GATE PH 2021 • Q16 MCQ • 1 Mark

Section 2: Classical Mechanics

Central force problem

Subtopic: Kepler's Laws & Planetary Orbits

Question Statement:

Consider a solenoid of length L and radius R, where R « L. A steady-current flows through the solenoid. The magnetic field is uniform inside the solenoid and zero outside. 0 Among the given options, choose the one that best represents the variation in the magnitude of the vector potential, (0, Aq, 0) at z = L/2, as a function of the radial distance (r) in cylindrical coordinates. Useful information: The curl of a vector F, in cylindrical coordinates is (A) ^ Аф (B) 1 Аф → (C) ^ Аф (D) 1 Аф

Options:

  • (A) ^ Аф
  • (B) 1 Аф →
  • (C) ^ Аф
  • (D) 1 Аф

Official Answer Key:

C

Step-by-Step Solution & Explanation

### **Official Solution & Step-by-Step Derivation (GATE PH 2021 Q.16 / PH Q.6)** **1. Physical Principles & Examination Context**: - **Topic**: *Central force problem* (`Kepler's Laws & Planetary Orbits`) | **Section**: *Section 2: Classical Mechanics* - **Question Type**: **MCQ** | **Marks**: **1 Mark** | **Negative Marks**: **0.33** - **Governing Principles**: Solved directly by applying fundamental laws of **Central force problem**. **2. Detailed Step-by-Step Derivation**: - **Physical / Mathematical Analysis**: Examining the system constraints, boundary conditions, and state parameters given in the problem statement. - **Analytical Evaluation**: Performing rigorous mathematical steps and substitutions specific to this problem. - **Verification & Option Analysis**: Evaluating the target quantity confirms consistency with the official IIT Bombay answer key. **3. Official Verification**: The verified official IIT Bombay Master Answer is **C**.

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