Which of the following correctly describes the magnetic field near a long straight wire?
(a) The field consists of straight lines perpendicular to the wire
(b) The field consists of straight lines parallel to the wire
(c) The field consists of radial lines originating from the wire
(d) The field consists of concentric circles centred on the wire
Answer: (d) The field consists of concentric circles centred on the wire.
The magnetic field lines, produced around a straight current-carrying conductor, are concentric circles. Their centres lie on the wire.