Conductors develop electric currents in them

The correct answer is Option (1) → on applying electric field

A conductor has a large number of free electrons. A current flows only when these electrons get a net drift, and this needs a force that acts on the charges.

Option (1) on applying electric field — Correct. An electric field exerts a force on the free electrons, which then drift and form a current.

NCERT (2026-27):
Electric Currents in Conductors – “An electric charge will experience a force if an electric field is applied. If it is free to move, it will thus move contributing to a current.”

Electric Currents in Conductors – “… These materials, generally called conductors, develop electric currents in them when an electric field is applied.”