Q1. [2] straightforward exam-ready
What is a solenoid? State two ways in which the magnetic field pattern produced by a current-carrying solenoid is similar to that of a bar magnet.
Generated by claude-sonnet-4-6 · 2026-06-26 01:10 · grounding rag
Model Answer
A solenoid is a coil of many circular turns of insulated copper wire wrapped closely in the shape of a cylinder.
Two similarities with a bar magnet:
- One end of the solenoid behaves as a north pole and the other as a south pole, just like a bar magnet.
- The overall pattern of magnetic field lines outside the solenoid is similar to that of a bar magnet.
Source: Chapter 12, Section 12.2.4
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Explanation
- The definition must mention: insulated copper wire, many turns, cylindrical shape — all three earn marks.
- For the two similarities, examiners expect the pole behaviour (N and S at the two ends) and the similarity in field line pattern. Avoid copying vague statements — be specific.
- Do not write about the uniform field inside the solenoid here; that is a difference from a bar magnet, not a similarity.