Final answer:
The magnetic field near a long straight wire consists of concentric circles centered on the wire, described by the right-hand rule. The correct answer is option D.
Step-by-step explanation:
The magnetic field near a long straight wire carrying electric current is correctly described by the statement that the field consists of concentric circles centered on the wire. This phenomenon is explained by using a form of the right-hand rule, which states that if you point your right thumb in the direction of the current, your fingers will curl in the direction of the magnetic field, indicating the field lines are circular and centered at the wire. The intensity or strength of this magnetic field decreases with distance from the wire, and the spacing of field lines increases correspondingly with distance.