CHAPTER

02

Electrostatic Potential
and Capacitance
The electric field around a charge can be described in two ways by an electric
field (E ) and in the form of electrostatic or electric potential (V ).
The electric field (E ) is a vector quantity and we have already discussed about it Inside
in detail in the previous chapter.
1 Electric potential
In this chapter, we will study about the electric potential and how these Electrostatic potential due
quantities are interrelated to each other. We will also study about capacitor, i.e. a to a point charge
device used for storing electric energy. Electrostatic potential due to a
system of charges
Electric potential due to a
ELECTRIC POTENTIAL continuous charge distribution
Electric potential due to
The electric potential at any point in the region of electric field is defined as the electric dipole
amount of work done in bringing a unit positive test charge from infinity to that 2 Equipotential surfaces
point along any arbitrary path. It is a scalar quantity and is denoted byV. Variation of electric potential
on the axis of a charged ring
Work done (W )
Electric potential (V ) = Potential due to charged sphere
Charge (q 0 ) Motion of charged particle
in electric field
According to the nature of charge, electric potential can be positive (due to 3 Electric potential energy
positive charge), negative (due to negative charge) or zero. Potential energy of a system
Unit and dimensional formula of electric potential of charges

1 joule 4 Electrostatics of conductors

Its SI unit is volt ( V ) and 1 volt = Dielectrics and polarisation
1 coulomb
Capacitors and capacitance
1
and CGS unit is stat volt (esu), where 1 volt = stat volt Parallel plate capacitor
300 5 Combination of capacitors
Its dimensional formula is [ML2 T −3A −1]. Special method to solve
combination of capacitors
Example 2.1 How much work will be done in bringing a charge of 400 µC from infinity Kirchhoff’s law for capacitor
to some point P in the region of electric field? Given that the electric potential at point circuits
P is 20V. Energy stored in charged
capacitor
Sol. Electric potential at any point can be written as, Common potential
work done (W ) van de Graaff generator
( )=
Electric potential V … (i)
charge (q 0 )
68 OBJECTIVE Physics Vol. 2

Given, VP = 20 V and q 0 = 400 µC = 400 × 10− 6 C Work done by external force,

On putting the values in Eq. (i), we get ( B − A)external
W force = q 0 (VA − VB)

20 =
W = (− 1.6 × 10−19 ) [(20) − (− 40)]
400 × 10− 6
= − 9.6 × 10−18 J
∴ W = 20 × 400 × 10− 6 = 8 × 10− 3 J
Work done by electric force,
Example 2.2 Find the work done by some external force in ( B − A)electric force = − W
W ( B − A )external force
moving a charge q = 2 µ C from infinity to a point, where = − (− 9.6 × 10−18 J)
electric potential is 10 4 V.
Sol. Given, charge, q = 2 µC = 2 × 10−6 C and electric potential, = 9.6 × 10−18 J
V = 104 V Note Here, we can see that an electron (a negative charge) moves
from B (lower potential) to A (higher potential) and the work
Using the relation,W = qV done by electric force is positive. Therefore, we may conclude
We have, W = (2 × 10–6 ) (104 ) = 2 × 10 − 2 J that whenever a negative charge moves from a lower potential to
higher potential, work done by the electric force is positive or
when a positive charge moves from lower potential to higher
Electric potential difference potential, the work done by the electric force is negative.
The electric potential difference between two points A and
B is equal to the work done by the external force in Electrostatic potential due
moving a unit positive charge against the electrostatic
force from point B to A along any path between these two to a point charge
points. Let P be the point at a distance r from the origin O at
V which the electric potential due to point charge + q is
V
V
B required.
q3 V
A +q q0
V
O P B A E ∞
q2 q4
q1 r
dx
Fig 2.1 Electric potential between points A and B x
Fig. 2.2 Electrostatic potential at point due to a point charge
IfVA andVB be the electric potential at point A and B
respectively, then ∆V = VA − VB The electric potential at a point P is the amount of work
WAB done in carrying a unit positive charge from ∞ to point P.
or ∆V = Suppose a test charge q 0 is placed at point A at distance x
q
from O.
The SI unit of potential difference is volt ( V ). The electrostatic force acting on charge q 0 is given by
The dimensional formula for electric potential difference is 1 q0
given by [ML2 T −3A −1]. F = , along OA …(i)
4πε 0 x 2
Note Following three formulae are very useful in the problems related
to work done in electric field.
Small work done in moving the charge through a small
(Wa − b ) electric force = q 0 (Va − Vb )
distance dx from A to B is given by
(Wa − b ) external force = q 0 (Vb − Va) = − (Wa − b ) electric force dW = F ⋅ d x = Fdx cos 180 ° = −Fdx
(W∞ − a) external force = q 0Va (Q cos 180° = −1)
Here, q 0 , Va and Vb are to be substituted with sign. Total work done in moving a positive test charge q 0 from
Example 2.3 The electric potential at point A is 20 V and
∞ to the point P is given by
at B is − 40 V. Find the work done by an external force
r r 1 qq 0
W = ∫ −Fdx = ∫ − dx
and electrostatic force in moving an electron slowly from ∞ ∞ 4πε 0 x 2
B to A. r
qq 0 r −2 qq 0  − 1
4πε 0 ∫ ∞
Sol. Here, the test charge is an electron, i.e. =− x dx =−  x 
4πε 0
q 0 = – 1.6 × 10 –19 C ∞
qq 0  1 1   1
Q ∫ x dx = − 
VA = 20 V −2
= −
and VB = − 40 V 4πε 0  r ∞   x
Electrostatic Potential and Capacitance 69

qq 0 ∴ Electrostatic potential,
W= …(iii)
4πε 0r q 9 × 109 × 47 × 1.6 × 10−19
V= = = 1.09 × 107 V
From the definition of electric potential, 4πε 0r 6.2 × 10−15

∴ V =
W
=
q
...(iv) Electrostatic potential due to a
q 0 4πε 0 r
system of charges
A positively charged particle produces a positive electric Let there be a number of point charges q 1, q 2 , q 3 ,..., q n at
potential. A negatively charged particle produces a distances r1, r 2, r 3, …, rn respectively from the point P,
negative electric potential. where electric potential is to be calculated.
q1
Here, we assume that electrostatic potential is zero at qn
infinity. Eq. (iv) shows that at equal distances from a point rn r1
charge q, value of V is same.
Hence, electrostatic potential due to a single charge is r2
P
q2
spherically symmetric. r4
r3
Figure given below shows the variation of electrostatic q4
1
potential with distance, i.e.V ∝ . q3
r Fig. 2.4 A system of charges
V Potential at P due to charge q 1,
1 q1
V1 =
4πε 0 r1P
O 1 q2
r Similarly, V2 =
4πε 0 r 2P
Fig. 2.3 Variation of V w.r.t. r
1 q3
V3 =
Example 2.4 Determine the potential at a point 0.50 m
4πε 0 r 3P
(i) from a + 20 µC point charge and (ii) from a −20 µC point M M
charge. 1 qn
Vn =
kq
Sol. The potential due to a point charge is given byV = . 4πε 0 rnP
r
(i) Potential due to a positive 20 µC charge, Using superposition principle, we obtain resultant
potential at P due to total charge configuration as the
kq  20 × 10−6 
V= = (9.0 × 109 )   algebraic sum of the potentials due to individual charges.
r  0.50 
V = V1 + V2 + V3 +L + Vn
= 3.6 × 105 V
1  q1 q q q 
(ii) Potential due to a negative − 20 µC charge, V =  + 2 + 3 +L + n 
4πε 0  r1P r 2P r 3P rn P 
 −20 × 10−6 
V = (9.0 × 109 )  
 0.50  1 n q
⇒ V= Σ i
= − 3.6 × 105 V 4πε 0 i = 1 riP
The net potential at a point due to multiple charges is
Example 2.5 What is the electrostatic potential at the surface
of a silver nucleus of diameter 12.4 fermi? [Atomic number equal to the algebraic sum of the potentials due to
(Z) for silver is 47] individual charges at that particular point.
n
12.4
Sol. Given, radius of silver nucleus, r = = 6.2 fm Mathematically, it is expressed asVnet = Σ Vi
2 i =1
= 6.2 × 10−15m Note If r1 ,r2 ,r3 , ..., rn are position vectors of the charges q1 ,q 2 ,q 3,..., q n
(1 fermi = 10−15 m) respectively, then electrostatic potential at point P whose
1 n qi
and Z = 47 position vector is r0 would be V = Σ
4 πε0 i = 1 r 0 − ri
∴ Charge, q = Ze = 47 × 1.6 × 10−19 C
70 OBJECTIVE Physics Vol. 2

Example 2.6 Three point charges q1 = 1 µC, q 2 = – 2 µC qb 4 × 10−6

and q 3 = 3 µC are placed at (1 m, 0, 0), (0, 2m, 0) and Vb = k e = (9 × 109 ) = 1. 20 × 104 V
b 3
(0, 0, 3 m), respectively. Find the electric potential at origin.
The net potential of the third chargeVc is simply the algebraic
Sol. The net electric potential at origin is sum of the potentials due to the others two charges taken in
1 q1 q 2 q 3  isolation. Thus, Vc = Va + Vb = 1.20 × 103 V
V= + +
4πε 0  r1 r2 r3 
Example 2.9
Substituting the values, we have (i) Infinite charges each of Q are placed, at x = d, 2d, 4d, K, ∞.
9  1 2 3 −6 3 Find electric potential at origin O.
V = (9.0 × 10 )  – +  × 10 = 9. 0 × 10 V
1.0 2. 0 3.0 (ii) A charge + Q is placed at each of the points x = d, x = 3d,
x = 5d, ..., ∞ on the X-axis, and a charge − Q is placed at
Example 2.7 In the given figure, there are four point charges each of the points, x = 2d, x = 4d, x = 6d, ..., ∞. Find the
placed at the vertices of a square of side, a = 1.4 m. If electric potential at the origin O.
q1 = + 18 nC, q 2 = − 24 nC, q 3 = + 35 nC and Q Q Q
q 4 = + 16 nC, then find the electric potential at the centre P Sol. (i) O ∞
d d 2d
of the square. Assume the potential to be zero at infinity.
q4 q3 1 Q Q Q 
Electric potential,VO = + + + K ∞
4πε 0  d 2d 4d 
P 1 Q  1 1 
= ⋅ 1 + + + K ∞
4πε 0 d  2 4 
q1 q2
1 Q  1  1 2Q
= ⋅   = ⋅
Sol. The distance of the point P from each charge is 4πε 0 d 1 − 1/2 4πε 0 d
a 1.4 m
r= = = 1m Q −Q Q −Q
2 1.4 (ii) O ∞
d d d d
Potential,V = V1 + V2 + V3 + V4
Electric potential,
1 q1 q 2 q 3 q 4  1 Q Q 
= + + + Q Q
4πε 0  r1 r2 r3 r4  VO = − + −
4πε 0  d 2d 3d 4d
+ K ∞

1 q + q2 + q3 + q4 1 Q  1 1 1 
= ⋅ 1 = 1 − + − + K ∞
4 πε 0 r 4πε 0 d  2 3 4 
1 (18 − 24 + 35 + 16) × 10−9 1 Q
= ⋅ = ⋅ log e 2
4 πε 0 1 4 πε 0 d
= (9 × 109 ) × (45 × 10−9 ) V = 405 V
Example 2.10 Find out the points on the line joining two
Example 2.8 Suppose that three point charges, q a , q b and q c charges + q and – 3q (kept at a distance of 1.0 m), where
are arranged at the vertices of a right-angled triangle, as electric potential is zero.
shown. What is the absolute electric potential at the position Sol. Let P be the point on the axis either to the left or to the
of the third charge, if q a = − 6.0 µC, q b = + 4.0 µC, right of charge + q at a distance r where potential is zero.
q c = + 2.0 µC, a = 4.0 m and b = 3.0 m ? Hence,
P +q 1.0 m –3q
qa

r
c +q P –3q
y a
or
r 1.0 – r
x qb qc q 3q
b VP = − =0
Sol. The electric potential at P (the position of the third charge) 4πε 0 r 4πε 0 (1 + r )
due to the presence of the first charge is Solving this, we get r = 0.5 m
q −6 × 10−6 q 3q
Va = k e a = (9 × 109 ) = − 1.08 × 104 V Further, VP = − =0
c 42 + 32 4πε 0r 4πε 0 (1 − r )
which gives, r = 0.25 m
Likewise, the electric potential due to the presence of the
second charge is Thus, the potential will be zero at point P on the axis which
is either 0.5 m to the left or 0.25 m to the right of charge + q.
Electrostatic Potential and Capacitance 71

Example 2.11 Two charges 3 × 10 −8 C and − 2 × 10 −8 C When the charge is distributed uniformly along a line L,
are located 15 cm apart. At what point on the line joining then dq = λdL, where λ is line charge density.
the two charges is the electric potential zero? (Take the
1 λ dL
potential at infinity to be zero)
Sol. Let us take the origin O at the location of the positive charge.
∴ VL =
4πε 0 ∫L | r − ri |
The line joining the two charges is taken to be the X-axis and
the negative charge is taken to be on the right side of the Example 2.12 A charge Q is distributed uniformly on a ring
origin. of radius R as shown in the following diagrams. Find the
x 15 − x
electric potential at the centre O of the ring.
O P + + Q
A +
3 × 10–8 C − 2 × 10–8 C + +
+ R
15 cm +
+
Let P be the required point on the X-axis, where the potential +
O +
is zero. If x is the x-coordinate of P, obviously x must be + +
positive. If x lies between O and A, we have + +
Charge on whole ring
1  3 × 10−8 2 × 10−8 
 −2
− =0
4πε 0  x × 10 (15 − x ) × 10−2  Sol. Consider a small charge dq. Electric potential at O due to dq,
3 2 dq
where, x is in cm, i.e. − =0
x 15 − x R
which gives, x = 9 cm O
− 2 × 10–8 C
O P
3 × 10–8 C A x −15
1 dq
x dV = ⋅
4 πε 0 R
If x lies on the extended line OA, the required condition is
1 1 Q
3 2 V0 = Σ dV = Σdq = ⋅
− =0 4πε 0R 4 πε 0 R
x x − 15
which gives, x = 45 cm
Note that the formula for potential used in the calculation Electric potential due to
requires choosing potential to be zero at infinity. electric dipole
Here, we are going to determine the potential due to an
Electric potential due to a electric dipole.
continuous charge distribution Let AB be an electric dipole of length 2a and let P be any
We can imagine that a continuous charge distribution point, where OP = r .
consists of a number of small charge elements located at Let θ be the angle between r and the dipole axis.
position ri . If r is the position vector of point P, then the P
electric potential at point P due to the continuous charge
1 dq
distribution can be written asV = ∫
4πε 0 | r − ri |
r

When the charge is distributed continuously in a volume D 90°θ

V, then dq = ρ dV, where ρ is volume charge density. A a p a
B
–q θ O
The potential at point P due to the volume charge 90° +q
distribution will be C
1 ρdV
VV = ∫
4πε 0 | r − ri |
V
Fig. 2.5 Electric dipole
When the charge is distributed continuously over an area Here, AB = 2a, AO = OB = a and OP = r
S, then dq = σdS, where σ is surface charge density.
OC OC
1 σdS In ∆OAC, cos θ = =
∴ VS = ∫
4πε 0 | r − ri |
S
OA a
∴ OC = a cos θ
72 OBJECTIVE Physics Vol. 2

Also, OD = a cos θ Example 2.13 An electric dipole consists of two charges of

If r > > a, PA = PC = OP + OC = r + a cos θ equal magnitude and opposite sign separately by a distance
2a as shown in figure. The dipole is along the X-axis and is
PB = PD = OP − OD = r − a cos θ centred at the origin.
V is the potential due to electric dipole, Y
a a
 1  q q  P
V =   − X
 4πε 0   PB PA  –q q
x
 1   1 1 
V = q  − (i) Calculate the electric potential at point P.
 4πε 0   (r − a cos θ ) (r + a cos θ )  (ii) Calculate V at a point far from the dipole.
 1   2a q cos θ  Sol. (i) For a point in figure,
V =    qi  q q  2keqa
 4πε 0   r 2 − a 2 cos θ  V = ke Σ = ke  −  = 2
r1  x − a x + a  x − a2
 1  p cos θ (ii) If point P is far from the dipole, such that x >> a, then
V =  2 (Q p = 2aq )
 4π ε 0  (r − a cos θ )
2 2 a 2 can be neglected in the terms, x 2 − a 2 and V
2k qa
If r > > a, a 2 cos 2 θ can be neglected in comparison to r 2 , becomes V = e 2 (x >> a )
x
then the resultant potential at point P,
Example 2.14 Sketch the variation of electric potential on
1 p cos θ the x-axis with respect to x for x = − ∞ to x = + ∞ in the
V = following cases.
4πε 0 r 2
Q Q
O x
where, p is dipole moment. A
d
Special Cases
Sol.
(i) When the point P lies on the axial line of the dipole
on the side of positive charge, θ = 0 ° ⇒ cos θ = 1°
 1  p Electric potential at P,
∴ V =  2
 4πε 0  (r − a 2 ) 1 Q Q  Q d
VP = + = ⋅
4πε 0  x d − x  4πε 0 x (d − x )
If r is very large as compared to 2a, i.e. r > > 2a,
then a 2 can be neglected in comparison to r 2, then VP is minimum, if x (d − x ) is maximum.
potential at the point P, x (d − x ) is maximum,
1 d
p if x (d − x ) = 0 ⇒ d − 2x = 0 ⇒ x = d /2
V = . 2 dx
4πε 0 r
At mid-point of OA, electric potential is minimum.
(ii) When P lies on other side, θ = 180 ° At O : x → 0,V → ∞
⇒ cos θ = −1 At A : x → d,V → ∞
 1  p From O to A, electric potential decreases reaching to
∴ V =−  2 minimum value and then increases.
 4πε 0  (r − a 2 )
Left of O : At distance x from O,
1 p 1 Q Q 
If r >> a, thenV = − ⋅ V= +
4πε 0 r 2 4πε 0  x d + x 

(iii) When the point P lies on equatorial line, θ = 90 ° x → 0, V → ∞
⇒ cos θ = 0 x → − ∞,V → 0
∴ V =0 Y

 1  p ⋅r
(iv) In general,V =   , for a short dipole, at a
 4πε 0  r 3 V

point whose position vector with respect to O d/2 d/2 A X

dipole is r. x
Electrostatic Potential and Capacitance 73

1 Q Q  Sol. Here, the given field is uniform (constant). So using,

Right of A : At distance x from O, V =  x + x − d
4 πε 0   dV = − E ⋅ dr
ra
x → d, V → ∞ or Vab = Va − Vb = − ∫r b
E ⋅ dr
x → ∞, V → 0 (1,− 2 ,1)

Relation between electric field and electric

=− ∫ ( 2,1,− 2) (2 i$ + 3 j$ + 4 k$ ) ⋅ (dx i$ + dy j$ + dz k$ )
potential (1, − 2 ,1)
=− ∫ ( 2,1, − 2) (2 dx + 3 dy + 4 dz )
Let us first consider the case when electric potential V is
(1, − 2, 1)
known and we want to calculate E. The relation is as under, = − [2x + 3 y + 4z] (2, 1, − 2) = − 1 V
In case of cartesian coordinates
Example 2.17 In uniform electric field, E = 10 NC −1 as
E = E $i + E $j + E k$
x y z shown in figure, find
∂V
Here, E x = − = − (partial derivative of V w.r.t. x) A E
∂x
∂V
Ey = − = − (partial derivative of V w.r.t. y ) 2m 2m
∂y
∂V
Ez = − = − (partial derivative of V w.r.t. z) B 2m C
∂z
(i) VA − VB (ii) VB − VC
 ∂V $ ∂V $ ∂V $ 
∴ E=− i+ j+ k
 ∂x ∂y ∂z  Sol. (i) VB > VA, so VA − VB will be negative.
Further, d AB = 2 cos 60° = 1 m
Sometimes it is also written as, E = − gradient V
dV ∴ VA − VB = − Ed AB
= − gradV = − ∇V = −
dr = (−10) (1) = − 10 V
dV (ii) VB > VC , so VB − VC will be positive.
E=−
dr Further, dBC = 2.0 m
Here, negative sign shows that the potential decreases in ∴ VB − VC = (10) (2) = 20 V
the direction of electric field.
Example 2.18 A uniform electric field of 100Vm −1 is
Potential gradient is a vector quantity.
directed at 30° with the positive X-axis as shown in figure.
Example 2.15 The electric potential in a region is Find the potential difference,VBA if OA = 2 m and
represented as V = 2x + 3 y − z OB = 4 m.
B
Obtain expression for electric field strength.
 ∂V $ ∂V $ ∂V $  O 30°
Sol. As we know, E = −  i+ j+ k X
∂z 
A
 ∂x ∂y
∂V ∂
So, = (2x + 3 y − z ) = 2
∂x ∂x Sol. This problem can be solved by both the methods as
∂V ∂ discussed below.
= (2x + 3 y − z ) = 3
∂y ∂y Method 1 Electric field in vector form can be written as
∂V ∂ E = (100 cos 30° $i + 100 sin 30° $j ) Vm−1
= (2x + 3 y − z ) = − 1
∂z ∂z = (50 3 $i + 50$j ) Vm−1
Electric field, E = −2i$ − 3j$ + k$ A = (−2 m, 0, 0)
and B = (0, 4 m, 0)
Example 2.16 Find Vab in an electric field, B
E = (2 i$ + 3 j$ + 4 k$ )
N ∴ VBA = VB − VA = − ∫ A E ⋅ dr
C ( 0 , 4 m, 0 )
where, ra = (i$ − 2 j$ + k$ ) m = −∫ (50 3 $i + 50 $j ) ⋅ (dx $i + dy $j + dz k$ )
( −2 m, 0 , 0 )

and r = (2 i$ + j$ − 2 k$ ) m
b = − [50 3 x + 50 y](0, 4 m, 0)
= − 100 (2 + 3 ) V
(–2 m, 0, 0)
74 OBJECTIVE Physics Vol. 2

Method 2 We can also use,V = Ed Sol. Using the relation,V = Ed (in uniform E)
With the view that,VA > VB or VB − VA will be negative. where, V = potential difference between the two points
Here, d AB = OA cos 30° + OB sin 30° E = magnitude of E
3 1 and d = projection of line (joining two points) along E.
=2× + 4 × = ( 3 + 2)
2 2 (i) VA − VD = 0 as d = 0
∴ VB − VA = − Ed AB = − 100 (2 + 3 ) (ii) VA − VC = + (20) (1) = 20 V
(iii) VB − VD = − (20) (1) = − 20 V
Example 2.19 Two points A and B are 2 cm apart and a
uniform electric field E acts along the straight line AB (iv) VC − VD = − (20) (1) = − 20 V
directed from A to B with E = 200 NC −1. A particle of
Example 2.21 An electric field E = (20 i$ + 30 $j ) N/C exists in
charge + 10 –6 C is taken from A to B along AB. Calculate
the space. If the potential at the origin is taken to be zero,
(i) the force on the charge, find the potential at (2m, 2m ).
(ii) the potential difference,VA − VB and
− dV
(iii) the work done on the charge by E. Sol. We have, E = , so it can be written in vector form as
dr
Sol. (i) Electrostatic force on the charge,
dV = − E ⋅ dr
F = q E = (10−6 ) (200) = 2 × 10−4 N
Note, we can write, E = E i$ + E $j + E k$
x y z
(ii) In uniform electric field,
V = Ed and dr = dxi$ + dy$j + dzk$
∴ Potential difference, VA − VB = 200 × 2 × 10−2 = 4 V Therefore, E ⋅ dr = E x ⋅ dx + E y ⋅ dy + E z ⋅ dz
−4 −2 In the given question, the z-component of E or the point is not
(iii) W = Fs cos θ = (2 × 10 ) ( 2 × 10 ) cos 0°
given. So, we can write
= 4 × 10−6 J E ⋅ dr = E x ⋅ dx + E y ⋅ dy
Example 2.20 In the uniform electric field shown in figure, Now, dV = − E ⋅ dr = − (20i$ + 30j$ ) ⋅ (dxi$ + dy$j )
find or dV = − 20 dx − 30 dy
Now, we will have to integrate it within limits.
A B
Given,V = 0 when x = 0 and y = 0 (lower limit) and we have
1m to calculate V. When x = 2 and y = 2 (upper limit)
E = 20 Vm−1
V x=2 y =2
D
1m
C Therefore, ∫0 dV = − 20 ⋅ ∫x = 0 dx − 30 ∫y = 0 dy
or [V ]V0 = − 20 [x]20 − 30[ y]20
(i) VA − VD (ii) VA − VC
(iii) VB − VD (iv) VC − VD or V − 0 = − 20 (2 − 0) − 30(2 − 0)
∴ Potential,V = − 40 − 60 = − 100 V

CHECK POINT 2.1

1. Find the work done by some external force in moving a 4. In an hydrogen atom, the electron revolves around the
charge q = 4 µC from infinity to a point, where electric nucleus in an orbit of radius 0.53 × 10−10 m. Then, the
potential is104 V. electrical potential produced by the nucleus at the position
(a) 4 × 10−2 J (b) 2 × 10−2 J of the electron is
(c) 8 × 10−2 J (d)1 × 10−2 J (a) –13.6 V (b) – 27.2 V (c) 27.2 V (d) 13.6 V

2. Equal charges are given to two spheres of different radii. 5. Three charges 2q , − q , − q are located at the vertices of an
The potential will equilateral triangle. At the centre of the triangle,
(a) be more on the smaller sphere (a) the field is zero but potential is non-zero
(b) be more on the bigger sphere (b) the field is non-zero but potential is zero
(c) be equal on both the spheres (c) Both field and potential are zero
(d) depend on the nature of the materials of the spheres (d) Both field and potential are non-zero
3. The electric potential at a point in free space due to a charge 6. In a region of constant potential,
Q coulomb is Q × 10 volts. The electric field at the point is
11 (a) the electric field is uniform
−1 −1 (b) the electric field is zero
(a) 4 πε0 Q × 10 20
Vm (b) 12πε0 Q × 10 22
Vm (c) there can be no charge inside the region
(c) 4 πε0 Q × 1022 Vm−1 (d) 12πε0 Q × 1020 Vm−1 (d) the electric field shall necessarily change if a charge is
placed outside the region
Electrostatic Potential and Capacitance 75

7. The work done in bringing a 20 C charge from point A to 10. Two point charges − q and + q are located at points (0, 0, − a)
point B for distance 0.2 m is 2 J. The potential difference and (0, 0, a), respectively. The potential at a point (0, 0, z),
between the two points will be (in volt) where z > a is
(a) 0.2 (b) 8 qa q 2qa 2qa
(c) 0.1 (d) 0.4 (a) (b) (c) (d)
4 π 0 z2 4 πε0 a 4 πε0 (z 2 − a 2) 4 πε0 (z 2 + a 2)
8. As shown in the figure, charges + q and − q are placed at the
11. Two plates are 2 cm apart and a potential difference of 10 V
vertices B and C of an isosceles triangle. The potential at the is applied between them, then the electric field between the
vertex A is plates is
A
(a) 20 NC−1 (b) 500 NC−1 (c) 5 NC−1 (d) 250 NC−1
12. At a certain distance from a point charge the electric field is
a 500 Vm−1 and the potential is 3000 V. What is this distance?
(a) 6 m (b) 12 m (c) 36 m (d) 144 m
b b
B
+q –q
C 13. Two charges of 4 µC each are placed at the corners A and B
of an equilateral triangle of side length 0.2 m in air. The
1 2q
(a) ⋅ (b) zero  1 
4 πε0 a2 + b2 electric potential at C is  = 9 × 109 N - m2 C −2 
 4 πε 0 
1 q 1 (− q)
(c) ⋅ (d) ⋅ (a) 9 × 104 V (b) 18 × 104 V
4 πε0 a + b2
2 4 πε0 a2 + b2
(c) 36 × 10 V 4
(d) 36 × 10−4 V
9. In the rectangle shown below, the two corners have charges
14. The electric potential V at any point O(x , y , z all in metres)
q1 = − 5 µC and q2 = + 2.0 µC. The work done in moving a
charge + 3.0 µC from B to A is (take, k = 1010 N-m 2/C 2) in space is given by V = 4 x 2 V. The electric field at the point
q1
A (1 m, 0, 2m) in volt metre −1 is
(a) 8, along negative X-axis (b) 8, along positive X-axis
5 cm (c) 16, along negative X-axis (d) 16, along positive Z-axis
B q2 15. The electric potential V is given as a function of distance x
15 cm
(a) 2.8 J (b) 3.5 J (metre) by V = (5 x 2 + 10 x − 9) V. Value of electric field at
(c) 4.5 J (d) 5.5 J x = 1 is
(a) – 20 Vm−1 (b) 6 Vm−1 (c) 11 Vm−1 (d) – 23 Vm−1

EQUIPOTENTIAL SURFACES
Any surface over which the electric potential is same (ii) Two equipotential surfaces can never intersect each
everywhere is called an equipotential surface. For a other. If two equipotential surfaces intersect each
1 q other, then at the point of intersection of these, there
single charge q, the potential is given by V =
4πε 0 r will be two directions of electric field which is
impossible.
This shows that if r is constant, thenV will be constant.
Thus, equipotential surfaces of a single point charge are (iii) As, the work done by electric force is zero when a
concentric spherical surfaces centred at the charge. test charge is moved along the equipotential surface,
it follows that E must be perpendicular to the surface
Field lines at every point, so that the electric force q 0 E will
always be perpendicular to the displacement of a
+q charge moving on the surface. Thus, field lines and
Equipotential equipotential surfaces are always mutually
surface perpendicular.

Fig. 2.6 Concentric spherical surfaces E

having charge q at the centre

Properties of a equipotential surfaces

(i) Potential difference between any two points on an 40 V 30 V 20 V
equipotential surface is zero. Fig. 2.7
76 OBJECTIVE Physics Vol. 2

Equipotential surface for charge distribution (v) Equipotential surfaces for two equal and opposite
(i) The equipotential surfaces are a family of concentric charges can be drawn as
spheres for a point charge or a sphere of charge as
shown in the following figures.
10 V 40 V – +
20 30
30 V 20 V
40VV 10V
V

+ –
Fig. 2.12 Equipotential surfaces for unlike charges

Note While drawing the equipotential surfaces, we should keep in

mind the two main points
(i) These are perpendicular to electric field lines at all places.
Fig. 2.8 Equipotential surfaces
(ii) Electric field lines always flow from higher potential to lower
(ii) When potential is applied between two charged potential.
plates, electric field (E ) is setup between them and
Example 2.22 Equipotential spheres are drawn round a point
this E is normal to the equipotential surface as charge. As we move away from the charge, will the spacing
shown below between two spheres having a constant potential difference
Equipotential surfaces decrease, increase or remain constant.
+ – Sol. In the given figure, we have V1 > V2
+ –
+ – 1 q
Q V1 = ⋅ q
+ – 4πε 0 r1 +
+ + E – r2
– r1 V1 V2
1 q
+ – and V2 = ⋅
+ – 4πε 0 r2
+ –
– q 1 1 
+ Now, V1 − V2 =  − 
+ – 4πε 0  r1 r2 
V1 V2
q  r2 − r1
Fig. 2.9 Equipotential surfaces between two charged plates =  
4πε 0  rr
12 
(iii) The equipotential surfaces are a family of concentric (4πε 0 ) V
( 1 − V2 )
cylinders for a line of charge or cylinder of charge. ∴ (r2 − r1) = (r1 r2 )
q
Equipotential surface for line charge is shown below
( 1 − V2 ), r2 − r1 ∝ rr
For a constant potential difference V 12
Equipotential surfaces i.e., the spacing between two spheres (r2 − r1) increases as we
move away from the charge, because the product rr 1 2 will
increase.

Variation of electric potential on

Fig. 2.10 Equipotential surfaces for a line charge distribution
the axis of a charged ring
(iv) Equipotential surfaces for two positive charges of Let a charge q is uniformly distributed over the
equal magnitude are shown below circumference of a ring as shown in Fig. (a) and is
non-uniformly distributed in Fig (b).
E +
+
+ q + ++
+ +
+ +
E +
+
+ +
+q + +
+ + + + +
+ + +
+ R + R
+
+
+ + +
+ + + ++

(a) (b)
Fig. 2.11 Equipotential surfaces for like charges
Fig. 2.13 Variation of electric potential
Electrostatic Potential and Capacitance 77

The electric potential at the centre of the ring in both the Substituting the values, we have
cases is given by (9.0 × 109 ) (10−5 )
1 q Electric potential,V = = 1.8 × 104 V
V = (5.0)
4πε 0 R
Example 2.24 Two identical thin rings, each of radius R, are
where, R is radius of ring. coaxially placed at a distance R. If Q1 and Q 2 are
The electric potential at point P which is at a distance r respectively, the charges uniformly spread on the two rings,
from the centre of ring is given by find the work done in moving a charge q from centre of ring
having charge Q1 to the other ring.
Sol. Q1 Q2
R 2 +r 2
R
R
r R √2 R
C P
A B

Fig. 2.14 Electric potential at P at a distance r from centre of ring

1 q
Q1 Q2 
V= VA =
1
4πε 0 R +r2
2
4 πε 0  R + 2R 

From these expressions, we can see that electric potential 1 Q 2 Q 

VB = + 1 
is maximum at the centre and decreases as we move away 4πε 0  R 2R 
from the centre on the axis.
1   1   1 
This potential varies with the distance r as shown in figure VB − VA = Q1  − 1 + Q 2 1 − 
4πε 0R  2   2
below.
V 1 (Q 2 − Q1)( 2 − 1)
V0 =
4 πε 0 2R
Work done in moving a charge q from A to B,
1 ( 2 − 1)(Q 2 − Q1) q
r=0 r WA → B = q V
( B − VA ) = ⋅
4 πε 0 2R
Fig. 2.15 Variation of potential V with distance r
1 q Potential due to charged sphere
In the figure, V0 =
4πε 0 R Electric potential due to conducting and non-conducting
Example 2.23 A charge q = 10 µC is distributed uniformly charged sphere are given below
over the circumference of a ring of radius 3 m placed on
xy-plane with its centre at origin. Find the electric potential at
Electric potential due to a conducting
a point P(0, 0, 4 m). charged sphere
Sol. The electric potential at point P would be Let us consider a uniformly charged spherical shell. The
z radius of shell is R and its total charge is q, which is
P uniformly distributed over the surface. We can construct a
Gaussian surface (a sphere) of radius r > R .
r0 4m
+ + + + y
+ +
+ 3m + q
x + + +
+ + + +
+ q + +
+ +
+ + +
+ +
E
1 q + r +
V= ⋅ +
R +
4πε 0 r0 + +
+ + +
Here, r0 = distance of point P from the circumference of ring Gaussian
surface
2 2
= (3) + (4) = 5 m
Fig. 2.16
and q = 10 µC = 10−5 C
78 OBJECTIVE Physics Vol. 2

At external points, the potential at any point is the same Electric potential due to a
when the whole charge is assumed to be concentrated at
the centre. At the surface of the sphere, r = R non-conducting charged sphere
1 q For a uniformly charged non-conducting solid sphere, we
∴ Potential, V = ⋅ have the following formulae for potential,
4πε 0 R 1 q
Voutside =
The electric field inside the shell is zero. This implies that 4πε 0 r
potential is constant inside the shell and therefore equals 1 q
to its value at the surface. Thus, we can write, Vsurface =
4πε 0 R
1 q
Vinside = Vsurface = ⋅ 1 q 3 1 r 2 
4πε 0 R Vinside =  − 
4πε 0 R  2 2 R 2 
1 q
and Voutside = ⋅ At the centre potential will be
4πε 0 r
The potential (V ) varies with the distance from the centre 3 1 q
VC = ,
(r ) as shown in Fig. 2.17. 2  4πε 0 R 
3
V which is equal to times the potential at surface. This can
2
1 q
=
sR be obtained by putting r = 0 in the formula ofVinside .
4pe0 R e0 1
Vµ The variation of potential (V ) with distance from the
r
centre is as shown
O R r 3 1 q
2 4πε0 R
Fig. 2.17 Potential variation for conducting charged sphere
Vout ∝ 1
r
Example 2.25 A spherical drop of water carrying a charge of 1 , q
−19 4πε0 R
3 × 10 C has a potential of 500V at its surface. What is
the radius of the drop? If two drops of the same charge and
the same radius combine to form a single spherical drop, r
O R
what is the potential at the surface of the new drop?
q Fig. 2.18 Potential variation for
Sol. The potential V is given byV = non-conducting charged sphere
4πε 0r
Here, q = 3 × 10−19 C andV = 500 V
q 9 × 109 × 3 × 10−19
Electric potential due to a
Hence, r = = = 5.4 × 10−12 m
4πε 0V 500 group of concentric shells
4 Consider a pair of two uniformly charged concentric shells
Volume of one drop is πr 3. having radii a and b (a < b ) and carrying charges q 1 and q 2,
3
8 respectively. We will calculate potential at three different
Total volume of both drops is πr 3.
3 points A, B and C. A lies inside the inner shell, B lies in
Let r ′ be the radius of the new drop formed, equating the the space between the two shells and C lies outside the
4 8 outer shell.
volumes, we have πr ′ 3 = πr 3. This gives, r ′ = 21/ 3r .
3 3
Charge on the new drop = 2q = 6 × 10−19 C
2q 2q
New potential,V ′ = = O
4πε 0r ′ 4πε 0 21/ 3r a b

Hence, by putting values, we get

1000
V ′ = 1/ 3 = 794 V Fig. 2.19
2
Electrostatic Potential and Capacitance 79

Potential at point C Example 2.26 A charge Q is distributed over two concentric

hollow spheres of radii r and R ( > r ) such that the surface
OC = r, where r > b .
densities are equal. Find the potential at any point inside the
q2 smaller sphere.
q1
Sol. Let q and q ′ be the charges on the inner and outer sphere.

O
As surface charge densities are equal.
a C q q′
r ∴ = or qR 2 = q ′ r 2
4 πr 2 4 πR 2
b
Also, q + q ′ = Q. This gives q = Q − q ′
Fig. 2.20 Qr 2 QR 2
Solving the two equations, we get q = , q′ =
q1 + q 2 R2 + r 2
R2 + r2
So, potential at C is VC =
4πε 0 r Now, potential at the centre is given by
(due to inner and outer shell) q q′ Q (r + R )
VC = + =
4πε 0r 4πε 0R 4πε 0 (R 2 + r 2 )
Potential at point B
Let OB = r, where a < r < b . This is equal to potential at any point inside the smaller sphere.

As the point B, lies inside the outer shell,

q2
Motion of charged particle in
q1
electric field
Consider a charged particle having charge q and mass m is
B
a
O initially at rest in an electric field of strength E. The particle
r
will experience an electric force which causes its motion.
b The force experienced by the charged particle is F, where
Fig. 2.21 F = qE
F qE
∴ Acceleration produced by this force is a = = …(i)
q2 m m
Potential at B due to outer shell isV2 = .
4πε 0 b Suppose at point A particle is at rest and after some time t,
it reaches the point B and attains velocity v.
The point B lies outside the inner shell, the potential at B, ∴ v = at
q1
due to inner shell isV1 = . E
4πε 0 r A B
d
q1 q2
So, potential at B isVB = + Fig. 2.23
4πε 0 r 4πε 0 b
If potential difference between A and B be ∆V and the
Potential at point A qEt 2q∆V
Let OA = r, such that r < a . The point A lies inside the outer distance between them is d, then v = = … (ii)
m m
q2
shell. So, potential at A, due to outer shell isV2 = . As, momentum, p = mv
4π ε 0 b
q2  qEt 
∴ p =m  = qEt [from Eq. (ii)]
 m 
q1
2q∆V
a
Or
or p =m × = 2mq∆V
A m
b
Kinetic energy of a charged particle
Fig. 2.22
Kinetic energy gained by the particle in time t,
q1 2
Similarly, potential at A, due to inner shell isV1 = . 1 1  qEt 
4πε 0 a K = mv 2 = m   [from Eq. (ii)]
2 2  m 
q1 q2
So, potential at A isVA = + . q 2E 2t 2 1 2q∆V
4πε 0 a 4πε 0 b = or K = m × = q∆V
2m 2 m
80 OBJECTIVE Physics Vol. 2

Example 2.27 A bullet of mass 2 g is moving with a speed of This is the equation of a parabola, because
10 m/s. If the bullet has a charge of 2 µC, through what
potential it be accelerated starting from rest, to acquire the y ∝ x2
same speed?
(ii) Velocity at any instant At any instant t, v x = u and
1
Sol. Use the relation, qV = mv 2
2 qEt q 2E 2t 2
−6 −3 −1 vy = . So, v = | v | = v x2 + v y2 = u 2 +
Here, q = 2 × 10 C, m = 2 × 10 kg and v = 10 ms m m2
mv 2 × 10−3 × (10)2
2
10−1 u
Therefore, potential,V = = =
2q 2 × 2 × 10−6 2 × 10−6
= 5 × 104 V = 50 kV vy

Work done by a charged particle α

vx
According to work energy theorem, gain in kinetic energy
= work done in displacement of charge, i.e.W = q∆V Fig. 2.26 Resultant velocity
where, ∆V = potential difference between the two If α is the angle made by v with X-axis, then
positions of charge q, i.e. ∆V = E ⋅ ∆r = E∆r cos θ, where θ vy qEt
is the angle between direction of electric field and tan α = =
direction of motion of charge. vx mu
If charge q is given a displacement r = (x$i + y$j + zk$ ) in an Example 2.28 A ball of mass m having a charge q is
electric field E = (E $i + E $j + E k$ ), then the work done is
x y z
released from rest in a region where a horizontal electric
field E exists.
W = q (E ⋅ r) = q (E x x + E y y + E z z ) (i) Find the resultant force acting on the ball.
Work done in displacing a charge in an electric field is path (ii) Find the trajectory followed by the ball.
independent because electric force in field is conservative. Sol. The forces acting on the ball are weight of the ball in
vertically downward direction and the electric force in the
I horizontal direction.
A B WI = WII = WIII
II O qE x

II mg
P (x, y)
Fig. 2.24 Different path followed by
charged particle y

When charged particle enters perpendicularly in an electric (i) Resultant force, F = (mg )2 + (qE )2 .
field, it describes a parabolic path as shown (ii) Let the ball be at point P after time t, then the trajectory
(i) Equation of trajectory Throughout the motion, followed by ball can be written as
particle has uniform velocity along X-axis and 1 qE 2
In x-direction, x = t
horizontal displacement (x ) is given by the equation, 2 m
x = ut. Since, the motion of the particle is 1 y g mgx
accelerated along Y-axis. In y-direction, y = gt 2 ⇒ = ⇒y=
2 x qe /m qE
Y Trajectory is a straight line.
E Example 2.29 A block having charge q and mass m is resting
on a smooth horizontal surface at a distance d from the wall
is as shown. Discuss the motion of the block when a uniform
electric field E is applied horizontally towards the wall
A(x, y)
assuming that collision of the block with the wall is
u X
completely elastic.
x
E
Fig. 2.25 Trajectory of charged particle q
2 m
1  qE   x   x
So, y=     Q t = 
2  m  u  u
O
d
Electrostatic Potential and Capacitance 81

Sol. The figure can be shown as Let the speed of particle at origin be v. Applying energy
conservation between A and O, we get
N
K A + U A = KO + U O
F = qE
K A + (−Q )VA = KO + (−Q )VO
O
1 1 2Q 1
mg ⇒ mv A2 + (−Q ) ⋅ = mvO2
d 2 4 πε 0 3 + 4
2 2 2
qE 1 2Q
Acceleration of the block can be given as a = . + (− Q ) ⋅
m 4 πε 0 4
Time taken by the block to reach the wall at distance
1 2Q 2  1 1 
 1  ⇒ m (vO2 − v A2 ) =  − 
d  = at 2 is 2 4 πε 0  4 5 
 2 
1
2d 2d 2md = 2 (50 × 10−6 )2 × 9 × 109 ×
t= = = 20
a qE /m qE 1
× 20 × 10−3 (vO2 − 202 ) = 2.25
After completely elastic collision, the speed of the block is 2
reversed and then it moves under retardation and comes to
rest at O. Again it is accelerated towards the wall and so on. ⇒ vO2 − 400 = 225 ⇒ vO2 = 625 ⇒ vO = 25 ms−1
In fact, it is executing oscillatory motion of the time period Applying energy conservation between A and B, we have
2md K A + U A = KB + U B
T = 2t = 2
qE K A + (− Q )VA = 0 + (−Q )VB
As, force qE is constant, the motion of block is not simple 1 1 2Q 1 2Q
mv A2 + (− Q ) ⋅ = (− Q ) ⋅
harmonic. 2 4 πε 0 5 4 πε 0 4 + x2
2

Example 2.30 Two point charges each 50 µC are fixed on 1 

Y-axis at y = + 4 m and y = − 4 m. Another charged 1 1 1
mv A2 = 2Q 2  − 
particle having charge − 50 µC and mass 20 g is moving 2 4 πε 0  5 42 + x 2 
along the positive X-axis. When it is at x = − 3 m, its speed is
20 ms −1. Find the speed of charged particle when it reaches ⇒
1
× 20 × 10−3 × (20)2 = 9 × 109 × 2 ×
origin. Also, find distance of charged particle from origin, 2
when its kinetic energy becomes zero. 1 
1
Sol. (50 × 10−6 )2  − 
50 µC = Q  5 42 + x 2 
4m
20 ms–1 1 1  1 1 4 1
⇒ 4 = 45  − ⇒
v v=0
O = − =
5 2 2
16 + x  16 + x 2 5 45 9
A 3m x B 
4m Therefore, x = 65 m
50 µC = Q

CHECK POINT 2.2

1. The work done to move a charge along an equipotential 3. The electric potential at the surface of an atomic nucleus
from A to B (Z = 50) of radius 9.0 × 10 −15 cm
B
(a) cannot be defined as − ∫ A E ⋅ dl (a) 80 V (b) 8 × 106 V
B (c) 9 V (d) 9 × 105 V
(b) must be defined as − ∫ A E ⋅ dl
(c) is zero
4. A hollow metal sphere of radius 5 cm is charged, so that the
potential on its surface is 10 V. The potential at the centre of
(d) can have a non-zero value
the sphere is
E (a) 0V
2. There is a uniform electric field of
intensity E which is as shown. How many (b) 10 V
labelled points have the same electric (c) same as at point 5 cm away from the surface
potential as the fully shaded point? (d) same as at point 25 cm away from the surface
(a) 2 (b) 3
(c) 8 (d) 11
82 OBJECTIVE Physics Vol. 2

5. Two charged spheres of radii R1 and R2 having equal surface Q Q

(a) for points outside and for points inside the
charge density. The ratio of their potential is 4 πε0 r 4 πε0 R
(a) R1 / R2 (b) R2 / R1 (c) (R1 / R2)2 (d) (R2 / R1)2 shell
Q
(b) for both points inside and outside the shell
6. The radii of two concentric spherical conducting shells are r1 4 πε0 r
and r2 ( > r1). The charge on the outer shell is q. The charge Q
on the inner shell which is connected to the earth is (c) zero for points outside and for points inside the shell
4 πε0 r
r  r  r 
(a) q  2  (b) q 2  1  (c) − q(r1 / r2) (d) q 2  2  (d) zero for both points inside and outside the shell
 r1   r2   r1 
12. The diameter of a hollow metallic sphere is 60 cm and the
7. If a charged spherical conductor of radius 10 cm has sphere carries a charge of 500 µC. The potential at a distance
potential V at a point distant 5 cm from its centre, then the of 100 cm from the centre of the sphere will be
potential at a point distant 15 cm from the centre will be
(a) 6 × 107 V (b) 7 × 106 V
1 2 3
(a) V (b) V (c) V (d) 3V
3 3 2 (c) 4.5 × 10 V
6
(d) 5 × 106 V
8. A hollow conducting sphere of radius R has a charge (+ q) 13. Obtain the energy in joule acquired by an electron beam
on its surface. What is the electric potential within the when accelerated through a potential difference of 2000 V.
sphere at a distance r = R / 3 from its centre How much speed will the electron gain?
1 Q 1 Q 1 Q 8 7
(a) Zero (b) (c) (d) (a) × 107 m /s (b) × 107 m /s
4 πε0 r 4 πε0 R 4 πε0 r 2 3 3
5 2
9. A spherical conductor of radius 2 m is charged to a potential (c) × 107 m /s (d) × 107 m /s
of 120 V. It is now placed inside another hollow spherical 3 3
conductor of radius 6 m. Calculate the potential to which 14. A particle A has charge + 16q and a particle B has charge
the bigger sphere would be raised. + 4 q with each of them having the same mass m. When
(a) 20 V (b) 60 V (c) 80 V (d) 40 V allowed to fall from rest through the same electric potential
10. Three concentric spherical shells have radii a, b and v
difference, the ratio of their speed A will becomes
c(a < b < c) and have surface charge densities σ , − σ and σ, vB
respectively. If V A , VB and VC denote the potentials of the (a) 2 : 1 (b) 1 : 2 (c) 1 : 4 (d) 4 : 1
three shell, … for c = a + b, we have
(a) VC = V A ≠ VB (b) VC = VB ≠ V A 15. What potential difference must be applied to produce an
(c) VC ≠ VB ≠ V A (d) VC = VB = V A
electric field that can accelerate an electron to one-tength
the velocity of light?
11. The electrostatic potential of a uniformly charged thin (a) 1352 V (b) 2511 V
spherical shell of charge Q and radius R at a distance r from (c) 2531 V (d) 3521 V
the centre is

ELECTRIC POTENTIAL ENERGY

When a charged particle moves in an electric field, the Wa→b = U a − Ub = − (Ub − U a ) = − ∆U …(i)
field exerts a force (electric force) that can do work on the Here,Wa→b is the work done in displacing the charge
charge particle. This work can be expressed in terms of particle from a to b by the conservative force (here
electric potential energy. electrostatic). Moreover, we can see from Eq. (i) that if
It is represented by U. Electric potential can be written as Wa → b is positive, ∆U is negative, i.e. the potential energy
W U decreases. So, whenever the work done by a conservative
potential energy per unit charge, i.e.V = = force is positive, the potential energy of the system
q q
decreases and vice versa.
Electric potential energy is defined only in a conservative That’s what happens when a charge particle is thrown
field. upwards, the work done by gravity is negative, and the
potential energy increases.
Relation between work and energy
If the force F is conservative, the work done by F can
Electron volt
One electron volt (1eV) is the energy equal to the work
always be expressed in terms of a potential energy U. done in moving a single elementary charge particle, such
When the charge particle moves from a point where the as the electron or the proton through a potential
potential energy is U a to a point where it is Ub , the difference of exactly one volt (1 V).
change in potential energy is, ∆U = Ub − U a . 1 eV = e (1 V ) = (1.6 × 10 − 19 C ) (1 J/C )
This is related by the workWa → b as
= 1.6 × 10 − 19 J
Electrostatic Potential and Capacitance 83

Example 2.31 A spherical oil drop of radius 10 −4 cm has a Exmple 2.35 Three point charges of 0.1 C each are placed at
total charge equivalent to 40 electrons. Calculate the energy the corners of an equilateral triangle with side 1 m. If this
that would be required to place an additional electron on the system is supplied energy at the rate of 1 kW, how much
drop. time will be required to move one of the charges to the
Sol. Initial charge on the oil drop, q = 40 × 1.6 × 10−19 mid-point of the line joining the two others?
Sol. 0.1 C
= 64 × 10−19 C
q 1m 1m 0.1 C 0.1 C 0.1 C
Potential of the oil drop = 0.5 m 0.5 m
4πε 0r
9 × 109 × 64 × 10−19
= −6
= 576 × 10−4 V 0.1 C 1m 0.1 C
10 (1) (2)
Now, energy required = work done in bringing an electron 1  0.1 × 0.1 
from infinity to a point of potential. U1 =  × 3
4 πε 0 1 
work
As, potential =
charge = 9 × 109 × 3 × 10−2 = 27 × 107 J

∴ Work = Potential × Charge = 576 × 10−4 × 1.6 × 10−19 1  0.1 × 0.1 0.1 × 0.1
U2 = ×2+
−23 4πε 0  0.5 1 
= 921.6 × 10 J
= 9 × 109 × 0.05 = 45 × 107 J
Example 2.32 A uniform electric field E 0 is directed along
positive y-direction. Find the change in electric potential W1→ 2 = U 2 − U1 = 18 × 107 J
energy of a positive test charge q 0 when it is displaced in the Rate at which energy is supplied is given by
field from y i = a to y f = 2a along the Y-axis. W
P=
Sol. Electrostatic force on the test charge, t
Fe = q 0 E 0 (along positive y-direction) W 18 × 107
∴ t= = = 18 × 104 s = 50 h
E0 P 103
q 0E 0
Potential energy of a system
+ q0
of charges
The potential energy for a system of two point charges and
for a collection of more than two charges are given below.
∴Wi − f = – ∆U or ∆U = – Wi − f = – [q 0E 0 (2a – a )] = – q 0E 0a
Note Here, work done by electrostatic force is positive. Hence, the 1. Potential energy for a system of two
potential energy is decreasing.
point charges
Example 2.33 Find the change in electric potential energy, Potential energy of the system of two charges q 1 and q 2
∆U as a charge of 2.20 × 10 −6 C, moves from a point A to will be the work done to bring them from infinity to point
point B, given that the change in electric potential between A and point B, respectively.
these points is ∆V = VB − VA = 24.0 V .
Work done to bring charge q 1 from infinity to point A,
∆U
Sol. As, ∆V = , where ∆U is change in potential energy W1 = 0
q0
Work done to bring charge q 2 from infinity to point B,
∴ ∆U = q 0∆V = (2.20 × 10−6 ) (24.0) = 5.28 × 10−5 J
W2 = q 2 (VB −VA )
Example 2.34 A charge is moved in an electric field of a 1 q1
fixed charge distribution from point A to another point B As, W2 = q 2 × ⋅
4πε 0 r
slowly. The work done by external agent in doing so, is
100 J. What is the work done by the electric field of the Now, potential energy of the system of charges q 1 and q 2 ,
charge distribution as the charge moves from A to B?
U = W1 +W2
Sol. Work done,Wext = ∆U = U B − U A = 100 J
As, Fext = − FE for the charge to move slowly, so 1 q 1q 2
U= ⋅
WE = − Wext = − 100 J 4πε 0 r
84 OBJECTIVE Physics Vol. 2

Example 2.36 In a hydrogen atom, the electron and proton Example 2.39 A point charge q1 = 9.1 µC is held fixed at
are bound together at a distance of about 0.53Å. Estimate origin. A second point charge q 2 = − 0.42 µC and a mass
the potential energy of the system in eV, assuming zero 3.2 × 10 −4 kg is placed on the X-axis, 0.96 m from the
potential energy at infinite separation between the electron origin. The second point charge is released at rest. What is
and the proton. its speed when it is 0.24 m from the origin?
Sol. Charge on electron, q1 = − 1.6 ×10−19 C Sol. From conservation of mechanical energy, we have decrease
−19 in gravitational potential energy = increase in kinetic energy
Charge on proton, q 2 = 1.6 ×10 C
Separation between electron and proton, 1 qq 1 1
or mv 2 = U i − U f = 1 2  − 
r = 0.53 Å = 0.53 × 10−10 m 2 4π ε 0  ri rf 
The change in energy when electron-proton system is q1q 2  rf − ri 
formed is =  
1 q1q 2 4π ε 0  ri rf 
∆U = ⋅
4πε 0 r Speed of the second charge,
− 19 − 19
= (9 × 109 ) ×
(−1.6 × 10 )(1.6 × 10 ) q1q 2  rf – ri 
− 10 v=  
0.53 × 10 2π ε 0m  ri rf 
= −4.35 × 10−18 J
( 9.1 × 10–6 ) (− 0.42 × 10–6 ) × 2 × 9 × 109  0.24 − 0.96
4.35 × 10− 18 =  
=− = −27.2 eV 3.2 × 10–4  (0.24) (0.96)
1.6 × 10− 19
At infinite separation, the potential energy is zero, therefore = 26 ms−1
the energy when the system is formed, is
Example 2.40 An α-particle with kinetic energy 10 MeV is
U = 0 + ∆U = − 27.2 eV
leading towards a stationary tin nucleus of atomic number
Example 2.37 A point charge q1 = − 5.8 µC is held 50. Calculate the distance of closest approach.
stationary at the origin. A second point charge Sol. Due to repulsion by the tin nucleus, the kinetic energy of
q 2 = + 4.3 µC moves from the point (0.26 m, 0, 0) to the α-particle gradually decreses at the expense of
(0.38 m, 0, 0). How much work is done by the electric force electrostatic potential energy.
on q 2 ?
2e v=0
Sol. Work done by the electrostatic forces = U i − U f + + +50e
v
q1q 2 1 1 q q  rf − ri 
=  − = 12   r
4π ε 0  ri rf  4π ε 0  ri rf  ∴ Decrease in kinetic energy = Increase in potential energy
(− 5.8 × 10−6 ) (4.3 × 10−6 ) (9 × 109 ) (0.38 − 0.26) 1 2
mv = U f − U i
= or
(0.38) (0.26) 2
= − 0.272 J 1 1 qq
or mv 2 = ⋅ 12 −0
2 4πε 0 r
Example 2.38 What minimum work must be done by an
external force to bring a charge q = 3.0 µC from a great 1 (2e ) (50e )
∴ r= ⋅
distance away (take, r = ∞) to a point 0.50 m from a charge 4πε 0 (KE )
Q = 20.0 µC ? Substituting the values, we get
Sol. The change in potential energy equal to the positive of the −19 −19
(9 × 109 ) (2 × 1.6 × 10 ) (1.6 × 10 × 50)
work required by an external forceW = ∆U = q (VB − VA ). We Distance, r = −19
6
kQ 10 × 10 × 1.6 × 10
get the potentialsVB andVA usingV = = 14.4 × 10 −15
m
r
The work required is equal to the change in potential energy, Example 2.41 A proton is fixed at origin. Another proton is
 kQ kQ  released from rest, from a point at a distance r from origin.
W = qV( B − VA ) = q  − 
 rB rA  Taking charge of origin as e and mass as m, find the speed
of the proton (i) at a distance 2r from origin, (ii) at large
where, rB = 0.500 m and rA = ∞. distance from origin.
Work done,
O Proton
(9 × 109 N-m2 /C2 )(2.00 × 10−5 C)
W = (3.00 × 10−6 C) e e
(0.50 m) Proton
r
= 1.08 J
Electrostatic Potential and Capacitance 85

Sol. The proton moves away under electrostatic repulsion. (9 × 109 ) (12 × 10−9 )
= = 401 V
As there is no external force, Wext = 0 ( (10)2 + (25)2 ) × 10−2
⇒ ∆KE + ∆PE = 0
1 2
1 q (9 × 109 ) (12 × 10−9 )
⇒  mv  + (U f − U i ) = 0 VC = ⋅ =
2  4π ε 0 R 10 × 10−2
e2 e2 = 1080 V
(i) We have, Uf = , and U i =
4πε 0 (2r ) 4πε 0 (r ) Substituting the proper values in Eq. (i), we get
1
1 e2 × 9.1 × 10–31 × v 2 = (–1.6 × 10−19 ) (401 − 1080)
∴ mv 2 = 2
2 4πε 0 (2r )
∴ Speed of the electron, v = 15.45 × 106 ms−1
2
e
or speed of the proton, v =
4πε 0rm 2. Potential energy for a collection of
e 2 more than two charges
(ii) We have, U f = 0, U i =
4πε 0r The potential energy of a system of n charges is given by
e2 K n qiq j  1 
∴
1
mv 2 = U= ∑  here, K = 
2 4πε 0r 2 i, j rij  4πε 0 
i≠j
2e 2 The factor of 1/2 is applied only with the summation sign
Speed of the proton, v =
4πε 0rm because on expanding the summation, each pair is
counted twice. It is reqresented by U.
Example 2.42 A uniformly charged thin ring has radius
10 .0 cm and total charge + 12.0 nC. An electron is placed
For example, electric potential energy of four point
on the ring’s axis at a distance 25.0 cm from the centre of charges q 1, q 2, q 3 and q 4 would be given by
the ring and is constrained to stay on the axis of the ring. 1  q 4 q 3 q 4 q 2 q 4 q 1 q 3q 2 q 3q 1 q 2q 1 
U= + + + + +
When the electron is released from rest, then 4πε 0  r 43 r 42 r 41 r 32 r 31 r 21 
(i) describe the subsequent motion of the electron.
(ii) find the speed of the electron when it reaches the centre of q2
the ring.
Sol. (i) The electron will be attracted towards the centre C of q3
the ring. At C net force is zero, but on reaching C,
electron has some kinetic energy and due to inertia it q1
crosses C, but on the other side it is further attracted
towards C. Hence, motion of electron is oscillatory about q4
point C.
Fig. 2.27 System of four charges
+
+ +
+ +
+
Here, all the charges are to be substituted with sign.
+
C e–
Example 2.43 Three point charges of 1 C, 2 C and 3 C are
+
+ P
+
+ R + r
placed at the corners of an equilateral triangle of side 1 m.
+
+
+ Calculate the work required to move these charges to the
corners of a smaller equilateral triangle of side 0.5 m.
+
+

(ii) As the electron approaches C, its speed (hence, kinetic Sol. Work done = U f – U i
energy) increases due to force of attraction towards the
centre C. This increase in kinetic energy is equal to A q1
change in electrostatic potential energy. Thus,
1
mv 2 = U i − U f q1 A′
2
1m 1m
1 2
0.5
m

⇒ mv = U P − U C = (− e ) [VP − VC ] …(i)
0.5

2
m

Here, V is the potential due to ring. q2 q3

B′ 0.5 m C′
1 q q2 q3
VP = ⋅ (where, q = charge on ring) B
1m
C
4πε 0 r
0.5 m
86 OBJECTIVE Physics Vol. 2

1  1 1 Example 2.46 Two point charges are located on the X-axis,

=  −  [q 3q 2 + q 3q1 + q 2q1] q1 = − 1 µC at x = 0 and q 2 = + 1 µC at x = 1 m.
4π ε 0  rf ri 
(i) Find the work that must be done by an external force to bring a
 1 1
9 third point charge q 3 = + 1 µC from infinity to x = 2 m .
= 9 × 10  −  [(3)(2) + (3)(1) + (2)(1)]
 0 .5 1 (ii) Find the total potential energy of the system of three charges.
= 99 × 109 J Sol. (i) The work that must be done on q 3 by an external force
is equal to the difference of potential energy ∆U when
Example 2.44 Find the electric potential energy of the system the charge is at x = 2m and the potential energy when it
of charges. is at infinity.
15Q 1  q 3q 2 q q q q 
∴ W = ∆U = Uf − Ui =  + 3 1 + 2 1
4πε 0  (r32 )f (r31)f (r21)f 
5d
3d 1  q 3q 2 q 3q1 q 2q1 
− + +
4πε 0  (r32 )i (r31)i (r21)i 
Q
4d
8Q Here, (r21)i = (r21)f and (r32 )i = (r31)i = ∞
Sol. Number of pairs = 3 1  q 3q 2 q q 
∴ W=  + 3 1
4πε 0  (r32 )f (r31)f 
The electric potential energy for a system of charges is given by
Substituting the values, we get
1 q1q 2 q 2q 3 q1q 3 
U = + +  (1) (1) (1) (−1)
4πε 0  r r r  W = (9.0 × 109 ) (10−12 )  +
 (1.0) (2.0) 
On putting the values, we get
= 4.5 × 10–3 J
1 15Q ⋅ Q Q ⋅ 8Q 15Q ⋅ 8Q 
U = ⋅ + + (ii) The total potential energy of the three charges is
4πε 0  3d 4d 5d 
given by
1 31Q 2 1  q 3q 2 q 3q1 q 2q1
= ⋅ U =  + + 
4 πε 0 d 4πε 0  r32 r31 r21 
 (1) (1) (1) (−1) (1) (−1)
Example 2.45 Four charges q1 = 1 µC , q 2 = 2 µC , = (9.0 × 109 )  + + (10−12 )
q 3 = − 3 µC and q 4 = 4 µC are kept on the vertices of a  (1.0) (2.0) (1.0) 
square of side 1 m. Find the electric potential energy of this = − 4.5 × 10−3 J
system of charges.
q4
1m
q3 Example 2.47 Two point charges q1 = q 2 = 2 µC are fixed
at x1 = + 3 m and x 2 = – 3 m as shown in figure. A third
particle of mass 1 g and charge q 3 = – 4 µC are released
1m 1m from rest at y = 4.0 m . Find the speed of the particle as it
reaches the origin.
y
1m
q1 q2
q3 y=4m
Sol. We have, r41 = r43 = r32 = r21 = 1 m
and r42 = r31 = (1)2 + (1)2 = 2 m q2 q1
Potential energy of a system of three charges, x
O
x 2 = –3 m x1 = 3 m
1 q 4q 3 q 4q 2 q 4q1 q 3q 2 q 3q1 q 2q1
U = + + + + +
4πε 0  r43 r42 r41 r32 r31 r21  Sol. Here, the charge q 3 is attracted towards q1 and q 2 both. So,
the net force on q 3 is towards origin.
U = (9.0 × 109 )(10−6 )(10−6 ) y
 (4)(−3) (4)(2) (4)(1) (−3)(2) (−3)(1) (2)(1)
 1 + 2 + 1 + 1 + + q3
 2 1 
 5
= (9.0 × 10−3 ) −12 + = − 7.62 × 10−2 J
 2  Fnet

Note Here, negative sign of U implies that positive work has been done q2 q1
by electrostatic forces in assembling these charges at respective x
O
distances from infinity.
Electrostatic Potential and Capacitance 87

By this force, charge is accelerated towards origin, but this

acceleration is not constant. Potential energy of a dipole
So, to obtain the speed of particle at origin by kinematics, we in a uniform electric field
have to find first the acceleration at same intermediate
position and then will have to integrate it with proper limits. The work done in rotating the dipole through a small angle
On the other hand, it is easy to use principle of conservation
dθ.
of energy as the forces are conservative. dW = τdθ = −pE sinθdθ
Let v be the speed of particle at origin. From conservation of Suppose initially dipole is kept in a uniform electric field
mechanical energy, at angle θ 1. Now, to turn it through an angle θ 2 (with the
U i + Ki = U f + K f field). Then, work done
1  q 3q 2 q 3q1 q 2q1  θ2
+ + + 0
or
4πε 0  (r32 )i (r31)i (r21)i  W= ∫θ1
pE sinθdθ

1  q 3q 2 q q q q  1 W = −pE [cos θ 2 − cos θ 1]

=  + 3 1 + 2 1  + mv 2
4πε 0  (r32 )f (r31)f (r21)f  2 If θ 1 = 0 ° and θ 2 = θ, i.e. initially dipole is kept along the
Here, (r21)i = (r21)f field and then it turns through θ, so work done,
W = pE (1 − cos θ )
Substituting the proper values, we have
 (− 4) (2) (− 4) (2) Potential energy of dipole is defined as work done in
(9.0 × 109 )  + × 10−12 rotating a dipole from a direction perpendicular to the field
 (5.0) (5.0) 
to the given direction.
 (− 4) (2) (− 4) (2) 1
If the dipole is rotated by an angle θ 1 = 90 ° to θ 2 = θ,
= (9.0 × 109 )  +  × 10−12 + × 10−3 × v 2
 (3.0) (3.0)  2 then potential energy is given by
∴
 16  16 1
(9 × 10–3 )  −  = (9 × 10−3 )  −  + × 10−3 × v 2
U = pE (cos 90 ° − cos θ )
 5  3 2 = − pE cosθ = − p ⋅ E
2 1
(9 × 10−3 ) (16)   = × 10−3 × v 2 Example 2.48 When an electric dipole is placed in a uniform
15 2 electric field making angle θ with electric field, it
−1 experiences a torque τ. Calculate the minimum work done in
∴ v = 6.2 ms
changing the orientation to 2θ.
τ
Potential energy in an external field Sol. τ = pE sin θ ⇒ pE =
sin θ
Here, mainly two situations are possible.
W = ∆U = − pE cos θ 2 + pE cos θ1
Potential energy of a single charge in external ⇒ W = pE [cos θ − cos 2θ]
field Potential energy of a single charge q at a point with τ
position vector r in an external field = q ⋅V (r ) ⇒ W= [cos θ − cos 2θ]
sin θ
where,V (r ) is the potential at a point (i.e. position vector r)
due to external electric field E. Equilibrium of dipole
Potential energy of a system of two charges in an (i) Work done, when θ = 0 °
external field Consider two charges q 1 and q 2 kept in an
external field E at A and B. U = − pE cos 0 ° = − pE
Then, potential energy of a system is given by Thus, the potential energy of a dipole is minimum
when its dipole moment is parallel to the external
q 1q 2
U = q 1V (r1 ) + q 2V (r 2 ) + field. This is the position of stable equilibrium.
4πε 0 r12
(ii) When θ = 180 °
where, r1 and r 2 are the position vector of point A and B U = − pE cos 180 ° = + pE
respectively,
Thus, the potential energy of a dipole is maximum
V (r1 ) is potential at r1 due to the external field when its dipole moment is antiparallel to the
andV (r 2 ) is potential at r 2 due to the external field. external field. This is the position of unstable
equilibrium.
88 OBJECTIVE Physics Vol. 2

E
+q
E Sol. (i) The electric dipole moment is p = q × 2l
F1 where, q is the charge of one end of the dipole and 2l is
–q +q the distance between the two charges.
p Restoring torque Here, q = 2e = 3.2 ×10−19 C and 2l = 2.4 Å
–q
F2 = 2.4 × 10−10m
θ = 0° When displaced from mean position,
Q p = (3.2 × 10−19 ) × (2.4 × 10−10 )
U = minimum = − PE a restoring torque acts on the dipole
Fnet = 0, τ = 0 = 7.68 × 10− 29 C-m
E E (ii) The potential energy of a dipole in an electric field E is
–q
F1 U = − pE cos θ
+q –q Torque in opposite where, θ is the angle between the axis of the dipole and
direction the field. In equilibrium position,
p
F2
θ = 0°, and so U 0 = − pE
+q
Here, p = 7.68 × 10− 29 C-m and E = 4.0 × 105 Vm −1
θ = 180° When displaced from mean position,
U = maximum = +PE the torque acts in opposite direction ∴ U 0 = − (7.68 × 10− 29) × (4.0 × 105)
F net = 0, τ = 0
Fig. 2.28 = −3.07 × 10− 23 J
(iii) The work done (increase in energy) in rotating the
Example 2.49 Two point charges + 2 e and − 2e are situated
dipole through angle θ from the direction of the electric
at a distance of 2.4 Å from each other and constitute an field E is given by W = pE (1 − cos θ )
electric dipole. This dipole is placed in a uniform electric
field of 4.0 × 10 5 Vm −1. Calculate If θ = 180° or cos θ = −1,
(i) electric dipole moment, thenW = 2pE
(ii) potential energy of the dipole in equilibrium position = 2 × (7.68 × 10− 29) × (4.0 × 105)
(iii) and work done in rotating the dipole through 180° from
the equilibrium position. = 6.14 × 10− 23 J

CHECK POINT 2.3

1. When a positive charge q is taken from lower potential to a 6. Identify the wrong statement.
higher potential point, then its potential energy will (a) The electrical potential energy of a system of two protons
(a) decrease (b) increase shall increase if the separation between the two is
(c) remain unchanged (d) become zero decreased.
(b) The electrical potential energy of a proton-electron system
2. When one electron is taken towards the other electron, will increase if the separation between the two is
then the electric potential energy of the system decreased.
(a) decreases (b) increases (c) The electrical potential energy of a proton-electron system
(c) remains unchanged (d) becomes zero will increase if the separation between the two is increased.
3. Two positive point charges of12µC and 8 µC are 10 cm (d) The electrical potential energy of a system of two electrons
apart. The work done in bringing them 4 cm is shall increase if the separation between the two is decreased.
(a) 5.8 J (b) 5.8 eV (c) 13 J (d) 13 eV 7. Two positive point charges of 12 and 5 microcoulombs, are
4. A proton moves a distance d in a uniform electric field E as placed 10 cm apart in air. The work needed to bring them
shown in the figure. Does the electric field do a positive or 4 cm closer is
negative work on the proton? Does the electric potential (a) 2.4 J (b) 3.6 J (c) 4.8 J (d) 6.0 J
energy of the proton increase or decrease? 8. Three identical charges each of 2 µC are placed at the
vertices of a triangle ABC as shown in the figure.
E
A
⊕
d
(a) Negative, increase (b) Positive, decrease C B
(c) Negative, decrease (d) Positive, increase
If AB + AC = 12 cm and AB ⋅ AC = 32 cm2, the potential
5. The electrostatic potential energy between proton and
energy of the charge at A is
electron separated by a distance 1 Å is
(a) 1.53 J (b) 5.31 J (c) 3.15 J (d) 1.35 J
(a) 13.6 eV (b) 27.2 eV (c) − 14.4 eV (d) 1.44 eV
Electrostatic Potential and Capacitance 89

9. If three charges are placed at the vertices of equilateral q3

triangle of charge q each, what is the net potential energy, if C
the side of equilateral triangle is l cm?
1 q2 1 2q 2 1 3q 2 1 4q 2
(a) (b) (c) (d) 40 cm
4 πε0 l 4 πε0 l 4 πε0 l 4 πε0 l
10. Three charges Q, + q and + q are placed at the vertices of an q2
equilateral triangle of side l as shown in the figure. If the q1 D
net electrostatic energy of the system is zero, then Q is A 30 cm B
equal to (a) 8 q 2 (b) 8 q1
Q (c) 6 q 2 (d) 6 q1
13. For dipole q = 2 × 10− 6 C and d = 0.01 m, calculate the
l l maximum torque for this dipole if E = 5 × 105 N / C.
(a) 1 × 10− 3 N/m (b) 10 × 10 − 2 N/m
(c) 10 × 10− 3 N/m (d) 1 × 102 N/m
+q l +q 14. A molecule with a dipole moment p is placed in a electric
q field of strength E. Initially, the dipole is aligned parallel to
(a) − (b) −q (c) + q (d) zero
2 the field. If the dipole is to be rotated to be anti-parallel to
the field, then the work required to be done by an external
11. If identical charges (− q) are placed at each corner of a cube agency is
of side b, then electric potential energy of charge (+ q) which (a) − 2pE (b) −pE
is placed at centre of the cube will be (c) pE (d) 2 pE
8 2q 2 −8 2q 2 −4 2q 2 −4 q 2
(a) (b) (c) (d) 15. Three point charges of 1C, 2C and 3C are placed at the
4 πε0 b π ε0 b π ε0 b 3 π ε0 b corners of an equilateral triangle of side 100 cm. The work
12. Two charges q1 and q2 are placed 30 cm apart as shown in done to move these charges to the corners of a similar
equilateral triangle of side 50 cm, will be
the figure. A third charge q3 is moved along the arc of a
circle of radius 40 cm from C to D. The change in the (a) 9.9 × 1010 J (b) 9.9 × 109 J
q . × 1010 J
(c) 52 . × 109 J
(d) 59
potential energy of the system is 3 k, where k is
4πε 0

ELECTROSTATICS OF CONDUCTORS
Whenever a conductor is placed in an external electric A conductor in electrostatic equilibrium has the following
field, the free electrons in it experience a force due to it properties
and start moving opposite to the field. This movement (i) Under static conditions, electric field inside a
makes one side of conductor positively charged and the conductor is zero.
other as negatively charged. This creates an electric field
(ii) Just outside a conductor, E is normal to its surface. If
in the conductor in a direction opposite to external electric
it were not, then it would have a component along
field (called induced field). The movement of electrons
the conductor’s surface, that would cause the motion
continues till the net electric field (resultant of external
of charges. That contradicts the state of electrostatic
electric field and induced field) becomes zero. This is a
equilibrium.
state of electrostatic equilibrium.
(iii) The whole body of conductor is equipotential, as
E E inside = 0.
+σ −σ
E (iv) At any point inside that body of the conductor, the
E induced
electric field due to charges appearing on the surface
e−
e−
of conductor is equal and opposite to the external field.
Einside = 0
e− Some phenomena related to electrostatics of conductors
e− are given below.
Conductor
Conductor (i) Electrostatic shielding
(a) Conductor placed in
(b) Electrostatic equilibrium
Suppose we have a very sensitive electronic instrument
electric field
that we want to protect from external electric fields that
Fig. 2.29 might cause wrong measurements. We surround the
 Chapter Exercises
(A) Taking it together
Assorted questions of the chapter for advanced level practice

1 Angle between equipotential surface and lines of 9 In a charged capacitor, the energy resides in
force is (a) the positive charges
(a) zero (b) 180° (b) Both the positive and negative charges
(c) 90° (d) 45° (c) the field between the plates
2 From a point charge there is a fixed point A. At that (d) around the edge of the capacitor plates
point there is an electric field of 500 V/m and 10 Which of the following is not true?
potential of 3000 V. Then, the distance of point A (a) For a point charge, the electrostatic potential varies as 1/r
from the point charge is (b) For a dipole, the potential depends on the position
(a) 6 m (b) 12 m vector and dipole moment vector
(c) 36 m (d) 144 m (c) The electric dipole potential varies as 1/r at large
distance
3 A charge of 5 C is given a displacement of 0.5 m. (d) For a point charge, the electrostatic field varies as 1/r 2
The work done in the process is 10 J. The potential
11 The energy stored in a condenser is in the form of
difference between the two points will be
(a) kinetic energy (b) potential energy
(a) 2 V (b) 0.25 V
(c) elastic energy (d) magnetic energy
(c) 1 V (d) 25 V
12 The potential energy of a charged parallel plate
4 An electron enters in higher potential regionV2 from capacitor is U 0 . If a slab of dielectric constant K is
lower potential regionV1, then its velocity will inserted between the plates, then the new potential
(a) increase energy will be
(b) change in direction but not in magnitude U0 U0
(a) (b) U 0 K 2 (c) (d) U 02
(c) not change in direction of field K K2
(d) change in direction perpendicular to field
13 A charge Q is placed at the origin. The electric
5 When the separation between two charges is
potential due to this charge at a given point in space
increased, the electric potential energy of the
isV. The work done by an external force in bringing
charges another charge q from infinity to the point is
(a) increases (b) decreases V
(c) remains the same (d) may increase or decrease (a) (b) Vq (c) V + q (d) V
q
6 If a positive charge is shifted from a low potential
14 The force between the plates of a parallel plate
region to a high potential region, then the electric
capacitor of capacitance C and distance of separation
potential energy
of the plates d with a potential difference V between
(a) increases (b) decreases
(c) remains the same (d) may increase or decrease
the plates, is
CV 2 C 2V 2 C 2V 2 V 2d
7 The work done in carrying a charge of 5 µC from a (a) (b) (c) (d)
2d 2d 2 d2 C
point A to a point B in an electric field is 10 mJ.
Then, potential difference (VB − VA ) is 15 A positively charged particle is released from rest in
(a) + 2 kV (b) – 2 kV a uniform electric field. The electric potential energy
(c) + 200 kV (d) – 200 kV of the charge [NCERT Exemplar]
(a) remains a constant because the electric field is uniform
8 The capacitance of a capacitor does not depend on (b) increases because the charge moves along the electric
the field
(a) medium between the plates (c) decreases because the charge moves along the electric
(b) size of the plates field
(c) charges on the plates (d) decreases because the charge moves opposite to the
(d) separation between the plates electric field
118 OBJECTIVE Physics Vol. 2

16 Equipotentials at a great distance from a collection 26 A charged particle of mass m and charge q is
of charges whose total sum is not zero are released from rest in an electric field of constant
approximately [NCERT Exemplar] magnitude E. The KE of the particle after time t is
(a) spheres (b) planes Eq 2m 2E 2t 2 E 2q 2t 2 Eqm
(a) (b) (c) (d)
(c) paraboloids (d) ellipsoids 2t 2
mq 2m 2t
17 An electron enters in high potential regionV2 from 27 Two positive charges 12 µC and 8 µC are 10 cm
lower potential regionV1, then its velocity apart. The work done in bringing them 4 cm closer
(a) will increase is
(b) will change in direction but not in magnitude (a) 5.8 J (b) 5.8 eV
(c) No change in direction of field (c) 13 J (d) 13 eV
(d) No change in direction perpendicular to field
28 The capacitance of the earth, viewed as a spherical
18 The capacitance of a metallic sphere is 1µF, if its conductor of radius 6408 km is
radius is nearly (a) 980 µF (b) 1424 µF
(a) 9 km (b) 10 m (c) 712 µF (d) 356 µF
(c) 1.11 m (d) 1.11 cm 29 A thin metal plate P is inserted between the plates
19 The unit of electric field is not equivalent to of a parallel plate capacitor of capacitance C in such
(a) N/C (b) J/C a way that its edges touch the two plates. The
(c) V/m (d) J/C-m capacitance now becomes
20 Electric potential at a point x from the centre inside (a) C/2 (b) 2C (c) zero (d) ∞
a conducting sphere of radius R and carrying charge 30 A capacitor of capacity C has charge Q and stored
Q is energy is W. If the charge is increased to 2Q, then
1 Q 1 Q 1 the stored energy will be
(a) (b) (c) xQ (d) zero
4πε 0 R 4πε 0 x 4πε 0 (a) 2W (b) W/2 (c) 4W (d) W/4

21 If a charged spherical conductor of radius 5 cm has 31 A 2 µF capacitor is charged to 100 V and then its
potential V at a point distant 5 cm from its centre, plates are connected by a conducting wire. The heat
then the potential at a point distant 30 cm from the produced is
centre will be (a) 1 J (b) 0.1 J (c) 0.01 J (d) 0.001 J
1 1 3 32 If there are n capacitors in parallel connected toV
(a) V (b) V (c) V (d) 3V
3 6 2 volt source, then the energy stored is equal to
22 Two plates are at potentials − 10 V and + 30 V. If 1 CV 2 1
(a) nCV 2 (b) nCV 2 (c) (d) CV 2
the separation between the plates be 2 cm. The 2 n 2n
electric field between them is 33 A variable condenser is permanently connected to a
(a) 2000 V/m (b) 1000 V/m 100 V battery. If the capacity is changed from 2 µF
(c) 500 V/m (d) 3000 V/m to 10 µF, then change in energy is equal to
23 The potential at a point due to an electric dipole will (a) 2 × 10−2 J (b) 2 . 5 × 10−2 J
be maximum and minimum when the angles (c) 3 . 5 × 10 −2
J (d) 4 × 10−2 J
between the axis of the dipole and the line joining
the point to the dipole are respectively 34 Two condensers of capacity 0.3 µF and 0.6 µF
(a) 90° and 180° (b) 0° and 90° respectively are connected in series. The
(c) 90° and 0° (d) 0° and 180° combination is connected across a potential of 6 V.
24 An electric dipole when placed in a uniform electric The ratio of energies stored by the condensers will
field E will have minimum potential energy if the be
dipole moment makes the following angle with E 1 1
(a) (b) 2 (c) (d) 4
(a) π (b) π /2 2 4
(c) zero (d) 3π /2 35 A capacitor of capacity C 1, is charged by connecting
25 How much kinetic energy will be gained by an it across a battery of emfV0 . The battery is then
α-particle in going from a point at 70 V to another removed and the capacitor is connected in parallel
point at 50 V? with an uncharged capacitor of capacity C 2 . The
(a) 40 eV (b) 40 keV (c) 40 MeV (d) 0 eV potential difference across this combination is
Electrostatic Potential and Capacitance 119

(a)
C2
V0 (b)
C1
V0 force on a charge of 4 × 10 −6 C located midway
C1 + C 2 C1 + C 2 between the plates?
C + C2 C + C2 (a) 4 N (b) 6 N
(c) 1 V0 (d) 1 V0
C2 C1 (c) 8 N (d) 1.5 × 10−6 N
36 A capacitor is charged by using a battery which is 43 Two conducting spheres A and B of radii 4 cm and
then disconnected. A dielectric slab is then inserted 2 cm carry charges of 18 × 10 −8 statcoulomb and
between the plates which results in
(a) reduction of charges on the plates and increase of
9 × 10 −8 statcoulomb, respectively, of positive
potential difference across the plates electricity. When they are put in electrostatic
(b) increase in the potential difference across the plates, contact, then the charge will
reduction in stored energy, but no change in the charge (a) not flow at all (b) flow from A to B
on the plates (c) flow from B to A (d) disappear
(c) decrease in the potential difference across the plates,
reduction in stored energy, but no change in the charge 44 Two insulated charged spheres of radii R 1 and R 2
on the plates having charges Q1 and Q 2 are respectively,
(d) None of the above connected to each other. There is
(a) an increase in the energy of the system
37 A parallel plate air capacitor is charged to a potential
(b) no change in the energy of the system
difference of V. After disconnecting the battery,
(c) always decrease in energy
distance between the plates of the capacitor is
(d) a decrease in energy of the system unless Q1R 2 = Q 2R1
increased using an insulating handle. As a result, the
potential difference between the plates 45 A small sphere is charged to a potential of 50 V and
(a) decreases (b) increases a big hollow sphere is charged to a potential of
(c) becomes zero (d) does not change 100 V. Electricity will flow from the smaller sphere
to the bigger one when
38 Two concentric metallic spherical shells are given (a) the smaller one is placed inside the bigger one and
equal amount of positive charges. Then, connected by a wire
(a) the outer sphere is always at a higher potential (b) bigger one placed by the side of the smaller one and
(b) the inner sphere is always at a higher potential connected by a wire
(c) Both the spheres are at the same potential (c) Both are correct
(d) no prediction can be made about their potentials unless (d) Both are wrong
the actual value of charges and radii are known
46 Two identical charges are placed at the two corners
39 Dielectric constant of pure water is 81. Its of an equilateral triangle. The potential energy of the
permittivity will be system is U. The work done in bringing an identical
(a) 7.16 × 10−10 MKS units (b) 8.86 × 10−12 MKS units charge from infinity to the third vertex is
(c) 1.02 × 1013 MKS units (d) Cannot be calculated (a) U (b) 2U
(c) 3U (d) 4U
40 Two spherical conductors each of capacity C are 47 Four electric charges +q, +q, −q and −q are placed at
charged to potential V and −V. These are then the corners of a square of side 2L. The electric
connected by means of a fine wire. The loss of potential at point A, midway between the two
energy is charges +q and + q, is
1
(a) zero (b) CV 2 1 2q  1 
2 (a) 1 + 
2 4πε 0 L  5
(c) CV (d) 2 CV 2
1 2q  1 
41 Two spheres A and B of radius 4 cm and 6 cm are (b) 1 − 
4πε 0 L  5
given charges of 80 µC and 40 µC, respectively. If (c) zero
they are connected by a fine wire, then the amount 1 2q
of charge flowing from one to the other is (d) (1 + 5 )
4πε 0 L
(a) 20 µC from A to B (b) 20 µC from B to A
(c) 32 µC from B to A (d) 32 µC from A to B 48 A hollow metal sphere of radius 10 cm is charged
such that the potential on its surface becomes 80 V.
42 The electric potential difference between two
The potential at the centre of the sphere is
parallel plates is 2000 V. If the plates are separated
(a) 80 V (b) 800 V
by 2 mm, then what is the magnitude of electrostatic
(c) 8 V (d) zero
120 OBJECTIVE Physics Vol. 2

49 A parallel plate capacitor has a uniform electric field 57 An electron of mass m and charge e is accelerated
E (V/m) in the space between the plates. If the from rest through a potential difference V in
distance between the plates is d (m) and area of each vacuum. The final speed of the electron will be
plate is A(m2 ), then the energy (joule) stored in the e eV 2eV 2eV
capacitor is (a) V (b) (c) (d)
m m m m
1
(a) ε 0E 2 (b) ε 0EAd 58 If an electron moves from rest from a point at which
2
1 potential is 50 V to another point at which potential is
(c) ε 0E 2Ad (d) E 2Ad / ε 0 70 V, then its kinetic energy in the final state will be
2
(a) 3.2 × 10−10 J (b) 3.2 × 10−18 J
50 Charges 5 µC and 10 µC are placed 1 m apart. Work
done to bring these charges at a distance 0.5 m from (c) 1 N (d) 1 dyne
each other is (k = 9 × 10 9 SI units) 59 The work done in bringing a 20 C charge from point
(a) 9 × 104 J (b) 18 × 104 J A to point B for distance 0.2 m is 2 J. The potential
(c) 45 × 10 −2
J (d) 9 × 10 −1
J difference between the two points will be (in volt)
−3
(a) 0.2 (b) 8 (c) 0.1 (d) 0.4
51 A particle of mass 2 × 10 kg, charge 4 × 10 −3 C 20
enters in an electric field of 5 V/m, then its kinetic 60 If 4 × 10 eV energy is required to move a charge of
energy after 10 s is 0.25 C between two points, then what will be the
(a) 0.1 J (b) 1 J (c) 10 J (d) 100 J potential difference between them?
(a) 178 V (b) 256 V
52 The ionisation potential of mercury is 10.39 V. How
(c) 356 V (d) None of these
far an electron must travel in an electric field of
1.5 × 10 6 V/m to gain sufficient energy to ionise 61 Kinetic energy of an electron accelerated in a
mercury? potential difference of 100 V is
10.39 10.39 (a) 1.6 × 10−17 J (b) 1.6 × 1021 J
(a) m (b) m −29
1.6 × 10 −19
2 × 1.6 × 10 −19 (c) 1.6 × 10 J (d) 1.6 × 10−34 J
10.39
(c) 10.39 × 1.6 × 10−19m (d) m 62 A hollow conducting sphere is placed in an electric
1.5 × 106 field produced by a point charge placed at P as
53 0.2 F capacitor is charge to 600 V by a battery. On shown in figure. LetVA,VB andVC be the potentials
removing the battery, it is connected with another at points A, B and C, respectively, then
parallel plate condenser of 1F . The potential
decreases to
A
(a) 100 V (b) 120 V (c) 300 V (d) 600 V C P
54 Work done in placing a charge of 8 × 10 −18 C on a
condenser of capacity 100 µF is B

(a) 16 × 10 −32
J (b) 31 × 10 −26
J (a) VC > VB (b) VB > VC (c) VA > VB (d) VA = VC
−10 −32 63 Two unilike charges of magnitude q are separated by
(c) 4 × 10 J (d) 32 × 10 J
a distance 2d. The potential at a point midway
55 In a parallel plate capacitor the separation between between them is
the plates is 3 mm with air between them. Now a 1 1 q 1 2q
1 mm thick layer of a material of dielectric constant (a) zero (b) (c) ⋅ (d) ⋅
4πε 0 4πε 0 d 4πε 0 d
2 is introduced between the plates due to which the
capacity increases. In order to bring its capacity to 64 Two spheres A and B of radius a and b respectively
the original value the separation between the plates are at same electric potential. The ratio of the
must be made surface charge densities of A and B is
(a) 1.5 mm (b) 2.5 mm a b a2 b2
(c) 3.5 mm (d) 4.5 mm (a) (b) (c) 2
(d)
b a b a2
56 The electric potential at any point x, y and z in
65 A capacitor of 2 µF charged to 50V is connected in
metres is given byV = 3 x 2 . The electric field at a
point (2, 0, 1) is parallel with another capacitor of 1µF charged to 20V.
(a) 12 Vm −1
(b) − 6 Vm −1 The common potential and loss of energy will be
−1 (a) 40 V, 300 µ J (b) 50 V, 400 µ J
(c) 6 Vm (d) −12 Vm−1 (c) 40 V, 600 µ J (d) 50 V, 700 µ J
Electrostatic Potential and Capacitance 121

A
66 In the electric field of a point 74 An alpha particle is accelerated through a potential
charge q, a certain charge is carried difference of 10 6 V. Its kinetic energy will be
from point A to B, C , D and E. (a) 1 MeV (b) 2 MeV (c) 4 MeV (d) 8 MeV
Then, the work done O
+q 75 The ratio of momenta of an electron and an
(a) is least along the path AB
(b) is least along the path AD
α-particle which are accelerated from rest by a
B E
(c) is zero along all the paths C D
potential difference of 100 V is
AB, AC, AD and AE 2m e me me
(a) 1 (b) (c) (d)
(d) is least along AE mα mα 2m α
67 A uniform electric field having a magnitude E 0 and 76 Two particles of masses m and 2 m with charges 2q
direction along the positive X-axis exists. If the and q are placed in a uniform electric field E and
potential V is zero at x = 0, then its value at X = + x allowed to move for same time. Find the ratio of
will be their kinetic energies
(a) +xE 0 (b) −xE 0 (c) +x 2E 0 (d) −x 2E 0 (a) 8 : 1 (b) 4 : 1 (c) 2 : 1 (d) 16 : 1
68 In a uniform electric field a charge of 3 C 77 A spherical condenser has inner and outer spheres of
experiences a force of 3000 N. The potential radii a and b, respectively. The space between the
difference between two points 1 cm apart along the two is filled with air. The difference between the
electric lines of force will be capacities of two condensers formed when outer
(a) 10 V (b) 100 V (c) 30 V (d) 300 V sphere is earthed and when inner sphere is earthed
will be
69 A particle A has charge +q and a particle B has  b 
(a) zero (b) 4πε 0a (c) 4πε 0b (d) 4πε 0a  
charge + 4q with each of them having the same mass b − a 
m. When allowed to fall from rest through the same
electric potential difference, the ratio of their speed 78 Three charges are placed at the vertices of an
vA equilateral triangle of side 10 cm. Assume q 1 = 1 µC,
will become q 2 = – 2 µC and q 3 = 4 µC. Work done in separating
vB
the charges to infinity is
(a) 2 : 1 (b) 1 : 2 (c) 1 : 4 (d) 4 : 1 (a) − 4.5 J (b) 4.5 J
70 Three particles, each having a charge of 10 µC are (c) 45 J (d) None of these
placed at the corners of an equilateral triangle of side 79 At a distance of 1 m from a fixed charge of 1 mC, a
10 cm. The electrostatic potential energy of the particle of mass 2 g and charge 1µC is held
1 stationary. Both the charges are placed on a smooth
system is (given = 9 × 10 9 N-m2 /C 2 )
4πε 0 horizontal surface. If the particle is made free to
(a) zero (b) infinite (c) 27 J (d) 100 J move, then its speed at a distance of 10 m from the
fixed charge will be
71 A mass m = 20 g has a charge q = 3.0 mC. It moves
with a velocity of 20 m/s and enters a region of (a) 10 ms−1 (b) 20 ms−1 (c) 60 ms−1 (d) 90 ms−1
electric field of 80 N/C in the same direction as the 80 A point charge q is surrounded by six identical
velocity of the mass. The velocity of the mass after charges at distance r shown in the figure. How much
3 s in this region is work is done by the force of electrostatic repulsion,
(a) 80 m/s (b) 56 m/s when the point charge at the centre is removed to
(c) 44 m/s (d) 40 m/s infinity?
72 Four identical charges +50 µC each are placed, one
at each corner of a square of side 2 m. How much
external energy is required to bring another charge q
q
of + 50 µC from infinity to the centre of the square? q
r
(a) 64 J (b) 41 J (c) 16 J (d) 10 J
q q
73 Two equal charges q are placed at a distance of 2a q
and a third charge −2q is placed at the mid-point.
The potential energy of the system is
q2 6q 2 7q 2 9q 2
(a) (b) (c) − (d) − (a) 6q / 4πε 0r (b) 6q 2/ 4πε 0r
8πε 0a 8πε 0a 8πε 0a 8πε 0a
(c) 36q 2 / 4πε 0r (d) Zero
Electrostatic Potential and Capacitance 135

209 A solid conducting sphere of radius a having a (a) Q, 2Q (b) Q/3, 2Q/3
charge q is surrounded by a concentric conducting (c) 3Q/2, 3Q (d) 2Q/3, 4Q/3
spherical shell of inner radius 2a and outer radius 3a 212 Five identical plates each of area A are joined as
as shown in figure. Find the amount of heat shown in the figure. The distance between the plates
produced when switch is closed. is d. The plates are connected to a potential difference
 1  of V volt. The charge on plates 1 and 4 will be
 Take, K = 
 4πε 0 
_
1 2 3 4 5
V
+
a
S

3a 2a ε 0AV 2 ε 0AV
(a) − ,
d d
ε 0AV 2 ε 0AV
Kq 2 Kq 2 Kq 2 Kq 2 (b) ,
(a) (b) (c) (d) d d
2a 3a 4a 6a ε AV − 2 ε 0AV
(c) 0 ,
210 Three identical charges are placed at corners of an d d
equilateral triangle of side l. If force between any − ε 0AV −2 ε 0AV
(d) ,
two charges is F, then the work required to double d d
the dimensions of triangle is 213 In the figure shown, what is the potential difference
(c)  −  Fl (d)   Fl
3 3 between the points A and B and between B and C
(a) −3Fl (b) 3Fl
 2  2 respectively in steady state?
211 Two capacitors C 1 and C 2 = 2C 1 are connected in a 3 µF
B
1 µF
circuit with a switch between them as shown in the
figure. Initially the switch is open and C 1 holds 3 µF 1 µF
charge Q. The switch is closed. At steady state, the
charge on each capacitor will be 1 µF
Q C1 10 Ω

20 Ω 100 V

A C
S
R (a) VAB = VBC = 100 V
(b) VAB = 75 V,VBC = 25 V
C2 = 2C1 (c) VAB = 25 V, VBC = 75 V
(d) VAB = VBC = 50 V

(B) Medical entrance special format questions

Assertion and reason 1 Assertion Conductor having equal positive charge
and volume, must also have same potential.
Directions (Q. Nos. 1-5) These questions consist of two
statements each linked as Assertion and Reason. While Reason Potential depends on charge and geometry
answering these questions you are required to choose any of conductor.
one of the following four responses 2 Assertion When two positive point charges move
(a) If both Assertion and Reason are true and Reason is the away from each other, then their electrostatic
correct explanation of Assertion. potential energy decreases.
(b) If both Assertion and Reason are true but Reason is not Reason Change in potential energy between two
the correct explanation of Assertion. points is equal to the work done by electrostatic
(c) If Assertion is true but Reason is false.
forces.
(d) If Assertion is false but Reason is true.
136 OBJECTIVE Physics Vol. 2

3 Assertion A charged capacitor is disconnected 4 A long, hollow conducting cylinder is kept coaxially
from a battery. Now, if its plates are separated inside another long, hollow conducting cylinder of
further, the potential energy will fall. larger radius. Both the cylinders are initially
Reason Energy stored in a capacitor is equal to the electrically neutral, then choose the correct
work done in charging it. statement.
(a) A potential difference appears between the two cylinders
4 Assertion When a capacitor is charged by a when a charge density is given to the inner cylinder.
battery, half of the energy supplied by the battery is (b) A potential difference appears between the two
stored in the capacitor and rest half is lost. cylinders when a charge density is given to the outer
cylinder.
Reason If resistance in the circuit is zero, then (c) No potential difference appears betwen the two
there will be no loss of energy. cylinders when a uniform line charge is kept along the
axis of the cylinders.
5 Assertion If the distance between parallel plates of (d) No potential difference appears between the two
a capacitor is halved and dielectric constant is made cylinders when same charge density is given to both
three times, then the capacitance becomes 6 times. the cylinders.
Reason Capacity of the capacitor depends upon the 5 The curve represents the distribution of potential
nature of the material between the plates. along the straight line joining the two charges Q1 and
Q 2 (separated by a distance r), then which is of the
Statement based questions following statements are correct?
1 An electric dipole of moment p is placed in a y
uniform electric field E. Then,
(i) the torque on the dipole is p × E.
(ii) the potential energy of the system is p ⋅ E. x
(iii) the resultant force on the dipole is zero. Q1 A Q2 B C
Choose the correct option, based on above
statements.
(a) (i), (ii) and (iii) are correct r
(b) (i) and (iii) are correct and (ii) is wrong
(c) Only (i) is correct 1. | Q1 | > | Q 2 |
(d) (i) and (ii) are correct and (iii) is wrong 2. Q1 is positive in nature.
2 Identify the false statement. 3. A and B are equilibrium points.
(a) Inside a charged or neutral conductor electrostatic field 4. C is a point of unstable equilibrium.
is zero. (a) 1 and 2 (b) 1, 2 and 3
(b) The electrostatic field at the surface of the charged (c) 1, 2 and 4 (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4
conductor must be tangential to the surface at any point.
(c) There is no net charge at any point inside the
conductor. Match the columns
(d) Electrostatic potential is constant throughout the
1 Two charges +q and −q are placed at distance r.
volume of the conductor.
Match the following two columns when distance
3 The electrostatic potential on the surface of a
between them is changed to r ′ and choose the
charged conducting sphere is 100V. Two statements
correct code.
are made in this regard.
S1 : At any point inside the sphere, electric Column I Column II
intensity is zero.
A. r ′ = 2r (p) Potential energy will become half
S 2 : At any point inside the sphere, the electrostatic
B. r (q) 1
potential is 100 V. r′ = Force between them will become th
2 4
Which of the following is a correct statement?
(a) S1 is true but S 2 is false. [NCERT Exemplar] C. r ′ = 4r (r) Potential energy will become four times
(b) Both S1 and S 2 are false. D. r (s) None
r′ =
(c) S1 is true, S 2 is also true and S1 is the cause of S 2. 4
(d) S1 is true, S 2 is also true but the statements are
independent.