When a potential difference is applied across the ends of a conductor, the electric field exists:
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 1
The correct answer is Option (1) → inside the conductor.
A potential difference across a conductor means that the potential changes along its length, and wherever the potential changes there is an electric field directed from the higher towards the lower potential. For a uniform conductor of length l with a potential difference V across its ends:
\( \displaystyle E = \frac{V}{l} \)
This field exists in the body of the conductor and acts on its free electrons, making them drift against the field. That drift is the current.
NCERT (2026-27):
Electric Currents in Conductors – “… We can also imagine a mechanism where the ends of the cylinder are supplied with fresh charges to make up for any charges neutralised by electrons moving inside the conductor. In that case, there will be a steady electric field in the body of the conductor. This will result in a continuous current rather than a current for a short period of time.”