S K –TUTORIALS-JAMAKHANDI

Chapter-2
Electrostatic Potential and Capacitance
Introduction:
When a charged particle moves in a electric field, the field exerts a force that can do work on the
particle. This work can always be expressed in terms of electrostatic potential energy. Just as
gravitational potential energy depends on the height of an object above the earth surface, electric
potential energy depends on the position of charged particle in the electric field. Electric potential
energy can described using a concept called electric potential or simply potential.
Electrostatic potential energy:

Consider a point charge +q placed at point O. The charge +q set up electrostatic field
which is theoretically extends upto infinity. If a small +ve test charge +q is placed at infinity, then
potential energy of +q 0 is zero. As +q 0 at infinity is moved towards to +q, work will have to be
done against electrostatic force of repulsion. This work done is stored in + q 0 in the form of
potential energy.
∴ P.E. of +q 0 at point A is

U A =W A = work done in bringing +q0 from infinity toA

Similarly P.E. of +q0 at point B is

U B=W B = work done in bringing +q0 from infinity point B.

Electrostatic Potential:
Define electric potential. Write the S.I unit and define ( 1 or 2 M)
It is defined as potential energy per unit charge.
From above fig.
W A UA WB U B
Electric potential at A,V A = = and at B is V B= =
q0 q0 q0 q0

Clearly V B> V AThus if +q0 = 1 than V A =W B∧V B=W B

Definition: The electrostatic potential at any point in an electrostatic field is defined as the work
done in carrying a unit positive charge from infinity to that point against the electrostatic force of
the field.
Note:
 Electric potential is a scalar quantity;
 S.I unit of electric potential is J/C which is also called volt.
 Definition: electric potential at a point in the electric field is one volt if one joule of work
is done in moving one coulomb charge from infinite to that point in the electric field
 Dimensional formula –[ML2T-3A-1]

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Electric potential difference:

Define electric potential difference and state its S.I units
Electric potential difference between two points in an electric field is the amount of work done in
carrying unit positive charge from point of lower potential to the point of higher potential.

Consider a point +q placed at 0 in space. The point A and B are in electric field of charge
WA WB
+q Electrostatic potential at A V A = and at B VB =
q0 q0

W B W A W B−W A W AB
∴VB - VA = − = =
q0 q0 q0 q0

S.I unit is volt(V)

Potential difference between two points in electric field is 1volt if 1J work is done to 1C charge
from one point to another point
Potential due to a point charge:
Derive the expression for electric potential at a point due to point charge (3 M)

Consider a point charge +q placed at O in free space, let P is the point at a distance r from O i.e
OP = r

Consider a some intermediate point

A (+1 c) at a distance x from O then magnitude of electrostatic force an unit charge at A is
1 q x1
F = 4πϵ 2 ----------- (1)
0 x

The work done in moving 1C of charge from A to B is

dw = - F dx
Where negative sign indicates that the work is done in opposite to the direction of electric field.
The total work in moving 1C of charge from x = ∞ to x = r can be calculated using integration
r
W =∫ dw
∞

= ∫ −F . dx ---------------- (2)
∞

Sub (1) in (2)

r
−1 q
=∫ dx
∞ 4 π ϵ 0 x2
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r
−q
W= ∫ 1 dx
4 π ϵ 0 ∞ x2

[ ]
r
−q −1
W=
4 π ϵ0 x ∞

=
q
[ ]
1 1
−
4 π ϵ0 r ∞

W=
q
[]
1
4 π ϵ0 r

By definition this work done is equal to the electrostatic potential V at the point P due to the
charge q.
1 q
V = 4πϵ r
0

Potential at a point due to a system of charges:

State the principle of of superposition of electric potential. Find expression for the electric potential at a point
due to number electric charges (3-M)
Electric potential at any point P due to a group of point charges q 1, q2, q3 …..... qn is equal to
the algebraic sum of the potential due to q1, q2, q3 ------- qn at point P

Let the distance of q1 q2 _ _ _ _ _ qn be r1 r2 r3 _ _ _ _rn respectively from point the point P.

Further.

Let V1V2 V3_ _ _ _Vn be the potentials at P due to the charges q1 q2 q3 _ _ _ qn respectively.

1 q1
Potential at P due charge q1 , V1=
4 π ϵ 0 r1

1 q2
Potential at P due to charge q2, V2=
4 π ϵ 0 r2

Similarly
1 qn
Potential at P due the charge qn , Vn =
4 π ϵ 0 rn

From superposition principle

V = V1 + V2 + ……. Vn
1 q1 1 q2 −−+1 qn
= + ±
4 π ϵ 0 r 1 4 π ϵ 0 r 2 4 π ϵ0 r n

=
1
(
q1 q 2 −−−−−+q n
+ +
4 π ϵ 0 r1 r2 rn ]
n
1 qi
V= ∑
4 π ϵ 0 i=1 r i

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Potential at a point due to Electric dipole:

Derive an expression for potential at a point due to an electric dipole(5-M)

Consider an electric dipole consisting of two charges –q and +q at A and B separated

by a small distance 2a. Let 0 be the center of the dipole. It is desired to find the potential at any
point P due to this dipole

, where OP = r and ∠ POB=θ Suppose AP = r1 and BP = r2 draw BD⟘ OP and AC ⊥PC

produced.

From ∆AOC, cosθ= OA then OC = a cosθ

OC

Form ∆OBD, cosθ= OB then OD = a cosθ

OD

Potential at P due to dipoles is

q q q
[ 1
VP = 4 π ϵ r − 4 π ϵ r = 4 π ϵ r − r −−−−−−¿ (1)
0 2 0 1 0 2 1
1
]
Now r1= AP ≈ CP = OP + OC = r +a cosθ
r2 = BP ≈ DP=OP−OC =r−acos θ
Sub in equation (1)

∴ VP =
q
[ 1
−
1
4 π ϵ 0 r −acos θ r + a cosθ ]
q
= 4πϵ ¿
0

¿
q
[ 2 acosθ
4 π ϵ 0 ( r −a2 co s 2 θ )
2
]
But P = q x 2q
PCOSθ
∴Vp= 2 2 2
4 π ϵ 0 (r −a co s θ)

In practice OD (= acosθ ) is very small as compared to p = r. Therefore a2cos2θ can be

neglected as compared to r2

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Pcosθ
∴Vp = 2
4 π ϵ0 r
1 ⃗p ∙ r^
In vector form ,Vp = 4 π ϵ 2 Where ⃗p ∙ r^ =PCosθ
0 r

Special case:
 When a point P lies on the axial line of dipole, in this case θ=0 or 180
1 P
∴ Vp = ± ∴
4 π ϵ 0 r 2 positive sign for
θ=0. Negative sign for θ=180

 When point P lies on the equatorial line of dipole. In this case θ=90 so that
PCos 90
Vp = 2
=0. Then electric potential at any point on the equatorial line of dipole is zero
4 π ϵ0 r

Equipotential surface:
What is an equipotential surface? Draw equipotential surface for (i)uniform electric field (ii)isolated point charge
(iii) pair of similar charges and (iv) an electric dipole (1,2,3-M)
Write the properties of eqipotential surface (2 or 3M)
Any surface which has same electric potential at every point is called equipotential. In other
words the potential difference between any two points of an equipotential surface is zero.
Properties of equipotential surface:
i) No work is done in moving a test charge over an equipotential surface.
ii) Electric field is always normal to the equipotential surface at very point.
iii) The spacing between equipotential surface enables us to identify regions of strong and weak
field.
iv) Two equipotential surface can never intersect.
Examples :
1) Isolated point charges : The potential at a point p at a distance r from a point charge is
1 q
given by VE = 4 π ϵ r
0

It is clear that potential at various points equidistant from the point

charge is the same. Hence in case of an isolated point charge, the spheres

concentric with charge will be the equipotential surface.

2) Uniform electric filed :

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Uniform electric field, the field lines are straight and equally spaced. Therefore
equipotential
surfaces will be parallel planes at right angles to field line.
3) For a system of two point charges:
finger shows the equipotential surfaces and electric lines of force for two equal positive
charges and pair of equal and opposite charges respectively .we construct the contours of
equipotential surface by making them everywhere perpendicular to the electric lines of force

[
Relation between electric field and electric potential: derive E=
−dv
dx ]
Establish the relation between electric field and potential(2014,2015-3M)

Consider a two points A and B in the electric field of charge +q located at O. let A &B are
separated by a
small distance ∆ x .q0is unit positive charge placed at A.
dv is the potential difference between A and B. we have
dv = work done in bringing charge q0 from A to B

dv =
dw
q0[∴V =
W
q ]
−F dx
dv = q0

Negative sign indicate that the field and displacement are in opposite direction

[
dv = -E dx ∴ q =E
0
F
]
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−dv
E=
dx

dv
The quantity is the rate of change of potential with distance is called potential gradient
dx
Hence field at any point is equal to the negative potential gradient at that point
Electric potential energy of a system (group) of point charges:
Definition: The energy possessed by group of point charges due to their position is called electric
potential energy of charge system.
OR
“ The potential electric potential energy of a system of point charge is the work needed to bring
the charges from infinite separation to their final positions”.

Electric potential energy of system of two point charges in the absence of electric field:
Derive an expression for potential energy of a system of two charges in the absence of the external electric field
(2014-3M)

Imagine the charges q1 and q2 are initially at

infinity first, the charge q1 is brought from infinity to the point A and no work is done for this.
This is becomes there is no electric field to oppose this charge. Consider a another point B at a
distance r from A electric potential at B due to q1 is given by
1 q1
V 1=
4 π ϵ0 r

Next, the charge q2 is brought from infinity to the point B. When the charge q 2 is moved
the electric field due to q1 is opposes it. Hence work has to be done.
Work done in bringing the charge q2 from infinity to point B.

[
W =V 1 x q2 V =
W
q0
⇒ w=qV
]
1 q1
W= x q2
4 π ϵ0 r

This work done is stored in the charges as potential energy and is given by
1 q1 q 2
P.E = U ¿
4 π ϵ0 r

Electric potential energy due to system of charges:

Derive an expression for potential energy of a system of three point charges in the absence of the external
electric field (3M)

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Consider a system of three chargesq 1,q 2 and q 3 placed at A, B and C respectively.

AB=r 1, BC=r 2, CA=r 3.
First the chargeq 1 is brought from infinity to the position A and no work is done for this. Next,
The charge q 2 is brought from infinity to B at a distance r 1 from q 1.
1 q1q2
The work done is U 1=
4 π ϵ0 r

The charges q 1and q 2 produce electric field all around. The electric
potential at a point C which is at a distance r 3 form q 1and r 2 from q 2 is
1 q1 1 q2
V= +
4 π ϵ0 r 3 4 π ϵ 0 r 2

The work done in bringing q 3 from infinity to C

U 2=
( 1 q1
+
1 q2
)
4 π ϵ 0 r3 4 π ϵ 0 r 2
q 3=
1 q1 q3
+
1 q2 q
4 π ϵ 0 r3 4 π ϵ 0 r2
3

Hence total work done in assembling the three charges at the location A, B and C is

1 q1 q 2 1 q1 q 3 1 q2 q
U =U 1+ U 2= + + 3

4 π ϵ0 r 4 π ϵ 0 r3 4 π ϵ 0 r2

=
1
4 π ϵ0 r[
q 1 q 2 q1 q 3 q2 q
+
r3
+
r2
3

]
This expression gives the potential energy of system of three charges.
Potential energy in an external electric field:
1) P.E of a single charges in an external electric field : The external electric field E and the
corresponding external potential may vary from point to point. Consider a point P in an
external field E. Where a potential is V. It desired to find the potential energy of a charge q at
the point P.
Work done in bringing a charge q from infinite to point P is
dW = qV
This work done is stored charged particle in the form of potential energy
2) P.E of a system of two point charge in external Electric field:
Derive an expression for potential energy of two point charges in a uniform electric field.(3M)

Let q1 and q2 be two point charges at points P and Q having positive vectors r1 and r2 respectively
in external electric field E. suppose V ( r⃗1 ) is potential at P and V( r⃗2 ) is the potential at Q due to
external field. The total P.E of two charges in the external field consists of three parts.
i) Work done in bringing a charge q1 from infinity to position r1 is W = q1V (⃗ r1 ¿

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∴ U 1 = W1 = q1 V(r⃗ 1 ¿ --------- (1)

ii) Work done in bringing a charge q1from infinity to position ⃗
r 2 is W2 = q2 V (⃗
r2 )
∴ U 2=W 2=q 2 V (⃗
r 2 ) ----------- (2)
iii) Which bringing q2 from infinity to position ⃗
r 2, work has also to be done against the field due
to q1 this work done is
1 q1 q 2
W3 = U3 = ------- (3)
4 π ϵ 0 r 12

Total P.E of system is

U = U1 + U2 +U3
1 q1 q 2
U =¿q1 V(⃗
r 1 ¿+¿q2 V (⃗
r2 ¿ +
4 π ϵ 0 r 12

P.E of a dipole in an external field:

Derive an expression for potential energy of an electric dipole in a uniform electric field.(3-M)
Consider a dipole with charges –q and +q is placed in a uniform electric field E.
When a dipole is placed in an uniform electric field. It experiences no net force, but experiences a
torque() and q by
⃗ ⃗
❑= Px⃗
E =PESinθ

Suppose an external ❑ex is applied in such a manner that just neutralizes this torque and rotate it
in plane of paper from θ 0 to angle θ 1 without angles an acceleration.
The amount of work done by external torque will be given by
θ1 θ1

W =∫ ❑ex ( θ ) dθ= ∫ PE sinθ dθ

θ0 θ0

W =PE¿
π
This work is stored as the P.E of the system, choosing the initial angle θ0 −
2
∴ U ( θ )=PE ¿

U ( θ )=−PE cos θ or U ( θ ) = - ⃗
P.⃗
E

Behavior of Conductor in the Electrostatic Field

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1. Net electric field intensity in the interior of a conductor is zero.

A conductor contains large number of free electrons. When it is placed in the
electrostatic field( ⃗ E 0), each electron experiences a force ( ⃗ F =−e ⃗ E0 ) in a direction opposite to
the direction of applied field ⃗ E0 . This force causes, free electron in the conductor to move in a
direction of the applied electric field ⃗ E0 . Accordingly in figur, side A of the conductor
becomes positively charged due to the transfer of free electrons to the side B. Thus, side B of
the conductor becomes negatively charged. In other words, side A of the conductor becomes
negatively charged. In other words, side B of the conductor has less electrons and side B of
the conductor has more electrons.
This re-distribution of charges will create its own additional field called induced
electric field. ( ⃗
E p ) .The induced electric field acts in a direction opposite to the direction of
external field ( ⃗ E ¿ ¿ 0)¿ but its magnitude is equal to the magnitude of the external electric
field inside the conductor. Hence, net electric field, ⃗ Enet in the interior of the conductor placed
in the electrostatic field is zero.
2. Electric field just outside the charged conductor is perpendicular to the surface of the
conductor.
Suppose, electric field ( ⃗ E )is not perpendicular to the surface of a conductor. Let ⃗ E
makes an angle θ with surface of the conductor, then E cos θ is tangential component of the
field (figure 15).
This tangential component of electric field will cause flow of charges i.e., surface
current. But there is no surface current in electrostatics because conductor placed in the
electrostatic field finally has static charges. Thus, electric field just outside the surface can
only have a normal component and no tangential component.
i.e E cos θ = 0 or cos θ=0 or θ=90 [ ∴ E≠ 0 ]
Which clearly shows that electric field just outside a charged a charged conductor is
perpendicular to the surface of the conductor at every point
3. Net charge in the interior of a conductor is zero.
→
q
According to Gauss’ theorem ∮ ⃗
E d . ⃗S =
S ϵ0

Since electric fields ⃗

E = 0 in the interior of a conductor, so the net electric charges in the
interior of a conductor is zero.
4. Charge resides on the surface of a conductor.
Consider a conductor suspended with an insulating thread. Let this conductor be given an
excess charges q. imagine a Gaussian surface (shown dotted in Figure 16) which lies just
inside and near to the surface of the conductor.
Since electric field (⃗
E ¿ in the interior of the conductor is zero, so it must also be zero for
all points on the Gaussian surface which is also inside the conductor.
According to Gauss’ law the net charge inside the Gaussian surface must be zero. If excess
charge q is not inside the Gaussian surface, than it must lie on the surface of the conductor.
Thus, charge can not reside in the interior of a conductor, it can only reside on the surface of
the conductor.
5. Electric potential is constant for the entire conductor.
In general, dv = - Edr
But ⃗ E =0 for all points in the interior of a conductor. Thus from eqn. (i), for all points in
the conductor. dV = 0 or V = constant.

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In other words, potential will be same at the surface as well as whole of the interior of a
conductor placed in an electrostatic field. Thus, conductor placed in an electrostatic field.
Thus, conductor placed in an electrostatic field is an equipotential surface.
6. Surface charge distribution may be different at different points.
Electric charge
Surface charge density, σ = may be different at different points on the
Area
surface of the conductor. Portions of a surface having positive charges will have positive
charge density. Whereas those having negative charges have negative surface charge density.
A smaller surface area say conical or pointed of the surface of a conductor will have higher
charge density.
7. Electric field at the surface of charged conductor.
Consider a charged conductor of irregular shape. Let σ be the surface charge density of the
conductor. Consider a Gaussian surface in the form of a cylinder whose half portion is inside
the conductor and half portion outside the conductor
The Gaussian cylinder has three parts, two circular ends and one curved portion. Since
electric field ⃗E = 0 inside the conductor, so no electric flux is
linked with one circular end (which is inside the conductor of the
cylinder). Also, no electric flux is linked with the curried portion
of the cylinder as electric filed ⃗ E is perpendicular to this part.
Electric flux passed only through the circular end (of area vector
d ⃗S ) of the Gaussian cylinder which is outside the inductor.
According to Gauss’ law.
q q q
∮ ⃗E . d ⃗S = ε or ∮ EdS cos 00= ε or E∮ dS= ε
0 0 0
σdS σ
Now ∮ dS =dS and q = σ dS ∴EdS =
ε0 or E = ε0
σ
E = ε n^ .
Since electric field is perpendicular to the surface of the conductor, therefore, ⃗
0

Electrostatic shielding
The method of protecting a certain region from the effect of electric filed is called
electrostatic shielding.
Sensitive instruments and appliances are affected
seriously with strong external electrostatic fields. Their
working suffers and they may not work properly under the
effect of electric fields. The electrostatic shielding can be
achieved by protecting and enclosing the sensitive instruments
inside a hollow conductor because inside hollow conductors,
electric field is zero
The absence of electric field inside the conductor means that no electric force acts
inside it. Thus, the inner sides of the hollow conductor remains unaffected by the external filed. In
other words, the appliances or instrument inside the hollow of a conductor remains shielded from
the external field.
It is for this reason that it safer to sit in a car or a bus during lighting and thunder
rather than to stand under a tree or on the open ground.
Dielectrics:
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Define polar and non polar dielectrics? Give the examples (1 or 2M)
These are the insulators which transmit electric effects without conducting the charges.
Ex: Paper, mica, ceramics, pure water, oxygen
There are two types of dielectrics,
1) Polar dielectrics 2) Non polar dielectrics
1) Polar dielectric: The molecules are polar, In this polar molecules the centre of positive charge
and center of negative charge do not coincide. They are separated even when there is no external
field such a molecules have permanent dielectric dipole moment because they have
unsymmetrical shapes.
Ex: H2O , HCl etc

2) Non polar dielectrics: The molecular are Non polar, in these non polar molecules the center of
positive charges coincides with the center of negative charges. The molecules have no permanent
dipole moment because they have symmetrical shapes.
Ex :- O2, N2, CO2, etc

Behavior of dielectric in external electric filed:

1) Non polar dielectric in electric field :

Explain how dose a net dipole moment is developed in non polar dielectrics placed in an external electric field.
(3-M)

In absence of the external

electric field, the dipole moment of a non polar molecule is zero, however when a non polar
dielectric is subjected to the external electric field E , the positive charges shifted in the direction
of electric field and negative charge in opposite direction. The molecules is said to be polarized
and arrangement becomes an electric dipole. The molecules of the material are said to be have
induced dipole moment.
The polarization of dielectric causes induced negative charges on one side of the dielectric
and equal positive charge on the opposite side. These induced charges produced an electric field
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E, that oppose the external electric field E. The result is there is a reduction of electric field within
the dielectric
.
2) Polar dielectric in electric field :

Explain how dose a net dipole moment is developed in polar dielectrics placed in an external electric field.(3M)

In the absence of the external electric Field, the polar molecules have permanent dipole
moments but these are randomly oriented. The result is that no external effect is observed. When
a polar dielectric is subjected to external field E, a torque is excreted on electric dipole causing to
be them partially aligned with the field. The degree of alignment is depends on temperature and
on magnitude of applied field.

 Dielectric polarization : [Polarization density]

Electric polarization is the dipole moment that developed per unit volume of the dielectrics
when placed in an external electric field.
dipole moment of dielectric
∴ P=
Volume of dielectric

It is a vector quantity. Its direction is in the direction of external field.

The polarization density P of a dielectric slab is found to be directly proportional to the a reduced
value of electric field i.e P = Xe E Where Xe is called susceptibility of dielectics.
 Dielectric strength: The maximum value of electric field intensity that can be applied to a
dielectric without its electric breakdown is called dielectric strength of dielectric.\
S.I unit is Vm-1
Note: dielectric stranght of dry air at NTP is 3x106vm-1
Capacitors and Capacitance:
What is capacitor?(2014-1M)
Capacitor is device used to store the electric charges. A capacitor is consists of two conducting
plates separated by a small gap with dielectric medium. The most commonly used dielectrics are
air, mica, paper, etc. A capacitor is also called as condenser.
Circuit symbol of capacitor
Capacitance:
What is capacitance of capacitor? State and define S.I unite of capacitance

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The ability of a capacitor to store charge is known as capacitance.

It has be found experimentally that charge q stored in capacitor is directly proportional to p.d (V)

qαV
across the plate of capacitor.

q
=C , C is called capacitance of capacitor.
V
It is defined as ratio of charge on the capacitor to the p.d across the plates is called capacitance of
capacitor.
 S.I unit of capacitance is Farad (F)
 If q = 1Coubmb, V = 1Volt then C = 1Farad
 A capacitor is said to have a capacitance of 1Farad if a charge of 1C accumulates on each
plate when a p.d of 1Volt is applied across the plates.
 1 μF=10−6 F
 1nF=10-9F
 1pF=10-12F
Factor on which the capacitance of parallel plate capacitor depends
The capacitance of capacitor is depends on
1) Shape of its plate. 2) Separation between plates.
3) Nature of dielectric material between plates.

Parallel palate capacitor:

Derive the expression for capacitance of parallel plate capacitor (2015-3M)
A parallel plate capacitor consists of two metal plates parallel to each other and separated by
small distance.
Consider a parallel plate capacitor of capacitance C In fig.
d is the distance between the plate parallel plate capacitor,
A is the area of each plate,
E is the uniform electric field between the plate,

Let q be the charge on capacitor,

V be p. d between plates,
σ is surface charge density on either plates.
q
We have C = −−−−−−(1)
V
Electric filed between the plates is given by
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V
E= −−−−−−−−−−−(2)
d
σ σ
And E = 2 ε + 2 ε for two thin charged plates
0 0
σ
E = ε −−−−−−−−−−−(3)
0
On comparing (2) and (3)
V σ
=
d ε0
σd
V = ε −−−−−−−−−−−−(4)
0
Sub equation (4) in (1)
q
C = σd /ε
0
qε0
C= −−−−−−−−−−−(5)
σd
q
But σ = q=σA
A
Equation (5) can be written as
σA ε 0
C=
σd
ε0 A
C=
d
Expression for capacitance of parallel palate of capacitor with dielectric medium is
ε0 εr A
C=
d
ε 0 is permittivity of free space ε r is relative permittivity of the medium between the plate

Factor on which the capacitance of parallel plate capacitor depends(2-M)

Capacitance of parallel capacitor is depends on
1) Directly proportional to area of each plate
2) Inversely proportional to distance between them
3) Directly proportional to dielectric constant of the medium between the plate
Energy stored in a capacitor:
Derive the expression for energy stored in charged capacitor (2016-3M)

Charging a capacitor means transferring electrons from one plate

of capacitor to the other. Therefore work will have to be done
because electrons are to be moved against the opposing forces.
This work done is stored in the form of electric potential energy in
the electric field between the plates.
Consider a capacitor of capacitance C being charged from a d.c source of V volt. Initially its
two plates are uncharged. The positive charge is transferred from the second plate to first plate is
very small installment of dq still the first plate acquires the final charge +q and the second plate
acquires charge –q.
At a certain instant t, during the process of charging, let q be the charge on the plates and V is p.d
between the plates.
Than q = CV −−−−−−−( 1 )

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 S K –TUTORIALS-JAMAKHANDI

The amount of work done in transferring an additional small quantity of charge dq against
the potential difference is
dW =V dq
q
dW = dq−−−−−−−¿(2)
C
Total work done in transferring the charge O to Q is
Q
W =∫ dW ----- (3)
0
Q
q
(2) in (3) W =∫ dq
0 C
Q
q
= ∫ q dq
C0

[ ]
Q
1 q2
=
C 2 0

[ ]
2
1 Q 0
= −
C 2 2
2
Q
W=
2C
The amount of Work done is stored in the capacitor as electric potential energy U in capacitor
2
Q
U=
2C
1
It is also shown that U = C V 2
2
1
= QV
2
Effect of dielectric on Capacitor:

are +Q and -Q, corresponding to surface charge density σ.

Consider a parallel plates capacitor of plates of area A and separation d. The charges on the plates

σ
Electric field between the plate is E0 = ∈ and p.d is V 0=E 0 d
0
Q ∈0 A
Capacitance C 0= =
V0 d
When a electric medium of dielectric constant K is introduced completely between the two plates
dielectric polarization take place. Due to this, electric intensity decreases.
σ−σ p
The net electric field, E= , where σ p is the induced surface charge density of the dielectric.
ϵ0

Therefore p.d V =Ed=

σ −σ p
ϵ0 ( )
d−−−−(1)

σ
But (σ −σ p)α σ or ( σ −σ p )=
K
σ
Now eqn (1) becomes V = K ϵ d = A ϵ K σ=
0
Qd
0
Q
A ( )
Q ϵ KA
Therefore the capacitance with a dielectric medium is C m= = 0
V d

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 S K –TUTORIALS-JAMAKHANDI

ϵ0 A
Note: Capacitance with air medium C a= and capacitance with dielectric medium is
d
ϵ 0 KA
C m=
d
Cm
Therefore the dielectric constant, K=
Ca
Grouping of capacitor : [Combination of capacitor]
There are two types of combination
1) Series combination
2) Parallel combination
1) Capacitor in series combination:
Derive an expression for equivalent capacitance of two capacitor connected in series (3-M or 5-M)
“The capacitors are said be connected in series when they are connected end to end”

Consider two capacitors of capacitance C1 and C2 connected in series across the battery of
V volt. Let Q be charge on each capacitor, V1 and V2 be p.d across C1 and C2
In series combination, total potential across the combination
V = V1+ V2−−−−−−−−( 1 )
Q Q
We have V1 = C , V2 = C
1 2

From (1) becomes

Q
2
Q
1 2
[ 1 1
V = C + C = Q C + C −−−−−−( 2)
1
]
If the combination is replaced by equivalent capacitor of capacitance Cs
Q
We get, V = C −−−−−−−−−(3)
5

On comparing (2) and (3)

Q
Cs
=Q
1 1
[
+
C 1 C2 ]
1 1 1
= +
C5 C1 C 2

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 S K –TUTORIALS-JAMAKHANDI

1 1 1 1 −−−+ 1
For n capacitor in series C = C + C + C ± Cn
s 1 2 3

C1C2
Note: For two capacitor in series Cs =
C1 +C 2

Capacitors in parallel:
Derive an expression for equivalent capacitance of two capacitor connected in parallel (3-M or 5M)

Capacitors are said to connected in parallel, when they are connected between two common
points such that
1) The potential difference across each capacitor is same as that applied across the combination.
2) The total charge stored in combination is equal to the sum of charge on each capacitor.

Let us consider two capacitors A and B having capacitances C 1 and C2 connected in parallel
across battery V volt. Let q1 & q2 be the charge on A and B.
In parallel combination, the total charge on combination is
Q = Q1 + Q2 −−−−−−−( 1 )
We have Q1 = C1 V and Q2 = C2 V
Eqn (1) becomes
Q = C1 V + C2 V
= V(C1 + C2) −−−−−−−( 2 )
If combination is replaced by an equivalent capacitor of capacitance Cp
We get, Q = Cp V−−−−−−−( 3 )
Comparing (2) and (3)
Cp V = V (C1 + C2)
C p = C1 + C2
For n capacitor connected in parallel
Cp = C1 + C2 + −−−−−∓¿Cn
Van – De Graff Generator :

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 S K –TUTORIALS-JAMAKHANDI
What is van de Graff generator? on what principle of van de Graff generator works (3-M)

It is an electrostatic device that is capable of accelerating charged particle by producing very

high p.d of the order of 107 volt
Principle:
1) The discharging action of pointed ends setup an electric wind
2) A charge given to a hollow conductor is transferred to the outer surface and surface
and spreads uniformly over it.
Explain the construction and working of van de Graff generator with diagram (3 or 5-M)

Construc
tion and working:
A schematic diagram of van de graff generator is shown in figure. A large spherical conducting
shell of few meter radius is supported at a height of several meter above the ground on an
insulating column. A large narrow endless belt of insulating material like rubber or silk is wound
round two pullies, one at the ground level and the second at the centre of spherical shell. This belt
is continuously kept moving by a motor driving the lower pulley. It continuously carries positive
charge spread on it by a brush at ground level, to the top. At the top, the belt transfers its positive
charge to another conducting brush connected to the large shell. Thus, positive charge is
transferred to the large shell where it spreads out uniformly on the outer surface. As the charge on
the large shell increases, its potential rises in these way potential differences of 6 to 8 million
volts with respect to ground can be built up.
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Application-It is used to accelerate charged particles (electron, protons, α-particles, etc )
S K –TUTORIALS-JAMAKHANDI

Questions bank
One and two marks question
1) What is meant by electric potential at point ?
Ans :-The electric potential at a point in an electric field equal to the work done in moving
a unit positive charge from infinity to that point against the electrostatic force of the field
along any path.
2) Does the work done in moving a charge in an electric field depend on the followed ?
And :- No. It is because electrostatic force is a conservative force Therefore, the work
done in moving charge in an electrostatic field is path independent ;it depends only on the
initial and final positions.
3) Define electric potential difference between two points
Ans :- The electric potential difference between two points in an electric field the work
done in moving a unit positive charge from the point of lower potential to the point at
higher potential along any path.
4) Explain the situation where electric potential is zero
Ans :- At a point mid-way between two equal and opposite charges electric potential is
zero while electric intensity not zero.
5) Can electric potential at a point be zero while electric intensity at that point be not zero ?
Ans :- Yes. The electric potential at the perpendicular bisector of an electric dipole is zero
while electric intensity is not zero.
6) What is the relation between electric field intensity and potential gradient at a point ?
dV
Ans :- Electric intensity E ¿
dr
7) What is the direction of electric field w.r.t equipotential surface ?
Ans:- Electric field is normal to the equipotential surface.
8) What is an equipotential surface ?
Ans :- Any surface over which electric potential is the same at every point is called an
equipotenttial surface
9) What is the shape of equipotential surface for a point charge ?
Ans :- For a point charge, the equipotential surfaces are concentric spheres whose centers
are located at the point charge.
10)What is the shape of equipotential surfaces for a uniform electric field ?
Ans :- For a uniform electric field, the equipotential surface are parallel planes at right
angles to the direction of electric field.
11)Why is electric potential of earth taken to be zero ?
Ans :- Since the size of earth is large and as it is a good conductor, the potential of the
earth remains constant regardless of the electrons taken from it or supplied to it. Fro this
reason, electric potential of is taken to be zero
12)Distinguish between electric potential and potential energy.
Ans :- Electric potential at a pointy is the amount of work done in moving a unit positive
charge from infinity to that point. However, potential energy of a charge is the energy
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 S K –TUTORIALS-JAMAKHANDI

possessed by a charge due to its position and is equal to the total amount of work done in
moving the charge from infinity that position. In other words, Potential energy of charge =
Charge x potential.
13)If two electrons are brought towards each other, then will the electric potential energy of the
system increase or decrease ?
Ans :- When two charges of the same kind (e.g electrons) are brought towards each other,
work will have to be done against the electrostatic force of repulsion. This work done is
stored in the system in the form of electric potential energy. Hence the electric potential
energy of the system increases
14)What is a capacitor ?
Ans :- A capacitor is a device used to store the electric charges.
15)What do you mean by capacitance of a capacitor ?
Ans :- The capacitance of a capacitor is defined as the ratio of charge on the plates to the
Charge on either plates q
potential difference across the plate i.e Capacitance, C =
P . D across plates V
16)On What factors the capacitance of a capacitor depend ?
Ans :- The capacitance of a capacitor depends on (i) geometry of the plates (ii) distance
between the plates (iii) dialectic medium between the plates.
17)What is the capacitance of the earth ?
Ans :- The earth capacitance is 711 μF - (a very large value).
18)Can You give amount of charge to a capacitor?
Ans :- No. The maximum charge that can be given to a capacitor is determined the
dielectric strength of the medium between the plates of the capacitor.
19)Define dielectric constant of a medium in terms of capacitance of a capacitor.
Ans :- The dielectric constant is defined as the ratio of capacitance of a capacitor with
dielectric medium between the plates to the capacitance of the same capacitor either
air/vacuum between the plates.
20)In what form is energy stored in a charged capacitor ?
Ans :- When a capacitor is charged, energy is stored in the form of electric potential
energy in the electric field between the plates.
21)Give three examples of (i) non-polar dielectrics (ii) polar dielectrics.
Ans :- (i) N2, O2 and methane (ii) HCl, NH3 and H2O
22)A dielectric material is introduced between the plates of a charged air capacitor. What will
happen to electric field between the plates ?
Ans :- The electric field will be reduced by a factor K where K is the dielectric constant of
the dielectric material :
23)Why is dielectric constant of a metal infinity ?
Air
Electric field ∈
Ans :- Dielectric constant, K = Vacum
Electric field ∈material
Since electric field inside a metal is zero, the value of K for metal is infinity.
24)What is the dipole moment of non-polar molecule ?
Ans :- The dipole moment of non-polar molecule is zero.

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 S K –TUTORIALS-JAMAKHANDI

25)Water has much heater dielectric and has permanent dipoles. However, Mica is a non-polar
dielectric.
Ans :- Because water is polar dielectric and has permanent dipoles. However, mica is a
non-polar dialectic.
26)N small drops of the same size are charged to V volt each. They coagulate to form a bigger
drop. Calculate the potential of the bigger drop.
Ans :- Let r be the radius of each drop and R be the radius of the bigger drop. Since the
volume of bigger drop is equal to that of n small drops.
27)The battery remains connected to a parallel plate capacitor and dielectric slab is inserted
between the plates. What will be the effect on its (i) capacitance, (ii) charge (iii) potential
difference (iv) electric field (v) energy stored?
Ans :- When battery remains connected to the capacitor., potential difference (V) remains
the same. (i) capacitance will increase (ii) charge. Q = CV will increase (iii) potential
difference V remains same. (iv) Electric field (V/d) will remain the same. (v) stored energy
(CV22) will increase because of increase in C.
28)A parallel plate capacitor is charged by a battry. The battry is disconnected and a dielectric
slab is inserted between the plates. What will be the effect on its (i) capacitance (ii) Charge
(iii) potential difference (iv) electric field (v) energy stored?
Ans :- (i) Capacitance will increase (ii) charges will remain the same (iii) Potential
difference will decrease (iv) Electric field will decrease (v) stored energy (q 2/2C) will
decrease
Two and three marks questions
29)Derive an expression for potential at point due to a point charge.
30)Derive an expression for potential energy of a system of two charges.
31)Derive an expression for work done in moving a charge in an electric field
32)State the principle of of superposition of electric potential. Find expression for the electric
potential at a point due to number electric charges
33)Derive an expression for potential energy of an electric dipole in a uniform electric field.
34)On What factors the capacitances of a capacitor depend?
35)What is equepotential surface ?discuses its property
36)Sketch equepotential surfaces of (1) uniform electric field (2)isolated point charge
37)Establish the relation between electric field and potential(2014,2015-3M)
Five marks questions
38)Derive an expression for the capacitance of a parallel plate air capacitor.
39)Derive an expression for potential at a point due to an electric dipole.
40)What is equivalent capacitance? Three capacitors C 1, C2 and C3 are connected in series. Derive
an expression for the equivalent capacitance.
41)Three capacitors C1, C2 and C3 are connected in parallel. Derive an expression for the
equivalent capacitance.
42)Derive an expression for the energy stored in a charged parallel plate capacitor.(2016-3M)
43)Explain the behavior of non-polar and polar dielectrics in an external electric filed.
44)Describe the principle, construction and working of Van de Graff generator.

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Problems:
1) Two tiny spheres carrying chares +1.5 μC are placed 30cm apart. Find the electric field and
electric potential at the midpoint of the line joining the two charges.
Ans :x= 4 x 105 NC-1 and x = 2.4 x 105 volt
2) Two charges 3 x 10-8 C and -2 x 10-8 C are located 15cm apart. At what points on the joining
the two charges is the two charges is the electric potential zero? Take the potential at infinity
to be zero (2014-5M)
3) Three point charge of + 1.5 x 10-3 C, + 0.2 x 10-3 C and -0.5 x 10-3 C are placed at the corners
A, B and C respectively of a right angled triangle ABC. If AB = 1.2 m and BC = 0.5 m,
calculate the potential energy of the charges at B.
Ans :U= 450 J
4) Point charges of +2 nC, +4ncC and +8 nC are placed at the corners A, B and C respectively of
a square ABCD of side 0.2 m. calculate the work required to transfer a charge of 2 x 10 -9n C
from D to centre of the square.
Ans :- U=627.6 x 10-9 joule
5) Two point charges + 8 μC and -16 μC are separated by 0.6 m distance. Find the point on the
line joining the charges at which the potential is zero.
Ans :-x = 0.2 m and x = 0.6 m
6) A charged oil drop remains stationary when situated between two horizontal parallel metal
plates separated by 0.05 m and a potential difference of 2000 V is applied between the plates.
Find the charge on the drop if its mass is 1.5 x 10-14 kg.
Ans :- ∴ q=3.675x 10-18 C
7) An electron is accelerated through a potential difference of 45.5 volt. What is the velocity
acquired by it ?
Ans : - = 4 x 106 ms-1
8) Electric charges +10 μC, +5 μC, -3 μC and +8 μC are placed at the corners of a square of side
√ 2 m.What is the potential at the centre of the square ?
Ans :- 1.8 x 105 volt
9) Three point charges of +4 μC , -2 μC and +6 μC are placed at the three corners of an
equilateral triangle of side 0.1 m. Calculate the potential energy of the system of charges.
Ans :- U= 0.36 joule
10)Three capacitors of capacitance of the 2 pF, 3 pF and 4 pF are connected in parallel.
(a) What is the total capacitance of the combination?
(b) Determine the charge on each capacitor, if the combination is connected to 100 V supply.
11)A 600 pF capacitor is charged by a 200 V supply. It is then disconnected from the supply and
is connected to another uncharged 600 pF capacitor. How much electrostatic energy is lost in
the process?
12)If one of the two electrons of a hydrogen molecule is removed, we get a hydrogen molecular
ion ¿ In the ground state of H +¿
2
,¿
the two protons are separated roughly by 1.5 A 0 and electron

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 S K –TUTORIALS-JAMAKHANDI

is roughly a 1 A0 from each proton. Determine the potential energy of the system, specify your
choice of zero of potential energy. (ans: U=-19.2eV)
13)Two tiny spheres carrying 1.5 μC and 2.5 μC are located 30 cm apart. Find the potential and
electric field (a) at the mid point of the line joining the two charges and (b) at a point 10 cm
from this mid point in a plane normal to the line and passing through the mid point
14)Twenty seven drops of water each having a charges +q are joined to form a single bigger drop.
Compare the capacitance of the bigger drop to that of the smaller drop.
Ans : - =3:1
15) A parallel plate capacitor consisted of two identical rectangular metal plates of sides 5.5 cm
and which are separated by 0.7 mm. calculate the capacitance of the capacitor when the space
is filled with (a) air and (b) a medium of dielectric constant 4.
Ans : C= 27.8 pF C’= 111.2 pF
16)A parallel plate air capacitor consisted of two plates each of area 0.01 sq. m, separated by a
distance of 0.1 mm. It is charges to a potential of 50 volt. Calculate its capacitance, charge on
it and energy stored.
Ans :- C= 885.4 pF Q= 0.0443 μC U= 1.11 x 10-6 J
17)Three capacitors of capacitances 2 μC , 3 μF and 6 μF are first connected in series and then in
parallel. Find the ratio of the effective capacitances in series connection to that in parallel
connection.
Cs 1
Ans : =∴ =
C p 11
18)Three capacitors each of capacitance 9 pF are connected in series.
(a) What is the total capacitance of the combination?
(b) What is the potential difference across each capacitor if the combination is connected to a
120 V supply
19)Two capacitors of capacitances 1 μF and 3 μF are charged to 800 V and 400 V respectively.
Find the common potential difference, the charge on each capacitor and the energy dissipated
when they are connected in parallel.
Ans : = 500 volt Q1= 500 μC Q2= 1500 μC
20)Two capacitors of 2 μF and 6 μF are in series across a 20 V source. Find the charges on these
capacitors and the potential difference across each.
Ans : C= 30 μC v=15 volt v=5 volt
21)When two capacitors are connected in series and connected across a 1 kV line, the energy
stored in the system is 2J. The same capacitors if connected in parallel across the same line,
the energy stored is 9 J. Find the capacitors of capacitors.
Ans : C1= 12 μF C2= 6 μF
22)ABCD is a square of side 0.2 m. Charges of -2 x 10 -9 C, 4 x 10-9 C and 12 x 10-9 C are placed
at the corners A, B and C respectively, calculate the work required to transfer a charge of 4 x
10-9 coulomb from D to the centre of the square.
23)In a parallel plate capacitor with air medium between the plates each plate has an area 6 x 10 -
3 2
m and distance between the plates is 3mm. calculate the capacitance of capacitor . if this

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 S K –TUTORIALS-JAMAKHANDI

capacitor is connected to a 100V supply. What is the charger on each plate of capacitor(2014-
5M)
24)ABCD is the square of side 2m. charges of 5nc,+10nc and -5mc are placed at the corners A,B
and C respectively. What is work done in transforming a charge of 5 μc from the D to the point
of intersection of the diagonals?(2015-5M)
25) Two point charges +1nc and -4nc are placed 1m apart. Find the positions along the line
joining the two charges at which resultant potential is zero(2015-5M)
26)When two capacitors are connected in series and connected across a 4 kV line, the energy
stored in the system is 8J. The same capacitors if connected in parallel across the same line,
the energy stored is 36 J. Find the capacitors of capacitors.(2016-5M)
27)Two capacitance have a capacitance of 25 μF when connected in parallel and 66 μF when
connected in series. Find their individual capacitance (ans:15 μF∧10 μF)

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