Final answer:
When the axis of rotation is parallel to the y-axis but at the center of the coil, the torque is smaller than when the axis of rotation is on the edge of the coil.
Step-by-step explanation:
When the axis of rotation is parallel to the y-axis but at the center of the coil, the torque is smaller than when the axis of rotation is on the edge of the coil. This is because the angle between the radius and the force is smaller when the axis is at the center, resulting in a smaller torque.
The torque is maximum when the angle between the radius and the force is 90°, which occurs when the axis of rotation is on the edge of the coil.