Electrostatics1 PDF

ELECTROST
ELECTROSTA
OSTATICS - 1
THEORY AND EXERCISE BOOKLET
CONTENTS
S.NO. TOPIC PAGE NO.
1. Introduction ...................................................................................................... 3 – 4
2. Coloumb's Law ............................................................................................... 5 – 14
3. Electric field ................................................................................................... 14 – 29
4. Conservative force .......................................................................................... 29 – 32
5. Electrostatic Potential Energy ....................................................................... 32 – 36
6. Electric Potential ........................................................................................... 36 – 40
7. Relation Between E and V ............................................................................. 40 – 41
8. Electric lines of force ..................................................................................... 41 – 43
9. Equipotential Surface ..................................................................................... 43 – 45
10. Electric dipole .............................................................................................. 45 – 52
11. Exercise - I................................................................................................... 53 – 67
12. Exercise - II ................................................................................................. 68 – 73
13. Exercise - III ................................................................................................. 74 – 82
14. Exercise - IV ................................................................................................ 83 – 84
15. Exercise - V ................................................................................................. 85 – 89
16. Answer key .................................................................................................. 90 – 92
394 - Rajeev Gandhi Nagar Kota, Ph. No. 0744-2209671, 93141-87482, 93527-21564
1 IVRS No. 0744-2439051, 0744-2439052, 0744-2439053 www.motioniitjee.com, email-hr.motioniitjee@gmail.com
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Page # 2 ELECTROSTATICS - 1
JEE SYLLABUS :
Coulomb’s law; Electric field and potential; Electrical Potential
energy of a system of point charges and of electrical dipoles in
a uniform electrostatic field, Electric field lines;
394,50 - Rajeev Gandhi Nagar Kota, Ph. No. : 93141-87482, 0744-2209671

IVRS No : 0744-2439051, 52, 53, www. motioniitjee.com , hr@motioniitjee.com

ELECTROSTATICS - 1 Page # 3
1. INTRODUCTION :
(a) Introduction : Electromagnetism is a science of the combinatin of electrical and magnetic phenomenon.
Electromagnetism can be divided into 2 parts :
(1) Electrostatics : It deals with the study of charges at rest.
(2) Electrodynamics : It deals with the study of charges in motion (discusses magnetic phenomenon).
In this chapter we will be dealing with charges at rest i.e. electrostatics.
(b) Structure of Atom :

An atom consists of two parts (i) nucleus (ii) extra nuclear part. Nucleus consists of neutrons and
protons and extra nuclear part has electrons revolving around nucleus.
In a neutral atom.
number of electrons = number of protons.
charge of electrons = charge of protons = 1.602 × 10–19 coulomb.
Normally positive charges are positron, proton and positive ions. In nature practically free existing
positive charge are positive ions and negative charges are electrons.
(c) Electric Charge

Charge of a material body or particle is the property (acquired or natural) due to which it produces and
experiences electrical and magnetic effects. Some of naturally charged particles are electron, proton,
α-particle etc.
(d) Types of Charge

(i) Positive charge : It is the deficiency of electrons compared to protons.
(ii) Negative charge : It is the excess of electrons compared to protons.
(e) Units of Charge

Charge is a derived physical quantity. Charge is measured in coulomb in S.I. unit. In practice we use mC
(10–3C), µC (10 –6 C), nC (10–9C) etc.
C.G.S unit of charge = electrostatic unit = esu.
1 coulomb = 3 × 109 esu of charge
Dimensional formula of charge = [M°L°T1I1]
(f) Properties of Charge

(I) Charge is a scalar quantity : It adds algebrically and represents excess, or deficiency of
electrons.
(II) Charge is transferable : Charging a body implies transfer of charge (electrons) from one body
to another. Positively charged body means loss of electrons, i.e. deficiency of electrons. Negatively
charged body means excess of electrons. This also shows that mass of a negatively charged
body > mass of a positively charged identical body.
(III) Charge is conserved : In an isolated system, total charge (sum of positive and negative)
remains constant whatever change takes place in that system.
(IV) Charge is quantized : Charge on any body always exists in integral multiples of a fundamental
unit of electric charge. This unit is equal to the magnitude of charge on electron (1e = 1.6 ×
10–19 coulomb). So charge on anybody Q = ± ne, where n is an integer and e is the charge of
the electron. Millikan's oil drop experiment proved the quantization of charge or atomicity of
charge.


1 2
• Recently, the existence of particles of charge ± e and ± e has been postulated. These particles
3 3
are called quarks but still this is not considered as the quantum of charge because these are unstable
(They have very short span of life.)
(v) Like point charges repel each other while unlike point charges attract each other.
(vi) Charge is always associated with mass, i.e., charge can not exist without mass though mass
can exist without charge. The particle such as photon or neutrino which have no (rest) mass
can never have a charge.
(vii) Charge is relativistically invariant : This means that charge is independent of frame of reference,
i.e., charge on a body does not change whatever be its speed. This property is worth mentioning
as in contrast to charge, the mass of a body depends on its speed and increases with increase
in speed.
(viii) A charge at rest produces only electric field around itself; a charge having uniform motion
produces electric as well as magnetic field around itself while a charge having accelerated
motion emits electromagnetic radiation.
(g) Conductors and Insultators :
Any object can be broadly classified in either of the following two categories :
(i) Conductors
(ii) Insulators
(i) Conductors : These are the materials that allow flow of charge through them. This category generally
comprises of metals but may sometimes contain non-metals too. (ex. Carbon in form of graphite.)
(ii) Insulators : These are the materials which do not allow movement of charge through them.
(h) Charging of Bodies :

An object can be charged by addition or removed of electrons from it. In general an object can either
be a conductor or insulator. Thus we are going to discuss the charging of a conductor and charging of
an insultor in brife.
(i) Charging of Conductors :

Conductors can be charged by
(a) Rubbing or frictional electricity
(b) Conduction & Induction (will be studied in later sections)
(c) Thermionic emission (will be study the topic "heat")
(d) Photo electric emission (will be studied under the topic modern physics)
(ii) Charging of Insulators :
Since charge cannot flow through insulators, neither conduction nor induction can be used to charge,
insultators, so in order to charge an insulator friction is used. Whenever an insulator is rubbed against
a body exchange of electrons takes place between the two. This results in apperance of equal and
opposite charges on the insulator and the other body. Thus the insulator is charged. For example
rubbing of plastic with fur, silk with glass causes charging of these things.
To charge the bodies through friction one of them has to be an insultator.


2. COULOMB'S LAW :
Coulomb, through his experiments found out that the two charges 'q1' and 'q2' kept at distance 'r' in a
medium as shown in figure-1 exert a force 'F' on each other. The value of force F is given by
Kq1q2
F=
r2
F r F
+q1 +q2
This law gives the net force experienced by q1 and q2 taking in account the medium surrounding them.
Where
F gives the magnitude of electrostatic force.
q1 and q2 are the magnitudes of the two interacting charges.
K is electrostatic constant which depends upon the medium surrounding the two charges.
This force F acts along the line joining the two charges and is repulsive if q1 and q2 are of same sign
and is attractive if they are of opposite sign.
Let us take some examples on application of coulomb's Law.
Ex.1 Charge 5.0 × 10–7 C, –2.5 × 10–7C and 1.0 × 10–7 C are FAC
fixed at the corners A, B and C of an equilateral triangle
of side 5.0 cm. Find the electric force on the charge at
C due to the rest two.
C q3 = 1.0 × 10–7C
9 × 109 × 5 × 10–7 × 1 × 10–7
FAC = = 0.18 Nt FBC
(.05)2
a = 5 cm
9 –7 –7
a
9 × 10 × –2.5 × 10 × 1 × 10
FBC = 2 = – .09 Nt
(.05)
→ → → A a B
Net force on C is F Net = F AC + F BC q1 = 5 × 10–7C q2 = –2.5 × 10–7C
→
F Net = (FAC )2 + (F BC )2 + 2(FAC )(F BC ) cos θ [θ = 120°]
= 0.15588 Nt
Ex.2 If charge q1 is fixed and q2 is free to move then find out the velocity of q2 when it reaches
distance r2 after it is release from a distance of r1 from q1 as shown in figure (Assume friction is
absent).
q2
q1
fixed r1
r2
Find v of q2 when it reaches distance r2 after it is released from rest.


kq1q2
Sol. a=
mx2
v r2
kq1q2 dx v2 kq1q2 1 1  2kq1q2 1 1 
∫
0
vdv =
m ∫x
r1
2 ⇒ 2 = m  −  ⇒ v=
r
1 r2 m
 − 
 r1 r2 
Ex.3 Ten charged particles are kept fixed on the X axis at point x = 10 mm, 20 mm, 30 mm, ..........
100 mm. The first particle has a charge 10–8 C, the second 8 × 10–8 C, the third 27 × 10–8C and
so on. The tenth particle has a charge 1000 × 10–8C. Find the magnitude of electric force acting
on a 1 C charge placed at the origin.
q1 q2 q3 q4
1C
Kq1 × 1 Kq2 × 1 Kq3 × 1

Sol. Force of 1C charge = –3 2 + –3 2 + + .......
(10 × 10 ) (20 × 10 ) (30 × 10–3 )2
K × 10–8  13 23 33 103 
= –4  2 + 2 + 2 + ...... 2  = 9 × 109 × 10–4 × 55 = 4.95 × 107 Nt
10  1 2 3 10 
[This example explains that the concept of superposition holds in the case of electric forces. Net
electric force at the origin is equal to sum of the individual electric forces on the 1 C charge]
Ex.4 A block 'A' of charge q1 is fixed and second block of mass
m and charge q2 is allowed to free on the floor A,q1 m,q2
findout the range of q2 for which the particle is at rest. fixed
Sol Maximum friction = µ mg µ
r
kq q µmgr2
µmg = 12 2 ⇒ q2 =
r kq1
µmgr2 µmgr2
– <q<
kq1 kq1
2.1 Vector forms of Coloumb’s law
q1
r q2
F21
r1
r2
(F21 : force on q2 due to q1)


k q1q2 k q1q2
F21 = ˆ
r = r
2
r r3
kq q
F21 = 1 2 3 ( r2 − r1 )
r2 − r1 

Head of r points at that position where force has to be calculated.

r2 & r1 depend on origin but r does not.
q1 and q2 should be put along with sign.
Ex.5 Given a cube with point charges q on each of its vertices. Calculate the force exerted on any of
the charges due to rest of the 7 charges.
Sol. The net force on particle A can be given by vector sum of force experienced by this particle due to all
the other charges on vertices of the cube.
For this we use vector form of coulomb's law
→ Kq1q2 → →
F = 3
( r1 – r2 )
→ →
r1 – r2
From the figure the different forces acting on A are given as

→ ˆ
Kq2 (–ak) Z
F A1 = 3
a
→ ˆ
ˆ – ak)
Kq2 (–aj (a, 0, a) 1
FA 2 = 3
( 2a) 4
(a, a, a) 2 (0, a, a)
→ Kq2 (–aî – aj ˆ
ˆ – ak)
FA 3 = 3 3
( 3a)
→ ˆ
Kq2 (–aî – ak) → ˆ 5 A
FA 4 = Kq2 (–ai) (0,0,0)
, FA 5 =
( 2a)3 a 3
X (a, 0, 0)
→ Kq2 (–aî – aj)

ˆ 6 (0, a, 0)
FA 6 = 7
( 2a) 3 (a, a, 0)
Y
→ ˆ
Kq2 (–aj)
FA 7 = 3
a
The net force experienced by A can be given as

Fnet = FA1 + FA2 + FA3 + FA4 + FA5 + FA6 + FA7
–Kq3  1 1  
 + ˆ
+ 1  (iˆ + ˆj + k)
= a  3 3 2  
Ex.6 Two particles, each having a mass of 5 gm and charge 1.0 × 10–7C, stay in limiting equilirbium
on a horizontal table with a separation of 10 cm between them. The coefficient of friction between
each particle and the table is the same. Find the value of this coefficient.
q = 10–7 c q = 10–7
FC 5 gm 5 gm Fc
f f
A 10cm B


Sol. Consider particle A. Forces acting on A are coulombic force and frictional force under limiting condition
friction will be limiting and will be equal to coulombic force.
Kq2 9 × 109 × (10–7 )2

FC = = –2 2
= 9 × 10–3 N
2 (10 × 10 )
r
f = µ N = µmg = µ(5 × 10–3 × 10) = µ (5 × 10–2 N)
For equilibrium, we have Fc = f
9 × 10–3
9 × 10–3 = µ (5 × 10–2) ⇒ µ= = 0.18
5 × 10–2
Ex.7 Two identical charge, Q each, are kept at a distance r from each other. A third charge q is placed
on the line joining the above two charges such that all the three charges are in equilibrium.
What is the magnitude, sign and position of the charge q ?
Sol. Suppose the three charges be placed in the manner, as shown in fig.
The charge q will be in equilibrium if the forces exerted on it by the r
x
charges at A and C are equal and opposite. A B C
Q q Q
Qq Qq
k. = k. or x = (r – x)
2 2
x2 (r − x)2
r
or x = r – x or x=
2
Since the charge at A is repelled by the similar charge at C, so it will be in equilibrium if it is attracted
by the charge q at B, i.e., the sign of charge q should be opposite to that of charge Q.
∴ Force of repulsion between charges at A and C
= Force of attraction between charges at A and B
Q.q Q.Q Q
k 2
=k or q=
(r / 2) r2 4
Ex.8 Two point charges +4e and +e are fixed a distance ‘a’ apart. Where should a third point charge
q be placed on the line joining the two charges so that it may be in equilibrium ? In which case
the equilibrium will be stable and in which unstable.
Sol. Suppose the three charges are placed as shown in fig. +4e +q +e
Let the charge q be positive. F2

F1
x a–x
For the equilibrium of charge +q, we must have
Force of repulsion F1 between + 4e and +q = Force of repulsion F2 between + e and +q
1 4e × q 1 e×q
or 2
=
4πε0 x 4πε0 (a − x)2
or 4(a – x)2 = x2
or 2(a – x) = ± x
2a
∴ x= or 2a.
3
As the charge q is placed between +4e and +e, so only x = 2a/3 is possible. Hence for equilibrium, the
charge q must be placed at a distance 2a/3 from the charge +4e.
We have considered the charge q to be positive.
If we displace it slightly towards charge e, from the equilibrium position, then F1 will decrease and F2
will increase and a net force (F2 – F1) will act on q towards left i.e., towards the equilibrium position.
Hence the equilibrium of position q is stable.


Now if we take charge q to be negative, the force F1 and F2 will be attractive, as shown in fig.
+4e –q +e
F1 F2
x a–x
The charge –q will still be in equilibrium at x = 2a/3. However, if we displace charge – q slightly towards
right, then F1 will decrease and F2 will increase. A net force (F2 – F1) will act on –q towards right i.e.,
away from the equilibrium position. So the equilibrium of the negative q will be unstable.
Ex.9 Two ‘free’ point charges +4e and +e are placed a distance ‘a’ apart. Where should a third point
charge –q be placed between them such that the entire system may be in equilirbium ? What
should be the magnitude and sign of q ? What type of a equilibrium will it be ?
Sol. Suppose the charges are placed as shown in fig.
As the charge +e exerts repulsive force F on charge +4e, so for the equilibrium of charge + 4e, the
charge –q must exert attraction F′ on +4e. This requires the charge q to be negative.
For equilibrium of charge +4e,
F = F′ +4e –q +e
1 4e × e 1 4e × q F F' F1 F2
= .
4πε0 a2 4πε0 x2 x a–x
a
ex2
or q=
a2
For equilibrium of charge –q,
F1 between +4e and –q
F2 between + e and – q
1 4e × e 1 e×q
2
=
4πε0 x 4πε0 (a − x)2
or x2 = 4(a – x)2 ∴ x = 2a/3
ex2 e 4a2 4e
Hence q = 2
= 2
. =
a a 9 9
Ex.10 A charge Q is to be divided in to two smalll objects. What should be the value of the charge on
the objects so that the force between the objects will be maximum.
Sol. Let one body have charge q and other hence Q – q
Kq(Q – q)
Here force between the charges F =
r2 q Q–q
dF
For F to be maximum =0 r
dq
d  KqQ Kq2 
 – 2  = 0
dq  r2 r 
KQ 2Kq Q
– =0 ⇒ q=
r2 r2 2
Thus we have to divide charges equally on the objects.


Ex.11 Two identical positive point charges Q each are fixed apart at a distance 2a. A point charge q
lies mid way between the fixed charges. Show that
(i) For small displacement (relative to a) along line joining the fixed charges, the charge q
executes SHM if it is +ve and
(ii) For small lateral displacement, it executes SHM if it is –ve. Compare the frequencies of
oscillation in the two cases.
Sol. The two situations are shown in figure
(i) Let x be the displacement of the charge +q from +Q q +q +Q
x
the mean position. Now net force acting on the charge
q toward its equilirbium position is (i)
a
KQq KQq
F= – –q
(a – x)2 (a + x)2
+Q x +Q
4KQqax 4KQqax
= ≈ [As x < < a]
(a2 – x2 )2 a4 a (ii)
4KQqx
≈
a3
F 4KQqx
Restoring acceleration, a = =– [– ve sign shows restoring tendency]
m ma3
a = –ω2x [where m is the mass of the charge]
As acceleration is directly proportional to displacement, hence the motion is SHM. Its time period T1 is
given by
2π
T1 =
ω
 ma3  π ∈0 ma3
T1 = 2π  4QqK  = 2π qQ ...(1)
 
(ii) Restoring force on –q toward Q is given by
2KQq x 2KQq 2KQqx
. ≈
F = (a2 + x2 ) = [As x << a]
(a + x2 )
2 2 2 3/2
(a + x ) a3
F 2KQq
Restoring acceleration a = =– x
m ma3
a = –ω2x
Hence the motion is SHM. Its time period T2 is igven by
2π
T2 =
ω
 ma3  2π ∈0 ma3
T2 = 2π   = 2π ...(2)
 2QqK  qQ
n1 T
Now, = 2 = 2
n2 T1
Ex.12 Two particles A and B having charges q and 2 q respectively are placed on a smooth table with
a separation d. A third particle C is to be clamped on the table in such a way that the particles
A and B remain at rest on the table under electrical forces. What should be the charge on C and
where should it be clamped ?


+q –Q +2q
A C
B
Sol. x
d
For the charges to be in equilibrium forces should be balanced on A as well as on B.
Balancing forces on A
Kq(2q) +q
FAB
FAB = FAC
d2
A
KqQ 2q Q
FAC = 2 or 2
=
x d x2
2qx2
or Q= ...(1)
d2
Balancing force on B
2Kq(Q) +2q
F BC
FBC = 2 F AB
(d – x)
B
2Kq(Q) Kq(2q)
or =
(d – x)2 d2
(Q) q
or =
(d – x)2 d2
Solving equation (1) and (2) we get
2qx2 q
= (d – x)2
d2 d2
or 2x2 = (d – x)2
or 2x2 = d2 + x2 – 2xd
or x2 + 2xd – d2 = 0
or x = ( 2 – 1) d or – d (1 + 2)
The negative value implies that the particle C will lie toward left of A at a distance ( 2 – 1) d from A
(as x was measured from A)
For the position x = x1 = ( 2 – 1) d. Q = Q1 = – q(6 – 2)
and for x = x2 = – d ( 2 + 1) Q = Q2 = – q (6 + 4 2 )
Thus be two possibilities are shown in figure

Q1 Q2
A B
or b
A C B x2
x
d


Ex.13 Two identical pitch balls are charged by rubbing against each other. They are suspended from
a horizontal rod through two strings of length 20 cm each. The separation between the
suspension points being 5 cm. In equilibrium the separation between the balls is 3 cm. Find the
mass of each ball and the tension in the string. The charge on each ball has magnitude 2 × 10–8 C.
Sol. As the balls are rubbed against each other they will acquire equal and opposite charges. The FBD of
left ball is shown in figure which shows all the forces acting on ball in equilibrium position.
5cm
T
θ
θ
kq2
20cm
r2
3cm
mg
q = –2 × 10–8C q = 2 × 10–8C
Here for equilibrium of each bob. we have
kq2
T sin θ = ...(1)
r2
T cos θ = mg ...(2)
kq2 1 K(2 × 10–8 )2

or tan θ = or =
r2 mg (20)2 – 12 (3 × 10–2 )2 m × 10
or m = 7.96 gm
From equation (2)
mg 7.96 × 10–3 × 10 × 20
T= = = 7.72 × 10–2 N
cos θ (20)2 – 1
Ex.14 A particle A having a charge q = 5 × 10–7 C is fixed on a vertical wall. A second particle B of mass
100 g and having equal charge is suspended by a silk thread of length 30 cm from the wall. The
point of suspension is 30 cm above the particle A. Find the angle of thread with vertical when it
stays in equilibrium.
Sol. The situation shown in figure
Here the forces acting on bob B can be shown as 30
FBD of B is θ cm
30cm
Using Lami's theorem, we get

T
π/2− θ/2
mg F Kq 2
F=
= ( AB )2
 π θ  sin(π – θ) B
sin  + 
2 2
r θ
mg Kq2 A
=
or θ θ q = 5 × 10–7C mg
cos 2 × 0.30 × sin × sin θ
2 2
T π θ
mg Kq2 +
= 2 2 F
or θ θ θ θ
cos 0.60 sin × 2 sin cos
2 2 2 2
π−θ B
2
θ Kq
or sin2 =
2 2mg(0.60)
On solving we get θ = 17° mg


2.2 Coloumb's law in a medium :

(i) Relative Permittivity
When two charges are placed in vacuum or when the same set of charges are placed in a medium, the
net force experienced by the charges will be different. The effect of presence of medium is accounted
in the proportionality constant K. This electrostatic constant K is defined as
1
K= where ∈ = ∈0 ∈r
4π ∈
where ∈ = absolute permittivity of medium
∈0 = permittivity of free space. having a constant value = 8.85 × 10–12 coul2/N-m2
∈
∈r =
∈0 = relative permittivity of medium with respect to free space, also termed as dielectric constant.
1 N – m2
For free space ∈r = 1 and K = = 9 × 109
4π ∈0 coul2
(ii) Force dependency on Medium

We can say that when two charges are placed in vacuum (or air) the force experienced by the charges
can be given as
1 q1q2
Fair =
4π ∈0 r 2
When these charges are submerged in a medium, having dielectric constant ∈r, the force becomes
1 q1q2
Fmed = 4π ∈ ∈ 2
0 r r
Fair
or Fmed = ∈ as ∈r > 1 ⇒ Fmed < Fair
r
Ex.15 Two identically charged spheres are suspended by

strings of equal length. The strings make an angle of
30° with each other. When suspended in a liquid of 30°
density 0.8 gm/cc the angle remains same. What is
the dielectric constant of liquid. Density of sphere 15°
= 1.6 gm/cc
Sol. When set up shown in figure is in air, we have
F
tan 15° =
mg
When set up is immersed in the medium as shown in figure, 30°
the electric force experienced by the ball will reduce and
F
will be equal to ∈ and the effective F
r
∈r
 ρ 
gravitational force will become mg 1 – ρ   ρ 
 s  mgeff = mg1– e 
 ρs 
F
Thus we have tan 15° =
 ρ 
mg ∈r 1 – 
 ρ s 
1
∈r = =2
ρ
1–
ρs


Ex.16 Find the total force on charge q due to a charge rod λc / m

having linear charge density λ C/m placed as shown q
in figure. ++++++++
λc / m λdx = dq
q kq.λdx l a
dF =
dx x2
Sol.
l a
x
a+ a+
kq' λ.dx  1 1 1 
force F = ∫ dF = ∫
a
x2
= kqλ – 
 x a
= kq λ  − 
a a + 
3. ELECTRIC FIELD :
The figure shown a charge q is lying in free space.
F F
q q'
Now a charge q′ is brought near it.

By columb's law we know that the charge q experiences a force and it exerts an equal force on q′.
How does q become aware of the presence of q′ ???
(We don't expect q to have sensory organs just as we have)
The answer is electric field !!!
Electric field is the space surrounding an electric charge q in which another charge q′ experiences a
(electrostatic) force of attraction, or repulsion.
q –q
Electric field for a positive charge Electric field for a negative charge
The direction of electric field is radially outwards for a positive charge and is radially inwards for a
negative charge as shown in the figure above. There are some points always to be kept in mind. These
are
(1) Electric field can be defined as a space surrounding a charge in which another static charge experiences
a force on it.
(2) In a region electric field is said to exist if an electric force is exerted on a static charge placed at that
point.
(3) It is important to note that with every charge particle, there is an electric field associated which
extends up to infinity.
(4) No charged particle experiences force due to its own electric field.
F
Ep = N/c
q0
A very small positive charge which does not produce its significant electric field is called a test charge.
Thus electric field strength at point can be defined generally as "Electric field strength at only point in
space to be the electrostatic force per unit charge on a test charge."

If a charge q0 placed at a point in electric field, experiences a net force F on it, then electric field
strength at that point can be

F
or E= ....(1) [q0 → test charge]
q0


(a) Electric Field Strength due to Point Charge :

As discussed earlier, if we find electric field due to a point charge at a distance x from it. Its magnitude
can be given as
Kq
E= ...(2)
x2
(b) Vector Form of Electric field due to a Point Charge : E
As shown in figure, the direction of electric field strength
p
at point P is along the direction of x . Thus the value of E
x
can be written as
Kq
ˆ
E = 2 .x q
x
Kq
or E = 3 .x ...(3)
x
It should be noted that the expression in equation (2) and (3) are only valid for point charges. We can
not find electric field strength due to charged extended bodies by concentrating their whole charge at
geometric centre and using the result of a point charge.
Ex.17 Four particles each having a charge q are placed on the four vertices of a regular pentagon. The
distance of each corner from the centre is 'a'. Find the electric field at the centre of pentagon.
q
Sol. We can calculate the electric field at centre by the
superposition method i.e., by adding vectorially the electric
field due to all the 4 charges at centre which will come out →
to be : → F net
q → F 2
→ → → → → F 1
Kq
F centre = F 1 + F 2 + F 3 + F 4 = 2 →
a F3
In the direction of the vector with no charge as shown in a →
figure shown. F4
Alternate :
q q
Consider pentagon with charges on all vector.
Now, E.F. at centre must be zero due to symmetry
q
→
– F net
q
q q
→
F net
q q
(a) (b)
Thus E.F. due to 4 charge + E. F. due to 1 charge = 0

or E.F. due to 4 charges = – E.F. due to 1 charge
Where – sign denotes that both the forces are in opposite direction.
Kq
Thus E.F. dut to 4 charges = – E.F. due to 1 charge =
a2
[Another good example of superposition theorem]


Ex.18 Four equal positive charges each of value Q are arranged at the four corners of a square of side
a. A unit positive charge mass m is placed at P, at a height h above the centre of the square.
What should be the value of Q in order that this unit charge is in equilibrium.
Sol. The situation is shown in figure (a)
F cos θ
P F
θ
P F sin θ
l
B C θ
+ a2
2
Q Q
h2
h
a
A
D
a A O
Q Q a/ 2
(a)
(b)
Force experienced by unit positive charge placed at P due to a charge Q at A is given by
K(Q × 1)
F=
 2 a2 
 h + 
 2 
Similarly, equal forces act on unit positive charge at P due to charge at B, C and D. When these forces
are resolved in horizontal and vertical directions, the horizontal component (F sin θ) cancel each other
and the net vertical force is 4F cos θ.
4 KQ
Thus net upward force = .cos θ
 2 a2 
 h + 
 2 
For the equilibrium of unit positive charge at P,

Upward force = Weight of unit charge
4 KQ
.cos θ = mg
 2 a2 
 h + 
 2 
From figure (b)
 
 h 
cos θ =  
2 2
 (h + a / 2) 
4K Qh
3 /2
= mg
 2 a2 
or  h + 
 2 
3 /2
mg  2 a2 
or Q= h + 
4kh  2 


Ex.19 A particle of mass 9 × 10–31 kg and a negative charge of 1.6 × 10–19 coulomb projected horizontally
with a veloicty of 105 m/s into a region between two infinite horizontal parallel plates of metal.
The distance between the plates is 0.3 cm and the particle enter 0.1 cm below the top plate.
The top and bottom plates are connected respectively to the positive and negative terminals
of a 30 volt battery. Find the component of the velocity of the particle just before it hits one on
the plates.
Sol. We known that between two parallel plates electric field can be given as
V
E=
d
Here V = 30 volt and d = 0.3 cm = 3 × 10–3 m
30
Thus we have E= = 104 N/C
3 × 10–3
Force on the particle of negative charge moving between the plates
F = e × E = 1.6 × 10– 19 × 104 = 1.6 × 10–15 newton
The direction of force will be towards the positive plate i.e., upward.
Now acceleration of the particle is
eE
a=
m
or a = (1.6 × 10–15 ) / (9 × 10–31)
or a = 1.77 × 1015 m/sec2
As the electric intensity E is acting in the vertical direction the horizontal velocity v of the particle
remains same. if y is the displacement of the particle, in upward direction, we have
1 2
y= at
2
Here, y = 0.1 cm = 10–3 m, a = 1.77 × 1015 m/sec2
1
Thus 10–3 = × (1.77 × 10–15) (t2)
2
Solving we get t = 1.063 × 10–10 second
component of velocity in the direction of field is given by
vy = at
= (1.77 × 1015) (1.063 × 10–10)
= 1.881 × 104 m/s.
Ex.20 A particle having a charge of 1.6 × 10–19 C enters midway between the plates of a parallel plate
condenser. The initial velocity of particle is parallel to the plates. A potential difference of 300
volts is applied to the capacitor plates. If the length of the capacitor plates is 10 cm and they
are separated by 2cm. Calculate the greatest intial velocity for which the particle will not be
able to come out of the plates. The mass of the particle is 12 × 10–24 kg.
Sol. The situation is shown in figure.
10cm
Here we know the electric field can be given as
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
V 300
E= = = 15000 v / m
d 2 / 100 m u
q E
As the particle does not come out, its maximum y=1cm
deflection in vertical direction can be
y = 1 cm = 10–2 m


2
1 1 qE  l  qE
we known that y = at2 = . [As a = and t = ]
2 2 m  u  m u
1 qE 2
or u2 = . .x
2 my
2
1 (1.6 × 10–19 )(15000)  1  8
=   = 10
2 (12 × 10–24 )(10–2 )  10 
u = 104 m/s
Ex.21 A uniform electric field E is created between two parallel charged plates as shown in figure
shown. An electron enter the field symmetrically between the plates with a speed u. The length
of each plate is , find the angle of deviation of the path of the electron as it comes out of the
field.
Sol. The situation is shown in figure.
Here we know in X-direction speed of electron remains uniform
In X direction
uX = u
+ + + + + + + + +
In Y direction vy initial = 0 θ
Acceleration in y-direction of electron is E
eE
a=
m
u
vyfifnal = uyintial + at
– – – – – – – – –
 eE   
vy =    y
 m u
vy eE
tan θ = = u
vx mu
x
 eE 
θ = tan–1  2 
 mu 
Ex.22 A block of mass m containing a net positive charge q is placed on a smooth horizontal table
which terminates in a vertical wall as shown in figure. The distance of the block from the wall is
d. A horizontal electric field 'E' towards right is switched on. Assuming elastic collision (if any)
find the time period of resulting oscillatory motion. Is it a simple harmonic motion.
qE
Sol. Here acceleration of block is a =
m
Time taken by block to reach wall d
1  qE  2
t
2  m 
d= E
2dm m
t=
qE


Velocity at the time of impact is
2qEd
v= 2ad or v =
m
When the block will rebound time taken by block in coming to rest.
2qEd  qE 
0= – t
m m
2qEd
m = 2md
t= qE qE
m
Thus time period of oscillation of block is
2md
T = 2t = 2
qE
Since the restoring force is independent of x, the displacement from mean position, this is not a simple
harmonic motion
Ex.23 Find out the time period of oscillation when the bob is
slightly shift through an angle θ from it mean
position.
E
m,q
θ
T
Sol. qE
θ
mg
2
T  qE  l
geff = M.D. = (mg)2 + (qE)2 = g2 +   ⇒ T = 2π
m m geff
E
Ex.24
u
m,q
Find umin so that particle will complete vertical circle


Sol. Applying force balance

v mv2/R
mv2
T + mg + qE =
R
but for umin T = 0 mg+qE
E
mv2
∴ mg + qE = m,q
R
u
using energy conservation
wmg + wT + wE.f = ∆k
1 1
– mg.2R + 0 – qE. 2R = mv2 – mu2
2 2
– 4 R (mg + qE) = R (mg + qE) – mu2
 qE 
u = 5g + R
 m 
3.1 Graph of electric field due to binary charge configuration
E E
1. q 2. –q
q 4q
3. –q –q 4. –4q
q
3.2 Electric field Strength at a General Point due to a Uniformly Charged Rod :
As shown in figure, if P is any general point in the surrounding of rod, to find electric field strength at
P, again we consider an element on rod of length dx at a distance x from point O as shown in figure.
θ1 θ 2
O
L


Now if dE be the electric field at P due to the element, then it can be given as
Kdq dEcos θ
dE = 2 2
(x + r ) dE
θ
Q
Here dq = dx
L
dEsinθ
Now we resolve electric field in components.
Electric field strength in x-direction due to dq at P is θ
dEx = dE sin θ
Kdq r
or dEx = 2 2
sin θ
(x + r )
KQ sin θ
= dx dx
L(x2 + r2 ) x
Here we have x = r tan θ
and dx = r sec2 θdθ
KQ r sec2 θdθ
Thus we have dEx = sin θ
L r2 sec2 θ
KQ
Strength = sin θdθ
Lr
Net electric field strength due to dq at point P in x-direction is
+θ1
KQ
Ex = ∫ dEx =
Lr ∫ sin θdθ
–θ2
KQ +θ
or Ex = – cos θ –θ1
Lr  2
KQ
or Ex = cos θ2 – cos θ1 
Lr 
Similarly, electric field strength at point P due to dq in y-direction is
dEy = dE cos θ
KQdx
or dEy = × cos θ
L(r 2 + x2 )
Again we have x = r tan θ
and dx = r sec2 θ dθ
KQ r sec2 θ
Thus we have dEy = L cos θ × dθ = KQ cos θdθ
r2 sec2 θ Lr
Net electric field strength at P due to dq in y-direction is
+θ1
KQ
Ey = ∫ dEy =
Lr ∫ cos θdθ
–θ2
KQ +θ
or Ey =  + sin θ –θ1

Lr 2
KQ
or Ey = sin θ1 + sin θ2 
Lr 


Thus electric field at a general point in the surrounding of a uniformly charged rod which subtend
angles θ1 and θ2 at the two corners of rod can be given as
KQ kλ
in ||-direction Ex = (cos θ2 – cos θ1 ) = (cos θ2 – cos θ1 )
Lr r
KQ kλ
in ⊥ -direction Ey = (sin θ1 + sin θ2 ) = (sin θ1 + sin θ2 )
Lr r
r is the perpendicular distance of the point from the wire
θ1 and θ2 should be taken in opposite sense
Ex.25 In the given arrangement of a charged square frame find field at centre. The linear charged
density is as shown in figure
2Kλ 2 2Kλ
Sol. E.F. due to 1 = (sin 45° + sin 45°)iˆ = î

–3λ
4 2Kλ 3
E.F. due to 2 = – î

λ 1 2 2λ
6 2Kλ
E.F. due to 3 = ĵ

4
8 2Kλ 4λ
E.F. due to 4 = ĵ

Enet = Edue to 1 + Edue to 2 + Edue to 3 + Edue to 4
 2 2Kλ 4 2Kλ   6 2Kλ 8 2Kλ 

=  –  î +  +  ˆj
   
–2 2Kλ ˆ 14 2Kλ ˆ A
= i+ j

l l
Ex.26 Given an equilateral triangle with side . Find E at the λ λ*
centroid. The linear charge density is as shown in figure. C
–λ
B l C
Sol. The electric field strength due to the three rods AB, BC and CA are as shown in figure
y
–2Kλ
EAC = (2 sin30°)(cos θî + sin θˆj)
/ 3 A
2Kλ
EAB = (2 sin30°)(cos θî – sin θˆj)
/ 3
2Kλ λ λ
EBC = ˆ
(2 sin30°)j
/ 3 x
C 30°
Enet = EAC + EAB + EBC
–λ ˆ
Enet = j B C
2π ∈0 –λ


3.3 E l e c t r i c f i e l d (l >> r)
d u e t o i n f i n i t e w i r e
Here we have to find the electric field at point p due to the given
infinite wire. Using the formula learnt in above section which
kλ
E|| =
r
( cos θ2 − cos θ1 )
kλ P
E⊥ =
r
( sin θ2 + sin θ1 ) r
π
For above case, θ1 = θ2 =
2 Wire
kλ 2kλ
∴ Enet at P = (1 + 1) =
r r
3.4 Electric field due to semi infinite wire
For this case

π
θ1 = , θ2 = 0º
2
kλ kλ
∴ Er = ; E| | = r P
r r E1
Wire
2 kλ
Enet at P = s Enet
r E11
Ex.27 Consider the system shown below

If the charge is slightly displaced perpendicular to the wire from its equilibrium position then
find out the time period of SHM.
P
q,m
d
λ
Sol : At equilbrium position weight of the particle is balanced by the electric force
⇒ mg = qE
2 kλ
mg = q ....(1)
d
Now if the particle is slightly displaced by a distance xλ (where x << d) net force on the body,
2 kλ q
Fnet = − mg
d+ x
from (1)
2 kλ q 2 kλ q − 2 kλ q x
Fnet = − =
d+ x d d(d + x)
− 2 kλqx − 2 kλqx
As x << d Fnet ≈ ⇒ a=−
d2 md2
for SHM
a = – ω2x
2 kλ q 2 kλ q
∴ ω2 = 2 ⇒ ω=
md md2
2π md2
T = = 2π
ω 2kλq


3.5 Electric field due to Uniformly Charged Ring :

Case - I : At its Centre
Here by symmetry we can say that electric field strength at centre due to every small segment on ring
is cancelled by the electric field at centre due to the segment exactly opposite to it. As shown in
figure. The electric field strength at centre due to segment AB is cancelled by that due to segment CD.
This net electric field strength at the centre of a uniformly charged ring is zero
B
A + + + + + +
+ +
+
+
+
+ +
+ + + +
+ + + +
C
+ + R
+
+
+
+ +
+
+ + + + + +
D
C
Case II : At a Point on the Axis of Ring

For this look at the figure. There we'll find the electric field strength at point P due to the ring which is
situated at a distance x from the ring centre. For this we consider a small section of length dl on ring
as shown. The charge on this elemental section is
Q
dq = d [Q = total charge of ring]
2πR
dl
+ + +
+
+
+
+
+ +
+ + + + +
+ + + + +
α P
dEcosα
α
+ +
dE
dEsinα
+
+
+
+
+
+ +
Q
Due to the element dq, electric field strength dE at point P can be given as
Kdq
dE =
(R 2 + x2 )
The component of this field strength dE sin α which is normal to the axis of ring will be cancelled out
due to the ring section opposite to dl. The component of electric field strength along the the axis of
ring dE cosα due to all the sections will be added up. Hence total electric field strength at point P due
to the ring is
Ep = ∫ dE cos α

2 πR
Kdq x
= ∫
0
(R + x )2 2
×
R + x2
2
2kq
3 3R2
2 πR
KQx
or Ep = ∫
0
2πR(R 2 + x2 )3 / 2
dl
–
R
2
2 πR R
KQx
=
2πR(R 2 + x2 )3 / 2 ∫
0
d 2
KQx 2KQ
[2πR] –
= 2 2 3 /2 3 3R2
2πR(R + x )
KQx
EP =
(R + x2 )3 / 2
2
Ex.28 A thin wire ring of radius r carries a charge q. Find the magnitude of the electric field strength on
the axis of the ring as function of distance l from centre. Investigate the obtained function at l
>> r. Find the maximum strength magnitude and the corresponding distance .
Sol. See figure (Modify for maximum E)
(r 2 +
We know due to ring electric field strength at a 2)
distance from its centre on its axis can be given as r
P E
Kq
E= ....(1) O
(2 + r2 )3 / 2
1 q
For > > r, we have E = 4π ∈ × 2
0
Thus the ring behaves like a point charge.
dE
For Emax = O . From equation we get
d
 2 3 2 
(r + 2 )3 / 2.1 – (r + 2 )1 / 2 × 2 
dE q  2
=  =0
d 4π ∈0  (r2 + 2 )3 
 
3 2
or (r2 + 2)3/2 = (r + 2 )1 / 2 × 22
2
r
Solving we get, = ....(2)
2
Substituting the value of in equation (1) we get
kq(r / 2) 2kq
E= =
2 2
(r + r / 2) 3 /2
3 3 r2


Ex.29 A thin fixed ring of radius 1 meter has a positive charge 1 × 10–5 coulomb uniformly distributed
over it. a particle of mass 0.9 gm and having a negative charge of 1 × 10–6 coulomb is placed on
the axis at distance of 1 cm from the centre of the ring. Shown that the motion of the negatively
charged particle as approximately simple harmonic. Calculate the time period of oscillations.
Sol. Let us first find the force on a – q charge placed at +Q+
+
a distance x from centre of ring along its axis.
+ +
+ + + + +
Figure shows the respective situation. R
+ + + + + +
In this case force on particle P is F P
KQx x –q
FP = – qE = – q. 2 2 3 /2
(x + R )
+ +
For small x, x << R, we can neglect x, compared to R, we have
+
+
+ +
KqQx
F=–
R3
KqQ
Acceleration of particle is x a=–
mR 3
[Here we have x = 1 cm and R = 1 m hence x << R can be used]
This shows that particle P excutes SHM, now comparing this acceleration with a = –ω2x
KqQ
We get ω=
mR 3
2π mR 3 0.9 × 10–3 × (1)3 π

Thus time period of SHM is T = = 2π = 2π = sec onds
ω KqQ 9 × 109 × 10–5 × 10–6 5
Ex.30 A system consists of a thin charged wire ring of radius R and a very long uniformly charged
thread oriented along the axis of the ring with one of its ends coinciding with the centre of the
ring. The total charge of the ring is equal to q. The charge of the thread (per unit length) is
e q uλ. Find the interaction force between the ring and the thread.
a l t o

Sol. Force df on the wire = dq E
+
Kqx +
= .λdx
(x2 + R 2 )3 / 2 + λ coul / m
+
∞ + dx
xdx
F = Kqλ ∫ (R
0
2
+ x2 )3 / 2
+
+ dq = λdx
x +
λq +
F = 4π ∈ R +
0
q + R
Alternate :
Due to wire electric field on the points of ring in y-direction is
Kλ
Ey =
R
Thus force on ring due to wire is
Kλ Kqλ λq
q = =
R R 4π ∈0 R
and Ex = 0 [As cancelled out]
(Here x components of forces on small elements of rings are cancelled by the x component of diametrically
opposite elements.)


Ex.31 A thin half-ring of radius R = 20 cm is uniformly charged with a total charge q = 0.70 nC. Find the
magnitude of the electric field strength at the curvature centre of this half-ring.
Sol. The situation is shown in figure ++
+ +
Here the semicircular wire subtend an angle π at the centre, +
+
we known that the electric field strength due to a circular
+
arc subtending an angle φ at at it centre can be given as dθ
+ + +

θ E
2Kq sin φ / 2 2Kq O
E= 2 = [Here φ = π] X
φR πR 2
+ +

dE
q
+
+
=
2π2 ∈0 R 2 +
+ + +
Substituting the value, we get
7 × 10–10
= = 100 V/m
2 × (3.14) × (8.85 × 10–12 ) × (0.2)2
2
3.6 Electric field Strength due to a Uniformly Surface Charged Disc :

If there is a disc of radius R, charged on its surface with surface charge density σ coul/m2, we wish to
find electric field strength due to this disc at a distance x from the centre of disc on its axis at point P
shown in figure.
σ coul / m2
dy
x
P dE
To find electric field at point P due to this disc, we consider an elemental ring of radius y and width dy
in the disc as shown in figure. Now the charge on this elemental ring dq can be given as
dq = σ 2π y dy [Area of elemental ring ds = 2πy dy]
Now we know that electric field strength due to a ring of radius R. Charge Q at a distance x from its
centre on its axis can be given as
KQx
E= 2 [As done earlier]
(x + R 2 )3 / 2
Here due to the elemental ring electric field strength dE at point P can be given as
Kdqx Kσ2πydyx
dE = 2 2 3 /2 =
(x + y ) (x2 + y2 )3 / 2
Net electric field at point P due to this disc is given by integrating above expression from O to R as
R
Kσ2πxydy
E= ∫ dE = ∫ (x
0
2
+ y2 )3 / 2
R
R  1 
2y dy
= Kσπx ∫ (x 2
+ y2 )3 / 2

= 2Kσπx –
x + y2
2


0  0
σ  x 
E = 2 ∈ 1 – 

0  x2 + R 2 


Case : (i) If x >> R
–1 / 2
σ x σ  R2 
E= [1 – ]= [1 –  1 + 2  ]
2ε0 2ε0  x 
R2 
x +1
x2
σ 1 R2
= [1 – 1 + + higher order terms]
2ε0 2 x2
σ R2 σπR 2 Q
= = =
4ε0 x2
4πε0 x2 4πε0 x2
i.e. behaviour of the disc is like a point charge.

Case (ii) : If x << R
σ σ
E= [1 – 0] =
2ε0 2ε0
i.e. behaviour of the disc is like infinite sheet.
3.7 Electric Field Strength due to a Uniformly charged Hollow Hemispherical Cup :
Figure shows a hollow hemisphere, uniformly charged with surface charge density σ coul/m2. To find
electric field strength at its centre C, we consider an elemental ring on its surface of angular width dθ
at an angle θ from its axis as shown. The surface area of this ring will be
ds = 2πR sin θ × Rdθ
Charge on this elemental ring is
y
dq = σds = σ. 2πR2 sin θ dθ R sin θ
2
Now due to this ring electric field strength l/m Rdθ

ou
σc
at centre C can be given as
Kdq(R cos θ)
dE = θ dθ
(R sin2 θ + R 2 cos2 θ)3 / 2
2
c x
Kσ.2πR 2 sin θdθ.R cos θ

= dε
R3
= πKσ sin 2θ dθ
π
Net electric field at centre can be obtained by integrating this expression between limits 0 to as
2
π /2 π /2
σ  cos 2θ  σ 1 1  σ
E0 = ∫ dE = πKσ ∫
0
sin 2θdθ =
4 ∈0 – 2 
 0
=
4 ∈0 2 + 2  = 4 ∈
  0


Ex.32 In the given arrangement find the electric field at C in the figure (a). Here the U-shaped wire is
uniformly charged with linear charge density λ.
1 2
Kλ Kλ
C C = Ex1 E x2 =
a a a
Kλ Kλ
= E y1 = Ey2
a a
(a) 2Kλ
Ey 3 =
a
3
(b)
Sol. The electric field due to the three parts of U-shaped wire are shown in figure (b). Thus we have
→
E net = (Ex1 + Ex2 )iˆ + (Ey1 + E y2 + Ey3 )iˆ
→  Kλ Kλ  ˆ  2Kλ Kλ Kλ  ˆ
E net =  – i + – – j=0
 a a   a a a 
Thus E.F. due to given arrangement at C = 0
4. CONSERVATIVE FORCE
A force is said to be conservative if work done by or against the force in moving a body depends only
on the initial and final positions of the body and not on the nature of path followed between the initial
and final positions.
m m m
(f) (f) (f)
(i) m (i) m (i) m
(a) (b) (c)
Consider a body of mass m being raised to a height h vertically upwards as shown in above figure. The
work done is mgh. Suppose we take the body along the path as in (b). The work done during horizontal
motion is zero. Adding up the works done in the two vertical path of the paths, we get the result mgh
once again. Any arbitrary path like the one shown in (c) can be broken into elementary horizontal and
vertical portions. Work done along the horizontal path is zero. The work done along the vertical parts
add up to mgh. Thus we conclude that the work done in raising a body against gravity is independent
of the path taken. It only depends upon the intial and final positions of the body. We conclude from this
discussion that the force of gravity is a conservative force.


Examples of Conservative forces.

(i) Gravitational force, not only due to Earth due in its general form as given by the universal law of
gravitation, is a conservative force.
(ii) Elastic force in a stretched or compressed spring is a conservative force.
(iii) Electrostatic force between two electric charges is a conservative force.
(iv) Magnetic force between two magnetic poles is a conservative forces.
Forces acting along the line joining the centres of two bodies are called central forces. Gravitational
force and Electrosatic forces are two important examples of central forces. Central forces are
conservative forces.
Properties of Conservative forces
• Work done by or against a conservative force depends only on the initial and final positions of
the body.
• Work done by or against a conservative force does not depend upon the nature of the path between
initial and final positions of the body.
If the work done by a force in moving a body from an initial location to a final location is independent of
the path taken between the two points, then the force is conservative.
• Work done by or against a conservative force in a round trip is zero.
If a body moves under the action of a force that does no total work during any round trip, then the
force is conservative; otherwise it is non-conservative.
The concept of potential energy exists only in the case of conservative forces.
• The work done by a conservative force is completely recoverable.
Complete recoverability is an important aspect of the work of a conservative force.
• Work done by conservative forces
Ist format : (When constant force is given)

Ex.33 Calculate the work done to displace the particle from (1, 2) to (4, 5). if F = 4 î + 3ˆj

Sol. dw = F.d r ( dr = dx i + dyj + dzk )
dw = ( 4 î + 3 ĵ ).(dx î + dy ĵ + dzk̂ ) ⇒ dw = 4dx + 3dy
w 4 5
∫
0
dw = ∫
1
4dx + ∫ 3dy
2
4
⇒ w = [4 x]1 + [3 y]2
5
w = (16 – 4) + (15 – 6) ⇒ w = 12 + 9 = 21 Joule
II format : (When F is given as a function of x, y, z)

If F = Fx i + Fy j + Fzk
then
dw = (Fx i + Fy j + Fzk ).( dx i + dyj + dzk ) ⇒ dw = Fxdx + Fydy + FZdz

Ex.34 An object is displaced from position vector r1 = (2 î + 3ˆj)m to r2 = (4 î + 6ˆj)m under a force

F = (3x 2 î + 2yˆj)N . Find the work done by this force.

r2
rf r2
∫ (3x dx + 2ydy) = [x
2 3
+ y 2 ](( 42,,36)) = 83 J Ans.
Sol.
∫
ri
∫
W = F.dr = (3 x 2 î + 2yĵ ) • (dx î + dy ĵ + dzk̂ ) =

r1

r1


IIIrd format
(perfect differential format)
Ex.35 If F = y i + xj then find out the work done in moving the particle from position (2, 3) to (5, 6)

Sol. dw = F. ds
dw = ( y i + xj ).( dxi + dyj )

dw = ydx + xdy
Now ydx + xdy = d(xy) (perfect differential equation)
⇒ dw = d(xy)
for total work done we integrate both side
∫ dw = ∫ d( xy)
Put xy = k
then at (2, 3) ki = 2 × 3 = 6
at (5, 6) kf = 5 × 6 = 30
30
∫ dk = [k]
30
then w= 6 ⇒ w = (30 – 6) = 24 Joule
6
4.1 NON-CONSERVATIVE FORCES :
A force is said to be non-conservative if work done by or against the force in moving a body depends
upon the path between the initial and final positions.
The frictional forces are non-conservative forces. This is because the work done against friction
depends on the length of the path along which a body is moved. It does not depend only on the initial
and final positions. Note that the work done by fricitional force in a round trip is not zero.
The velocity-dependent forces such as air resistance, viscous force, magnetic force etc., are non
conservative forces.

Ex.36 Calculate the work done by the force F = y i to move the particle from (0, 0) to (1, 1) in the
following condition
(a) y = x (b) y = x2
Sol. We know that

dw = F.ds ⇒ dw = ( y i ) .(dx i )
dw = ydx ...(1)
In equation (1) we can calculate work done only when we know the path taken by the particle.
either
y = x or y = x2 so now
(a) when y = x
1 1
∫ dw = ∫ xdx 0
⇒ w=
2
Joule
(b) when y = x2
1
∫ dw = ∫ x dx 1
2
⇒ w= Joule
0 3


Difference between conservative and Non-conservative forces

S.
Conservative forces Non-Conservative forces
No.
Work done does not depend
1 Work done depends on path.
upon path
Work done in round trip is Work done in a rou nd trip is
2
zero. not zero.
Forces are velocity-
3 Central in nature. depen dent and retarding in
nature.
When only a conservati ve

force acts within a system,
the kinetic energy and Work done against a non-
4 potential energy can change. conservative force may be
However th eir sum, the dissipated as heat energy.
mech anical energy of the
system, does not change.
Work done is completel y Work done is not completely

5
recoverable. recoverable.
5. ELECTROSTATIC POTENTIAL ENERGY :

(a) Electrostatic Potential Energy :
Potential energy of a system of particles is defined only in conservative fields. As electric field is also
conservative, we define potential energy in it. Before proceeding further, we should keep in mind the
following points, which are useful in understanding potential energy in electric fields.
(i) Doing work implies supply of energy
(ii) Energy can neither be transferred nor be transformed into any other form without doing work
(iii) Kinetic energy implies utilization of energy where as potential energy implies storage of energy
(iv) Whenever work is done on a system of bodies, the supplied energy to the system is either used in
form of KE of its particles or it will be stored in the system in some form, increases the potential energy
of system.
(v) When all particles of a system are separated far apart by infinite distance there will be no
interaction between them. This state we take as reference of zero potential energy.
Now potential energy of a system of particles we define as the work done in assembling the system in
a given configuration against the interaction forces of particles.
• Electrostatic potential energy is defined in two ways.

(i) Interaction energy of charged particles of a system.
(ii) Self energy of a charged object (will be discussed later)
(b) Electrostatic Interaction Energy :

Electrostatic interaction energy of a system of charged particles is defined as the external work
required to assemble the particles from infinity to a given configuration.
When some charged particles are at infinite separation, their potential energy is taken zero as no
interaction is there between them. When these charges are brought close to a given configuration,
external work is required if the force between these particles is repulsive and energy is supplied to the
system hence final potential energy of system will be positive. If the force between the particles is
attractive work will be done by the system and final potential energy of system will be negative.
Let us take some illustrations to understand this concept in detail.


(c) Interaction Energy of a System of Two Charged Particles :

x
q1 r q2 dx F
Figure shows two +ve charges q1 and q2 separated by a distance r. The electrostatic interaction
energy of this system can be given as work done in bringing q2 from infinity to the given separation
from q1. If can be calculated as
r r
→ → Kq1q2
W= ∫
∞
F .dx = –
∞
∫
x2
dx [–ve sign shows that x is decreasing]
Kq1q2
W= =U [Interaction energy]
r
If the two charges here are of opposite sign, the potential energy will be negative as
Kq1q2
U=–
r
Ex.37 Find out speed of particles when separation between them is r.
Released
+q –q
m 2m
2r
Sol. Energy conservation :
kq1q2 1 1 kq q
0− = mv12 + 2mv22 − 1 2
2r 2 2 r
Momentum conservation (as E.F is action-reaction pair)
v1
mv1 = 2mv2 ⇒ v2 =
2
Ex.38 A proton moves from a large distance with a speed u m/s directly towards a free proton originally
at rest. Find the distance of closest approach for the two protons in terms of mass of proton m
and its charge e.
Sol. As here the particle at rest is free to move, when one particle approaches the other, due to electrostatic
repulsion other will also start moving and so the velocity of first particle will decrease while of other will
increase and at closest approach both will move with same velocity. So if v is the common velocity of
each particle at closest approach, then by 'conservation of momentum' of the two protons system.
1
mu = mv + mvi.e., v= u
2
And by conservation of energy
1 1 1 1 e2
mu2 = mv2 + mv2 +
2 2 2 4πε0 r
2
1 u 1 e2 u
⇒ mu2 – m   = [as v = ]
2 2 4πε0 r 2
1 e2 e2
⇒ mu2 = ⇒ r=
4 4πε0r πmε0u2


Ex.39 Two fixed equal positive charges, each of magnitude 5 × 10–5 C are located at points A and B,
separated by a distance of 6 m. An equal and opposite charge moves towards them along the
line COD, the perpendicular bisector of the line AB. The moving charge, when it reaches the
point C at a distance of 4 m from O, has a kinetic energy of 4 joules. Calculate the distance of
the farthest point D which the negative charge will reach before returning towards C.
+q A
3m
–q
D x O 4m C
3m
+q B
Sol. The kinetic energy is lost and converted to electrostatic potential energy of the system as the
negative charge goes from C to D and comes to rest at D instantaneously.
Loss of K.E. = Gain in potential energy
4 = Uf – Ui
 q.q 2q(–q)   q.q 2q(–q) 

or, 4= + – + 
 4πε0 (6)2
4πε0 9 + x2   4πε0 (6)2
4πε0 9 + 16 
 
2q2 1 1 
or, 4=  – 
4πε0  5 9 + x2 
1 1 
or, 4 = 2 × (5 × 10–5)2 × (9 × 109)  5 – 
 9 + x2 
45
or, 4 = 9–
9 + x2
⇒ x = 72 = 8.48 m
5.1 Motion of a Charge Particle and Angular Momentum Conservation :

We know that a system of particles when no external torque acts, the total angular momentum of
system remains conserved. Consider following examples which explains the concept for moving charged
particles.
Ex.40 Figure shows a charge +Q fixed at a position in space. V

From a large distance another charge particle of charge +
+q and mass m is thrown toward +Q with an impact q,m
parameter d as shown with speed v. find d
the distance of closest approach of the two particles.
+
F Q
fixed
+
F v
+ rmin
Sol. q,m
d
+


Here we can see that as +q moves toward +Q, a repulsive force acts on –q radially outward +Q. Here
as the line of action of force passes through the fix charge, no torque act on +q relative to the fix
point charge +Q, thus here we can say that with respect to +Q, the angular momentum of +q must
remain constant. Here we can say that +q will be closest to +Q when it is moving perpendicularly to
the line joining the two charges as shown.
If the closest separation in the two charges is rmin, from conservation of angular momentum we can
write
mvd = mv0 rmin ...(1)
Now from energy conservation, we have
1 1 KqQ
mv2 = mv02 +
2 2 rmin
vd
Here we use from equation (1) v0 =
rmin
1 1 d2 KqQ
or mv2 = mv2 2 + ...(2)
2 2 rmin rmin
Solving equation (2) we'll get the value of rmin.
5.2 Potential Energy for a System of charged Particles :

q1
r3 r2
q2 r1 q3
When more than two charged particles are there in a system, the interaction energy can be given by
sum of interaction energy of all the pairs of particles. For example if a system of three particles having
charges q1, q2 and q3 is given as shown in figure. The total interaction energy of this system can be
given as
Kq1q2 Kq1q3 Kq2q3

U= + +
r3 r2 r1
• Derivation for a system of point charges :

(i) Keep all the charges at infinity. Now bring the charges one by one to its corresponding position
and find work required. PE of the system is algebric sum of all the works.
Let W1 = work done in bringing first charge
W2 = work done in bringing second charge against force due to 1st charge
W3 = work done in bringing third charge against force due to 1st and 2nd charge.
n(n – 1)
PE = W1 + W2 + W3 + .................. (This will contain = nC2 terms)
2
(ii) Method of calculation (to be used in problems)
U = sum of the interaction energies of the charges.
= (U12 + U13 + ........+ U1n) + (U23 + U24 + ..............+U2n) + (U34 + U35 + .........U3n) ........
(iii) Method of calculation useful for symmetrical point charge systems.
Find PE of each charge due to rest of the charges.


If U1 = PE of first charge due to all other charges.

= (U12 + U13 + .........+ U1n)
U2 = PE of second charges due to all other charges.
= (U21 + U23 + ..........+U2n)
U1 + U2 + .....
U = PE of the system =
2
6. ELECTRIC POTENTIAL :
Electric potential is a scalar property of every point in the region of electric field. At a point in electric
field, electric potential is defined as the interaction energy of a unit positive charge.
If at a point in electric field a charge q0 has potential energy U, then electric potential at that point
can be given as
U
V= joule/coulomb
q0
As potential energy of a charge in electric field is defined as work done in bringing the charge from
infinity to the given point in electric field. Similarly we can define electric potential as "work done in
bringing a unit positive charge from infinity to the given point against the electric forces."
• Properties :
(i) Potential is a scalar quantity, its value may be positive, negative or zero.
joule
(ii) S.I. Unit of potential is volt = and its dimensional formula is [M1L2T–3I–1].
coulomb
(iii) Electric potential at a point is also equal to the negative of the work done by the electric field
in taking the point charge from reference point (i.e. infinity) to that point.
(iv) Electric potential due to a positive charge is always positive and due to negative charge it is
always negative except at infinity. (taking V∞ =0)
(v) Potential decreases in the direction of electric field.
(a) Electric Potential due to a Point Charge in its Surrounding :

We know the region surrounding a charge is electric field.
Thus we can also define electric potential in the surrounding P
of a point charge.
The potential at a point P at a distance x x
from the charge q can be given as
U
Vp = q q
0
Where U is the potential energy of charge q0, if placed at point P, which can be given as
Kqq0
U=
x
Thus potential at point P is
Kq
VP =
x
The above result is valid only for electric potential in the surrounding of a point charge. If we wish to
find electric potential in the surrounding of a charged extended body, we first find the potential due to
an elemental charge dq on body by using the above result and then integrate the expression for the
whole body.
(b) Electric Potential due to a Charge Rod :

Figure shows a charged rod of length L, uniformly charged with a charge Q. Due to this we will find
electric potential at a point P at a distance r from one end of the rod shown in figure shown.


x
dx
Q + + + + + + + + ++ ++
r P
L
For this we consider an element of width dx at a distance x from the point P. Charge on this element is
Q
dq =dx
L
The potential dV due to this element at point P can be given by using the result of a point charge as
Kdq KQ
dV = = dx
x Lx
Net electric potential at point P can be given as
r +L
KQ KQ r + L 
V= ∫ dV = ∫
r
Lx
dx = KQ [n x]r +L =
L
r L
n 
 r 

(c) Electric Potential due to a Charged Ring : Q

Case I : At its centre + + + +
+ +
To find potential at the centre C of the ring, we first find + +
+
potential dV at centre due to an elemental charge dq on
+
+
ring which is given as
+ +
Kdq + + + R
+ + +
dV = dq
R C
+ +
Total potential at C is V= ∫ dV
+
+
+
+ +
+ + +
Kdq KQ + +
= ∫
R
=
R
As all dq's of the ring are situated at same distance R from the ring centre C, simply the potential due
to all is added as being a scalar quantity, we can directly say that the electric potential at ring centre
KQ
is . Here we can also state that even if charge Q is non-uniformly distributed on ring, the electric
R
potential at C will remain same.
+ +
Case II : At a Point on Axis of Ring +
+
If we wish to find the electric potential at a point P on the

+ +
+ + + + +
axis of ring as shown, we can directly state the result as

+ + + + +
here also all points of ring are at same distance R

x 2 + R2
x P
from the point P, thus the potential at P can be given as
+ +
KQ
VP =
+
+
R + x2
2 + +
GRAPH
v


(d) Electric Potential due to a Uniformly Charged Disc :

Figure shows a uniformly charged disc of radius R with surface charge density σ coul/m2. To find
electric potential at point P we consider an elemental ring of radius y and width dy, charge on this
elemental ring is
dq = σ. 2πy dy
σ coul / m2
Due to this ring, the electric potential at point P can be given as
Kdq K.σ.2πy dy
dV =
2 2 =
x +y x2 + y2 R
y x P
Net electric potential at point P due to whole disc can be given as
dy
R
σ ydy σ  2 R
V= ∫ dV = ∫ 2 ∈ 0 0
.
2
x +y 2 =
2 ∈0 
x + y2 
 0
σ
VP = [ x2 + R 2 – x]
2 ∈0
Ex.41 Consider the following rod & find the potential due to it at P
OP = d, x = d tan θ, dx = d sec2θ dθ
+π / 4 dx
kd sec2 dθλ x θ 45°
dV =
kλdx
d sec θ
⇒ ∫ dV = ∫ –π / 4
d sec θ O d 45°
P
λc / m
π/4
V = kλ ∫
–π / 4
sec θ dθ
V = kλ [l n(sec θ + tan θ)]–ππ/ /44
V = kλ [ln ( 2 + 1)] – kλ [ln ( 2 – 1)]
 2 + 1
V = kλ l n   = kλ ln( 2 + 1) 2
 2 –1
R
v0 P
Ex.42 qin
R
Find min velocity v0 such that particle cross the ring.

kQ
Sol. Potential at P =
2R
1 2 kQq kqQ
Applying energy conservation 2 mv 0 + =0+
R
2R
2kQq  1 
⇒ v0 = 1 − 
mR  2


Ex.43 A ring of radius R is having two charges q and 2q distributed on its two half parts. Find the
electric potential at a point on its axis at a distance 2 2 R from its centre.
q
+ +
+ +
+
+ +
+ + + + +
R
+ + + + +
2 2R P
Sol.
+ +
+
+
+ +
2q
Distance of P from periphery of ring is R 2 + (2 2R)2 = 3R
Electric potential = Potential due to upper half + Potential due to lower half
Kq 2Kq 3Kq Kq
= + ⇒ =
3R 3R 3R R
(e) Electric potential due to a closed disc at a point on the edge

Let us calculate the potential at the edge of a thin disc of radius 'R' carrying a uniformly distributed
charge with surface density σ.
Let AB be a diameter and A be a point where the potential is to be calculated. From A as centre, we
draw two arcs of radii r and r + dr as shown. The infinitesimal region between these two arcs is an
element whose area is dA = (2rθ) dr, where 2θ is the angle subtended by this element PQ at the point
A. Potential at A due to the element PQ is
σdA 2σrθdr 2σθdr

dV = = = P
4πε0r 4πε0r 4πε0
From ∆ APB, we have r

r = 2R cos θ θ
A B
or, dr = – 2R sin θ dθ
Hence
–4σθR sin θdθ Q

dV =
4πε0
0
σRθ sin θ
V=– ∫
π /2
πε0
dθ
σR σR
=– | – θ cos θ + sin θ |0π / 2 = ....(19C)
πε0 πε0


7. RELATION BETWEEN ELECTRIC FIELD INTENSITY AND ELECTRIC POTENTIAL :

(a) For uniform electric field :
(i) Potential difference between two points A and B

→ →
VB – VA = – E . AB
(b) Non uniform electric field
∂V ∂V ∂V
(i) Ex = – , Ey = – ,Ez = –
∂x ∂y ∂z

⇒ ˆ
E = Exî + Eyˆj + Ezk
 ∂ ∂ ˆ ∂ V
= – î V + ˆj V +k 
 ∂ x ∂ y ∂z 
 ∂ ∂ ˆ ∂ V
= – î + ˆj +k  = – ∇ V = – grad V
 ∂ x ∂ y ∂ z
∂V
Where = derivative of V with respect to x (keeping y and z constant)
∂x
∂V
= derivative of V with respect to y (keeping z and x constant)
∂y
∂V
= derivative of V with respect to z (keeping x and y constant)
∂z
(c) If electric potential and electric field depends only on one coordinate, say r :
∂V
(i) E=– ˆ
r
∂r
where r̂ is a unit vector along increasing r..

(ii) ∫ ∫
dV = – E.dr
B r

⇒ VB – VA = – ∫
E.dr
rA
dr is along the increasing direction of r..

(iii) The potential of a point
r

∫
V = – E.dr
∞
Area under E - x curve gives negative of change in potential.

Negative of slope of V - x curve gives the electric field at that point.



Ex.44 V = x2 + y, Find E .
∂V ∂V ∂V
Sol. = 2x , = 1 and =0
∂x ∂y ∂z
 ∂V ˆ∂V ˆ ∂V
E = – î +j +k  = –(2xî + ˆj)
 ∂x ∂y ∂z 
Electric field is nonuniform.

Ex.45 For given E = 2x î + 3 yĵ find the potential at (x, y) if V at origin is 5 volts.
v x y

Sol. ∫
5
∫ ∫ ∫
dV = – E.dr = – Ex dx – Ey dy
0 0
2x2 3y2 2x2 3y2

⇒ V–5= – – ⇒ V =– – +5
2 2 2 2
Ex.46 The electric potential in a region is represented as

V = 2x + 3y – z. Obtain expression for the electric field strength.
Sol. We know
→  ∂V ˆ ∂V ˆ ∂V ˆ
E = – i+ j+ k
 ∂x ∂y ∂z 
∂V ∂
Here, = [2x + 3y – z] = 2
∂x ∂x
∂V ∂
= [2x + 3y – z] = 3
∂y ∂y
∂V ∂
= [2x + 3y – z] = –1
∂z ∂z
→
∴ E = –(2iˆ + 3j ˆ
ˆ – k)
8. ELECTRIC LINES OF FORCE

The idea of electric lines of force or the electric field lines introduced by Michael Faraday is a way to
visualize electrostatic field geometrically.
The properties of electric lines of force are the following :
(i) The electric lines of force are continous curves in an electric field starting from a positively
charged body and ending on a negatively charged body.
+ –
Electric lines of force due Electric lines of force due

to positive charge to negative charge


(ii) The tangent to the curve at any point gives the direction of the electric field intensity at that
point.
(iii) Electric lines of force never intersect since if they cross at a point, electric field intensity at the
point will have two directions, which is not possible.
(iv) Electric lines of force do not pass but leave or end on a charged conductor normally. Suppose
the lines of force are not perpendicular to the conductor surface. In this situation, the component
of electric field parallel to the surface would cause the electrons to move and hence conductor
will not remain equipotential which is an absurd as in electrostatics conductor is an equipotential
surface.
Fixed point charge near

infinite metal plate
(v) The number of electric lines of force that originate from or terminate on a charge is proportional
to the magnitude of the charge.
(vi) As number of lines of force per unit area normal to the area at point represents magnitude of
intensity, crowded lines represent strong field while distant lines weak field. Further, if the lines
of force are equidistant straight lines, the field is uniform
Magnitude is Direction is Both magnitude and Both magnitude and

not constant not constant direction not constant direction constant
+Q
O Q+
Electric lines of force due to two equal positive charges (field is zero at O). O is a null point
A charge particle need not follow an ELOF.
Electric lines of force produced by static charges do not form close loop.
Ex.47 If number of electric lines of force from charge q are 10 then find out number of electric lines of
force from 2q charge.
Sol. No. of ELOF ∝ charge
q' N ' 2q
= ⇒ N′ = × 10 = 20
q 10 q
So number of ELOF will be 20.


Ex.48 A solid metallic sphere is placed in a uniform electric field. Which of the lines A, B, C and D
shows the correct representation of lines of force and why ?
D
Sol. (D)
The line (A) is wrong as lines of force start or end normally on the surface of a conductor and here it
is not so. Line (B) and (C) are wrong as lines of force does not exist inside a conductor and here it is
not so. Also lines of force are not normal to the surface of the conductor. Line (D) represents the
correct situation, as here line of force does not exist inside the conductor and start and end normally
on its surface.
Ex.49 A metallic slab is introduced between the two charged parallel plates as shown below. Sketch
the electric lines of force between the plates.
+ –
+ –
+ –
+ –
+ –
+ – +
Sol. Keeping in mind that –
(i) Electric lines of force start from positive charge and – –
+ – + –
end on negative charge.
(ii) Electric lines of force start and end normally on the + – + –
surface of a conductor. –
+ –
(iii) Electric lines of force do not exist inside a conductor, +
the lines of force are shown in the adjacent figure. – –
+ +
– + –
9. EQUIPOTENTIAL SURFACES :
As shown in figure if a charge is shifted from a point A to B on a surface. M which is perpendicular to
the direction of electric field, the work done in shifting will obviously, be zero as electric force is normal
to the direction of displacement.
As no work is done in moving from A to B, we can say that A and B are at same potetials or we can say
that all the points of surface M are at same potential or here we call surface M as equipotential
surface.
M
A
E


Following figures show equipotential surfaces in the surrounding of point charge and a long charged wire
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
q +
+
+
. +
+
+
+
Point charge
Line charge
Spherical equipotential surfaces
Cylindrical equipotential surfaces
Every surface in electric field in which at every point direction of electric field is normal to the surface
can be regarded as equipotential surface.
Figure shows two equipotential surfaces in a uniform electric field E. If we wish to find the potential
difference between two points A and B shown in figure, we simply find the potential difference between
the two equipotential surfaces on which the points lie, given as
VA – VB = Ed
d M1 M2
r2
+
+ Y
B +
+ x
+ E
+
A X
+ r1
E +
M1 M2 λ coul / m
Figure shows a line charge with linear charge density λ coul/m. Here we wish to find potential difference
between two points X and Y which lie on equipotential surfaces M1 & M2. To find the potential
difference between these surfaces, we consider a point P at a distance x from wire as shown. The
electric field at point P is
2Kλ
E=
x
Now the potential difference between surface M1 and M2 can be given as
r2 r2
2Kλ
Vx – Vy = ∫
r1
Edx = ∫
r1
x
dx
 r2 
VX – VY = 2Kλ n  
 r1 


40
20
A 0
60°
10cm
Ex.50
B
Write down the Electric field in vector form ?

400
Sol. vA – vB = E × 0.1 × cos 30° cos 30° = 200
3
3 400
20 = E × 0.1 × ⇒ E=
2 3 30°
200 400
= sin 30 °
3 3
ˆ 200 ˆj 400
E.F. = 200i −
3 3
Ex.51 Find out equipotential surface where potential is zero ?

(x,y,z)
(–a,0) (a,0)
–2q +q
–2kq kq kq 2kq
Sol. + =0 ⇒ =
2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2
(x + a) + y + z (x − a) + y + z (x − a) + y + z (x + a)2 + y 2 + z2
squaring both sides

1 4
=
(x − a)2 + y 2 + z2 (x + a)2 + y 2 + z2
10. ELECTRIC DIPOLE :

A system of two equal and opposite charges separated by a small distance is called electric dipole,
shown in figure. Every dipole has a characteristic property called dipole moment. It is defined as the
product of magnitude of either charge and the separation between the charges is given as.
p=qd
d
p
–q +q
Dipole moment is a vector quantity and convensionally its direction is given from negative pole to
positive pole.


(a) Electric field due to a Dipole

(1) At an axial point
Figure shows an electric dipole placed on x-axis at origin
kq kq
(r + a) 2 (r – a)2
–q +q
P
O
(–a, 0) (a, 0)
r
2a
Here we wish to find the electric field at point P having coordinates (r, o) (where r >> 2a). Due to
positive charge of dipole electric field at P is in outward direction & due to negative charge it is in
inward direction.
kq kq 4kqar
Enet at P = – =
(r – a)2 (r + a)2 (r2 – a2 )2
→
As P = 2aq
2kpr
∴ Enet at P =
(r 2 – a2 )2
As r >> 2a
∴ we can neglect a w.r.t. r
2kp
Enet at P =
r3
As we can observe that for axial point direction of field is in direction of dipole moment
→
→ 2k p
∴ Vectorially, E =
r3 kq
(2) At an equatorial point. r 2 + a2
Again we consider the dipole placed along the x-axis & we
wish to find, electric field at point P which is situated
equatorially at a distance r (where r >> 2a) from origin. θ
Enet P
Vertical component of the electric field vectors cancel out
kq
each other.
kq r 2 + a2
∴ Enet at P = 2 E cos θ [where E = 2 ]
r + a2
  r
2kq a a
Enet at P = r2 + a2 . 2 ∵ cos θ = 
r + a2  r 2 + a2 
–q θ q
2kqa kp O
Enet = = (As p = 2aq) (–a,0) (a,0)
(r2 + a2 )3 / 2 (r2 + a2 )3 / 2
As we have already stated that r > > 2a
kp
∴ Enet at P =
r3
We can observe that the direction of dipole moment & electric field due to dipole at P are in opposite
direction.
∴ Vectorially
→
→ –k P
E =
r3


(b) Electric field at a general Point due to a dipole

KP sinθ
Figure shows a electric dipole place on x-axis at origin &
we wish to find out the electric field at point P with r3
2KP cosθ
coordinate (r, θ) 3
P (r, θ) r
Enet at
2 2 Pcosθ
 2KP cos θ   KP sin θ  kP
Enet =   +  = 1 + 3 cos2 θ θ
+q
 r3   r
3
 r3 –q
Psinθ
P
kp sin θ
r3
tanα = 2kp cos θ
Enet
r3
KP sinθ
tan θ
tanα = r3 2KP cosθ
2
α r3
 tan θ  θ
α = tan–1  
 2 
(c) Electric potential due to a dipole.

1. At an axial point
(–a,0) (a,0)
O P
–q q (r >> 2a)
r
We wish to find out potential at P due to dipole (with p = 2aq)
kq kq
Vnet = −
(r – a) (r + a)
2akq
Vnet =
(r2 − a2 )
kp
Vnet = (As P = 2aq)
r2
2. At a point on perpendicular bisector
At an equatorial point, electric potential due to dipole is always zero because potential due to +ve
charge is cancelled by –ve charge.
v=0
r
–q +q


(3) Potential due to dipole at a general Point

P
r
Pcosθ
θ
–q q

p Psinθ
kp cos θ
Potential at P due to dipole =
r2
• BASIC TORQUE CONCEPT

τ = r ×F
⇒ If the net transational force on the body is zero then the torque of the forces may or may not be zero
but net torque of the forces about each point of universe is same

⇒ If we have to prove that a body is in equilibrium then first we will prove Fnet is equal to zero & after that
we will show τnet about any point is equal to zero.
⇒ If the body is free to rotate then it will rotate about the axis passing through centre of mass & parallel
to torque vector direction & of the body is hinged then it will rotate about hinged axis.
11. DIPOLE IN UNIFORM ELECTRIC FIELD :
Figure shows a dipole of dipole moment p placed at an angle θ to the direction of electric field. Here the
charges of dipole experience forces qε in opposite direction as shown.
ε
+q
qε
d θ d sin θ
qε
–q
thus we can state that when a dipole is placed in a uniform electric field, net forces on the dipole is
zero. But as equal and opposite forces act with a separation in their line of action, they produce a
couple which tend to align the dipole along the direction of electric field. The torque due to this couple
can be given as
τ = Force × separation between lines of action of forces
= qε × d sin θ
= pεsin θ
or vectorially we can write the torque on dipole is

τ = p×ε C F
Ex.52 Write down torque about A, B, C
A.O.R
Sol. τ A = 2Fl ⊗
τC = 2Fl ⊗ 2l
B
τB = Fl + Fl = 2Fl ⊗
F
A


11.1 Potential Energy of a Dipole in Uniform Electric Field
When a dipole in an electric field at an angle θ, the torque on it due to electric field is
τ = pε sin θ
In the figure shown, the torque is in clockwise direction. If we rotate the dipole in anticlockwise
direction from an angle θ1 and θ 2 slowly, we have to apply an anticlockwise equal torque, then the
work done in process will be given as
+q
W= ∫ dW = ∫ τdθ qε
θ2
θ2 qε
= ∫ pε sin θdθ
θ1
+q
θ1
=
θ
pε[− cos θ]θ2
qε
1
–q
= pε (cos θ1 − cos θ2 ) qε
Wexternal foce = –Welectricforce –q
∴ Welectric field = – pE (cos θ1 – cos θ2)
As we know that for conservative forces
W.D. = – ∆U
∆U = pE (cosθ1 – cos θ2)
Uθ2 – Uθ1 = (–pE cos θ2 – pE cos θ1 )
∴ We can generalise that

Uθ = – pE cos θ
In vector notation we can write potential energy of dipole in electric field is

U = –p.E
[where potential energy at θ = 90° = 0]
11.2 Stable and Unstable equilibrium of a Dipole in Electric Field :
We’ve discussed that when a dipole in an electric field E, the potential energy of dipole can be given as
U = − pε cos θ
We also know that the net torque on a dipole in electric field can be given as
τ = pε sin θ
It shows that net torque on dipole in electric field is zero in two situations when θ = 0º and θ = 180 º as
shown in figure
qE
+ qE –
– + + –
qE – + qE
(a) (b)


We can see that when θ = 0 as shown in figure(a) when torque on dipole is zero, the dipole is in
equilibrium. We can verify that here equilibrium is stable. If we slightly tilt the dipole from its equilibrium
position in anticlockwise direction as shown by dotted position. The dipole experiences a clockwise
torque which tend the dipole to rotate back to its equilibrium position. This shows that at θ = 0 , dipole
is in stable equilibrium. We can also find the potential energy of dipole at θ = 0 , it can by given as
U = −pε (minimum)
Here at θ = 0 , potential energy of dipole in electric field is minimum which favours the position of stable
equilibrium.
Similarly when θ = 180º, net torque on dipole is zero and potential energy of dipole in this state is given
as
U = pε (maximum)
Thus at θ = 180º, dipole is in unstable equilibrium. This can also be shown by figure(b). From
equilibrium position if dipole is slightly displaced in anticlockwise direction, we can see that torque on
dipole also acts in anticlockise direction away from equilirbium position. Thus here dipole is in unstable
equilibrium.
11.3 Angular SHM or Dipole

When a dipole is suspended in a uniform electric field, it will align itself parallel to the field.
Now if it is given a small angular displacement θ about its equilibrium, the (restoring) couple will be
C = – pE sinθ
or, C = – pE θ [as sinθ ≈ θ, for small θ]
d2 θ
or, I = −pEθ
dt2
d2 θ pE
or, 2
=− θ
dt I
d2 θ pE
or, 2
= −ω2 θ 2
where ω =
dt I
 2π 
This is standard equation of angular simple harmonic motion with time-period T  =  . So the dipole
 ω 
will execute angular SHM with time-period
I
T = 2π ...(33)
pE


+q
2l
37°
E
Ex.53
–q
Find out the angular frequency of the dipole when it crosses the mean position.
1 2
Sol. 0 – PE cos 37° = Iω
2
1 2 PE
Iω =
2 5
2ml 2 2 2ql.E 2qE

.ω = ⇒ ω=
2 5 5 ml
11.4 Force on an Electric Dipole in Non-uniform Electric Field :
If in a non-uniform electric field dipole is placed at a point where electric field is ε, the interaction
energy of dipole at this point can be given as

U = −p.ε
Now the force on dipole due to electric field can be given as
F = – ∆U
For unidirectional variation in electric field, we have
d
F=– (p . ε)
dx
If dipole is placed in the direction of electric field, we have
dε
F = –p
dx
Ex.54 A water molecule is placed at a distance from the line carrying linear charge density λ. Find the
maximum force exerted on the water molecule. The shape of water molecule and the partial
charges on H and O atoms as shown in figure.
+q
θ –2q
O
d
H
+q
Sol. The figure can be resolved as combination of 2 dipoles. d
Dipole moments of each p = qd.
Here that dipole moment of system is θ
Pnet = 2 qd cos θ/2
Now
d
dε
F = Pnet .
dx



dε
For maximum force, the angle between Pnet and is 0º +
dx
+
θ d  2kλ  +
Fmax = 2qd cos ×
2 dx  x  +
Pnet = 2qd cos θ / 2
λ +
θ  1  +
or Fmax = 2qd cos × 2k λ − 2  +
2  x  +
+
− 4 K q d λ cos θ / 2 +
=
x2
4 K q d λ cos θ / 2
| Fmax | =
x2
4 K q d λ cos θ / 2
Fmax =
2


Exercise - I (Objective Problems)

1. A point charge 50µC is located in the XY plane at E E

the point of position vector r0 = 2iˆ + 3jˆ . What is the
(A) (B)
electric field at the point of position vector r = 8iˆ − 5j
ˆ x x
O L O L
(A) 1200 V/m (B) 0.04 V/m (C) 900 V/m(D) 4500 V/m E E
Sol.
L L x
(C) O x (D) O
Sol.

2. A point charge q is placed at origin. Let E A , EB and

EC be the electric field at three points A(1, 2, 3),
B(1, 1, –1) and C(2, 2, 2) due to charge q. Then
4. A particle of mass m and charge Q is placed in an
[i] EA ⊥ EB [ii] | EB | = 4 |EC | electric field E which varies with time t ass E = E0
sinωt. It will undergo simple harmonic motion of
select the correct alternative
amplitude
(A) only [i] is correct
(B) only [ii] is correct QE20 QE0 QE0 QE0
(C) both [i] and [ii] are correct (A) 2 (B) 2 (C) 2 (D)
mω mω mω mω
(D) both [i] and [ii] are wrong
Sol.
Sol.
5. Four charges are arranged at

the corners of a square ABCD, as B +q –q C
3. Two identical point charges are placed at a shown. The force on +ve charge
separation of l.P is a point on the line joining the kept at the centre of the square
charges, at a distance x from any one charge. The is A
–2q +2q
D
field at P is E. E is plotted against x for values of x
from close to zero to slightly less than l. Which of the (A) zero (B) along diagonal AC
following best represents the resulting curve ? (C) along diagonal BD (D) perpendicular to the side AB


Sol.
Sol.
6. Two free positive charges 4q and q are a distance l 8. A charged particle of charge q and mass m is
apart. What charge Q is needed to achieve equilibrium released from rest in an uniform electric field E.
for the entire system and where should it be placed Neglecting the effect of gravity, the kinetic energy of
form charge q ? the charged particle after time 't' seconds is
4 l 4 l Eqm E2 q2 t2 2E2 t2 Eq2m

(A) Q = q(negative) at (B) Q = q(positive) at (A) (B) (C) (D)
9 3 9 3 t 2m mq 2t2
l l Sol.
(C) Q = q (positive) at (D) Q = q (negative) at
3 3
Sol.
9. Two identical positive charges are fixed on the y-

axis, at equal distances from the origin O. A particle
with a negative charge starts on the x-axis at a large
distance from O, moves along the +x-axis, passes
through O and moves far away from O. Its acceleration
a is taken as positive along its direction of motion.
The particle’s acceleration a is plotted against its x-
coordinate. Which of the following best represents the
plot ?
7. Six charges are placed at A B a a
–q 3q
the corner of a regular hexagon x x
–2q –2q (A) O (B) O
as shown. If an electron is
F
placed at its centre O, force a
q 2q a
on it will be E D x
(A) Zero (B) Along OF (C) O x (D) O
(C) Along OC (D) None of these


Sol. Sol.
10. Four equal positive charges are fixed at the

vertices of a square of side L. Z-axis is perpendicular
to the plane of the square. The point z = 0 is the
point where the diagonals of the square intersect each
other. The plot of electric field due to the four charges,
as one moves on the z-axis.
E E
11. A nonconducting ring of radius R has uniformly
distributed positive charge Q. A small part of the ring,
(A) (B) of length d, is removed (d<<R). The electric field at
O Z Z the centre of the ring will now be -
O L
2
(A) directed towards the gap, inversely proportional
to R3.
E E
(B) directed towards the gap, inversely proportional
to R2.
(C) (D) (C) directed away from the gap, inversely proportional
Z O Z to R3.
O L L
2 (D) directed away from the gap, inversely proportional
to R2.

Sol. 14. Two equal negative charges are fixed at the points
[0, a] and [0, –a] on the y-axis. A positive charge Q
is released from rest at the points [2a, 0] on the x-
axis. The charge Q will -
(A) execute simple harmonic motion about the origin
(B) move to the origin and remain at rest
(C) move to infinity
(D) execute oscillatory but not simple harmonic motion.
12. The charge per unit length of the four quadrant of
the ring is 2λ, –2λ, λ and –λ respectively. The electric
field at the centre is -
λ λ 2λ
(A) – î (B) ĵ (C) î (D) None
2πε0R 2πε0R 2πε0R
15. A small particle of mass m and
Sol. charge –q is placed at point P on the
axis of uniformly charged ring and
released. If R >> x, the particle will Q
R
undergo oscillations along the axis of P
symmetry with an angular frequency x
that is equal to -
qQ qQx
(A) 3 (B)
4πε0mR 4πε0mR 4
qQ qQx
→
(C) 3 (D)
13. The direction (θ) of E at point 4πε0mR 4πε0mR 4
P due to uniformly charged finite rod Sol.
will be -
(A) at angle 30° from x-axis
(B) 45° from x-axis
(C) 60° from x-axis
(D) none of these
Sol.
16. A charged particle having some mass is resting in

equilibrium at a height H above the centre of a uniformly
charged non-conducting horizontal ring of radius R.
The force of gravity acts downwards. The equilibrium
of the particle will be stable -
(A) for all values of H (B) only if H > R / 2
(C) only if H < R / 2 (D) only if H = R / 2


Sol. Sol.
18. Find the force experienced by the semicircular rod

charged with a charge q, placed as shown in figure.
Radius of the wire is R and the infinitely long line of
charge with linear density λ is passing through its
centre and perpendicular to the plane of wire.
λq λq λq λq
(A) 2 (B) 2 (C) 2 (D) 4πε R
2π ε0R π ε0R 4π ε0R 0
Sol.
17. In space of horizontal EF(E = (mg)/q) exist as 1 A wheel having mass m has charges +q and –q on
9 .
shown in figure and a mass m attached at the end of diametrically opposite points. It remains in equilibrium
a light rod. If mass m is released from the position on a rough inclined plane in the presence of uniform
shown in figure find the angular velocity of the rod vertical electric field E =
when it passes through the bottom most position. +q
E
=45º mg –q
E= q
m
m
+q mg mg mg tan θ
(A) (B) (C) (D) none
g 2g 3g 5g q 2q 2q
(A) (B) (C) (D)
l l l l


Sol.
 
 
(A) 2π (B) 2π  
g
 g + qE 
 m 
 
 
(C) 2π   (D) 2π
 g – qE 
2
 qE 
 m  g2 +  
m
Sol.
20. An equilateral triangle wire frame of side L having

3 point charges at its vertices is kept in x-y plane as
shown. Component of electric field due to the
configuration in z direction at (0, 0, L) is [origin is
centroid of triangle]
q y
q –2q
9 3 kq 9 kq
(A) (B) zero (C) (D) None 22. The potential difference between points A and B
8L2 8 L2 in the given uniform electric field is :
Sol. a
C B
E b
A E
(A) Ea (B) E (a2 + b2 ) (C) Eb (D) (Eb/ 2 )
Sol.
21. A simple pendulum has a

length , mass of bob m. The bob
is given a charge q coulomb. The
pendulum is suspended in a uniform E
horizontal electric field of strength
E a s show n i n f i g ur e, t he n
cal cul ate the ti me period of
oscillation when the bob is slightly
q,m
displace from its mean position is


23. An equipotential surface and a line of force :

(A) never intersect each other (B) intersect at 45°
(C) intersect at 60° (D) intersect at 90°
Sol.
27. In a regular polygon of n sides, each corner is at a

distance r from the centre. Identical charges are
24. Which of the following is a volt - placed at (n – 1) corners. At the centre, the intensity
(A) Erg per cm (B) Joule per coulomb is E and the potential is V. The ratio V/E has magnitude.
(C) Erg per ampere (D) Newton / (coulomb × m2) (A) r n (B) r (n – 1) (C) (n–1)/r (D) r(n–1)/n
Sol. Sol.
25. An infinite nonconducting sheet of charge has a

surface charge density of 10–7 C/m2. The separation
28. In a certain region of space, the potential is given
between two equipotential surfaces near the sheet 2
– y2 + z2]. The electric field at the point
whose potential differ by 5V is
b y : V = k [ 2 x
(1,1,1) has magnitude =

(A) 0.88 cm (B) 0.88 mm (C) 0.88 m (D) 5 × 10–7 m
(A) k 6 (B) 2k 6 (C) 2k 3 (D) 4k 3
Sol.
Sol.
26. In a uniform electric field, the potential is 10 V at

the origin of coordinates, and 8V at each of the points
(1, 0, 0), (0, 1, 0) and (0, 0, 1). The potential at the
point (1, 1, 1) will be -
(A) 0 (B) 4 V (C) 8 V (D) 10 V
29. When the seperation between two charges is
Sol. increased, the electric potential energy of the charges
(A) increases (B) decresaes
(C) remains the same
(D) may increase or decrease


Sol. 32. Two identical thin rings, each of radius R meter

are coaxially placed at distance R meter apart. If Q1
and Q2 coulomb are respectively the charges uniformly
spread on the two rings, the work done in moving a
charge q from the centre of one ring to that of the
other is
(A) zero
(B) q( Q1 − Q 2 )( 2 − 1) / ( 2 .4 πε 0R)
(C) q 2 (Q1 + Q 2 ) / 4 πε 0R
(D) q( Q1 − Q 2 )( 2 + 1) / ( 2.4 πε 0R)
Sol.
30. When a negative charge is released and moves in

electric field, it moves toward a position of
(A) lower electric potential and lower potential energy
(B) lower electric potential and higher potential energy
(C) higher electric potential and lower potential energy
(D) higher electric potential and higher potential energy
Sol.
31. Four equal charges +q are placed at four corners

of a square with its centre of origin and lying in yz 33. Two positively charged particles X and Y are initially
plane. The electrostatic potential energy of a fifth far away from each other and at rest. X begins to
charge +q varies or x-axis as move towards Y with some initial velocity. The total
momentum and energy of the system are p and E.
U U
(A) If Y is fixed, both p and E are conserved
(A) (B) (B) If Y is fixed, E is conserved, but not p
–x x –x x (C) If both are free to move, p is conserved but not E
U U (D) If both are free, E is conserved, but not p
Sol.
(C) (D)
–x x –x x
Sol.


34. Two particles X and Y, of equal mass and with 36. Two identical particles of mass m carry a charge
unequal positive charges, are free to move and are Q each. Initially one is at rest on a smooth horizontal
initially far away from each other. With Y at rest, X plane and the other is projected along the plane directly
begins to move towards it with initial velocity u. After towards first particle from a large distance with speed
a long time, finally. v. The closed distance of approach be
(A) X will stop, Y will move with velocity u 1 Q2 1 4Q2
(B) X and Y will both move with velocities u/2 each (A) (B)
4πε0 mv 4πε0 mv2
(C) X will stop, Y will move with velocity < u
(D) both will move with velocities <u/2 1 2Q2 1 3Q2
Sol. (C) (D)
4πε0 mv2 4πε0 mv2
Sol.
35. A circular ring of radius R with uniform positive

charge density λ per unit length is located in the y-z
plane with its centre at the origin O. A particle of
mass m and positive charge q is projected from the
point P(R 3 , O, O) on the positive x-axis directly
λq
towards O, with an initial kinetic energy 4ε .
0
(A) The particle crosses O and goes to infinity
(B) The particle returns to P
(C) The particle will just reach O
(D) The particle crosses O and goes to −R 3 .
Sol.
37. The diagram shows a small bead of mass m carrying

charge q. The bead can freely move on the smooth
fixed ring placed on a smooth horizontal plane. In the
same plane a charge +Q has also been fixed as shown.
The potential at the point P due to +Q is V. The velocity
with which the bead should projected from the point
P so that it can complete a circle should be greater
than
g
X
+Q
P
a 4a
6qV qV 3qV
(A) (B) (C) (D) none
m m m


Sol.

38. Electric field given by the vector E = xi + yj is 39. A particle of mass 1 kg & charge 1/3µC is projected
present in the XY plane. A small ring carrying charge towards a non conducting fixed spherical shell having
+Q, which can freely slide on a smooth non conducting the same charge uniformly distributed on its surface.
rod, is projected along the rod from the point (0, L) Find the minimum initial velocity of projection required
such that it can reach the other end of the rod. What if the particle just grazes the shell.
minimum velocity should be given to the ring ? (Assume
zero gravity) V
from
0.5 mm
Y 1 mm
(0, L)
2 2 2
(A) m/s (B) 2 m / s (C) m / s (D) none
3 3 3
X
(L, 0)
Sol.
(A) (QL /m)
2 1/2
(B) 2(QL2/m)1/2
(C) 4(QL2/m)1/2 (D) (QL2/2m)1/.2
Sol.


40. The diagram shows three infinitely long uniform 42. Two point charges of +Q each have been placed
line charges placed on the X, Y and Z axis. The work at the positions (–a/2, 0, 0) and (a/2, 0, 0). The
done in moving a unit positive charge from (1, 1, 1) to locus of the points in YZ plane where –Q charge can
(0, 1, 1) is equal to - be placed such the that total electrostatic potential
energy of the system can become equal to zero, is
Y
represented by which of the following equations ?
(A) Z2 + (Y – a)2 = 2a (B) Z2 + (Y – a)2 = 27a2/4
(C) Z2 + Y2 = 15a2 / 4 (D) None
X Sol.
(A) (λ ln 2) / 2πε0 (B) (λ ln 2) / πε0

(C) (3λ ln 2) / 2πε0 (D) None
Sol.
43. Figure shows equi-potential surfaces for a two

charges system. At which of the labeled points point
41. A charged particle of charge Q is held fixed and will an electron have the highest potential energy ?
another charged particle of mass m and charge q (of
the same sign) is released from a distance r. The
impulse of the force exerted by the external agent on
the fixed charge by the time distance between Q and AA
q becomes 2r is -
(A) Point A (B) Point B (C) Point C (D) Point D
Qq Qqm Qqm Qqm
(A) 4π ∈ mr (B) Sol.
0 4π ∈0 r (C) π ∈0 r (D) 2π ∈0 r
Sol.


44. The equation of an equipotential line in an electric Sol.

field is y = 2x, then the electric field strength vector
at (1, 2) may be
(A) 4 i + 3 j (B) 4 i + 8 j (C) 8 i + 4 j (D) –8 i + 4 j
Sol.
48. Uniform electric field of magnitude 100 V/m in space

is directed along the line y = 3 + x. Find the potential
difference between point A(3, 1) & B(1, 3)
45. The electric field in region is given by : E = (A) 100 V (B) 200 2 V (C) 200 V (D) 0
(4axy z ) i + (2ax2 z ) j + (ax2y / z ) k , where a Sol.
is a positive constant. The equation of an equipotential
surface will be of the form -
(A) z = constant / [x3y2] (B) z = constant / [xy2]
(C) z = constant / [x y ]
4 2
(D) None
Sol.
49. A, B, C, D, P and Q are points

in a uniform electric field. The B C
0.2 m
potentials at these points are V(A)
P Q
46. A charge 3 coulomb experiences a force 3000 N =2 volt. V(P) = V(B) = V(D) = 5
volt. V(C) = 8 volt. The electric A D
when placed in a uniform electric field. The potential
difference between two points separated by a distance field at P is 0.2 m
of 1 cm along the field lines is (A) 10 Vm–1 along PQ (B) 15 2 Vm–1 along PA
(A) 10 V (B) 90 V (C) 1000 V (D) 9000 V (C) 5 Vm–1 along PC (D) 5 Vm–1 along PA
Sol.
Sol.

47. A uniform electric field having strength E is existing
in x - y plane as shown in figure. Find the p.d. between
origin O & A (d, d, 0)
y
0)
d,
50. A and B are two points on the axis and the

d,
A(
perpendicular bisector respectively of an electric dipole.

A and B are far away from the dipole and at equal

distance from it. The field at A and B are EA and EB .
O x

Z (A) EA = EB (B) EA = 2 EB (C) EA = –2 EB
1
(A) Ed(cosθ + sinθ) (B) –Ed (sinθ – cosθ) (D) | EB | = | EA |, and EB is perpendicular to EA
2
(C) 2Ed (D) None of these


Sol.
53. The dipole moment of a system of charge +q

distributed uniformly on an arc of radius R subtending
an angle π/2 at its centre where another charge –q is
placed is.
2 2qR 2qR qR 2qR
(A) (B) (C) (D)
51. Figure shows the electric field lines around an π π π π
electric dipole. Which of the arrows best represents Sol.
the electric field at point P ?
(A) (B) (C) (D)

Sol.
54. An electric dipole is kept on the axis of a uniformly

charged ring at distance R / 2 from the centre of
the ring. The direction of the dipole moment is along
the axis. The dipole moment is P, charge of the ring is
52. A dipole consists of two particles one with charge Q and radius of the ring is R. The force on the dipole is
+1µC and mass 1kg and the other with charge –1µC nearly
and mass 2kg separated by a distance of 3m. For
4kPQ 4 kPQ 2 kPQ
small oscillations about its equilibrium position, the (A) (B) (C) (D) zero
2 3
angular frequency, when placed in a uniform electric 3 3R 3 3R 3 3 R3
field of 20kV/m is Sol.
(A) 0.1 rad/s (B) 1.1 rad/s (C) 10 rad/s (D) 2.5 rad/s
Sol.


55. A large sheet carries uniform surface charge density Sol.

σ. A rod of length 2l has a linear charge density λ on
one half and –λ on the second half. The rod is hinged
at mid point O and makes an angle θ with the normal
to the sheet. The torque experienced by the rod is
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
σλl 2 σλl 2 σλl
(A) 0 (B) sin θ (C) sin θ (D) 58. 4 charges are placed each at a distance ‘a’ from
2ε0 ε0 2ε0 origin. The dipole moment of configuration is
Sol. y
3q
x
–2q –2q
q
ˆ
(A) 2qaj ˆ
(B) 3qaj (C) 2aq[iˆ + ˆj] (D) none
Sol.
56. Two short electric dipoles are placed as shown.

The energy of electric interaction between these
dipoles will be
P1
P2
2 kP1P2 cos θ −2 kP1P2 cos θ
(A) (B) REASONING TYPE
r3 r3
59. Statement - 1 : A positive point charge initially
−2 kP1P2 sin θ −4 kP1P2 cos θ at rest in a uniform electric field starts moving along
(C) (D)
r3 r3 electric lines of forces. (Neglect all other forces except
Sol. electric forces)
Statement - 2 : Electric lines of force represents path
of charged particle which is released from rest in it.
(A) Statement - 1 is true, Statement - 2 is true and
statement - 2 is correct explanation for statement - 1.
(B) Statement - 1 is true, Statement - 2 is true and
statement - 2 is NOT correct explanation for statement
- 1.
(C) Statement - 1 is true, statement - 2 is false.
(D) Statement - 1 is false, statement - 2 is true.
57. Point P lies on the axis of a dipole. If the dipole is

rotated by 90º anticlock wise, the electric field vector

E at P will rotate by
(A) 90º clock wise (B) 180º clock wise
(C) 90º anti clock wise (D) none


60. Statement - 1 : If electric potential while moving 62. Statement - 1 : The electric potential and the
in a certain path is constant, then the electric field electric field intensity at the centre of a square having
must be zero. four fixed point charges at their vertices as shown in
figure are zero.
∂V
Statement - 2 : Component of electric field E r = –
∂r +q –q
- 1.
–q +q
(D) Statement - 1 is false, statement - 2 is true. Statement - 2 : If electric potential at a point is zero
Sol. then the magnitude of electric field at that point must
be zero.
- 1.
Sol.
61. Statement - 1 : For a non-uniformly charged thin

circular ring with net charge zero, the electric potential
at each point on axis of the ring is zero.
Statement - 2 : For a non-uniformly charged thin
circular ring with net charge zero, the electric field at
any point on axis of the ring is zero.
- 1.
Sol.


Exercise - II (One or more than one option is correct)

(A) The third charge experienced a net force inclined
1. Select the correct alternative :
to the line joining the charges
(A) The charge gained by the uncharged body from a (B) The third charge is in stable equilibrium
charged body due to conduction is equal to half of (C) The third charge is in unstable equilibrium
the total charge initially present. (D) The thi rd charge experiences a net force
(B) The magnitude of charge increases with the perpendicular to the line joining the charges
increase in velocity of charge Sol.
(C) Charge can not exist without matter although
matter can exist without charge
(D) Between two non-magnetic substances repulsion
is the true test of electrification (electrification means
body has net charge)
Sol.
4. A negative point charge placed at the point A is
a a
+2q A +2q
2. Two equal negative charges –q are fixed at the
point (0, a) and (0, –a) on the y-axis. A charge +Q is (A) in stable equilibrium along x-axis
released from rest at the point (2a, 0) on the x-axis. (B) in unstable equilibrium along y-axis
The charge Q will : (C) in stable equilibrium along y-axis
(A) Execute simple harmonic motion about the origin. (D) in unstable equilibrium along x-axis
(B) At origin velocity of particle is maximum Sol.
(C) Move to infinity

(D) Execute oscillatory but not simple harmonic motion.
Sol.
5. Two fixed charges 4Q (positive) and Q (negative)

are located at A and B, the distance AB being 3 m.
+4Q –Q
A 3m B
(A) The point P where the resultant field due to both
is zero is on AB outside AB.
(B) The point P where the resultant field due to both
is zero is on AB inside AB.
3. Mid way between the two equal and similar charges, (C) If a positive charge is placed at P and displaced
we placed the third equal and similar charge. Which of slightly along AB it will execute oscillations.
the following statements is correct, concerned to the (D) If a negative charge is placed at P and displaced
equilibrium along the line joining the charges ? slightly along AB it will execute oscillation.


Sol. Sol.
8. T he f i g ur e show s a
nonconducting ring which has + --
--
+
positive and negative charge
+ + + ++ + + +
-
--
non uniformly distributed on it --
-
such that the total charge is --
O
zero. Which of the following ---
--
++
axis
statements is true ? ++ - --
(A) The potential at all the points on the axis will be zero.
(B) The electric field at all the points on the axis will
be zero.
6. Select the correct statement : (Only force on a (C) The direction of electric field at all points on the
particle is due to electric field) axis will be along the axis
(A) A charged particle always moves along the electric (D) If the ring is placed inside a uniform external electric
line of force. field then net torque and force acting on the ring
(B) A charged particle may move along the line of would be zero.
force Sol.
(C) A charge particle never moves along the line of
force
(D) A charged particle moves along the line of force
only if released from rest.
Sol.
9. If we use permittivity ε, resistance R, gravitational

constant G and voltage V as fundamental physical
quantities, then -
(A) [angular displacement] = ε0R0G0V0
7. Two infinite sheets of uniform (B) [Velocity] = ε–1R–1G0V0
charge density +σ and –σ are parallele (C) [dipole moment] = ε1R0G0V1
to each other as shown in the figure. (D) [force] = ε1R0G0V2
Electric field at the
Sol.
(A) points to the left or to the right
of the sheets is zero
(B) midpoint between the sheets is zero
(C) midpoint of the sheets is σ/ε0 and is directed
towards right
(D) midpoint of the sheets is 2σ/ε0 and is directed
towards right


10. A particle of mass m and charge q is thrown in a 12. An electric charge 10–8 C is placed at the point
region where uniform gravitational field and electric (4m, 7m, 2m). At the point (1m, 3m, 2m), the electric
field are present. The path of particle (A) potential will be 18 V
(A) may be a straight line (B) may be a circle (B) field has no Y-component
(C) may be a parabola (D) may be a hyperbola (C) field will be along Z-axis
Sol. (D) potential will be 1.8 V
Sol.
11. Two point charges Q and –Q/4 are separated by a

distance x. Then
13. Four identical charges are placed at the points
Q x –Q/4
(1, 0, 0), (0, 1, 0), (–1, 0, 0) and (0, –1, 0).
(A) potential is zero at a point on the axis which is x/ (A) The potential at the origin is zero.
3 on the right side of the charge –Q/4
(B) The field at the origin is zero.
(B) potential is zero at a point on the axis which is x/
(C) The potential at all points on the z-axis, other
5 on the left side of the charge –Q/4 than the origin, is zero.
(C) electric field is zero at a point on the axis which is (D) The field at all points on the z-axis, other than
at a distance x on the right side of the charge –Q/4
the origin acts along the z-axis.
(D) there exist two points on the axis where electric Sol.
field is zero.
Sol.
14. A proton and a deuteron are initially at rest and

are accelerated through the same potential difference.
Which of the following is false concerning the final
properties of the two particles ?
(A) They have different speeds
(B) They have same momentum
(C) They have same kinetic energy
(D) None of these
Sol.


15. Which of the following is true for the figure showing 17. Potential at a point A is 3 volt and at a point B is
electric lines of force ? (E is electrical field, V is 7 volt, an electron is moving towards A from B.
potential) (A) It must have some K.E. at B to reach A
B (B) It need not have any K.E. at B to reach A
A (C) to reach A it must have more than or equal to 4eV
K.E. at B.
(D) when it will reach A, it will have K.E. more then or
(A) EA > EB (B) EB > EA (C) VA > VB (D) VB > VA at least equal to 4eV if it was released from rest at B.
Sol. Sol.
18. A particle of charge 1µC & mass 1 gm moving with

a velocity of 4m/s is subjected to a uniform electric
field of magnitude 300 V/m for 10 sec. Then it’s final
16. Three point charges Q, 4Q and 16Q are placed on speed cannot be :
a straight line 9cm long. Charges are placed in such a (A) 0.5 m/s (B) 4 m/s (C) 3 m/s (D) 6 m/s
way that the system has minimum potential energy. Sol.
Then
(A) 4Q and 16Q must be at the ends and Q at a
distance of 3 cm from the 16Q
(B) 4Q and 16Q must be at the ends and Q at a
distance of 6 cm from the 16Q
(C) Electric field at the position of Q is zero
Q
(D) Electric field at the position of Q is 4πε
0
Sol.
19. Two particles of same mass and charge are thrown

in the same direction along the horizontal with same
velocity v from two different heights h1 and h2 (h1 <
h2). Initially they were located on the same vertical
line. Choose the correct alternative.
(A) Both the particles will lie on a vertical line until
either of the ball hits the ground
(B) Acceleration of the centre of mass of two particles
will be g downwards
(C) Horizontal displacement of the particle lying at h1
is less and the particle lying at h2 is more than the
value, which would had been in the absence of charges
on them.
(D) All of these


Sol. 22Variation of electrostatic

potential along x-direction is v
show n i n t he g ra ph. The

correct statement about
A B C
electric field is x
(A) x component at point B is maximum

(B) x component at point A is towards positive x-axis
(C) x component at poin C is along negative x-axis
(D) x component at point C is along positive x-axis
Sol.
20. Let V be electric potential and E the magnitude of

the electric field. At a given position, which of the
statement is true ?
(A) E is always zero where V is zero
(B) V is always zero where E is zero
(C) E can be zero where V is non zero
(D) E is always nonzero where V is nonzero 23An electric dipole moment p = (2.0iˆ + 3.0j) ˆ µC . m is
Sol. p l a ce d in a uni form e l e ct ri c fi el d

ˆ × 10 N C .
E = (3.0iˆ + 2.0 k) 5 −1

(A) The torq ue t ha t E ex er ts on p i s
ˆ
(0.6iˆ − 0.4 ˆj − 0.9 k)Nm
(B) The potential energy of the dipole is –0.6 J.
(C) The potential energy of the dipole is 0.6 J
(D) If the dipole is rotated in the electric field, the
maximum potential energy of the dipole is 1.3 J.
Sol.
21. The electric potential decreases uniformly from V

to –V along X-axis in a coordinate system as we moves
from a point (–x0, 0) to (x0, 0), then the electric field
at the origin.
(A) must be equal to V/x0 (B) may be equal to V/x0
(C) must be greater than V/x0 (D) may be less than V/x0
Sol.


24. Three points charges are placed at the corners of

an equilateral triangle of side L as shown in the figure. 26. For the situation shown in the figure below (as-
–2q sume r >> lenth of dipole) mark out the correct
statement(s).
L L
p (Small dipole)
+q L +q Q
(A) The potential at the centroid of the triangle is zero.
(B) The electric field at the centroid of the triangle is zero. r
(A) Force acting on the dipole is zero
(C) The dipole moment of the system is 2 qL
pQ
(D) The dipole moment of the system is 3 qL (B) Force acting on the dipole is approximately
4πε 0r 3
Sol.
& is acting upward.
pQ
(C) Torque acting on the dipole is in clockwise
4πε 0r 2
direction
pQ
(D) Torque acting on the dipole is in anti-
4πε 0r 2
clockwise direction
Sol.
25. Particle A having positive charge is moving di-

rectly head-on towards initially stationary positively
charged particle B. At the instant when A and B are
closest together.
(A) the momenta of A and B must be equal
(B) the velocities of A and B must be equal
(C) B would have gained less kinetic energy than A
would have lost.
(D) B would have gained the same momentum as A
would have lost.
Sol.


Exercise - III (SUBJECTIVE PROBLEMS)
1. The distance between two fixed positive charges

4e and e is . How should a third charge 'q' be arranged
for it to be in equilibrium ? Under what condition will
equilibrium of the charge 'q' be stable (for displacement
on the line joining 4e and e) or will it be unstable ?
Sol. 4. Two particles A and B each carrying a charge Q are
held fixed with a separation d between then A particle
C having mass m and charge q is kept at the midpoint
of line AB. If it is displaced through a small distance x
(x<<d) perpendicular to AB,
(a) then find the time period of the oscillations of C
for q < 0.
(b) If in the above question C is displaced along AB,
find the time period of the oscillations of C for q < 0.
Sol.
2. Two particles A and B, each having a charge Q are

placed a distance d apart. Where should a particle of
charge q be placed on the perpendicular bisector of
AB so that it experiences maximum force ? What is
the magnitude of the maximum force ?
Sol.
3. A negative point charge 2q and a positive charge q

are fixed at a distance l apart. Where should a positive
test charge Q be placed on the line connecting the
charge for it to be in equilibrium? What is the nature
of the equilibrium with respect to longitudinal motions?
Sol.


5. Draw E – r graph for 0 < r < b, 7. Six charges are placed at the vertices of a regular
if two point charges a & b are hexagon as shown in the figure. Find the electric field
located r distance apart, when 0 on the line passing through O and perpendicular to
a r b
(i) both are +ve plane of the figure as a function of distance x from
(ii) both are –ve point O. +Q –Q
(iii) a is +ve and b is –ve

(iv) a is –ve and b is +ve –Q +Q
O
Sol.
+Q –Q
a
Sol.
6. A charge + 10–9 C is located at the origin in free

space & another charge Q at (2, 0, 0). If the X-
component of the electric field at (3, 1, 1) is zero,
8. The figure shows three infinite non-conducting plates
calculate the value of Q. Is the Y-component zero at
of charge perpendicular to the plane of the paper
(3, 1, 1) ?
with charge per unit area +σ, +2σ and –σ. Find the
Sol.
ratio of the net electric field at that point A to that
at point B.
+ +
+ +
+ +
+ A + B
+ +
+ +
+ +
+
5m 5m
Sol.


9. A thin circular wire of radius r has a charge Q. If a

point charge q is placed at the centre of the ring, 11. In the following figures find the magnitude of
then find the increase in tension in the wire. electric field at a point 'P' on the axis of the square.
Sol. The distance of 'P' from the centre is 'x'.
q a q –q q –q –q
a
q q q –q q q
(i) (ii) (iii)
Sol.
10. In the figure shown S is a large nonconducting

sheet of uniform charge density σ. A rod R of length l
and mass ‘m’ is parallel to the sheet and hinged at its
mid point. The linear charge densities on the upper
and lower half of the rod are shown in the figure. Find
the angular acceleration of the rod just after it is
released.
R
s
Sol.


12. In the above question find electric field for two Sol.
cases
(a) x = 0 (b) x > > a
Sol.
14. A particle of mass m, charge q > 0 and initial

kinetic energy K is projected from infinity toward a
heavy nucleus of charge Q assumed to have a fixed
position.
(a) If the aim is perfect, how close to the centre of
the nucl eus i s t he p ar ti cl e when i t come s
instantaneously to rest ?
Sol.
(b) With a particular imperfect aim the particle's closest

approach to nucleus is twice the distance determined
in (a) Determine speed of particle at the closest
distance of approach.
Sol.
13. A charge of 8 mC is located at the origin. Calculate

the work done by external agent in taking a small
charge of –2 × 10–9 C from a point A (0, 0, 0.03 m) to
a point B(0, 0.04m, 0) via a point C(0, 0.06m, 0.09m).


15. Three point charges are arranged at the three Sol.

vertices of a triangle as shown in figure. Given : q =
10–7C. Calculate the electrostatic potential energy of
the system.
–4q
10cm 10cm
+q 10cm +2q
Sol.
16. Eight equal point charges each of charge 'q' and

mass 'm' are placed at eight corners of a cube of side
'a'.
q a
q
q
q
q
q
q q
A
(i) Find out potential energy of charge system
(ii) Find out work done by external agent against
electrostatic forces and by electrostatic forces to
increase all sides of cube from a to 2a
(iii) If all the charges are released at rest then find out
their speed when they are at the corners of cube of
side 2a.
(iv) If keeping all other charges fix, charge of corner
'A' is released then find out its speed when it is at
infinite distance ?
(v) If all charges are released at rest then find out
their speed when they are at a very large distance
from each other.


17. A simple pendulum of length l and bob mass m is 19. A point charge +q & mass 100 gm experiences a
hanging in front of a large nonconducting sheet having force of 100 N at a point a distance 20 cm from a long
surface charge density σ. If suddenly a charge +q is infinite uniformly charged wire. If it is released find its
given to the bob & it is released from the position speed when it is at a distance 40 cm from wire
shown in figure. Find the maximum angle through which Sol.
the string is deflected from vertical.
+
+
+
+
l
+
+
+
Sol.
18. A charge +Q is uniformly distributed over a thin

ring with radius R. A negative point charge –Q and
mass m starts from rest at a point far away from the
centre of the ring and moves towards the centre.
Find the velocity of this particle at the moment it
passes through the centre of the ring.
Sol.
20. Consider the configuration of a system of four

charges each of value +q. Find the work done by
external agent in changing the configuration of the
system from figure (i) to fig (ii).
+q +q +q
a
a
+q +q
+q +q
a +q
fig(i) fig(ii)


Sol. 21. Two identical particles of mass m carry charge Q

each. Initially one is at rest on a smooth horizontal
plane and the other is projected along the plane directly
towards the first from a large distance with an initial
speed V. Find the closest distance of approach.
Sol.
22. A particle of mass m and negative charge q is

thrown in a gravity free space with speed u from the
point A on the large non conducting charged sheet
with surface charge density σ, as shown in figure.
Find the maximum distance from A on sheet where
the particle can strike.
Sol.


23. Three charges 0.1 coulomb each are placed on

the corners of an equilateral triangle of side 1 m. If
the energy is supplied to this system at the rate of 1
kW, how much time would be required to move one of
the charges onto the midpoint of the line joining the
other two ?
Sol.
26. A charge 'q' is carried from a point A (r, 135°) to
point B(r, 45°) following a path which is a quadrant of

circle of radius 'r'. If the dipole moment is P . then
find out the work done by external agent ?
A B
r 90° r
P
Sol.
24. Two identical nonconducting spherical shells having

equal charge Q are placed at a distance d apart. When
they are released find out kinetic energy of each sphere
when they are at a large distance.
Sol. 27. Find out force experienced by short dipole P0 is
following different arrangements as shown in figures.

[Assume point charge is Q, P0 = q0 (2a) and P = q(2a) ]
y
P0 Q
(i)
r axis x
P0 Q
(ii)
r
25. If E = 2x2î – 3y2ˆj then find v(x, y, z) equitorial
P0 P
Sol.
(iii)
r axial for P0
P0
P
(iv)
r equitorial for P0


Sol. 28. Find out the magnitude of electric field intensity

at point (2, 0, 0) due to a dipole of dipole moment,

P = î + 3j
ˆ kept at origin ? Also find out the potential
at that point.
Sol.
29. A dipole is placed at origin of coordinate system

as shown in figure, find the electric field at point P(0,
y).
y
P (0, y)
P 45° x
Sol.


Exercise - IV (TOUGH SUBJECTIVE PROBLEMS )
Q.1 A rigid insulated wire frame in the form of a right Q.5 Two concentric rings of radii r and 2r are placed
angled triangle ABC, is set in a vertical plane as shown. with centre at origin. Two charges +q each are fixed
Two bead of equal masses m each and carrying charges at the diametrically opposite points of the rings as
q1 & q2 are connected by a cord of length l & slide shown in figure. Smaller ring is now rotated by an
without friction on the wires. Considering the case angle 90° about Z-axis then it is again rotated by 90°
when the beads are stationary, determine. about Y-axis. Find the work done by electrostatic
forces in each step. If finally larger ring is rotated by
A 90° about X-axis, find the total work required to
P perform all three steps.
q1 y
l q Q +q
2
30° 60° +q
B C
Horizon x
(a) The angle α. +q
z +q
(b) The tension in the cord &
(c) The normal reaction on the beads. If the cord is
Q.6 Two identical balls of charges q1 & q2 initially have
now cut, what are the values of the charges for which
equal velocity of the same magnitude and direction.
the beads continue to remain stationary.
After a uniform electric field is applied for some time,
the direction of the velocity of the first ball changes
by 60° and the magnitude is reduced by half. The
Q.2 A clock face has negative charges –q, –2q, –3q,
direction of the velocity of the second ball changes
..........., –12q fixed at the position of the corresponding
there by 90°. In what proportion will the velocity of
numerals on the dial. The clock hands do not disturb
the second ball changes ?
the net field due to point charges. At what time does
the hour hand point in the same direction is electric
Q.7 Small identical balls with equal charges are fixed
field at the centre of the dial.
at vertices of regular 2004 - gon with side a. At a
certain instant, one of the balls is released & a
Q.3 A circular ring of radius R with uniform positive
sufficiently long time interval later, the ball adjacent
charge density λ per unit length is fixed in the Y-Z
to the first released ball is freed. The kinetic energies
plane with its centre at the origin O. A particle of
of the released balls are found to differ by K at a
mass m and positive charge q is projected from the
sufficiently long distance from the polygon. Determine
point P ( 3R, 0, 0 ) on the positive X-axis directly the charge q of each part.
E x
towards O, with initial velocity v. Find the smallest Q.8The electric field in a region is given by E =
0
i.
value of the speed v such that the particle does not l
Find the charge contained inside a cubical volume
return of P.
bounded by the surfaces x = 0, x = a, y = 0, y = a, z =
0 and z = a. Take E0 = 5 × 103 N/C, l = 2cm and a = 1
Q.4 2 small balls having the same mass & charge &
cm.
located on the same vertical at heights h1 & h2 are
thrown in the same direction along the horizontal at Q.9 2 small metallic balls of radii R1 & R2 are kept in
the same velocity v. The 1st ball touches the ground vacuum at a large distance compared to the radii.
at a distance l from the initial vertical. At what height Find the ratio between the charges on the 2 balls at
will the 2nd ball be at this instant? The air drag & the which electrostatic energy of the system is minimum.
charges induced should be neglected. What is the potential difference between the 2 balls ?
Total charge of balls is constant.


Q.10 A nonconducting ring of mass m and radius R is Q.11 Two spherical bobs of same mass & radius having
charged as shown. The charged density i.e. charge equal charges are suspended from the same point by
per unit length is λ. It is then placed on a rough strings of same length. The bobs are immersed in a
nonconducting horizontal surface plane. At time t = liquid of relative permittivity εr & density ρ0. Find the
density σ of the bob for which the angle of divergence
0, a uniform electric field E = E0 i is switched on and
of the strings to be the same in the air & in the liquid ?
the ring start rolling without sliding. Determine the
friction force (magnitude and direction) acting on the Q.12 Find the electric field at centre of semicircular
ring, when it starts moving. ring shown in figure.
y
++
++ Y
+ –q – – + +
-- x – ++q
-- ––
- - ––
– +
+ X
–
R


Exercise - V (JEE-PROBLEMS)
1. A metallic solid sphere is placed in a uniform electric (ii) A charge +q is fixed at each of the points x = x0, x
field. The lines of force follow the path (s) shown in = 3x0, x = 5x0, ......... ∞ on the x-axis & a charge –q is
figure as fixed at each of the points x = 2x0, x = 4x0, x = 6x0,
1 ........ ∞. Here x0 is a +ve constant. Take the electric
2 potential at a point due to a charge Q at a distance r
3 Q
from it to be 4π ∈ r . Then the potential at the origin
4 0
(A) 1 (B) 2 (C) 3 (D)4 due to the above system of charges is

[IIT-96,2] q q n2
(A) 0 (B) (C) ∞ (D)
Sol. 8π ∈0 x0 n2 4π ∈0 x0
Sol.
2. A non-conducting ring of radius 0.5 m carries a

total charge of 1.11 × 10–10 C distributed non-uniformly
on its circumference producing an electric field E every
=0
where in space. The value of the line integral ∫ –E. d
=∞
(l = 0 being centre of the ring) in volts is
[IIT-97,1]
(A) + 2 (B) – 1 (C) – 2 (D) zero
Sol.
(iii) A non-conducting solid sphere of radius R is

uniformly charged. The magnitude of the electric field
due to the sphere at a distance r from its centre.
(A) increases as r increases, for r < R
(B) decreases as r increases, for 0 < r < ∞
(C) decreases as r increases, for R < r < ∞
(D) is discontinuous at r = R
Sol.
3. Select the correct alternative : [IIT-98]
(i) A + ly charged thin metal ring of radius R is fixed in
the xy–plane with its centre at the origin O. A –ly
charged particle P is released from rest at the point
(0, 0, z0) where z0 > 0. Then the motion of P is
(A) periodic, for all values of z0 satisfying 0 < z0 < ∞ 1
(B) simple harmonic, for all values of z0 satisfying 0 < z0 ≤ R 4. (a) The dimension of   e0E2 (e0 : permittivity of
2
(C) approximately simple harmonic, provided z0 << R
free space; E : electric field) is [IIT-2000(Scr)]
(D) such that P crosses O & continues to move along
the –ve z-axis towards x = – ∞ (A) MLT–1 (B) ML2T–2 (C) MLT–2 (D) ML2T–
Sol. (E) ML T
–1 –2
Sol.


(b) Three charges Q, +q and +q are placed at the

5. Three positive charges of equal value q are placed
verticles of a right-angled isosceles triangle as shown.
at the vertices of an equilateral triangle. The resulting
The net electrostatic energy of the configuration is
lines of force should be sketched as in
zero if Q is equal to [IIT-2001(Scr)]
Q
(A) (B)
+q +q
a
−q −2q
(A) (B) (C) –2q (D) +q (C) (D)
1+ 2 2+ 2
Sol.
Sol.
6. A small ball of mass 2 × 10–3 Kg having a charge of

(c) Four point charges + 8µC, –1µC, –1µC and + 8µC, 1µC is suspended by a string length 0.8m. Another
identical ball having the same charge is kept at the
27 3 3 point of suspension. Determine the minimum horizontal
are fixed at the points, – m, – m, + m and
2 2 2 velocity which should be imparted to the lower ball so
that it can make complete revolution.
27
+ m respectively on the y-axis. A particle of mass [IIT-2001]
2 Sol.
6 × 10–4 kg and of charge + 0.1µC moves along the –x
direction. Its speed at x = + ∞ is v0. Find the least
value of v0 for which the particle will cross the origin.
Find also the kinetic energy of the particle at the origin.
Assume that space is gratity free. (Given : 1/(4πε0) = 9
×109 Nm2/C2) [IIT-2000,10]
Sol.


7. Two equal point charges are fixed at x = –a and x 10. Six charges, three positive and three negative of
= +a on the x-axis. Another point charge Q is placed equal magnitude are to be placed at the vertices of a
at the origin. The change in the electrical potential regular hexagon such that the electric field at O is
energy of Q, when it is displaced by a small distance x double the electric field when only one positive charge
along the x-axis, is approximately proportional to of same magnitude is placed at R. Which of the following
[JEE 2002 (Scr).] arrangements of charges is possible for P, Q, R, S, T
(A) x (B) x2 (C) x3 (D) 1/x and U respectively ? [JEE 2004 (SCR)]
Sol.
P Q
U R
O
T S
(A) +, –, +, –, –, + (B) +, –, +, –, +, –
(C) +, +, –, +, –, – (D) –, +, +, –, +, –
8. Charges +q and –q are located at the corners of a Sol.
cube of side a as shown in the figure. Find the work
done to separate the charges to infinite distance.
[JEE-2003]
–q +q
–q
+q
–q
+q
–q +q
Sol. 11. Two uniformly charged infinitely large planar sheet

S1 and S2 are held in air parallel to each other with
separation d between them. The sheets have charge
distribution per unit area σ1 and σ2 (Cm–2), respec-
tively, with σ1 > σ2. Find the work done by the electric
field on a point charge Q that moves from S1 towards
S2 along a line of length a (a < d) making an angle π/4
with the normal to the sheets. Assume that the charge
Q does not affect the charge distributions of the
sheets. [JEE 2004]
Sol.
9. A charge +Q is fixed at the origin of the co-ordinate

system while a small electric dipole of dipole-moment

p pointing away from the charge along the x-axis is
set free from a point far away from the origin.
(a) calculate the K.E. of the dipole when it reaches to
a point (d, 0) [JEE 2003]
(b) calculate the force on the charge +Q at this
moment.
Sol.


12. Which of the following groups do not have same q

dimensions - (A) The electric field at point O is directed
8 πε 0R 2
(A) Young’s modulus, pressure stress along the negative x-axis
(B) work, heat, energy (B) The potential energy of the system is zero
(C) electromotive force, potential difference, voltage (C) The magnitude of the force between the charges
(D) electric dipole, electric flux, electric field q2
Sol. at C and B is
54 πε 0R2
q
(D) the potential at point O is 12 π ε R
0
Sol.
13. Positive and negative point charges of equal

 a  a
ma gni tude ar e ke pt at  0, 0,  a nd  0, 0,–  ,
 2  2
respectively. The work done by the electric field when
another positive point charge is moved from (–a, 0, 0)
to (0, a, 0) is - 15. A few electric field lines for a system of two charges
Q1 and Q2 fixed at two different points on the x - axis
(A) positive (B) negative (C) zero
are shown in the figure. These lines suggest that
(D) depends on the path connecting the initial and
final positions [JEE 2007]
Sol.
Q1 Q2
(A) |Q1| > |Q2| (B) |Q1| < |Q2|

(C) at a finite distance to the left of Q1 the electric
field is zero.
(D) at a finite distance to the right of Q2 the electric
field is zero. [JEE 2010]
Sol.
q q 2q
14. Consider a system of three charges , and –
3 3 3
placed at points A, B and C, respectively, as shown in
the figure. Take O to be the centre of the circle of
radius R and angle CAB = 60° [JEE 2008]
Figure :
B
C
O x
60°
A


16. Under the influence of the Coulomb field of charge 18. Four point charges, each of +q are rigidly fixed at
+Q, a charge –q is moving around it in an elliptical the four corners of a square planar soap film of side
orbit. Find out the correct statement(s) 'a'. The surface tension of the soap film is γ . the
(A) The angular momentum of the charge –q is constant system of charges and planar film are in equilibrium,
(B) The linear momentum of the charge –q is constant 1/N
(C) The angular velocity of the charge –q is constant  q2 
and a = k   , where 'k' is a constant. Then N is
(D) The linear speed of the charge –q is constant  γ 
[JEE 2010] [JEE 2011]
Sol. Sol.
19. A wooden block performs SHM on a frictionless

17. A tiny spherical oil drop carrying a net charge q is surface with frequency, v0. The block carries a charge
balanced in still air with a vertical uniform electric
81π +Q on its surface. If now a uniform electric field E is
field of strength × 10 5 Vm −1 . When the field is switched-on as shown, then the SHM of the block will
7
be
switched off, the drop is observed to fall with termi-
nal velocity 2 × 10 –3 ms–1 Given g = 9.8 ms –2 , vis-
cosity of the air = 1.8 × 10–5 Ns m –2 and the den- E
sity of oil = 900 kg m –5 , the magnitude of q is : +Q
(A) 1.6 × 10–19C (B) 3.2 × 10–19C
(C) 4.8 × 10–19C (D) 8.0 × 10–19C
[JEE 2010]
Sol.
(A) of the same frequency and with shifted mean
position
(B) of the same frequency and with the same mean
position
(C) of changed frequency and with shifted mean po-
sition
(D) of changed frequency and with the same mean
position [JEE 2011]
Sol.


ANSWER KEY EXERCISE - I
1. D 2. C 3. D 4. B 5. D 6. A 7. D
8. B 9. B 10. D 11. A 12. A 13. A 14. D
15. A 16. B 17. B 18. B 19. B 20. B 21. D
22. C 23. D 24. B 25. B 26. B 27. B 28. B
29. D 30. C 31. B 32. B 33. B 34. A 35. C
36. B 37. A 38. D 39. B 40. B 41. B 42. C
43. B 44. D 45. C 46. A 47. A 48. D 49. B
50. C 51. B 52. A 53. A 54. D 55. B 56. B
57. A 58. A 59. C 60. D 61. C 62. C
ANSWER KEY EXERCISE - II
1. C,D 2. B,D 3. B 4. C,D 5. A,D 6. B 7. A,C
8. A 9. A,B,D 10. A,C 11. A,B,C 12. A 13. B,D 14. B
15. A,D 16. B,C 17. A,C 18. A 19. D 20. C 21. B
22. D 23. A,B,D 24. A,D 25. B,C,D 26. B,C
ANSWER KEY EXERCISE - III
2
1. from charge 4e (If q is positive stable, If q is negative unstable)
3
d 4 Qq
2. , , 3. a = l(1 + 2 ), the equilibrium will be stable
2 2 3 3 πε0d2
m π 3 ε 0 d3 m π 3 ε 0 d3
4. a) (b)
Qq 2 Qq


E E E E
5. (i) a b r (ii) a b r (iii) a b r (iv) a b r
3/2
3 qQ
6. –   3 × 10–9C 7. 0 8. 0 9.
 11 8 π 2 ε 0r 2
3σλ 4Kqx 2Kqa

10. 2m ∈0 11.(i) 3/2 , along the axis, (ii) 0 (iii) 3/2
 a2  a2 
 + x2   + x2 
 2   2 
4 2Kq 4Kq 2Kqa

12. (a) (i) 0 (ii) 0 (iii) , (b) (i) 2 (ii) 0 (iii)
a 2
x x3
1 1 Qq K
13. W = Kqq0  r – r  = 1.2 J 14. (a) 4 πε K (b) 15. –9.0 × 10–3 J
 B A 0 m
4Kq2  3 1  2Kq2  3 1  2Kq2  3 1 

16. (i) 3 + +  (ii) Wext = – 3 + +  , Wel = 3 + + 
a  2 3 a  2 3 a  2 3
Kq2  3 1  2Kq2  3 1  Kq2  3 1 

(iii) 3 + +  (iv) 3 + +  (v) 3 + + 
2ma  2 3 ma  2 3 ma  2 3
 σ q0  2kQ 2
17. 2 tan −1  18. 19. 20 ln 2
 2ε 0mg  mR
kq2 Q2 2ε 0 u 2 m
20. – (3 – 2 ) 21. 2 22.
a mπε 0 V qσ
1 Q2
23. 1.8 × 105 sec 24. K.E. =
2 4 πε 0 d
2x3 2qp
25. – + y3 + C 26.
3 4 πε 0 r 2
2KP0 Q KP0 Q 6KP0P 3KP0P

27. (i) (– i ) (ii) j (iii) i (iv) ( + ĵ )
r3 r3 r4 r4
7K K kP
28. |E| = ,V= [where K = 1/4 π∈0] 29. 3
(– i – 2 j )
8 4 2y


ANSWER KEY EXERCISE - IV
kq1q2
Q.1 (a) 60°(b) mg +
2
2
(c) 3 mg, mg. q1 & q2 should have unlike charges for the beads to remain stationaly & q2q2 = – mgl /k
λq 2
 
Q.2 9.30 Q.3 2ε 0 m Q.4 H2 = h1 + h2 – g  
 V
8 4  Kq2 v
Q.5 W first step =  –  , W second step = 0, W total = 0 Q.6 Q.7 4 πε 0Ka
3 5 r 3
Q 1 R1 ε r ρ0 4kq
Q.8 = Q.9 λ R E0 i Q.10 σ = Q.11 – i Q.12 A,D
Q 2 R2 εr – 1 πR2
ANSWER KEY EXERCISE - V
1. D 2. A 3. (i) A, C, (ii) D, (iii) A, C
4. (a) E, (b) B, (c) v0 = 3 m/s ; K.E. at the origin = (27 – 10 6 ) × 10–4 J approx. 2.5 × 10–4 J
5. C 6. 5.86 m/s 7. B
1 q2 4 P Q QP
8. –
4 πε 0 a
.
6
[
3 3 –3 6 – 2 ] 9. (a) K.E. = 4 πε 2 , (b)
0 d 2πε 0 d3
along positive x-axis
(σ1 − σ2 ) Qa
10. D 11. 12. D 13. C 14. C 15. A,D
2 2 ε0
16. A 17. D 18. 0003 19. A


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ELECTROST

S.NO. TOPIC PAGE NO.

2. Coloumb's Law ............................................................................................... 5 – 14

3. Electric field ................................................................................................... 14 – 29

4. Conservative force .......................................................................................... 29 – 32

5. Electrostatic Potential Energy ....................................................................... 32 – 36

6. Electric Potential ........................................................................................... 36 – 40

7. Relation Between E and V ............................................................................. 40 – 41

8. Electric lines of force ..................................................................................... 41 – 43

9. Equipotential Surface ..................................................................................... 43 – 45

10. Electric dipole .............................................................................................. 45 – 52

11. Exercise - I................................................................................................... 53 – 67

12. Exercise - II ................................................................................................. 68 – 73

13. Exercise - III ................................................................................................. 74 – 82

14. Exercise - IV ................................................................................................ 83 – 84

15. Exercise - V ................................................................................................. 85 – 89

16. Answer key .................................................................................................. 90 – 92

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Coulomb’s law; Electric field and potential; Electrical Potential

energy of a system of point charges and of electrical dipoles in

a uniform electrostatic field, Electric field lines;

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(b) Structure of Atom :

(c) Electric Charge

(d) Types of Charge

(e) Units of Charge

(f) Properties of Charge

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(h) Charging of Bodies :

(i) Charging of Conductors :

To charge the bodies through friction one of them has to be an insultator.

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394,50 - Rajeev Gandhi Nagar Kota, Ph. No. : 93141-87482, 0744-2209671

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Kq1 × 1 Kq2 × 1 Kq3 × 1

2.1 Vector forms of Coloumb’s law

394,50 - Rajeev Gandhi Nagar Kota, Ph. No. : 93141-87482, 0744-2209671

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From the figure the different forces acting on A are given as

→ Kq2 (–aˆi – aj)

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Kq2 9 × 109 × (10–7 )2

Let the charge q be positive. F2

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or x2 = 4(a – x)2 ∴ x = 2a/3

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Solving equation (1) and (2) we get

Thus be two possibilities are shown in figure

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kq2 1 K(2 × 10–8 )2