnetic field lines never cross or intersect.

Q2. When does an electric short circuit occur?

Anelectric short circuit occurs when two points in a circuit that have different electric potentials get connected directly with very little or no resistance between them.

This causes a sudden, large flow of current because the current takes the easiest path, bypassing the normal load. This can lead to overheating, damage to electrical components, or even fire if not protected by a fuse or circuit breaker.

Q3. What is the function of an earth wire? Why is it necessary to earth metallic casing of electric appliances?

Function of an Earth Wire:

The earth wire provides a safe path for electric current to flow into the ground if there is any fault in the appliance, such as when the live wire touches the metallic casing. This prevents electric shocks by ensuring that the current does not pass through the user.

Why is it necessary to earth the metallic casing of electric appliances?

The metallic casing can become live if there is a fault, causing electric shock if touched.
By connecting the casing to the earth wire, any leakage current flows safely to the ground instead of through the person.
This protects users from electric shocks and helps in quickly blowing the fuse or tripping the circuit breaker by causing a large current flow.

Q4. Why does a compass needle get deflected when brought near a bar magnet?

A compass needle gets deflected when it is brought near a bar magnet because both the compass needle and the bar magnet are magnets. The compass needle is a small magnet that usually points in the north-south direction due to Earth's magnetic field.

When you bring a bar magnet close to it, the magnetic field of the bar magnet affects the compass needle. The needle gets attracted or repelled depending on the pole of the bar magnet near it. This causes the needle to move or get deflected from its usual direction.

So, the compass needle deflects because of the magnetic force from the bar magnet.

Q5. List the properties of magnetic field lines.

The properties of magnetic field lines are given below:-

Go from north to south outside the magnet.
Form closed loops (south to north inside the magnet).
Never intersect each other.
Closer lines mean a stronger magnetic field.
Direction at any point is shown by a compass needle.

Q6. Which of the following correctly describes the magnetic field near a long straight wire? (a) The field consists of straight lines perpendicular to the wire. (b) The field consists of straight lines parallel to the wire. (c) The field consists of radial lines originating from the wire. (d) The field consists of concentric circles centred on the wire

The correct answer is:

(d) The field consists of concentric circles centred on the wire

Q7. At the time of short circuit, the current in the circuit (a) reduces substantially. (b) does not change. (c) increases heavily. (d) vary continuously

The correct answer is:

Q8. List two methods of producing magnetic fields.

Two methods of producing magnetic fields are:

Using a current-carrying conductor– When an electric current flows through a wire, it creates a magnetic field around the wire.
Using a permanent magnet – A permanent magnet naturally produces a magnetic field around it without the need for electricity.

Q9. When is the force experienced by a current–carrying conductor placed in a magnetic field largest?

The force experienced by a current-carrying conductor placed in a magnetic field is largest when the conductor is placed perpendicular to the magnetic field.

Q10. Imagine that you are sitting in a chamber with your back to one wall. An electron beam, moving horizontally from back wall towards the front wall, is deflected by a strong magnetic field to your right side. What is the direction of magnetic field?

To find the direction of the magnetic field, we use Fleming’s Left-Hand Rule, which helps determine the direction of force on a current-carrying conductor in a magnetic field.

According to this rule:

The First finger points in the direction of the magnetic field (B),
The Second finger points in the direction of current (I),
The Thumb shows the direction of force or motion (F).

Apply the rule:

Point your second finger from front to back (direction of current),
Point your thumb to the right (direction of deflection or force),
Then your first finger will point upward.

Therefore, the magnetic field is in the upward direction.

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