Concepts Of Physics MCQ Edition [Volume 2]
- Exam
- Concepts Of Physics MCQ Edition [Volume 2]
- Subject
- Physics
- Chapter
- Permanent Magnets
Concepts Of Physics MCQ Edition [Volume 2] · Physics · Permanent Magnets
If a compass needle, which is constrained to rotate in a horizontal...
If a compass needle, which is constrained to rotate in a horizontal plane, is transported to a geomagnetic pole, it
Options
- Awill point only in the north-south direction
- Bwill become rigid and exhibit no movement
- Cwill remain stationary in any arbitrary orientation
- Dwill point only in the east-west direction
Correct answer
C. will remain stationary in any arbitrary orientation
Step-by-step solution
At the geomagnetic poles, the Earth's magnetic field is entirely vertical.
The horizontal component of the Earth's magnetic field, , is zero at the magnetic poles.
A compass needle constrained to rotate in a horizontal plane aligns itself with the horizontal component of the magnetic field.
Since , there is no horizontal magnetic force or torque to align the needle in any specific direction.
Therefore, the compass needle will remain stationary in any arbitrary orientation.
The horizontal component of the Earth's magnetic field, , is zero at the magnetic poles.
A compass needle constrained to rotate in a horizontal plane aligns itself with the horizontal component of the magnetic field.
Since , there is no horizontal magnetic force or torque to align the needle in any specific direction.
Therefore, the compass needle will remain stationary in any arbitrary orientation.