Obtain the formula for the electric fiel | Class 12 Physics Chapter Electric Charges and Field, Electric Charges and Field NCERT Solutions

Welcome to the NCERT Solutions for Class 12 Physics - Chapter Electric Charges and Field. This page offers a step-by-step solution to the specific question from Exercise 1, Question 30: . With detailed answers and explanations for each chapter, students can strengthen their understanding and prepare confidently for exams. Ideal for CBSE and other board students, this resource will simplify your study experience.

Question 30:

Obtain the formula for the electric field due to a long thin wire of uniform linear charge density λ without using Gauss’s law. [Hint: Use Coulomb’s law directly and evaluate the necessary integral.]

Answer:

Take a long thin wire XY (as shown in the following figure) of uniform linear charge density λ.

Consider a point A at a perpendicular distance l from the mid-point O of the wire, as shown in the following figure.

Let E be the electric field at point A due to the wire, XY.

Consider a small length element dx on the wire section with OZ = x

Let q be the charge on this piece.

∴ q = λdx

Electric field due to the piece,

However,

The electric field is resolved into two rectangular components. dEcosθ is the perpendicular component and dEsinθ is the parallel component. When the whole wire is considered, the component dEsinθ is cancelled. Only the perpendicular component dEcosθ affects point A.

Hence, effective electric field at point A due to the element dx is dE1 .

∴ d E1 = 1/4πε0 x λdx. cos θ/(l2 + x2)                  ...(1)

In ∆AZO, tanθ = x/l ⇒ x = l.tanθ                          ...(2)

On differentiating equation (2), we obtain

dx/dθ = l x sec 2 θ ⇒ dx = l x sec 2 θdθ              ...(3)

From equation (2), we have

x2 + l2 = l2tan2θ + l2 = l2 (tan2 θ + 1) = l2 sec2 θ          ...(4)

Putting equations (3) and (4) in equation (1), we obtain

The wire is so long that θ tends from − π/2 to π/2.

By integrating equation (5), we obtain the value of field E1 as,

 

Therefore, the electric field due to long wire is λ/2πε0 l .


Study Tips for Answering NCERT Questions:

NCERT questions are designed to test your understanding of the concepts and theories discussed in the chapter. Here are some tips to help you answer NCERT questions effectively:

  • Read the question carefully and focus on the core concept being asked.
  • Reference examples and data from the chapter when answering questions about Electric Charges and Field.
  • Review previous year question papers to get an idea of how such questions may be framed in exams.
  • Practice answering questions within the time limit to improve your speed and accuracy.
  • Discuss your answers with your teachers or peers to get feedback and improve your understanding.

Latest Blog Posts

Stay updated with our latest educational content and study tips

Government Jobs by Age Limit: Eligibility and Opportunities in 2026

Government jobs continue to be one of the most popular employment options in India because of their job security, regular salary, pension benefits, and promotion prospects. However, one of the most frequent doubts of aspirants is age eligibility. Countless candidates are discouraged from applying for Government positions – or even from preparing for them – … Read more

Read More

NEET & JEE Preparation Guide for State Board Students

After preparation for NEET and JEE, students inclined towards studying under state education boards find themselves a step behind the CBSE students. The syllabus, question pattern and level of idea of these national entrance exams varies widely from most state board syllabus. But with the correct approach, students taking the state board can hold their … Read more

Read More

Simple and Compound Interest Formulas with Questions

Interest is one of the most significant ideas in maths and financial calculations. It is very common in banking, loan applications, investments, saving account and competitive exams. Simple Interest and Compound Interest make it easier to find out how much more is earned and/or paid on a principal during the period of time. These Interest … Read more

Read More

Spoken English Course Topics for Beginners in 2026

In 2026, students, professionals, and job seekers must have a high level of spoken English. Spoken English is a beginner level course to enhance learners’ communication skills in English, their pronunciation, vocabulary, grammar structure and confidence in speaking English fluently. Today, the emphasis of spoken English courses is placed on actual conversations, everyday speech practice … Read more

Read More

Add Comment

Welcome to the NCERT Solutions for Class 12 Physics - Chapter . This page offers a step-by-step solution to the specific question from Excercise 1 , Question 30: Obtain the formula for the electric field due to a long thin wire of uniform linear charge density &....