Question

During the construction of a solenoid, why is enamelled copper wire used for winding the helical turns?

Options

• The enamel insulation prevents short-circuiting between adjacent turns

• The enamel increases the resistivity of the copper to reduce heating

• The enamel increases the magnetic permeability of the wire

• The enamel allows the wire to carry a larger current without melting

Answer 1

Enamelled copper wire is wound tightly in helical turns, and the insulation (enamel) prevents short-circuiting between adjacent turns. Without insulation, current would flow directly between touching turns rather than following the full helical path, destroying the intended magnetic field configuration.