Soft iron is universally preferred for making the core of a transformer or an electromagnet because it possesses: MCQ with Answer and Explanation

Soft iron is universally preferred for making the core of a transformer or an electromagnet because it possesses:
A. High retentivity and high coercivity
B. High retentivity and low coercivity
C. Low retentivity and low coercivity
D. Low retentivity and high coercivity
Answer: Option C
Solution (By JKSSB Mock Tests)
A transformer core is subject to alternating magnetic fields, tracing out a hysteresis loop repeatedly. To minimize energy loss (hysteresis loss), the area of this loop must be small, requiring low coercivity (easily demagnetized). It also requires low retentivity so it loses magnetism rapidly when current stops. Steel, conversely, has high retentivity and coercivity, used for permanent magnets.

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Practice More Physics Questions

Question #1
Escape velocity from a planet depends on
A. Mass and radius of planet
B. Radius of planet only
C. Density of atmosphere
D. Mass of escaping body

Correct Answer: Option A


Explanation:
v_esc = √(2GM/R), depends on planet's mass and radius, not body's mass.

This question belongs to: Science Physics
Question #2
The resistance of a wire is R. If its length is doubled and area is halved, the new resistance is
A. 2R
B. R/2
C. R
D. 4R

Correct Answer: Option D


Explanation:
R ∝ L/A. New L'=2L, A'=A/2 => R' = ρ(2L)/(A/2) = 4ρL/A = 4R. Alternatively, volume constant? Not given, here both changed independently. So 4R.

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Question #3
The phenomenon of total internal reflection occurs when light travels from:
A. Denser to rarer medium at angle greater than critical angle
B. Denser to rarer medium at angle less than critical angle
C. Any two media at any angle
D. Rarer to denser medium

Correct Answer: Option A


Explanation:
Total internal reflection (TIR) requires: (1) light travels from denser to rarer medium (n₁ > n₂), and (2) angle of incidence exceeds critical angle θ_c = sin⁻¹(n₂/n₁). Option A describes refraction toward normal; B describes partial reflection/refraction; D is incorrect. Memory aid: 'TIR: denser→rarer AND i > θ_c'. This condition-based question tests optics fundamentals, frequently examined in competitive exams. Always verify both conditions for TIR; common applications include optical fibers and prisms in binoculars.

This question belongs to: Science Physics