Given: Three identical coils C1, C2 and C3 share a common axis, with C2 midway between the other two. C1 carries current I in anti-clockwise direction and C3 carries current I in clockwise direction.
Find: The condition for which the induced current in C2 is in clockwise direction.
Step 1: Determine magnetic field directions.
- C1 carries current in anti-clockwise direction, so its magnetic field at C2 is out of the plane.
- C3 carries current in clockwise direction, so its magnetic field at C2 is also out of the plane.
Thus, both coils produce magnetic flux in the same direction through C2.
Step 2: Apply Lenz's law.
According to Lenz’s law, the induced current opposes the change in magnetic flux.
Step 3: Analyze option (C).
- C1 moves towards C2: magnetic flux through C2 increases.
- C3 moves away from C2: magnetic flux through C2 decreases.
Net effect: decrease in outward magnetic flux through C2.
Step 4: Direction of induced current.
To oppose the decrease in outward flux, the induced current in C2 must produce outward magnetic field.
This corresponds to a clockwise induced current.
Therefore, the correct option is C.