Question

A magnetic needle is kept in a non-uniform magnetic field. It experiences ______.

Options

• neither a force nor a torque

• a torque but not a force

• a force but not a torque

• a force and a torque

Answer 1

A magnetic needle is kept in a non-uniform magnetic field. It experiences a force and a torque.

Explanation:

In a non-uniform magnetic field, the magnetic field strength varies at the two poles of the needle. This causes the poles to experience unequal forces that do not cancel, resulting in a net translational force. Additionally, because these forces act along different lines of action, they produce a torque that tends to rotate the needle and align it with the field.