Chap: 2

Electrostatic Potential & Capacitance

 Line Integral of Electric Field  S I Unit is volt (V):
(Done by Electric Field):
Potential difference between two points in an
Negative Line Integral of Electric Field
electric field is said to be 1 volt if 1 joule of work is
represents the work done by the electric field on a
unit positive charge in moving it from one point to done in moving a positive charge of 1 C from one
another in the electric field. point to other against the electrostatic forces.
𝐵 𝐵
i.e. 𝑊 = ∫ 𝑑𝑊 = ∫𝐴 𝐸⃗ . 𝑑𝑙 = − ∫𝐴 𝐸 . 𝑑𝑙 Note:
Work done in moving a charge ‘q’ through a
Note: potential difference of ‘ΔV’,
1. The line integral of electric field is path
independent. 𝑊 = 𝑞. Δ𝑉

2. Line integral of electric field over a closed path  Potential due to Point Charge :
is zero. Q
𝑑𝑥 ⃗𝑭
3. Therefore, electric field is ‘conservative field’. B A
O P
r q0
 Electric Potential (V) :
[Electric potential is a physical quantity which
determines the flow of charges from one body to x
another.] 𝑊∞𝑃
[ * 𝑉𝑃 = 𝑞0
It is defined as the amount of work done in
𝑃
taking a unit positive charge from infinity to that * 𝑊∞𝑃 = ∫∞ 𝑑𝑊
point against the electrostatic forces.
W∞B * 𝑑𝑊 = 𝐹 . 𝑑𝑥
i.e. VB = q0
𝑄𝑞0
*𝐹=𝑘 ]
𝑥2
 It is a scalar quantity.
Let,
 S I Unit is volt (V):
𝑉 = potential at point P due to charge Q at O.
Electric potential at a point in an electric field is
said to be 1 volt if 1 joule of work is done in moving 𝑟 = Distance of point P from O.
a positive charge of 1 C from infinity to that point
against the electrostatic forces. 𝑥 = Distance of point A from O.

 (Electrostatic) Potential Difference (V≡∆V): ∴ Force acting on the test charge q0 placed at A

+q +q0 𝑄𝑞
𝐹 = 𝑘 𝑥2
O B A
Let,
Potential difference between two points in an
𝑑𝑥 = small displacement of test charge from
electric field is the amount of work done in moving
A to B against the electrostatic force.
a unit positive charge from one point to another
against the electrostatic forces.
∴ Work done in taking q0 from A to B
𝑊𝐴𝐵
i.e. 𝑉 = 𝑉𝐵 − 𝑉𝐴 = = ∆V
𝑞0 𝑑𝑊 = 𝐹 . 𝑑𝑥

 It is a scalar quantity. ∴ 𝑑𝑊 = −𝐹. 𝑑𝑥

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∴ Total work done in moving the charge q0 from 𝑟0 = arbitrarily chosen reference point of zero
infinity to point P potential.
𝑃
𝑊 = ∫∞ 𝑑𝑊  Variation of ‘V’ And ‘E’ with Distance :

𝑟
i.e. 𝑊 = − ∫∞ 𝐹. 𝑑𝑥 1
𝑉∝𝑟
𝑟 𝑄𝑞0
= − ∫∞ 𝑘 . 𝑑𝑥 1
𝑥2 𝐸 ∝ 𝑟2
1 𝑟
= 𝑘. 𝑄𝑞0 [𝑥] r
∞

= 𝑘. 𝑄𝑞0 [𝑟 − ∞]
1 1  Superposition Principle:

𝑄𝑞0 Electric potential at a point due to charges

∴ 𝑊 = 𝑘. around it is the algebraic sum of all the individual
𝑟
electric potential at that point.
∴ Electric potential at P

𝑊
𝑉=𝑞
0

𝑄
𝑉=𝑘
𝑟

Note:
1
(i) 𝑉 ∝ 𝑟 i.e. VP = V1±V2±V3±.....±Vn

Example 2.1
(ii) Electric potential at infinity is taken as zero (0). (a) Calculate the potential at a point P due to a
charge of 4×10–7C located 9 cm away.
(iii) If Q >0 , V is + ve (b) Hence obtain the work done in bringing a charge
of 2×10–9 C from infinity to the point P. Does the
If Q < 0, V is – ve answer depend on the path along which the charge is
brought?
(iv) Electric potential due to a point charge has Hint :
spherical symmetry. 𝑄
 (a) 𝑉 = 𝑘 𝑟
i.e. V depends only on distance not on direction  (b) W = qV
of observation. No, work done will be path independent. Any
arbitrary infinitesimal path can be resolved into
(v) Potential at a point is arbitrary to within an two perpendicular displacements: One along 𝑟
additive constant. and another perpendicular to 𝑟. The work done
 The point in space at which we set the potential corresponding to the perpendicular to 𝑟
to zero (zero – potential) can be chosen at will. This displacement will be zero.
implies that only differences in potential between
Example 2.2 Two charges +3×10–8 C and –2×10–8
different points in space have physical significance. C are located 15 cm apart. At what point on the line
joining the two charges is the electric potential zero?
1 1
Eg. 𝑉 = 𝑘. 𝑄𝑞0 [𝑟 − 𝑟 ] Take the potential at infinity to be zero.
0
Hint :
Here, 1 𝑄
 𝑉=
4𝜋𝜀0 𝑟

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 𝑟 = 𝑥, 𝑟 = 15 − 𝑥  𝑉 = 4𝜋𝜀
1 𝑄
0 𝑟
 VP = V1+V2 = 0
 VP = V1±V2±V3±.....±Vn
–8 –8
2.1 Two charges 5×10 C and –3×10 C are 𝑄
located 16 cm apart. At what point(s) on the line  𝐸⃗ = 𝑘 𝑟 𝑟̂
joining the two charges is the electric potential zero?
Take the potential at infinity to be zero.  𝐸⃗ = 𝐸⃗1 + 𝐸⃗2 + 𝐸⃗3 + ⋯ + 𝐸⃗𝑛
Hint :
 𝑉=𝑘𝑟
𝑄
 Electric Potential at a Point on the Axial Line
of a Dipole :
 𝑟 = 𝑥, 𝑟 = 16 − 𝑥 2a
 VP = V1+V2 = 0 -q O +q C
- +
2.2 A regular hexagon of side 10 cm has a charge 5 A B
μC at each of its vertices. Calculate the potential at r
the centre of the hexagon.
Hint: [ * p = q.2a
1
 2 Diagonal = side of hexagon = r. −𝑞
* 𝑉− = 𝑘
𝐴𝐶
𝑄
 𝑉=𝑘𝑟 −𝑞
* 𝑉+ = 𝑘 𝐵𝐶
 VP = V1±V2±V3±.....±Vn
* 𝑉 = 𝑉+ + 𝑉− ]
2.12 A charge of 8 mC is located at the origin.
Calculate the work done in taking a small charge of Let,
–2 ×10–9 C from a point P (0, 0, 3 cm) to a point Q 2𝑎 = Length of dipole AB.
(0, 4 cm, 0), via a point R (0, 6 cm, 9 cm).
Hint : 𝑟 = distance of point C from centre O of the
𝑄
 𝑉=𝑘𝑟 dipole.

 𝑊 = 𝑞(𝑉𝑄 − 𝑉𝑃 ) ∴ Dipole moment of the dipole.

2.13 A cube of side b has a charge q at each of its 𝑝 = 𝑞. 2𝑎

vertices. Determine the potential and electric field
due to this charge array at the centre of the cube. Electric potential at C due to – q charge
Hint : −𝑞
𝑄 𝑉− = 𝑘 𝐴𝐶
 𝑉=𝑘𝑟

 VP = V1±V2±V3±.....±Vn And electric potential at C due + q charge

𝑄 +𝑞
 𝐸⃗ = 𝑘 𝑟 𝑟̂ 𝑉+ = 𝑘 𝐵𝐶

 𝐸⃗ = 𝐸⃗1 + 𝐸⃗2 + 𝐸⃗3 + ⋯ + 𝐸⃗𝑛 ∴ Electric potential at C due to the dipole is

2.14 Two tiny spheres carrying charges 1.5 µC and 𝑉 = 𝑉+ + 𝑉−

2.5 µC are located 30 cm apart. Find the potential
𝑞 𝑞
and electric field: = 𝑘 𝐵𝐶 − 𝑘 𝐴𝐶
(a) at the mid-point of the line joining the two
charges, and 𝑞 𝑞
= 𝑘 (𝑟−𝑎) − 𝑘 (𝑟+𝑎)
(b) at a point 10 cm from this midpoint in a plane
normal to the line and passing through the 1 1
mid-point. = 𝑘𝑞 [(𝑟−𝑎) − (𝑟+𝑎)]
Hint :
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(𝑟+𝑎)−(𝑟−𝑎) Thus the net electrostatic potential at a point in
= 𝑘𝑞 [ ]
𝑟 2 −𝑎2 the electric field due to an electric dipole at any
2𝑞𝑎 point on the equatorial line is zero.
= 𝑘 [𝑟 2 −𝑎2]
Note :
𝑝 Work done in moving a charge 𝑞 along
∴ 𝑉 = 𝑘( ) equatorial line
𝑟 2 −𝑎2

For short dipole, 𝑟 >> 𝑎 𝑊 =𝑞×𝑉 =0

∴ 𝑎2 can be neglected i.e. No work is done in moving a charge from

one point to another on the equatorial line of a
𝑝 dipole.
∴ 𝑉=𝑘
𝑟2
 Electric Potential at any Point from an
 Electric Potential at a Point on the Equatorial Electric Dipole :
C
Line of a Dipole :
C

[ * 𝑝 = 𝑞. 2𝑎 r1
−𝑞 D r2
* 𝑉− = 𝑘 𝐴𝐶 r
r
𝑞 θ
* 𝑉+ = 𝑘 𝐵𝐶 A - +B -q +q
-q O +q A O B
* 𝑉 = 𝑉+ + 𝑉− ] 2a 2a
[ * 𝑝 = 𝑞. 2𝑎
Let,
2𝑎 = length of dipole AB. −𝑞
* 𝑉− = 𝑘 𝑟1
𝑟 = distance of point C from centre O of the +𝑞
dipole. * 𝑉+ = 𝑘 𝑟2

∴ Dipole moment of the dipole’ * 𝑉 = 𝑉+ + 𝑉− ]

𝑝 = 𝑞. 2𝑎 Let,
2𝑎 = length of dipole AB.
Electric potential at C due to – q charge
𝑟 = distance of point C from centre O of the
−𝑞
𝑉− = 𝑘 𝐴𝐶 dipole.

And electric potential at C due + q charge ∴ Dipole moment f the dipole.

+𝑞 𝑝 = 𝑞. 2𝑎
𝑉+ = 𝑘 𝐵𝐶
∴ Electric potential at C due to – q charge
Electric potential at C due to the dipole
−𝑞
𝑉− = 𝑘
𝑉 = 𝑉+ + 𝑉− 𝑟1

𝑞
= 𝑘 𝐵𝐶 − 𝑘 𝐴𝐶
𝑞 And electric potential at C due + q charge
But 𝑉+ = 𝑘
+𝑞
AC = BC 𝑟2

∴ V=0 ∴ Electric potential at C due to the dipole

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𝑉 = 𝑉+ + 𝑉− For dipole,
1
𝑞 𝑞 𝑉 ∝ 𝑟2
= 𝑘𝑟 −𝑘𝑟
2 1 V
1 1
= 𝑘𝑞 (𝑟 − 𝑟 )
2 1
1
As 𝑟 >> 2𝑎 𝑉∝𝑟
1
[ ∵ BD ⊥ AC & BD ⊥ BC ] 𝑉 ∝ 𝑟2
r
(𝑟1 − 𝑟2 ) = 𝐴𝐷 = 2𝑎𝑐𝑜𝑠𝜃
 Equipotential Surfaces :
𝑟1 𝑟2 = 𝑟 2 It is a surface with a constant value of potential
2𝑎𝑐𝑜𝑠𝜃 at all points on the surface.
𝑉 = 𝑘𝑞 𝑟2
 Relation between E and V :
𝑝 cos 𝜃
∴ 𝑉=𝑘
𝑟2
+q VA = V
VB =V + dV 𝐸⃗
 In vector form,
B 𝑑𝑟 A
1 𝑝. 𝑟 1 𝑝. 𝑟̂ O
𝑉= =
4𝜋𝜀0 𝑟 3 4𝜋𝜀0 𝑟 2
[ * 𝑑𝑊 = 𝑞0 𝑑𝑉
Notes :
* 𝑑𝑊 = 𝑞0 𝐸⃗ . 𝑑𝑟 ]
1> When C lies on the axial line
Let,
i.e. θ = 00 or 1800.
𝑑𝑟 = a very small distance between point A and B.
𝑝
𝑉 = ±𝑘 𝑟 2
𝐸⃗ = constant electric field between A and B due to
2.> When C lies on equatorial line point charge + q at O.

i.e. θ = 900 dV = potential difference between A and B.

V=0 The electric force acting on the test charge q0

placed at A
 Difference between Electric potential due to
point charge and dipole: 𝐹 = 𝑞0 𝐸⃗
i.> Potential due to point charge depends only
∴ Work done by the external force to move q0
on r, whereas potential due to dipole depends on r as
well as angle between position vector and dipole from A to B (without acceleration) against 𝐸⃗ is
moment.
𝑑𝑊 = 𝐹 . 𝑑𝑟 = 𝑞0 𝐸𝑑𝑟𝑐𝑜𝑠180 = −𝑞0 𝐸𝑑𝑟
ii.> Potential due to point charge has spherical
symmetry, whereas potential due to dipole has ∴ Potential difference between A and B is
cylindrical symmetry about its axis.
dW
iii.> For point charge, 𝑑𝑉 = = −E. dr
q0

1
𝑉∝𝑟 𝑑𝑉
∴ 𝐸=− (volt/ metre i.e. V/m)
𝑑𝑟

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i.e. The electric field at any point is equal to the dV = potential difference between the two points
negative of the potential gradient at that point.
∴ Work done in moving a test charge q0 between
Notes:
the two points
i.> Electric field is directed in the direction in
𝑑𝑊 = 𝑞0 . 𝑑𝑉
which the potential decreases steepest.

ii.> Its magnitude is given by the change in the But,

magnitude of potential per unit displacement normal dV = 0 [Being equipotential surface.]
to the equipotential surface at the point.
∴ dW = 0
iii> When E = 0,
4.> Electric field lines are normal to equipotential
𝑑𝑉 surface at that point.
=0
𝑑𝑟
If the field were not normal to the equipotential
V = constant surface, it would have non-zero component along
the surface. To move a unit test charge against the
i.e. V is not always zero, but V = constant.
direction of the component of the field, work would
 Properties of Equipotential Surface : have to be done. But this is in contradiction to the
definition of an equipotential surface (there is no
1.> No two equipotential surfaces can intersect potential difference between any two points on the
each other. surface and no work is required to move a test
charge on the surface). Hence electric must normal
If they intersect, at the point intersection there to the surface.
will be two values of electric potential, which is
impossible. [ Work done in moving a charge q through a small
displacement of 𝑑𝑟 on an equipotential surface in
2.> Equipotential surfaces are closer together in the
the electric field 𝐸⃗ is
region of stronger electric field and farther apart in
the region of weak electric field.
𝑑𝑊 = 𝑞𝐸⃗ . 𝑑𝑟
We have,
But work done in moving the charge q over
𝑑𝑉
𝐸 = − 𝑑𝑟 equipotential surface is zero.

𝑑𝑉 i.e. dW = 0
i.e. 𝑑𝑟 = − 𝐸

1
∴ ⃗ . dr = 0
E
∴ 𝑑𝑟 ∝ 𝐸

Thus spacing between the equipotential surfaces i.e. ⃗E ⊥ dr

will be smaller in the regions stronger electric field
as compare to weaker electric field regions. Hence electric field is perpendicular to equipotential
surface. ]
3.> No work is done in moving a test charge over  Equipotential Surfaces of Charge Systems:
an equipotential surface.
(i) For a + ve point charge.:
Let, Dotted lines represent equipotential surfaces.
Here, dotted lines represent equipotential surfaces.
dr = small distance between two point on an
equipotential surface.

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Here, dotted lines represent equipotential surfaces.

(vi) Equipotential surface of uniform electric

field:

𝐸⃗

(ii) For a –ve point charge:

Here, planes represent equipotential surfaces.
2.34 Describe schematically the equipotential
- surfaces corresponding to
(a) a constant electric field in the z-direction,
(b) a field that uniformly increases in magnitude but
remains in a constant (say, z) direction,
(c) a single positive charge at the origin, and
Here, dotted lines represent equipotential surfaces. (d) a uniform grid consisting of long equally spaced
parallel charged wires in a plane.
(iii) For a dipole:
Hint:
 (a) Equi-spaced planes parallel to XY plane.
 (b)Planes parallel to XY plane, spaced between
+ - the successive planes decreases moving along
+ve Z-axis.
 (c) Concentric spherical surfaces with centre at
the origin.
Here, dotted lines represent equipotential surfaces.
 Equipotential surfaces shapes changes
(iv) For a pair of like charges of unequal periodically near the grid. Shape of the
magnitude: equipotential surfaces is plane at far off
distances from the grid.

 Electric potential due to a uniformly charged

thin spherical shell :

q1+ +q
N 2
R
0666666
6666666 P
O r
6666666
q1 > q2 6666666
Here, dotted lines represent equipotential surfaces. Let, 6666666
6666666
(v) For a pair of equal and like charges : 𝑞 = charge of the spherical shell.

𝑅 = radius of the shell.

𝑟 = distance of a point P from centre of the

+ + shell.
N
𝑉 = potential at the point P due to the shell.

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(i) When the point P lies outside the shell: (b) What is the direction of the electric field at every
Total charge of the shell seems to be point on this surface?
concentrated at the centre of the shell. Hence electric Hint:
potential at the point P B A
 (a) -
𝑞 - 2 μC + 2 μC
𝑉 =𝑘𝑟
 (b) Normal to the plane in the direction AB.
[∴ dV = - Edr
𝑟 2.16 (a) Show that the normal component of
𝑉 = ∫∞ −𝐸 𝑑𝑟 electrostatic field has a discontinuity from one side
𝑟 1
of a charged surface to another given by
= −𝑘. 𝑞 ∫∞ 𝑟 2 𝑑𝑟 𝜎
(𝐸⃗2 − 𝐸⃗1 ). 𝑛̂ = 𝜀 , where 𝑛̂ is a unit vector normal
0
1 𝑟 to the surface at a point and σ is the surface charge
= −𝑘. 𝑞 [− 𝑟 ] density at that point. (The direction of 𝑛̂ is from side
∞
𝒒
1 to side 2.)
∴ 𝑽 = 𝒌. 𝒓 ] Hence show that just outside a conductor, the
𝜎
electric field is 𝜀 𝑛̂.
0
(ii) When the point P lies on the surface of the
(b) Show that the tangential component of
shell:
electrostatic field is continuous from one side of a
𝑟=𝑅 charged surface to another.
[Hint: For (a), use Gauss’s law. For, (b) use the fact
∴ 𝑉 = 𝒌𝑹
𝒒 that work done by electrostatic field on a closed loop
is zero.]
Hint :
(iii) When the point P lies inside the shell :
(a)
Here, 𝜎
 𝐸⃗1 = − 2𝜀 𝑛̂
dV 0
E
dr 𝜎
 𝐸⃗2 = 2𝜀 𝑛̂
0
Electric field inside the shell is zero.
𝜎 𝜎 𝜎
 (𝐸⃗2 − 𝐸⃗1 ). 𝑛̂ = [2𝜀 − (− 2𝜀 )] = 𝜀
0 0 0
i.e. E=0
 (b) Inside the conductor
∴ dV = 0
𝐸⃗1 = 0
𝜎
i.e V = Constant (= potential on the surface) ∴ (𝐸⃗2 − 0) = 𝐸⃗ = 𝜀 . 𝑛̂
0

∴ 𝑉 = 𝑘𝑅
𝑞  Work done in taking a unit positive charge along
a closed path over the surface of the charged
surface.
 Variation of potential due to charged spherical
shell is as shown: 2.17 A long charged cylinder of linear charged
V
density λ is surrounded by a hollow co-axial
conducting cylinder. What is the electric field in the
space between the two cylinders?
Hint:
 For a point outside the cylinder, entire charge of
r the cylinder seems to be concentrated at its axis.
O R
 Electric field be due to outer cylinder in its
2.3 Two charges 2 μC and –2 μC are placed at interior is zero.
points A and B 6 cm apart.
(a) Identify an equipotential surface of the system.

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 Electric field a point between the two cylinders  Potential Energy of System of Three Point
is Charges: A q1
𝜆
𝐸 = 2𝜋𝜀 𝑟 ,
0

𝑟 = distance of the point from the common r12 r13

axis.

 Potential Energy of System of Point Charges C

B q2 r23 q3
in absence of external electric field:
Let,
The electric potential energy of a system of point 𝑟12 = AB = distance between q1 and q2.
charges is defined as the amount of work done in
bringing the charges from infinity to assemble them 𝑟13 =AC = distance between q1 and q3.
at their locations.
𝑟23 =BC = distance between q2 and q3.
 Potential Energy of System of two Point
Charges: As there is no electric field at A, potential at A is
zero.
A B
q1 r q2
Hence no work is done in bringing q1 from
As there is no electric field at the point A, no infinity to A.
work is done in bringing the charge q1 to A from
infinity. i.e. W1 = 0

i.e. 𝑊1 = 0 Let
𝑉1 = potential at B due to q1.
Let 𝑞1 𝑞2
𝑟 = Distance of point B from A. ∴ 𝑉1 𝑘.
𝑟

Electric potential at B due to charge q1 is ∴ Work done in bringing q2 from infinity to B is

𝑞 𝑞1 𝑞2
𝑉1 = 𝑘 𝑟 𝑊21 = 𝑞2 𝑉1 = 𝑘.
1 𝑟12

∴ Work done to bring q2 to B from infinity Let

𝑉12 = potential at C due to charges 𝑞1 and 𝑞2
𝑊2 = 𝑉1 𝑞2
𝑞 𝑞
𝑞1 .𝑞2 ∴ 𝑉12 = 𝑘. (𝑟 1 + 𝑟 2 )
=𝑘 12 23
𝑟

∴ Total work done in assembling the system of ∴ Work done in bringing q3 from infinity to C
charges is 𝑞 𝑞3 𝑞2 𝑞3
𝑊3(12) = 𝑞3 𝑉12 = 𝑘. ( 𝑟1 + )
13 𝑟23
W = W 1 + W2
𝑞1 𝑞2 𝑞1 𝑞2 ∴ Total work done in assembling the system of
∴ 𝑊 = 0 + 𝑘. = 𝑘. charges is
𝑟 𝑟

This work done is stored as potential energy U 𝑊 = 𝑊1 + 𝑊21 + 𝑊3(12)

of the system
𝑞1 𝑞2 𝑞 𝑞3 𝑞2 𝑞3
= 0 + 𝑘. + 𝑘. ( 𝑟1 + )
𝑞1 𝑞2 𝑟12 13 𝑟23
∴ 𝑈 = 𝑘. 𝑟
𝑞 𝑞2 𝑞1 𝑞3 𝑞2 𝑞3
∴ 𝑊 = 𝑘. ( 𝑟1 + + )
12 𝑟13 𝑟23

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This work done is stored as the potential energy 1 1
U of the system. ∴ ∆𝑈 = 𝑘. 𝑄𝑞 (𝑟 − 𝑟 )
𝑓 𝑖

𝑞1 𝑞2 𝑞1 𝑞3 𝑞2 𝑞3 Notes :
∴ 𝑈 = 𝑘( + + )
𝑟12 𝑟13 𝑟23
1. Work done in moving the charge from initial
Notes: position to final position is
(i) The potential energy is characteristic of the
present state of configuration, and not the way the 𝑊 = ∆𝑈
state is achieved.
2. Work done in moving the charge from final to
i.e. Potential energy of a system of charges is initial against the electrostatic force is
independent of the manner in which the charges are
assembled. This is due to the fact that electrostatic 𝑊 = − ∆𝑈
force is a conservative force.
 Potential Energy in an External Field :
(ii) The potential energy of system of like charges is
positive (e.g. that of two positive charges) Potential energy of charge q at a point in the
electric field is the work done by the external force
(iii) If the potential energy of the system of charges in bringing the charge q from infinity to that point.
is –ve (e.g. a system of two unlike charges), then
+ve work has to be done to take the charges to the Let,
infinity. V = potential at a point in an external electric field.

 Potential Energy Difference (∆U) : ∴ The amount of work done in moving a charge q
from infinity to the point against the field is
Q q
O i f 𝑊 = 𝑞𝑉

Let the charge q moves from initial position (i) This work done is stored as the potential energy
to final position (f). of the charge q.

Let i.e. 𝑈 = 𝑞𝑉
𝑟𝑖 = position vector of ‘i’ w.r.t O.
𝑈
i.e. 𝑉= 𝑞
𝑟𝑓 = position vector of ‘f’ w.r.t O.
Thus electric potential at a given point in an
∴ Potential energy of q at i
external electric field can be defined as the potential
𝑈𝑖 = 𝑉𝑖 . 𝑞 energy of a unit positive charge at that point.

𝑄𝑞  Electron volt (eV):

i.e. 𝑈𝑖 = 𝑘 𝑟𝑖
It is the potential energy gained or lost by an
Potential energy of q at f electron in moving through a potential difference of
1 volt.
𝑄𝑞
𝑈𝑓 = 𝑘 𝑟
𝑓
i.e. 1𝑒𝑉 = 1.6 × 10−19 𝐽
∴ The potential energy difference of q between
positions ‘i’ and ‘f’ is  Sub Units of eV :

∆𝑈 = 𝑈𝑓 − 𝑈𝑖 1. 1m eV(milli) = 10-3 eV = 1.6 × 10-22 J

2. 1k eV(kilo) = 103 eV = 1.6 × 10-16 J

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∵ The potential energy at a given point cannot be
3. 1M eV(mega) = 106 eV = 1.6 × 10-13 J uniquely defined, as some amount of energy will be
dissipated in doing work against the field.
4. 1G eV (giga) = 109 eV = 1.6 × 10-10 J
Example 2.3
5. 1T eV (tera) = 1012 eV = 1.6 × 10-7 J Fig (a) and (b) show the field lines of a positive and
negative point charge respectively.
 Potential Energy of System of Two Separated
Point Charges in an External Field :

A B
q1 r q2
Let,

r = distance between the charges q1 and q2.

V1 = Electric potential of electric field at A. (a) Give the signs of the potential difference
VP – VQ; VB – VA.
V2 = Electric potential of electric field at B. (b) Give the sign of the potential energy difference
of a small negative charge between the points Q and
Thus potential energy of the system is P; A and B.
(c) Give the sign of the work done by the field in
U = P.E. of q1 when placed at A + P.E. of q1 when moving a small positive charge from Q to P.
placed at A + P.E. due to interaction between (d) Give the sign of the work done by the external
q1 and q2. agency in moving a small negative charge from B to
A.
𝑞1 𝑞2 (e) Does the kinetic energy of a small negative
∴ 𝑈 = 𝑞1 𝑉1 + 𝑞2 𝑉2 + 𝑘 𝑟 charge increase or decrease in going from B to A?
Hint:
Note: 1
If an object possesses potential energy by virtue  (a) As 𝑉 ∝ 𝑟 , VP > VQ.
of its position, then Thus (VP – VQ) is positive.

 the field in which the object is placed must be  Also VB is less negative than VA.
conservative. Thus, VB > VA or (VB – VA) is positive.
 (b) A small negative charge will be attracted
 “Potential energy is only defined to within an
towards positive charge. The negative charge
arbitrary additive constant”.
moves from higher potential energy to lower
i.e. The point in space at which we set the potential energy. Therefore the sign of potential
potential energy to zero can be chosen at will. This energy difference of a small negative charge
implies that only differences in potential energies between Q and P is positive.
between different points in space have any physical Similarly, (P.E.)A > (P.E.)B and hence sign of
significance. potential energy differences is positive.
 (c) In moving a small positive charge from Q to
 The difference in potential energy between two
P, work has to be done by an external agency
points represents the net energy transferred to the
against the electric field. Therefore, work done
associated field when a body moves between these
by the field is negative.
two points.
i.e. Potential energy is not a property of the body,  (d) In moving a small negative charge from B to
instead, it is a property of the field within which the A work has to be done by the external agency. It
body moves. is positive.
 The concept of potential energy is meaningless  (e) Due to force of repulsion on the negative
in a non-conservative field . charge, velocity decreases and hence the kinetic
energy decreases in going from B to A.

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Example 2.4 Four charges are arranged at the 0, 0) and (9 cm, 0, 0) respectively.
corners of a square ABCD of side d, as shown in fig. (b) How much work is required to separate the two
(a) Find the work required to put together this charges infinitely away from each other?
arrangement. (c) Suppose that the same system of charges is now
(b) A charge q0 is brought to the centre E of the placed in an external electric field
square, the four charges being held fixed at its E = A (1/r 2); A = 9×105 C m–2. What would the
corners. How much extra work is needed to do this? electrostatic energy of the configuration be?
+q -q Hint :
𝑞 𝑞
A B  (a) 𝑈 = 𝑘 1𝑟 2 = – 0.7 J.

q0  (b) W = U2 – U1 = 0.7 J.
E  (c) The mutual interaction energy of the two
charges remains unchanged. In addition, there is
-q +q the energy of interaction of the two charges with
Hint: D C the external electric field.
 (a) (i) Work needed to bring charge +q to A  V = Er
when no charge is present elsewhere = 0 (zero).
1 𝑞1 𝑞2
 𝑈 = 𝑞1 (𝑉𝑟1 ) + 𝑞2 (𝑉𝑟2 ) + 4𝜋𝜀 = 49.3 J
 (ii) Work needed to bring –q to B when +q is at 0 𝑟12
A = (charge at B) × (electrostatic potential at B
2.18 In a hydrogen atom, the electron and proton are
due to charge +q at A)
bound at a distance of about 0.53 Å:
 (iii) Work needed to bring charge +q to C when (a) Estimate the potential energy of the system in
+q is at A and –q is at B eV, taking the zero of the potential energy at infinite
= (charge at C)× (potential at C due to charges separation of the electron from proton.
at A and B) (b) What is the minimum work required to free the
electron, given that its kinetic energy in the orbit is
 (iv)Work needed to bring –q to D when +q at A, half the magnitude of potential energy obtained in
–q at B, and +q at C (a)?
= (charge at D) × (potential at D due to charges (c) What are the answers to (a) and (b) above if the
at A, B and C) zero of potential energy is taken at 1.06 Å
separation?
 The total work required = Add the work done in Hint:
steps (i), (ii), (iii) and (iv). 𝑞 𝑞
 (a) 𝑈 = 𝑘 1𝑟 2
 The work done depends only on the
1
arrangement of the charges, and not how they  (b) 𝐸𝐾 = 2 𝐸𝑃
are assembled. By definition, this is the total
electrostatic energy of the charges.  E = EK +EP

 (b) The extra work necessary to bring a charge  Minimum work required
q0 to the point E when the four charges are at A, = E∞ - E
B, C and D
= q0 × (electrostatic potential at E due to the  (c) If the zero of potential energy is not taken at
charges at A, B, C and D). infinity,
1 1
𝑈 = 𝑘. 𝑞1 𝑞2 [𝑟 −𝑟 ]
 The electrostatic potential at E = 0 (zero) (𝑜𝑏) (𝑟𝑒𝑓)

 Hence no work is required to bring any charge to When the electron is taken from its initial position
point E. 0.53 Å to 1.06 Å, with the minimum required work
being done, its kinetic energy is zero.
Example 2.5
a) Determine the electrostatic potential energy of a  Minimum work required = 0 – U
system consisting of two charges 7 μC and
–2 μC (and with no external field) placed at (–9 cm,

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2.19 If one of the two electrons of a H2 molecule is ∴ The total work done in rotating the dipole from
removed, we get a hydrogen molecular ion 𝐻2+ . In an angle θ0 to angle 𝜃𝑓
the ground state of a 𝐻2+ , the two protons are
separated by roughly 1.5 Å, and the electron is 𝜃
𝑊 = ∫𝜃 𝑓 𝑑𝑊
roughly 1 Å from each proton. Determine the 0

potential energy of the system. Specify your choice 𝜃

of the zero of potential energy. qe = ∫𝜃 𝑓 𝑝𝐸𝑠𝑖𝑛𝜃 . 𝑑𝜃
0
Hint: 1Ao
𝜃
qp qp = −𝑝𝐸[𝑐𝑜𝑠𝜃]𝜃𝑓
0
o
1.5A
𝑞 𝑞2 𝑞1 𝑞3 𝑞2 𝑞3
 𝑈 = 𝑘 ( 𝑟1 + + ) ∴ 𝑊 = 𝑝𝐸(𝑐𝑜𝑠𝜃0 − 𝑐𝑜𝑠𝜃𝑓 )
12 𝑟13 𝑟23

 Zero of potential is taken at infinity. This work done is stored as potential energy of
the dipole.
 Potential Energy of a Dipole in a Uniform
Electric Field :
∴ 𝑈 = 𝑝𝐸(cos 𝜃0 − cos 𝜃𝑓 )
+q
+𝑞𝐸⃗
When
2a 𝑝
θ 𝐸⃗ θ0 = 900 and 𝜃𝑓 = 𝜃 ,

Potential energy of the dipole

−𝑞𝐸⃗ − -q
𝑈 = 𝑝𝐸(𝑐𝑜𝑠90 − 𝑐𝑜𝑠𝜃)

[ *𝑝 = 𝑞. 2𝑎 ∴ 𝑈 = −𝑝𝐸 cos 𝜃
*𝜏 = 𝑝𝐸𝑠𝑖𝑛 𝜃
In vector form
* 𝑑𝑊 = 𝜏. 𝑑𝜃
𝜃
*𝑊 = ∫𝜃 1 𝑑𝑊 = 𝑈 ] 𝑈 = −𝑝. 𝐸⃗
1

Let, Notes:
2𝑎 = length of the dipole.
1.> Position for stable equilibrium :
𝐸 = uniform electric field in which the dipole is A dipole is said to be in equilibrium if the net
placed. force and net torque acting on the dipole is zero.
∴ Dipole moment of the dipole. A dipole is said to be stable if it possess
𝑝 = 2𝑎𝑞 minimum potential energy.

Let When, 𝜃 = 00
⃗ and ⃗E
θ = angle between the p
∴ 𝑈 = − 𝑝. 𝐸 𝑐𝑜𝑠00 = − 𝑝. 𝐸
∴ The torque acting on the dipole
Thus when the dipole moment of the dipole is
𝜏 = 𝑝𝐸𝑠𝑖𝑛𝜃
placed parallel to the external electric field, the
Small work done in rotating the dipole through a dipole is said to in stable equilibrium.
small angle dθ against the torque acting on it

𝑑𝑊 = 𝜏. 𝑑𝜃 2.> Position for equilibrium but unstable :

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When, θ = 1800 + if the point is closer to + q.

∴ 𝑈 = − 𝑝. 𝐸 𝑐𝑜𝑠1800 = + 𝑝. 𝐸 − if the point is closer to – q.

Thus when the dipole moment of the dipole is 𝑟 = 𝑧 = distance of the point from the centre of
placed anti parallel to the external electric field the the dipole.
dipole is said to be in unstable equilibrium.
𝑟 = 𝑥𝑖̂ + 𝑦𝑗̂ + 𝑧𝑘̂
3.> Position for zero potential energy:
𝑝 = dipole moment of the dipole.
When, θ = 900
 (b) When r/a >>1
0
∴ 𝑈 = − 𝑝. 𝐸 𝑐𝑜𝑠90 = 0
i.e. r >>> a
Thus when the dipole moment of the dipole is
1 𝑝
placed perpendicular to the external electric field V = ± 4𝜋𝜀 2
0𝑟
the dipole posses zero potential energy(but not the
1
minimum PE). i.e. 𝑉 ∝ 𝑟2

Example 2.6  (c) The point lies on the equatorial line of the
A molecule of a substance has a permanent electric
dipole.
dipole moment of magnitude 10–29 C m. A mole of
this substance is polarised (at low temperature) by ∴ Potential at the point, V = 0
applying a strong electrostatic field of magnitude106
V m–1. The direction of the field is suddenly ∴ 𝑊 = 𝑞 Δ𝑉
changed by an angle of 60º. Estimate the heat
released by the substance in aligning its dipoles  No, because work done by electrostatic field
along the new direction of the field. For simplicity, between two points is independent of the path
assume 100% polarization of the sample. connecting the two points.
Hint.
 θi = 00  Electrostatics of Conductors:
𝑈𝑖 = −𝑝𝐸 cos 𝜃𝑖 -  +
- Eind +
 𝜃𝑓 = 600
-  +
𝑈𝑓 = −𝑝𝐸 cos 𝜃𝑓
- E  0 + 
 ∆U = Uf – Ui = heat generated Eext
- +
2.21 Two charges – q and +q are located at points
(0, 0, –a) and (0, 0, a), respectively. What is the Due to the external electric field 𝐸⃗𝑒𝑥𝑡 free
electrostatic potential at the points (0, 0, z) and (x, y,
0)? Obtain the dependence of potential on the electrons in the conductor moved opposite to 𝐸⃗𝑒𝑥𝑡 ,
distance r of a point from the origin when r/a >> 1. thus negative charges get induced on the left side
How much work is done in moving a small test and positive charges on the right side of the
charge from the point (5, 0, 0) to (–7, 0, 0) along the conductor. This process continues till the induced
x-axis? Does the answer change if the path of the electric field 𝐸⃗𝑖𝑛𝑑 due to the induced charges inside
test charge between the same points is not along the
x-axis? the conductor become equal to 𝐸⃗𝑒𝑥𝑡 but directed in
Hint : opposite direction. Thus the net electric field inside
the conductor is
 (a) The point lies on the axial line of the dipole.
1 𝑝 𝐸⃗ = 𝐸⃗𝑒𝑥𝑡 + 𝐸⃗𝑖𝑛𝑑 = 0
∴ V = ± 4𝜋𝜀 (𝑟 2 −𝑎2 )
0

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 Electric Field is Perpendicular to the Surface charge distribution may be different at
Surface of the Conductor at Every Point: different points.
𝑞
If 𝐸⃗ were not normal to the surface, it would 𝜎= 𝑠
have some non-zero component along the surface.
Free charges on the surface of the conductor would
then experience force and move, which not possible Every conductor is an equipotential volume
in the static situation (three- dimensional) rather than just an equipotential
surface (two- dimensional).
∴ 𝐸⃗ should have no tangential component.
 The Net Charge in the Interior of a
Thus electrostatic field at the surface of a Conductor is Zero and any Excess Charge
charged conductor must be normal to the surface at Resides on its Surface. :
every point. S
 Electric potential is constant within and on E=0
the surface of the conductor:

We have, Let
𝑑𝑉
𝐸 = − 𝑑𝑟 , Q = charge of a conductor.

where the symbols have their usual meaning. S = surface area of a Gaussian surface drawn
inside the conductor.
But, inside the conductor, 𝐸 = 0;
According to Gauss’ theorem,
And 𝐸⃗ has no tangential component along the 𝑞
surface. 𝜙𝐸 = ∮ 𝐸⃗ . 𝑑𝑆 = 𝜀
0

𝑑𝑉 As electric field inside the conductor,

=0
𝑑𝑟
𝐸=0
∴ 𝑉 = 𝑐𝑜𝑛𝑠𝑡𝑎𝑛𝑡.
𝑞
=0
Hence electric potential is constant throughout 𝜀0
the volume of the conductor.
∴ 𝑞=0
Thus the surface of the conductor is an
equipotential surface. Thus no excess charge inside the conductor and
excess charge Q must lies on the surface of the
As ⃗⃗⃗
𝐸 has no tangential component on the surface conductor.
of the conductor, no electric force acts on the test
charge as it moves on the surface.  Electric Field at the Surface of a Charged
i.e. q0.E = 0 Conductor is ⃗𝑬⃗ = 𝝈𝒏 ̂
𝜺 𝟎

∴ Work done in moving a test charge against

electrostatic force on the surface through a distance
𝑑𝑟 is zero 𝑑𝑆
𝐸⃗
i.e. 𝑑𝑊 = 𝑞0 𝐸𝑑𝑟 = 𝑞0 𝑑𝑉 = 0
Let,
∴ V = constant ]
𝜎 = surface charge density of the conductor.
Note :
𝐸⃗ = electric field a point on the surface.
+ +
+ SSI.
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A cylindrical Gaussian surface is drawn passing (iii) The outer covering in coaxial cables connected
through the point as in the fig. to ground provides electrostatic shielding to the
signal carried in by the cable.
Let
𝑑𝑠 = Cross sectional area of the Gaussian Note:
surface. A cavity inside a conductor is shielded from
outside electrical influences. It is worth noting that
∴ Charge enclosed by the Gaussian surface, electrostatic shielding does not work the other way
round; that is, if you put charges inside the cavity,
𝑞 = 𝜎. 𝑑𝑆. the exterior of the conductor is not shielded from the
fields by the inside charges.
According to Gaussian theorem 2.4 A spherical conductor of radius 12 cm has a
𝑞
charge of 1.6×10–7C distributed uniformly on its
𝜙 = 𝐸⃗ . 𝑑𝑆 = surface. What is the electric field
𝜀0
(a) inside the sphere
σ.dS (b) just outside the sphere
∴ 𝐸⃗ . 𝑑𝑆 = 𝜀
0 (c) at a point 18 cm from the centre of the sphere?
Hint
Here
 (a) Apply gauss’ theorem.
𝐸⃗ ∥ 𝑑𝑆
(b) & (c)
σ.dS
𝐸. 𝑑𝑆 =  Entire charge of the conducting sphere lies at its
𝜀0
centre.
σ
∴ 𝐸=𝜀  𝐸 = 4𝜋𝜀
1 𝑞
0 𝑟2
0

In vector form, 2.15 A spherical conducting shell of inner radius r1

and outer radius r2 has a charge Q.
𝜎
𝐸⃗ = 𝜀 𝑛̂ (a) A charge q is placed at the centre of the shell.
0
What is the surface charge density on the inner and
Here, outer surfaces of the shell?
(b) Is the electric field inside a cavity (with no
𝑛̂ = Unit vector along the normal in outward charge) zero, even if the shell is not spherical, but
direction. has any irregular shape? Explain.
Hint :
 Electrostatic Shielding: (a) Inner surface

As no excess charge resides in the cavity in a  Charge induced in the inner surface by ‘q’
conductor, hence no electric field exists inside the charge is – q.
cavity.  Net charge on inner surface is– q.
−𝑞
The phenomenon of making a region free from  Surface charge density is 𝜎 = 4𝜋𝑟 2
1
any electric field is called electrostatic shielding.
Outer surface
Application :
 Charge induced in the outer surface by ‘q’
i) It can be used to shield and protect sensitive charge is + q.
electronic devices from external electric field.
 Net charge on inner surface is Q + q.
(ii) During lightening it is safe to stay inside car or 𝑄+𝑞
 Surface charge density is 𝜎 = 4𝜋𝑟 2
bus, as the metallic body provides electrostatic 2

shielding from lightening.

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(b) By Gauss’s law, the net charge on the inner Polarisation of non polar dielectrics :
surface enclosing the cavity (not having any charge)
must be zero. For a cavity of arbitrary shape, this is When electric field is
not enough to claim that the electric field inside applied, the positive charges
must be zero. The cavity may have positive and are pushed in the direction of
negative charges with total charge zero. To dispose electric field and the electrons
of this possibility, take a closed loop, part of which are pulled in the direction
is inside the cavity along a field line and the rest opposite to the electric field.
inside the conductor. Since field inside the Due to separation of effective
conductor is zero, this gives a net work done by the centres of positive and negative charges, dipole is
field in carrying a test charge over a closed loop. We formed.
know this is impossible for an electrostatic field.
Hence, there are no field lines inside the cavity (i.e., ⃗⃗ ) :
Polarisation (𝑷
no field), and no charge on the inner surface of the
conductor, whatever be its shape. It is defined as the dipole moment per unit
volume.
 Dielectrics :
𝑝
i.e. 𝑃⃗ = 𝑣𝑜𝑙𝑢𝑚𝑒
Dielectrics are the non conducting materials in
which induced charges are produced on their faces
on the application of electric fields.

 Types of Dielectrics:

(i) Polar dielectrics:

In polar molecules, the centre of positive
charges does not coincide with the centre of
negative charges.

Each molecule has a dipole moment.

The net dipole moment of the dipole is not zero.

Polarisation of polar dielectric: A rectangular dielectric slab placed in a uniform

In the absence of any external field, external field 𝐸⃗ parallel to two of its faces. The field
the different permanent dipoles are causes a uniform polarisation 𝑃⃗ of the dielectric.
oriented randomly due to thermal Inside the dielectric positive charge of one dipole
agitation; so the total dipole moment gets cancelled with negative charge of adjacent
is zero. dipole. However, at the surface, there are
uncancelled positive charges on right face and
In the presence of external field, the uncancelled negative charges on left face of the slab
individual dipole moments tend to align called surface charges. Since the slab as whole is
with the field (though not complete). neutral, the uncancelled + ve and – ve charges at the
Thus the net dipole moment is directed surface are of equal magnitude.
along the external field, i.e., the
dielectric is polarised. Thus the polarised dielectric is equivalent to two
charged surfaces with induced charged density, say
(ii) Non Polar dielectrics: +𝜎𝑝 and −𝜎𝑝 .

In non polar molecule, the Electric field ⃗EP produced by these surface
centre of positive charges coincides charges opposes the external field 𝐸⃗0 . Thus the net
with the centre of negative charges electric field in the dielectric is
of a molecule.
𝐸⃗ = 𝐸⃗0 + 𝐸⃗𝑃 , and directed along 𝐸⃗0.

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i.e. 𝐸 = 𝐸0 − 𝐸𝑃 force of attraction. If the hair is wet, or if it is
rainy day, friction between hair and the comb
i.e. Electric field is reduced when a dielectric reduces. The comb does not get charged and thus
slab is introduced. it will not attract small bits of paper.

 Di-electric Constant (K) or Relative  (b) To enable them to conduct charge (produced
Permitivity (𝛆r) : by friction) to the ground; as too much of static
electricity accumulated may result in spark and
It is defined as the ratio of original electric field result in fire.
to the reduced electric field.
 (c) Reason similar to (b).
𝜀 |𝐸⃗0 | |𝐸⃗0 | 𝐸0
i.e. 𝐾 = 𝜀𝑟 = 𝜀 = |𝐸⃗ |
= |𝐸⃗0 +𝐸⃗𝑝 |
=𝐸  (d) Current passes only when there is difference
0 0 −𝐸𝑃
in potential.
[ K for vacuum is unity. ]  Electrical Capacitance:
It is the measure of the ability of a conductor to
 Electric Susceptibility (𝛘) :
store charge.
A polar or non-polar, dielectric develops a net
[ When a large charge is given to an insulated
dipole moment in the presence of an external field.
conductor, its potential becomes very high. Thus the
electric field associated with the charged conductor
𝑃⃗ = 𝜒𝐸⃗
become very high (E = σ/ε0), atoms and molecules
Here, of surrounding air get ionised. Insulation of the
𝜒 is a constant and a characteristic property of conductor breaks down and hence charges from the
the dielectric, and is known as the electric conductor leaks away. ]
susceptibility of the dielectric medium.
 Capacitor :
 Dielectric Strength:
A capacitor is an arrangement of two
Dielectric strength is the maximum value of the conductors separated by an insulating medium that
electric field intensity that can be applied to the is used to store electric charge.
dielectric without breaking down its insulation.
A capacitor is denoted by
-1 -1
S I Unit is Vm or common unit is kVmm .
A variable conductor is represented by
Example 2.7(a) A comb run through one’s dry hair
attracts small bits of paper. Why? Let
What happens if the hair is wet or if it is a rainy Q = charge given to a conductor of a capacitor.
day? (Remember, a paper does not conduct
electricity.) V = increased in potential difference between
(b) Ordinary rubber is an insulator. But special the conductors.
rubber tyres of aircraft are made slightly conducting.
Why is this necessary? Then
(c) Vehicles carrying inflammable materials usually
Q∝V
have metallic ropes touching the ground during
motion. Why? i.e. Q=CV
(d) A bird perches on a bare high power line, and
nothing happens to the bird. A man standing on the Here
ground touches the same line and gets a fatal shock.
Why? C = Capacitance of the capacitor.
Hint:
 (a) This is because the comb gets charged by ∴ 𝐶=𝑉
𝑄
friction. The molecules in the paper gets
polarised by the charged comb, resulting in a net
[ Thus 1F = 1CV-1 ]
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Hence capacitance of a capacitor may be d = distance between the plates
defined as the charge required to increase the
potential difference between the conductors by unit σ = surface charge density of each plate.
amount.
∴ Charge on each plate is
S I Unit of capacitance is Farad (F)
𝑞 = 𝜎. 𝐴 ..... (1)
 1F (farad) :
Electric field in the region between the plates
Capacitance is said to be 1F when 1 coulomb of 𝜎 𝜎 𝜎
charge raises the potential difference between the 𝐸 = 2𝜀 + 2𝜀 = 𝜀
0 0 0
conductors by 1 volt.
∴ Potential difference between the plates
Sub units of F:
𝑉 = 𝐸. 𝑑
1millifarad = 1mF = 10-3F
𝜎
= 𝜀 .𝑑 .... (2)
1microfarad = 1μF = 10 F -6
0

1nanofarad = 1nF = 10-9F ∴ Capacitance of the capacitor

𝑞
1picofarad = 1pF = 10-12F 𝐶=𝑉

 Variation of charge with potential in 𝜎.𝐴

= 𝜎
capacitors: 𝜀0
.𝑑

Q
𝜀0 .𝐴
∴ 𝐶=
Slope = C 𝑑

Notes :
V
1.> C∝A
 Parallel Plate Capacitor :
2.> C ∝ ε0 (absolute permittivity of the medium)
Parallel plate capacitor is an arrangement of 1
3.> 𝐶∝𝑑
two parallel conducting plates of equal area
separated by air medium or any other insulating
4. > As the charge developed on two plates of
medium.
capacitor of equal magnitude but opposite in sign,
Principle: net charge is zero (0).
5.> Capacitance is determined purely
Capacitance of a conductor is greatly increased
geometrically, by the shapes, sizes and relative
by bringing near it an uncharged earthed conductor.
positions of the two conductors.
𝑞
[ *𝐶 = 𝑉 + -  Parallel Plate Capacitor with Dielectric
+ - Completely Filling the Space Between the
* 𝑞 = 𝜎𝐴 + - Plates:

E
0 𝜀 .𝐴
* 𝑉 = 𝐸. 𝑑 + - [ * 𝐶0 = 0𝑑
+ -
𝑞
* 𝐸⃗ = 𝐸⃗+ + 𝐸⃗− + - *𝐶 =𝑉
1 𝜎
* 𝐸+ = 𝐸− = 2 𝜀 ] d * 𝑞 = 𝜎𝐴
0

Let * 𝑉 = 𝐸. 𝑑 + - + -
A = area of each plate. + -
+
+ - -
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𝐸0
*𝐸= 𝐾
𝐶 = 𝐾. 𝐶0
𝜎
* 𝐸0 = 𝜀 ] Note:
0

Let .> Capacitance of a capacitor increases when a di-

A = area of each plate. electric medium is inserted between the plates of the
capacitor.
d = distance between the plates
2.> Dielectric constant ‘K’ can be defined as the
K = dielectric constant of the medium. ratio of capacitance of a capacitor completely filled
with the dielectric to the capacitance of the capacitor
σ = surface charge density of each plate. with vacuum.

∴ Charge on each plate 𝐶

i.e. 𝐾=
𝐶0
𝑞 = 𝜎. 𝐴 .... (1)
 Parallel Plate Capacitor with Dielectric
Electric field in the region between the plates Partially Filling the Space Between the Plates :
𝐸0
t
𝐸= 𝐾 [ * 𝐶0 = 𝑉𝑞0
+ - + -
Here, 𝑞
* 𝐶=𝑉 + -
E
𝐸0 = Electric field between the plates when + -
* 𝑉 = 𝐸0 (𝑑 − 𝑡) + 𝐸𝑡 + E0 - + E0
-
filled with vacuum.
𝐸 + -
=𝜀
𝜎 * 𝐸 = 𝐾0 ] + - + -
0

Let d
Symbols have their usual meaning.
𝜎 A = area of each plate.
∴ 𝐸 = 𝐾𝜀
0
d = distance between the plates
∴ Potential difference between the plates
K = dielectric constant of the medium.
𝑉 = 𝐸. 𝑑
t = thickness of the dielectric slab.
𝜎
= 𝐾𝜀 . 𝑑 .... (2)
0 q = Charge on each plate.
∴ Capacitance of the capacitor 𝐸0 = Electric field between the plates without
𝑞 dielectric slab.
𝐶=𝑉
𝑉0 = Potential difference between the plates
𝜎.𝐴 without dielectric slab.
= 𝜎
.𝑑
𝐾𝜀0
= 𝐸0 . (𝑑 − 𝑡) .... (1)
𝐾𝜀0 .𝐴
i.e. 𝐶 = 𝑑 ∴ Electric field between the plates when
But capacitance of capacitor with vacuum completely filled with dielectric
𝐸0
𝐶0 =
𝜀0 .𝐴 𝐸= .... (2)
𝐾
𝑑

∴ Capacitance of the capacitor ∴ Potential difference between the plates with

dielectric between them

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𝑉 = 𝐸0 (𝑑 − 𝑡) + 𝐸𝑡 𝑞 = the charge on the plates of the capacitor at
any instant of time.
𝐸0
= 𝐸0 (𝑑 − 𝑡) + 𝑡
𝐾
∴ Small work done in taking ‘𝑑𝑞’ charges against
𝑡 V is
= 𝐸0 [(𝑑 − 𝑡) + 𝐾]
q
dW = dq. V = C . dq
Here,
𝑉0 ∴ Total work done in transferring ‘Q’ charges is
𝐸0 = 𝑑
𝑄 𝑄𝑞
𝑊 = ∫0 𝑑𝑊 = ∫0 . 𝑑𝑞
𝑉0 𝑡 𝐶
∴ 𝑉= [(𝑑 − 𝑡) + 𝐾] .... (3)
𝑑
𝑄
𝑞2
= [2𝐶]
∴ Capacitance of the capacitor 0

𝑞 1 𝑄2
𝐶=𝑉 ∴ 𝑊=2 𝐶
𝑞 𝑑
𝐶=𝑉 𝑡 This work is stored as electrostatic potential
0 [(𝑑−𝑡)+ ]
𝐾 energy U in the capacitor.
Here,
𝑞 1 𝑄2 1 1
= 𝐶0 = Capacitance of the capacitor when ∴ 𝑈= = 𝐶𝑉 2 = 𝑄𝑉
𝑉0 2 𝐶 2 2
filled with vacuum.
 Energy Density in Capacitor (u):
𝑑
∴ 𝐶 = 𝐶0 𝑡
[(𝑑−𝑡)+ ]
𝐾 Let
A = area of each plate of a capacitor.
𝜀0 𝐴
i.e. 𝐶= 𝑡
[(𝑑−𝑡)+ ]
𝐾
d = distance between the plates.

 Energy Store in Capacitor: σ = surface charge density of each plate.

[ The process of charging a capacitor is equivalent 𝐸 = Electric field between the plates of the
to transferring of charges from -ve plate to the +ve capacitor.
plate of the capacitor.The moment charging starts,
∴ Potential difference between the plates of the
there is a potential difference between the plates.
capacitor
Therefore, to transfer charges against the potential
difference some work is to be done. ] V = Ed .... (1)
+q -q
[ * 𝑑𝑊 = 𝑉𝑑𝑞 Capacitance of the capacitor
+ -
𝑄 𝜀0 𝐴
* 𝑊 = ∫0 𝑉𝑑𝑞 𝐶=
+ - 𝑑

*𝑊=𝑈 ] + - ∴ Energy stored in the capacitor

1
+ - 𝑈 = 2 𝐶𝑉 2

1 𝜀0 𝐴
=2 (𝐸𝑑)2
The moment charging of capacitor starts, there is a 𝑑

potential difference between the plates. 1

= 2 . ε0 E 2 . Ad
Let, Here,
𝑉 = potential difference between plates.

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𝐴𝑑 = volume of the capacitor (i) Potential difference :

∴ Energy density of the capacitor is As battery is connected potential difference

remains constant.
𝑈 𝑈
𝑢 = 𝑣𝑜𝑙𝑢𝑚𝑒 𝑜𝑓 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑐𝑎𝑝𝑎𝑐𝑖𝑡𝑜𝑟 = 𝐴𝑑
(ii) Electric field :
1 As potential difference remains constant,
∴ 𝑢 = . ε0 E 2
2
𝐸0
𝐸=
Thus energy is stored in the region between the 𝐾

plates in form of electric field energy. ∴ Electric field decreases.

 Effect of Introduction of Dielectric into a
(iii) Capacitance :
Capacitor : Increases, becomes
 Introduction of Dielectric after Battery is C = K.C0
Disconnected:
(iv) Charge :
(i) Charge:
Increases, becomes
Charge on capacitor plates remains constant.

(ii) Electric field : 𝑞 = 𝐶𝑉 = 𝐾𝐶0 𝑉 = 𝐾𝑞0

Reduces and becomes (v) Stored energy :

𝐸0 Increases by K times, and becomes

𝐸= 𝐾
1 1
𝑈 = 2 𝐶𝑉 2 = 2 𝐾𝐶0 𝑉 2
(iii) Potential difference:

Reduces and becomes ∴ 𝑈 = 𝐾𝑈0

Example 2.8 A slab of material of dielectric
𝑉 = 𝐸𝑑 constant K has the same area as the plates of a
parallel-plate capacitor but has a thickness (3/4)d,
𝑉0
∴ 𝑉= where d is the separation of the plates. How is the
𝐾
capacitance changed when the slab is inserted
between the plates?
(iv) Capacitance: Hint:
𝑑
Increases and becomes  𝐶 = 𝐶0 𝑡
[(𝑑−𝑡)+ ]
𝐾

3
𝐶 = 𝐾𝐶0  𝑡= 𝑑
4

2.5 A parallel plate capacitor with air between the

(v) Energy :
plates has a capacitance of 8 pF (1pF = 10–12 F).
What will be the capacitance if the distance between
Decreases and becomes
the plates is reduced by half, and the space between
1 1 𝑉 them is filled with a substance of dielectric constant
𝑈 = 2 𝑄𝑉 = 2 𝑄 𝐾0 6?
Hint:
𝑑
∴ 𝑈=
𝑈0  𝑑′ = 2
𝐾
𝜀0 𝐴
 𝐶0′ =
 Introduction of Dielectric while Connected to 𝑑′
a Battery :  𝐶 = 𝐾𝐶0′

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2.8 In a parallel plate capacitor with air between the and the magnitude of electric field E between the
plates, each plate has an area of 6×10–3 m2 and the plates.
distance between the plates is 3 mm. Calculate the Hint:
capacitance of the capacitor. If this capacitor is 𝜀 𝐴
 (a) 𝐶 = 0𝑑
connected to a 100 V supply, what is the charge on
each plate of the capacitor? 1
 𝑈 = 2 𝐶𝑉 2
Hint:
𝜀 𝐴
 𝐶0 = 0𝑑  (b) refer to topic14.5

 𝑞0 = 𝐶0 𝑉 , V = 100V 2.28 Show that the force on each plate of a parallel

1
plate capacitor has a magnitude equal to 2 𝑄𝐸, where
2.9 Explain what would happen if in the capacitor
given in Exercise 2.8, a 3 mm thick mica sheet (of Q is the charge on the capacitor, and E is the
dielectric constant = 6) were inserted between the magnitude of electric field between the plates.
1
plates, Explain the origin of the factor .
2
(a) while the voltage supply remained connected. Hint
(b) after the supply was disconnected.  Refer to force between the two plates of
Hint: capacitor.
 (a) V=100V
2.33 A parallel plate capacitor is to be designed with
 C = K.C0 a voltage rating 1 kV, using a material of dielectric
constant 3 and dielectric strength about 107 Vm–1.
 𝑞 = 𝐶𝑉 (Dielectric strength is the maximum electric field a
 (b)𝑞 = 𝑞0 material can tolerate without breakdown, i.e.,
without starting to conduct electricity through partial
 C = K.C0 ionisation.) For safety, we should like the field never
to exceed, say 10% of the dielectric strength. What
𝑉0
 𝑉= , V0 = 100V minimum area of the plates is required to have a
𝐾
capacitance of 50 pF?
2.10 A 12pF capacitor is connected to a 50V battery. Hint:
How much electrostatic energy is stored in the  𝐸 = 10% 𝑜𝑓 107 = 106
capacitor? 𝑉
Hint:  𝐸=𝑑
1
 𝑈 = 2 𝐶𝑉 2 𝜀0 𝐴
 𝐶=𝐾 𝑑
2.24 What is the area of the plates of a 2 F parallel
plate capacitor, given that the separation between  Series Combination of Capacitors :
the plates is 0.5 cm? [You will realize from your C1 C2 C3 CS
answer why ordinary capacitors are in the range of + - + - + -
μF or less. However, electrolytic capacitors do have
a much larger capacitance (0.1 F) because of very V1 V2 V3 V
≡
minute separation between the conductors.]
Hint: + - + −
𝜀 𝐴 V V
 𝐶 = 0𝑑
i) Charge is same in each capacitor.
2.26 The plates of a parallel plate capacitor have an
ii) Potential is distributed in inverse proportion to
area of 90 cm2 each and are separated by 2.5 mm.
capacitances
The capacitor is charged by connecting it to a 400 V
supply. 𝑞 𝑞 𝑞
i.e. 𝑉1 = 𝐶 , 𝑉2 = 𝐶 and 𝑉3 = 𝐶
(a) How much electrostatic energy is stored by the 1 2 3
capacitor?
(b) View this energy as stored in the electrostatic ∴ Potential difference across the combination
field between the plates, and obtain the energy per
unit volume u. Hence arrive at a relation between u 𝑉 = 𝑉1 + 𝑉2 + 𝑉3

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𝑞 𝑞 𝑞
∴ 𝑉 =𝐶 +𝐶 +𝐶 ∴ Net charge stored in the combination
1 2 3

𝑞 = 𝑞1 + 𝑞2 + 𝑞3
Let,

CS = equivalent capacitance of combination. ∴ 𝑞 = 𝐶1 𝑉 + 𝐶2 𝑉 + 𝐶3 𝑉

𝑞 Let,
∴ 𝑉=𝐶
𝑆
CP = equivalent capacitance of combination.
𝑞 𝑞 𝑞 𝑞
∴ =𝐶 +𝐶 +𝐶
𝐶𝑆 1 2 3 ∴ 𝑞 = 𝐶𝑃 𝑉
1 1 1 1
∴ =𝐶 +𝐶 +𝐶 ∴ 𝐶𝑃 𝑉 = 𝐶1 𝑉 + 𝐶2 𝑉 + 𝐶3 𝑉
𝐶𝑆 1 2 3

Note: ∴ 𝐶𝑃 = 𝐶1 + 𝐶2 + 𝐶3
The effective capacitance in series combination
is less than the least of all the individual Note:
capacitances.
The effective capacitance in parallel
 Energy Store in Series Combination combination is larger than the largest of all the
individual capacitances.
1 𝑞2
𝑈 =2𝐶
𝑠  Energy stored in parallel combination of
capacitors
1 1 1 1
= 2 𝑞 2 (𝐶 + 𝐶 + 𝐶 ) 1
1 2 3
𝑈 = 2 𝐶𝑃 𝑉 2
1 𝑞2 1 𝑞2 1 𝑞2
= 2𝐶 +2𝐶 +2𝐶 1
1 2 3 = 2 (𝐶1 + 𝐶2 + 𝐶3 )𝑉 2
1 1 1
∴ 𝑈𝑠 = 𝑈1 + 𝑈2 + 𝑈3 = 2 𝐶1 𝑉 2 + 2 𝐶2 𝑉 2 + 2 𝐶3 𝑉 2

Thus net energy stored in the series combination

∴ 𝑈𝑃 = 𝑈1 + 𝑈2 + 𝑈3
of capacitors is equal to the sum of energy stored in
each capacitor in the combination.
Thus net energy stored in the parallel
 Parallel combination of Capacitors: combination of capacitors is equal to the sum of
energy stored in each capacitor in the combination.
q1 C1
+ - CP
 Distribution of Charges Between Capacitors:
q2 C2
+ - V (i) Charge distribution :
C3 ≡
q3 When the capacitors are connected with a
+ -
+ − conductor (positive plate of one capacitor is
V connected to positive plate of another, and vice
+ - versa), charge flow from higher potential to lower
V potential capacitor till their potential becomes equal.
i) Potential drop across each capacitor is same. + 𝐶1 −
+ −
i.e. Potential drop across each capacitor = 𝑉.
+ −
ii) Charge is distributed in direct proportion to + −
capacitances.
+ −
i.e. 𝑞1 = 𝐶1 𝑉 , 𝑞2 = 𝐶2 𝑉 and 𝑞3 = 𝐶3 𝑉 + −
+ −
+ 𝐶2 −
Prepared by: Kh.O.Dh. Dept. Physics SSI. Chap:2:: 24 of 28
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Let Energy stored in the capacitors before
combination
𝑞1 = charge of capacitance C1, potentialV1.
1 1
𝑞2 =charge of capacitance C2, potentialV2. 𝑈𝑖 = 2 𝐶1 𝑉12 + 2 𝐶2 𝑉22

∴ Total charge  After Distribution:

𝑄 = 𝑞1 + 𝑞2 = 𝐶1 𝑉1 + 𝐶2 𝑉2 Total capacitance

∴ Total capacitance 𝐶 = 𝐶1 + 𝐶2
𝐶 = 𝐶1 + 𝐶2 Common potential difference
After the distribution of charge let, 𝑞1 +𝑞2 𝐶1 V1 +𝐶2 V2
𝑉= =
𝐶1 +𝐶2 𝐶1 +𝐶2
𝑞1′ = Charge on capacitor C1.
Energy stored in the capacitors after combination
𝑞2′ = Charge on capacitor C2.
1 𝐶1 V1 +𝐶2 V2 2
𝑈𝑓 = 2 (𝐶1 + 𝐶2 ) [ ]
𝑉 = common potential 𝐶1 +𝐶2

∴ 𝑞1′ = 𝐶1 𝑉 ∴ 𝑈𝑓 = 2
1 (𝐶1 V1 +𝐶2 V2 )2
𝐶1 +𝐶2

And
𝑞2′ = 𝐶2 𝑉 ∴ Loss in energy

By the conservation of charge, ∆𝑈 = 𝑈𝑖 − 𝑈𝑓

1 1 1 (𝐶1 V1 +𝐶2 V2 )2
𝑞1 + 𝑞2 = 𝑞1′ + 𝑞2′ = 2 𝐶1 𝑉12 + 2 𝐶2 𝑉22 − 2 𝐶1 +𝐶2

𝐶1 𝑉1 + 𝐶2 𝑉2 = 𝐶1 𝑉 + 𝐶2 𝑉 1 1
= 2 . (𝐶 . [𝐶1 𝐶2 𝑉12 + 𝐶1 𝐶2 𝑉22 − 2𝐶1 𝐶2 𝑉1 𝑉2 ]
1 +𝐶2 )
∴ Common Potential
1 𝐶 𝐶
= 2 . (𝐶 1+𝐶2 ) . [𝑉12 + 𝑉22 − 2𝑉1 𝑉2 ]
𝑞 +𝑞 𝐶1 V1 +𝐶2 V2 1 2
𝑉 = 𝐶1 +𝐶2 =
1 2 𝐶1 +𝐶2
1 𝐶 𝐶
∴ ∆𝑈 = 2 . (𝐶 1+𝐶2 ) . (𝑉1 − 𝑉2 )2 ,
1 2
𝒒′𝟏 𝑪𝟏
∴ =𝑪
𝒒′𝟐 𝟐 which is always positive. This loss in energy goes in
the form of heat due to flow of charges in the
Thus after redistribution (under equilibrium connecting wire.
condition), charges on the two capacitors /
conductors are in the ratio of their capacitance. [ When the capacitors are connected with a
conductor (positive plate of one capacitor is
ii) Loss of Energy : connected to negative plate of another, and vice
versa), charge flow from higher potential to lower
 Before Combination:
potential capacitor till their potential becomes equal.
Let,
As charges on +ve and –ve plates get
𝑞1 = charge of capacitor C1, potential V1
neutralized, total charge of the combination
𝑞2 = charge of capacitor C2, potential V2
𝑄 = 𝑞1 − 𝑞2

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1 1 1 1
= 𝐶1 𝑉1 − 𝐶2 𝑉2  (a) 𝐶 ′ = 𝐶 + 𝐶 + 𝐶
1 2 3

As the potential drops

 𝐶 = 𝐶 ′ + 𝐶4
across the capacitors are equal,
𝑞 𝑞 𝑞
capacitors are connected in  (b) 𝐶 + 𝐶 + 𝐶 = 500
1 2 3
parallel.
𝑄
 = 500
∴ 𝐶𝑒𝑞 = 𝐶1 + 𝐶2 𝐶4

Example 2.10. (a) A 900 pF capacitor is charged by

∴ Common potential difference
100V battery. How much electrostatic energy is
𝑄 𝐶1 𝑉1 −𝐶2 𝑉2 stored by the capacitor?
𝑉𝑐𝑜𝑚 = 𝐶 = (b) The capacitor is disconnected from the battery
𝑒𝑞 𝐶1 +𝐶2
and connected to another 900 pF capacitor. What is
∴ Energy stored in the combination the electrostatic energy stored by the system?

1 2
𝑈𝑓 = 2 𝐶𝑒𝑞 𝑉𝑐𝑜𝑚
C C
1 𝐶1 𝑉1 −𝐶2 𝑉2 2
= 2 (𝐶1 + 𝐶2 ) ( 𝐶1 +𝐶2
) C

100 V
1 (𝐶1 𝑉1 −𝐶2 𝑉2 )2
𝑈𝑓 = (a) (b)
2 (𝐶1 +𝐶2 ) Hint:
1
 (a) 𝑈 = 2 𝐶𝑉 2
∴ Loss in energy due to flow of charges
 𝑞 = 𝐶𝑉
∆𝑈 = 𝑈𝑖 − 𝑈𝑓
 (b)
1 1 1 (𝐶1 𝑉1 −𝐶2 𝑉2 )2
= 2 𝐶1 𝑉12 + 2 𝐶2 𝑉22 − 2 𝐶1 V1 +𝐶2 V2 V1
(𝐶1 +𝐶2 )  𝑉= =
𝐶1 +𝐶2 2
1 1
= 2 . (C . [𝐶1 𝐶2 𝑉12 + 𝐶1 𝐶2 𝑉22 + 2𝐶1 𝐶2 𝑉1 𝑉2 ]  Charge stored in each capacitor, 𝑞 =
𝑞1
1 +C2 )
2

1 𝐶 𝐶 1
∴ ∆𝑈 = 2 . (𝐶 1+𝐶2 ) . (𝑉1 + 𝑉2 )2 ]  𝑈 = 2 × 2 𝑞𝑉
1 2

Example 2.9 A network of four 10 μF capacitors is 2.6 Three capacitors each of capacitance 9 pF are
connected to a 500 V supply, as shown in Fig. connected in series.
(a) What is the total capacitance of the combination?
B C (b) What is the potential difference across each
capacitor if the combination is connected to a 120 V
C2
C1 C3 supply?
Hint :
C4 1 1 1 1
 (a) 𝐶 = 𝐶 + 𝐶 + 𝐶
A D 𝑠 1 2 3

 (b) Potential difference across each capacitor

500 V 𝑉
=3
Determine (a) the equivalent capacitance of the
network and (b) the charge on each capacitor. (Note, 2.7 Three capacitors of capacitances 2 pF, 3 pF and
the charge on a capacitor is the charge on the plate 4 pF are connected in parallel.
with higher potential, equal and opposite to the (a) What is the total capacitance of the combination?
charge on the plate with lower potential.) (b) Determine the charge on each capacitor if the
Hint:

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combination is connected to a 100 V supply.  n400 = 1000
Hint: 1 1
 (a) 𝐶𝑃 = 𝐶1 + 𝐶2 + 𝐶3  = 𝑛 𝐶 , C = 1μF
𝐶𝑛

 (b) Potential difference across each capacitor  m = no of rows

=V
 mCn = Cr, Cr = 2Μf
 𝑞 = 𝐶𝑉
Q. A parallel plate capacitor is made of two
2.11 A 600 pF capacitor is charged by a 200V dielectric blocks in series. One of the block has a
supply. It is then disconnected from the supply and thickness of d1 and dielectric constant K1 and the
is connected to another uncharged 600 pF capacitor. other has thickness d2 and dielectric constant K2 as
How much electrostatic energy is lost in the shown in the figure.
process?
Hint: d1 K1
1 𝐶 𝐶 d2
 ∆𝑈 = . (𝐶 1 2 ) . (𝑉1 − 𝑉2 )2 K2
2 1 +𝐶2

(a) What is the capacitance of the capacitor?

2.25 Obtain the equivalent capacitance of the
(b) If the two dielectrics are replaced by another
network in Fig. For a 300 V supply, determine the
dielectric of thickness 𝑑 = (𝑑1 + 𝑑2 ), what is the
charge and voltage across each capacitor.
dielectric constant of the dielectric?
100pF Hint:
(a) This is equivalent to two capacitors connected in
series to each other.
C1
𝜀0 𝐴
200pF 200pF 𝐶1 = 𝐾1 𝑑1
Hint: 𝜀0 𝐴
1 1 1 𝐶2 = 𝐾2
 = + C2 C3 𝑑2
𝐶𝑠 𝐶2 𝐶3
300 V
100pF 1 1
=𝐶 +𝐶
1
 𝑐𝑝 = 𝐶𝑠 + 𝐶1 𝐶𝑠 1 2

1 1 1 𝜀0 𝐴
 =𝐶 +𝐶 C4 (b) 𝐶 = 𝐾𝑒𝑞
𝐶 𝑃 4 𝑑

Q. A parallel plate capacitor is made of two

2.27 A 4 μF capacitor is charged by a 200 V supply. dielectric blocks in series. One of the block has a
It is then disconnected from the supply, and is surface area of A1 and dielectric constant K1 and the
connected to another uncharged 2 μF capacitor. other has surface area A2 and dielectric constant K2
How much electrostatic energy of the first capacitor as shown in the figure.
is lost in the form of heat and electromagnetic
radiation? A2 A1
Hint:
1 𝐶 𝐶
 ∆𝑈 = . (𝐶 1 2 ) . (𝑉1 − 𝑉2 )2 d K2 K1
2 1 +𝐶2

2.23 An electrical technician requires a capacitance (a) What is the capacitance of the capacitor?
of 2 μF in a circuit across a potential difference of 1 (b) If the two dielectrics are replaced by another
kV. A large number of 1 μF capacitors are available dielectric of surface area 𝐴 = (𝐴1 + 𝐴2 ), what is the
to him each of which can withstand a potential dielectric constant of the dielectric?
difference of not more than 400 V. Suggest a Hint:
possible arrangement that requires the minimum (a) This is equivalent to two capacitors connected in
number of capacitors. parallel to each other.
Hint:
𝜀0 𝐴1
𝐶1 = 𝐾1
 n = no. of capacitor in a row. 𝑑

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𝜀0 𝐴2
𝐶2 = 𝐾2 𝑑

𝐶𝑃 = 𝐶1 + 𝐶2
𝜀0 𝐴
(b) 𝐶 = 𝐾𝑒𝑞 𝑑

Q. A parallel plate capacitor of area 𝐴 and plate

separation of 𝑑 is filled with three dielectric
materials having dielectric constants K1, K2 and K3
as shown in the figure.

A/2 A/2
d/2 K1 K2
d/2 K3

(a) What is the capacitance of the capacitor?

(b) If the dielectrics are replaced by another
dielectric of thickness 𝑑 = (𝑑1 + 𝑑2 ) and area =
(𝐴1 + 𝐴2 ) , what is the dielectric constant of the
dielectric?
Hint:
(a) Here C1 and C2 are parallel.
𝜀0 𝐴
𝐶1 = 𝐾1 𝑑1

𝜀0 𝐴
𝐶2 = 𝐾2
𝑑2

𝐶12 = 𝐶1 + 𝐶2

𝐶12 and 𝐶3 are in series

1 1 1
=𝐶 +𝐶
𝐶123 12 3

𝜀0 𝐴
(b) 𝐶123 = 𝐾𝑒𝑞 𝑑

Q. Consider the arrangement of four conducting

plates of equal surface area and separation between
them as shown in the figure.

d
A
B

What is the net capacitance of this arrangement?

Hint:
Above arrangement is equivalent to three
capacitors connected in parallel.

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