Question

Maxwell's equations are derived from the laws of ___________

• A. electricity
• B. magnetism
• C. both electricity and magnetism
• D. mechanics

Answer 1

The correct option is C

both electricity and magnetism

The explanation for the correct option

In the case of option C,

1. Maxwell's equation describes the fundamental laws of electricity and magnetism both.
2. Through his equations we can get to know how the electric field and magnetic fields are related to each other and altered by varying current and charge.
3. There are four equations of Maxwell. They are,
   First equation: Gauss's law for electricity.
   Second equation: Gauss's law for magnetism
   Third equation: Faraday's law of electromagnetic induction
   Fourth equation: Ampere's circuital law with Maxwell's addition

The explanation for the incorrect options

In the case of option A,

1. Maxwell's equation not only deals with electricity but also magnetism.
2. Hence, option A is incorrect.

In the case of option B,

1. Maxwell's equation not only deals with magnetism but also electricity.
2. Hence, option B is incorrect.

In the case of option D,

1. Maxwell's equations do not depend on mechanics.
2. Mechanics deals with the universal law of gravitation.
3. Therefore, option D is incorrect.

Hence, option C is the correct answer.