UNIT-II: Chapter-02

ELECTROSTATIC POTENTIAL AND CAPACITANCE

ELECTROSTATIC POTENTIAL

Strength of an electric field can also be expressed in terms of a scalar quantity called
electric potential.

Q. Define electric potential at a point in an electric field.

Electric potential at a point in an electric field is defined as the amount of work done in
moving a unit positive charge from infinity to that point against the electric field.

Note:
1. If W is the work done in moving a charge qo from infinity to a point in an electric field
W
then the electric potential at that point is V =
qo
2. Electric potential is a scalar quantity.
3. SI unit is volt (V).
W
4. V= .
qo
ML2 T −2
Dimensional formula [V] = = [ML2 T -3
A-1]
AT
W
5. In V = , V = 1V if W = 1 J and qo = +1C
qo
Definition of volt: The electric potential at a point is said to be one volt, if one joule
of work is done in moving one coulomb of charge from infinity to that point against the
electric field.
6. Definition of potential difference: Electric potential difference between two points is
defined as the amount of work done in moving a unit positive charge from one point to
another against electric field.
7. SI unit of potential difference is volt (V).
8. Work done in moving a charge qo from A to B in an electric field is WA→B = qo(VB - VA)
Work done in moving a charge qo from B to A in an electric field is WB→A = qo(VA – VB)
If W is positive, then work is done against the electrostatic force.
If W is negative, then work is done by the electrostatic force.
9. A body is said to be at positive potential if on connecting the body to the earth,
electrons flow from the earth to the body.
A body is said to be at negative potential if on connecting the body to the earth
electrons flow from the body to the earth.
A body is said to be at zero potential if on connecting the body to the earth no electrons
flow from or to the earth.
-
+ - -
+ +
- -
+ +
- e
+ + ↑ -
+
- ↓
e

10. Electric potential of the earth is zero. (Since earth has enormous capacity to accept or
give out charge)

Electrostatic Potential & Capacitance 21

11. Electric potential energy of a charge at a point in an electric field is defined as the
amount of work done in moving the charge from infinity to that point against the
electric field.
If a charge qo is moved from infinity to a point against electric field then work done is
W = qoV
Therefore potential energy stored in the charge qo at that point is U = qoV, where V is
the potential at that point.

RELATION BETWEEN ELECTRIC FIELD AND ELECTRIC POTENTIAL

Q. Distinguish between electric field and electric potential

Electric field Electric potential

The electric field at a point is defined as Electric potential at a point is defined
the force experienced by a unit positive as the amount of work done in moving
charge placed at that point. a unit positive charge from infinity to
that point against the electric field.
It is a vector quantity. It is a scalar quantity.
Resultant electric field at a point due to Net electric potential at a point due to
system of charges is the vector sum of system of charges is the algebraic sum
the fields due to different charges. of the potentials due to different
charges.

Q. Derive the relation between electric field and electric potential due to a point
charge.

+q +1C E
• • •
O B dx A
Consider two points A and B separated by a small distance dx in an electric field
produced by a point charge q placed at O. If E is the electric field at A, then work done
in moving a unit positive charge from A to B against the electric field is,
dW = - F dx
[Using W = Fscosθ; s = -dx (charge is moved in the direction of decreasing distance)
and θ = 0o (∵ F & s are in same directions)]
∴ dW = - E dx ∵ F=E
By definition this work is equal to the potential difference between A and B, i.e. dV
∴ dV = - E dx
dV
E= −
dx
dV
The quantity is called the potential gradient. Therefore, the electric field at a point
dx
is the negative potential gradient at that point.

Note:
1. Potential gradient is a vector.
2. (i) Electric field is in the direction in which the potential decreases.
(ii) Its magnitude is given by the change in the magnitude of electric potential per unit
displacement normal to the equipotential surface at the point.
dV
3. E= −
dx
From the above equation we get the unit of electric field as Vm-1

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 ELECTRIC POTENTIAL DUE TO A POINT CHARGE
Q. Derive the expression for electric potential at a point due to a point charge.
+q +1C E
• • • •
O r P B dx A
x

Consider a point P at a distance r from a point charge q at O. A unit positive charge is

1 q
placed at A distant x from O. The electric field at A is E = along OA produced
4πεo x2
The work done in moving a unit positive charge from A to B through a small distance dx
is dW = - F dx
[Using W = Fscosθ; s = -dx (charge is moved in the direction of decreasing distance)
and θ = 0o (∵ F & s are in same directions)]
dW = - E dx (∵ F = E)
1 q
dW = - dx
4πεo x2
The total work done in moving the unit positive charge from infinity to P against the
x =r
electric field is W =
x =∞
∫ dW
r
 1 q 
W= ∫  − 4πε
∞
2
ox 
dx

r
q 1
W= -
4πεo ∫x
∞
2
dx

r
q  1 1 1
W=-
4πεo − x 
 ∞
(∵ ∫x 2
dx = −
x
)

r
q 1 
W=
4πεo  x  ∞
q 1 1 
W= −
4πεo  r ∞ 
1 q
W=
4πε o r
But we know that work done in moving the unit positive charge from infinity to the point
P against electric field is the electric potential at P i.e. W = V
1 q
∴V =
4πεo r

Note:
1. Electric potential at a point due to a point charge placed in a dielectric medium
1 q
V= .
4πε o ε r r
2. The electric potential due to a positive charge is taken as positive and that due to a
negative charge is taken as negative.
V
3. E and V at a point, distant r from a point charge are related by E = .
r
4. If V is the p.d between oppositely charged parallel plates separated by r, then uniform
V
electric field between the plates is E = .
r
5. Electric potential due to a charged spherical conductor:

Electrostatic Potential & Capacitance 23

 (a) Electric potential at any point outside a charged spherical conductor distant r from
1 q
its centre V = .
4πε o r
(b) Electric potential at any point on or close to the surface of a charged spherical
1 q σR
conductor of radius R is V = or V = .
4πε o R εo
where σ = surface density of charge
(c) Since E = 0 inside the charged conductor, no additional work has to be done in
transferring a unit positive charge from the surface to any point inside the surface.
Hence electric potential at any point inside a charged spherical conductor is
constant and it is same as that on the surface.
dV
Or = 0 ⇒ V = constant
dx
(d) P.d inside a charged conductor is zero.

6. Variation of E Vs r Variation of V Vs r
E V

+ +
+ + + +

+ + +
←R → + ←R →
r r
+ + + +
+ +
7. When n similar charged drops each of potential V are combined to form a larger drop,
then the surface potential of the larger drop is V’ = n2/3 V
1  q1 q2 
8. Electric potential due to number of point charges is V =  + + ....
4πεoεr  r1 r2 
9. Point of zero potential between two point charges:

Nature of
Magnitude Position of zero potential
Charges
Between the two charges and outside the two
Unlike Unequal
charges closer to the weaker charge.
At the mid-point of line joining the two
Unlike Equal
charges.
Like Any No points of zero potential.

10. When a charged particle of mass m and charge qo moves through a potential difference
then decrease in electric potential energy is equal to gain in its kinetic energy
i.e. qo(VA – VB) = ½ m( v B2 − v 2A )
11. Electric potential can exist at a point in a region where electric field is zero. (i.e. E =
but V ≠ 0)
e.g. 1. At any point inside a charged spherical conductor, electric potential is not zero,
but electric field is zero.
2. At a point midway between two equal like charges, electric potential is not zero, but
electric field is zero.
12. Electric field can exist at a point in a region where electric potential is zero. (i.e. E ≠ 0
but V = 0)
e.g. 1. At a point midway between two equal unlike charges, electric field is not zero,
but electric potential is zero.
2. At any point on the equatorial line the electric potential is zero but electric field is not
zero.

Note: From cosine rule, a2 = b2 + c2 – 2bc cosA

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 ELECTRIC POTENTIAL DUE TO AN ELECTRIC DIPOLE
Q. Derive the expression for the electric potential at any point due to a short
electric dipole.
Let P be a point at a distance r (r >>a) from the centre O of the short electric dipole
such that OP makes an angle θ w.r.t axis of the dipole. Let p = q (2a) be the dipole
moment. Let BP = r1 and AP = r2 P

r2
r r1

A θ B
-q a O a +q

1 q q
Net electric potential at P is V =  −  ---------- (1)
4 π ε o  r1 r2 
From ∆OPB, r12 = r2 + a2 – 2ar cosθ
 a2 2a cos θ 
r12 = r2 1 + 2 − 
 r r 
 2a cos θ  a2
Since r >> a, r12 ≅ r 2 1 −  ∵ ≈0
 r  r2
1/2
 2a cos θ 
r1 = r1 − 
 r 
−1 / 2
1 1 2a cos θ 
Taking reciprocals, = 1 − 
r1 r  r 
1 1 a cos θ  2a cos θ
≅ 1 +  Using (1 + x)n ≅ 1 + nx, where n = - ½ & x = −
r1 r  r  r
Also from ∆OPA, r22 = r2 + a2 -2ar cos(180 - θ) = r2 + a2 + 2arcosθ
1 1  a cos θ 
Similarly, ≅ 1 − 
r2 r  r 

q 1  a cos θ  1  a cos θ 
In (1), V =  1 +  − 1 − 
4 π εo  r  r  r r 
q  2a cos θ 
V=
4 π ε o  r 2 

1  p cos θ 
V= (∵ p = q × 2a)
4 π ε o  r 2 

Note:
1. If the point is on the axial line, then θ = 0o or 180o
1 p
V=±
4πε o r 2
2. If the point is on the equatorial line then θ = 90o
V = 0 (∵ cos90o = 0)
Electric potential at any point on the perpendicular bisector of an electric dipole is zero.
(Equipotential line)

Electrostatic Potential & Capacitance 25

3. Work done in moving a charge on the perpendicular bisector of an electric dipole is
zero. (W = qoV, W = 0 ∵ V = 0)

Q. Mention one contrasting feature of electric potential due to a dipole at a point

as compared to that due to a point charge.

Electric potential due to a point Electric potential due to a short

charge electric dipole
1  q 1 p
V =   V=
4 π εo  r  4πεo r 2
Directly proportional to the charge. Directly proportional to the dipole moment.
Inversely proportional to the distance Inversely proportional to the square of the
from the point charge. distance from the centre of the dipole.

EQUIPOTENTIAL SURFACES
Q. What is an equipotential surface? Give examples.
The surface over which the electric potential is same at all the points is called an
equipotential surface.
e.g.
1. The surface of a charged spherical conductor.
2. The concentric spherical surfaces which enclose a point charge at the centre.
3. The surface of a charged conductor of any shape.
4. Plane passing through the midpoint and normal to line joining the two equal unlike
charges or an electric dipole.
5. Plane passing through a uniform electric field and perpendicular to its direction.
Properties:
1. On an equipotential surface the work done in moving a charge from one point to
another is zero.
2. An electric line of force is perpendicular to an equipotential surface.
3. No two equipotential surfaces intersect each other.

Note:
1. Shape of an equipotential surface around a point charge is spherical.
2. Shape of an equipotential surface in uniform electric field is planar perpendicular to the
direction of field.

Q. Draw equipotential surfaces due to a single point charge.

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 POTENTIAL ENERGY OF A SYSTEM OF CHARGES

Q. Define potential energy of the system of charges. Obtain the expression for
potential energy of system of two charges in the absence of external electric
field.
Electric potential energy of a system of point charges is defined as the total work done
in bringing them from infinity to their respective positions.

r
q1• • q2
A B

Consider two point charges q1 and q2. Let W1 be the amount of work done in bringing q1
from infinity to the point A. When q1 is brought, no work is done as there is no external
electric field.
∴ W1 = 0
Let W2 be the amount of work done in bringing q2 from infinity to the point B. When q2
is brought work is done against the electric field produced by q1.
∴ W2 = Potential due to q1 at the point B × q2
1  q1  1  q1q2 
W2 =   × q2 =  
4 π εo  r  4 π εo  r 
Total work done in arranging q1 and q2 at A and B respectively is
1 q1q2
W = W1+ W2 = 0 +
4πεo r
This work done is stored as electric potential energy in the system of two charges.
1 q1q2
i.e. U =
4πε o r

Q. Derive the expression for potential energy of a system of two charges in an

external field.
→
→
E V2 E

•
V1 A V1 r
A B
q1 q1 q2
→
Let V1 be the electric potential at a point A in an electric field E .
Work done on q1 in moving it from ∞ to the point A against electric field is
W1 = q1V1 ---- (1)
→
Let V2 be the electric potential at a point B in an electric field E .
Work done on q2 in moving it from ∞ to the point B against electric field is
W2 = q2V2 ---- (2)
 1  q1q2
Also work done on q2 against the electric field due to q1 is W3 =   -- (3)
 4 π εo  r
where r is the distance between q1 and q2
Total work done in arranging charges in an external electric field is
W = W1 + W2 + W3
 1  q1q2
W = q1V1 + q2V2 +   From (1), (2) and (3)
 4πεo  r
This work done is also equal to the potential energy of system of two charges in an
external electric field.
 1  q1q2
i.e. U = q1V1 + q2V2 +  
 4 π εo  r
Electrostatic Potential & Capacitance 27
Q. Derive the expression for potential energy of system of three charges.

• q1

r12 r31

q2 • • q3
r23

Potential energy of system of three charges is the amount of work done in arranging q1,
q2 and q3 separated by certain distances apart from each other.
Let W1 be the amount of work done in bringing q1 from infinity to a point. But when q1
is brought, no work is done as there is no electric field.
∴ W1 =0.
Let W2 be the amount of work done in bringing q2 from infinity to a point. But when q2
is brought work is done against the electric field produced by q1.
∴ W2 = (Potential due to q1) × q2
1  q1  1  q1q2 
W2 =   × q2 =  
4 π εo  r12  4 π ε o  r12 
Let W3 be the amount of work done in bringing q3 from infinity to the point. But when
q3 is brought, work is done against the electric field produced by q1 and q2.
∴ W3 = (Potential due to q1 and q2) × q3
1  q1 q 
W3 =  + 2  × q3
4 π ε o  r31 r23 
Total work done in arranging q1, q2 and q3 is W = W1 + W2 + W3
 q1q2 
1 1  q1 q2 
W=0+   +  +  × q3
4 π εo
 r12  4 π ε o  r31 r23 
1  q1q2 q2q3 qq 
W=  + + 3 1
4πε o  r12 r23 r31 
This work done is stored as potential energy in the system of three charges.
1  q1q2 q2 q3 q3 q1 
i.e., U=  + + 
4πε o  r12 r23 r31 
where r12 – distance between q1 and q2
r23 – distance between q2 and q3
r31 – distance between q1 and q3

Q. Derive the expression for the potential energy of a dipole in an external field
p
E
F = qE
+q
B
a
O θ
•
a

A
F = qE
-q
E
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 Consider an electric dipole placed in a uniform electric field E at an angle θ. Torque
experienced by the dipole is τ = pE sinθ where p is the electric dipole moment.
Work done in rotating the dipole further through a small angle dθ against the torque is
dW = τ dθ
∴ Total work done by external torque in rotating the dipole from angle θ1 to θ2 is
θ2 θ2

W= ∫ τ dθ =
θ1
∫ p E sin θ dθ
θ1

W = pE [− cos θ]θθ2 = -pE [cos θ]θ12

θ
1
W = -pE(cosθ2 – cosθ1)
W = pE(cosθ1 – cosθ2)
This work done is stored as the potential energy of the system.
If the dipole is initially perpendicular to the field (zero energy position) then θ1 = 90o
and θ2 = θ
Then W = -pE cosθ
∴ Potential energy of the dipole in an electric field is U = - pEcosθ

Note:
1. Work done in rotating an electric dipole from θ1 = 0 (stable equilibrium) to θ2 = θ in a
uniform electric field E is W = pE(1 – cosθ)
If θ = 0o, then Wmin = 0
If θ = 90o, then W = pE
If θ = 180o, then Wmax = 2pE
2. W = [-pE cosθ2 – (-pEcosθ1)]
Work done = change in potential energy
∴ Potential energy U = -pEcosθ
(i) When θ = 0o, U = -pE
If the dipole moment is parallel to the electric field, potential energy is minimum.
(ii) When θ = 90o, U = 0
i.e. If the dipole moment is perpendicular to the electric field, potential energy is zero.
(iii) When θ = 180o, U = pE
If the dipole moment is antiparallel to the electric field, potential energy is maximum.
3. If the potential energy of both the charges of the electric dipole are taken into account
q2
then U = - pEcosθ -
4 π ε o (2a)
4. Electrostatics of conductors:
a. Inside a charged conductor electrostatic field is zero.
b. On the surface of a charged conductor, electrostatic field must be normal to the
surface at every point.
c. The interior of a conductor can have no excess charge in the static situation.
d. Electric potential inside a charged conductor is constant and has the same value on
its surface
σ
e. Electric field near the surface of a charged conductor is E = where σ is the
εo
surface density of charge on the conductor near that point.

Q. What is electrostatic shielding? Mention its one application.

Electric field inside a cavity of a conductor is zero and it remains shielded from outside
electric influence. This is known as electrostatic shielding.
Application: Sensitive electrical instruments are kept inside a cavity of the conductor
to protect from outside electrical influence.
e.g.: During lightning it is safer to be inside a car than to be in the open ground or
under a tree because of electrostatic shielding.

Electrostatic Potential & Capacitance 29

 DIELECTRICS AND POLARISATION

Q. What are polar and non-polar molecules?

Molecules in which the centre of positive charge and centre of negative charge do not
coincide are called polar molecules.
E.g. N2O, H2O, SO2, HCl, NH3, CO, alcohol etc.
These molecules have permanent dipole moment.
Molecules in which the centre of positive charge (centre of mass of proton) and centre
of negative charge (centre of mass of electron) coincide are called non-polar molecules.
E.g. O2, N2, H2, CO2, methane, benzene etc.
These molecules have no permanent electric dipole moment.

Note:
1. Dielectrics which are made up of polar molecules are called polar dielectrics. e.g.: Pure
water.
2. Dielectrics which are made up of non-polar molecules are called non-polar dielectrics.
e.g.: Oil.

Q. Explain dielectric polarisation.

Eo
+ - +
- + - + - + -
- + -
+ + - + - + Ei - +
-
- - + -
+ + + - + - + -
- + -
+ - + - +
+ - + -

Polar dielectrics in the Polar dielectrics in the

absence of an electric field presence of an electric field

In the absence of an electric field, polar molecules in a dielectric are oriented randomly
and their net dipole moment is zero. When an external electric field is applied, the
individual dipoles experience torque and align in the direction of the applied electric
field. This gives a net dipole moment to the substance in the direction of electric field.
Eo
± ± + - + - + -
+
± ± + - + Ei - + -
-
± ± +
+ - + - +
-
-
+
± ± + - + - +
-
-

Non-Polar dielectrics in the Non-Polar dielectrics in the

absence of an electric field presence of an electric field
In the absence of an electric field non-polar molecules in a dielectric have zero dipole
moment. But in the presence of an electric field centre of positive and negative charges
are displaced by a small distance. Thus external electric field induces a dipole moment
in the direction of field and the dielectric is said to be polarised.
Alignment of the permanent dipoles or induced dipoles in the direction of applied
electric field is called dielectric polarisation.
Due to polarisation of the dielectric an electric field Ei is set up inside the dielectric in a
direction opposite to the external field Eo. As a result net electric field between the
plates (and the potential difference) decreases. Hence when a dielectric is introduced in
the space between the two charged plates, the electric field between them decreases.

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Q. Explain electric polarisation.
Electric dipole moment acquired per unit volume of the dielectric material kept in an
→
external electric field is known as electric polarisation ( P ).
→ pnet
i.e. P =
V

Electric polarisation is proportional to the net electric field Em of the dielectric.

Net electric field is Em = Eo - Ei
where Eo is the electric field in the absence of dielectric and Ei is the electric field due to
intrinsic or induced dipoles.
→ →
i.e. P ∝ Em
→ →
or P = χe εo Em where χe is the proportional constant known as electric susceptibility of
the dielectric medium.

Note:
1. Induced dipole moment disappears as soon as the external electric field is removed.
σ σ
2. Eo = & Ei = P σP = surface density of polarised charges
εo εo
σ − σp
∴ Em = Eo - Ei = ---(1)
εo
Ewithout dielectric E σ
Dielectric constant εr = = o = ---- (2)
Ewith dielectric Em σ − σP
σ
σ − σP =
εr
σ
Also in (1), Em = from (2)
ε o εr
3. When a conductor is placed in an external electric field, the electrons move and the
charge distribution in the conductor adjusts itself in such a way that the electric field
due to induced charges opposes the external field within the conductor. This happens
until, in the static situation, the two fields cancel each other and the net electrostatic
field inside the conductor becomes zero.
For metal Ei = Eo, therefore Em = 0 hence εr = ∞
4. With increase in temperature, alignment of dipoles is disrupted hence Ei decreases and
Eo - Ei increases. ∴ εr decreases with increase in temperature.
5. Whenever a dielectric medium is subjected to a very high electric field, the outer
electrons get detached from the atom which in turn becomes a positive ion. By this the
dielectric behaves like a conductor. The phenomenon due to which a dielectric loses its
insulating property and behaves like a conductor is called dielectric breakdown.
6. Dielectric strength:
The maximum electric field that can be applied to a dielectric without its dielectric
breakdown is called dielectric strength of the given dielectric.
SI unit of dielectric strength is Vm-1 (practical unit is kVmm-1)

Dielectric medium Dielectric strength

Air 3kVmm-1
Paper 16kVmm-1
Glass 30kVmm-1

Electrostatic Potential & Capacitance 31

 CAPACITORS AND CAPACITANCE
Q. Define capacitance of a conductor.
The Capacitance of a conductor is defined as the ratio of charge given to the conductor
to the increase in its potential.

Note:
1. If a charge q given to a conductor raises its potential by V, then V ∝ q
q∝V
q = CV where C is constant of proportionality called capacity or capacitance of a
conductor
q
or C =
V
2. Factors affecting the capacitance of a conductor.
Capacitance of a conductor depends on
a. The size and shape of the conductor
b. The dielectric medium surrounding the conductor.
c. Presence of nearby conductors.
3. Capacity of a conductor is its ability to store electric charges.
4. Capacity of a conductor is independent of charge on it.
q q2 [A2 T 2 ]
5. Dimensional formula [C] = = = 2 −2
= [M-1 L-2 T4 A2]
V W [ML T ]
6. The SI unit of capacitance is farad (F)
7. In C = q/V, C = 1F if q = 1C and V = 1V
Definition of farad: Capacitance of a conductor is said to be one farad, if the addition
of one coulomb of charge, increases its potential by one volt.

Q. What is a capacitor?
Capacitor is a device used for storing charges.

Q. Explain the principle of a capacitor or condenser.

Capacitor is a device used for storing charges. It consists of two conductors separated
by a small distance with a dielectric medium between them.
A B A B
+ - + + -
+ - + + -
+ - + + -
+ - + + -
+ - + + -
+ - + + -
+ - + + -
+ - + + -
/////
Consider a conductor A, which is positively charged. Let another uncharged conductor B
be placed near A, then negative charge is induced on the inner surface of B close to A
and equivalent amount of positive charge is induced on the other surface of B. The
induced negative charge on B decreases the potential of A. The induced positive charge
on B, increases the potential of A. But the effect of the negative charge is more as it is
closer to A. Thus the net potential of A is reduced and consequently capacitance is
increased. (∵ C = q/V)
If the conductor B is now earthed, then all positive charges on it are neutralised due to
flow of electrons from the earth. Therefore net potential of A further decreases and
hence its capacity increases considerably.

Note: C
1. A capacitor is represented by the symbol
2. Capacitance of a capacitor and its unit:

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 Capacitance of a capacitor is defined as the ratio of charge on either conductor to the
potential difference between them.
Capacitance of a capacitor is said to be one farad when the addition of one coulomb of
charge to either conductor raises the potential difference between them by one volt.
3. Factors affecting capacitance of a capacitor:
Capacitance of a capacitor depends on
a. The shape and size of the conductor
b. The separation between the conductors
c. The dielectric medium between the conductors.

CAPACITY OF PARALLEL PLATE CAPACITOR

Q. Derive the expression for capacity of a parallel plate capacitor separated by air
or vacuum.
+q -q
Consider a parallel plate capacitor consisting of two -
+
identical parallel metal plates with medium between them + -
to be vacuum. Let A be the area of each plate and d be the + -
+ -
distance between the plates. If q is the magnitude of + -
charge on each plate then surface density of charge on it is + -
q + -
σ= ----- (1) + -
A ←d→ ////
σ σ
Electric field outside the plates E = - =0
2ε o 2ε o
σ σ σ q
Electric field between the plates E = + = = ----- (2) from (1)
2ε o 2ε o εo Aε o
qd V
Potential difference between the plates V = Ed = ----- (3) (∵ E = )
A εo d
q q
Capacity of parallel plate capacitor C = = from (3)
V q d
 
 A εo 
Aεo
C=
d

Q. Derive the expression for capacity of a parallel plate capacitor with dielectric
medium. +q -q
Consider a parallel plate capacitor consisting of two + -
identical parallel metal plates with a medium of dielectric
+ - + -
constant εr. Let A be the area of each plate and d be the
+
- + --
+
+ - + -
distance between the plates.
+ - + -
If q is the magnitude of charge on each plate then surface + - + -
q + -
density of charge on it is σ = ----- (1) ← d → ////
A
Let σP be the charge density on the dielectric medium due
to electric polarization.
Net charge density = σ - σp.
σ
But for linear dielectrics, σ − σp = --- (2)
εr
σ − σp σ
Net electric field between the plates is E = = from (2)
εo ε o εr
q
E= from (1)
Aεo εr

Electrostatic Potential & Capacitance 33

 qd V
Potential difference between the plates V = Ed = (∵ E = )
Aε o ε r d
q q
Capacity of parallel plate capacitor C = =
V  qd 
 
 Aεo εr 
Aεo εr
Or C= εo = permittivity of free space
d

Q. Mention the factors on which capacitance of a parallel plate capacitor depends.

Capacitance of a parallel plate capacitor depends on
1. area of the plates
2. distance between the plates
3. dielectric medium between the plates

Q. Mention the methods to increase the capacitance of a parallel plate capacitor.

Capacitance of parallel plate capacitor can be increased
1. by increasing the area of the plates
2. by using a medium of higher dielectric constant between the plates
3. by decreasing the distance between the plates
Note:
Aε o ε r
1. Capacitance of the capacitor with the given dielectric medium, Cm =
d
Aε
Capacitance of the same capacitor with air as dielectric medium, Ca = o
d
C
εr = m
Ca
2. Definition of dielectric constant: Dielectric constant of the medium is defined as the
ratio of the capacitance of a capacitor with medium as dielectric to the capacitance of
the same capacitor with air as dielectric
3. A capacitor can be charged by connecting it to a cell.

ENERGY STORED IN A CAPACITOR

Q. Derive the expression for energy stored in a capacitor.
Consider a capacitor of capacity C connected to a battery. During the process of
charging at a certain instant let q be the charge and V’ be the p.d between the plates of
the capacitor.
q
Then C =
V'
q
or V’ = ---- (1)
C
The work done by the battery in transferring an additional small quantity of charge dq
 q
is dW = V’ dq =  dq From (1)
C
∴Total work done in charging the capacitor from zero to Q is
Q Q Q
q 1
W= ∫
0
dW = ∫
0
C
dq =
C ∫ q dq
0
Q
1 q 
2
x n +1 x2
W=
C
 
 2  0
∵ ∫ xn dx =
n+1
∴ ∫ x dx =
2

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 1  Q2 
W=  − 0
C  2 
Q2
W=
2C
This work done by the battery in charging the capacitor is stored as electric potential
Q2
energy U in it. ∴ U =
2C
1 1  Q2  1
Also U = CV2 = = QV ∵ Q = CV where V is the p.d between the plates.
2 2  C  2
Note:
1. The energy is stored in the form of electric potential energy between the plates in the
electric field.
2. When n identical charged drops each of energy US are combined, then energy stored in
the larger drop is UL = US n5/3
3. q = CV, This equation is of the form y = mx
Graph of q Vs V is a straight line with slope (q/V) equal to capacity and area below the
graph (½ qV) gives energy stored in the conductor.
4. U = ½ CV2, This equation is of the form y = ax2
Graph of U Vs V is a parabola.
5. When a dielectric is introduced between the plates of a charged air capacitor
disconnected from a cell, then capacity increases, charge remain constant, where as
p.d and energy stored decreases.
6. When a dielectric is introduced between the plates of a charged air capacitor connected
to a cell, then p.d remain constant, where as capacity, charge and energy stored
increases.
7. Energy density: Energy density is defined as energy stored per unit volume of space.
energy
Energy density of a charged capacitor is u = (Jm-3)
volume
1 1 1  A ε  1
u = CV 2 × =  o V 2 ×
2 Ad 2  d  Ad
1 V2
u= εo 2
2 d
1
u = ε oE2 ∵ E = V/d
2
COMBINATION OF CAPACITORS
Q. What is equivalent (effective) capacitor?
An equivalent capacitor is a single capacitor that has the same capacitance as that of
system of capacitors.

Q. Derive the expression for the equivalent capacitance when two capacitors
connected in series (or number of capacitors connected in series).
A number of capacitors are said to be in series when they are connected end to end
such that
1) the charge on each capacitor is same and
2) the potential difference across the combination is equal to the sum of the potential
differences across the individual capacitors.
C1 C2 CS
+q -q +q -q +q -q

V1 V2 ≡ V
V
| |
V V
Electrostatic Potential & Capacitance 35
 Let C1 and C2 be the capacitances of two capacitors connected in series. When a
potential difference V is applied across the combination, the charge ‘q’ stored in each
capacitor is same. If V1 and V2 are the potential differences across individual capacitors,
then, V = V1 + V2 (from the law of conservation of energy)
q q
But V1 = and V2 =
C1 C2
q q  1 1 
∴V= + = q +  ------------ (1)
C1 C2  C1 C2 
If CS is the equivalent capacitance of the combination, then for the pd of V, charge
stored in it q.
q
i.e., q = CS V or V = ----------------(2).
CS
q  1 1 
Sub. eqn(1) in eqn(2), = q  + 
CS  C1 C2 
1  1 1 
=  + 
CS C
 1 C 2 
1 1 1 1 1
Or for n capacitors, = + + + ...... +
CS C1 C2 C3 Cn
Thus the reciprocal of equivalent capacity of series combination of capacitors is equal to
the sum of the reciprocals of the individual capacitances.

Note:
In series combination of capacitors
1. The effective capacity is always less than the least capacity in the combination.
2. The capacitance of a capacitor is inversely proportional to the potential difference across
it.
C V
∴ For two capacitors in series, 1 = 2
C2 V1
C1C2
3. For two capacitors of capacitance C1 and C2, CS =
C1 + C2
C
4. For ‘n’ identical capacitors each of capacity C, CS =
n
5. Energy stored in a system of capacitors is US = ½ CSV2

Q. Derive the expression for equivalent capacitance when two capacitors

connected in parallel. (or number of capacitors connected in parallel).
A number of capacitors are said to be in parallel when they are connected between two
points such that
1) The potential difference across each capacitor is same.
2) The total charge stored in the combination is equal to the sum of the charges stored
in the individual capacitors.
C1
+q1 -q1

CP
+q2 -q2 +q -q

C2 ≡
V
V |
V
|
V

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 Consider two capacitors of capacitance C1 and C2 connected in parallel. Let V be the
potential difference across each capacitor or combination and q1 and q2 be their charges
respectively.
Then total charge, q = q1 + q2 ---- (1) (from the law of conservation of charge)
But, q1 = C1V and q2 = C2V
Substituting in (1) q = C1V + C2V
q = V (C1 + C2 ) ---- (2)
If CP is the equivalent capacitance of the combination, then for the potential difference
V, charge stored in it q.
i.e., q = CPV
Substituting in eqn(2) CP V = V (C1 + C2)
CP = C1 + C2
For n capacitors, Cp = C1 + C2 + C3 + ...... + Cn
Thus equivalent capacity of parallel combination of capacitors is equal to the sum of the
individual capacitances.

Note:
In parallel combination of capacitors,
1. The effective capacitance is always greater than the greatest capacity in the
combination.
2. The capacitance of a capacitor is directly proportional to the charge on it.
3. For n identical capacitors each of capacity C, CP = nC
4. Energy stored in the system of capacitors is UP = ½ CP V2
C
5. For ‘n’ identical capacitors P = n2
CS
6. Two capacitors of capacity C1 and C2 are charged to a potential of V1 and V2 and then
connected in parallel.

Before the combination After the combination

Capacity C1 & C2 C1 & C2
Common Potential difference
Potential V 1 & V2 C V ± C2 V2 Q ± Q2
difference V= 1 1 = 1
C1 + C2 C1 + C2
Charge q1 = C1V1 & q2 = C2V2 Q1 = C1V & Q2 = C2V
Energy 2
U1 = ½C1V1 & U2 = ½ C2V2 2
U1' = ½ C1V2 & U '2 = ½ C2V2, U P = ½ CPV2
Loss of
∆U = (U1+U2) – ( U1' + U '2 ) = (U1+U2) – UP = ½ Cs (V1 – V2)2
energy

Loss of energy appears in the form of heat in the conducting wire.

In equation for V,
(i) when like charged plates are connected together net charge is Q1 + Q2
(ii) when unlike charged plates are connected together net charge is Q1 - Q2

Electrostatic Potential & Capacitance 37

 NUMERICAL PROBLEMS

1. Two charges 30nC and -20nC are located 15 cm apart. At what points on the line
joining the two charges is the electric potential zero? Take the potential at infinity to be
zero. [NCERT EXAMPLE, Model paper, July 2014, March 2015, March 2017]
2. Charges 2µC, 4µC and 6µC are placed at the three corners A, B and C of a square ABCD
of side x metre. Find what charge must be placed at the fourth corner so that net
potential at the centre of the square becomes zero. [July 2016]
3. A charge of 20 µC produces an electric field. Two points A and B are 5 cm and 10 cm
away from this charge along a straight line on the same side. Find the potentials at
these points. Also find the work done to move an electron from A to B.
(e = 1.6 x 10-19 C)
4. A metal sphere of radius 0.01 m is charged to a potential of 45 kV and kept at the
corner B of a right-angled triangle ABC (AB = 0.3 m, BC = 0.4 m and ∠ABC = 90o).
Calculate the work required to shift a charge of 2µC from the corner C to the corner A
of the triangle.
5. ABCD is a square of side 2m. Point charges of 5nC, 10nC and -5nC are placed at
corners A, B, C respectively. Calculate the work done in transferring a charge of 5µC
from D to the point of intersection of diagonals. [June 2015, March 2018, June
2019]
6. Two point charges +2µC and -3µC are separated by 10 cm. What is the work done in
increasing their distance by 5cm?
7. In a parallel plate capacitor with air between the plates, each plate has an area of 6 ×
10−3 m2 and the distance between the plates is 3 mm. Calculate the capacitance of the
capacitor. If this capacitor is connected to a 100 V supply, what is the charge on each
plate of the capacitor? (Absolute permittivity of free space = 8.85 × 10-12 Fm-1)
[March 2014, June 2017]
Explain what would happen to the capacity and the charge if in the capacitor, a 3 mm
thick mica sheet (of dielectric constant = 6) were inserted between the plates,
(a) While the voltage supply remained connected.
(b) After the supply was disconnected [NCERT]
8. The plates of a parallel plate capacitor have an area of 100 cm2 each and are separated
by 3 mm. The capacitor is charged by connecting it to a 400V supply. Calculate (a) the
energy stored in the capacitor (b) if a dielectric constant 2.5 is introduced between the
plates of the capacitor, then find the energy stored and also change in the energy
stored. [July 2018]
9. In a circular parallel plate capacitor, radius of each plate is 5 cm and they are separated by
a distance of 2 mm. Calculate the capacitance and the energy stored, when it is charged by
connecting the battery of 200 V. (εo = 8.854 × 10-12 Fm-1) [March 2019]
10. A parallel plate capacitor has circular plates of radius 80mm and 1mm separation.
Calculate the capacitance with air as dielectric. What will be the p.d between the plates,
when a charge of 1.78 × 10–8C is given to the capacitor? When the space between the
plates is filled with wax, the p.d reduces to 16V. Calculate the dielectric constant of
wax.
11. Two capacitors of capacitance 600 pF and 900 pF are connected in series across a 200
V supply. Calculate (i) the effective capacitance of the combination, (ii) p.d across each
capacitor and (iii) total charge stored in the system. [Model paper]
12. Three capacitors of capacitances 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 a 100V
supply. [NCERT]

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13. Energy stored in a system consisting of two capacitors in series and connected across
4kV line is 8J. When the same two capacitors are in parallel across the same line,
energy stored is 36J. Find the capacitance of the capacitors. [March 2016]
14. A 600 pF capacitor is charged by a 200 V supply. Calculate the electrostatic energy
stored in it. It is then disconnected from the supply and is connected in parallel to
another uncharged 600 pF capacitor. (i) What is the energy stored in the combination?
(ii) calculate the loss of energy. [Model Paper]
15. A 4 µF capacitor is charged by a 200 V supply. It is then disconnected from the supply
and is connected to another uncharged 2µF capacitor in parallel. How much electrostatic
energy of the first capacitor is lost? [March 2019]
16. You are given three capacitors each of capacity 2µF. In how many ways they can be
combined. Find the effective capacity in each case.

FOR EXAM . . . ., FROM EXAMS . . . .

Q. Define electric potential at a point in an electric field. [March 2017, March 2018]
Q. Derive the relation between electric field and electric potential due to a point charge.
[July 2014, June 2015, March 2017, June 2017]
Q. Derive the expression for electric potential at a point due to a point charge.
[March 2018]
Q. Derive the expression for potential energy of system of two charges in the absence of
external electric field. [March 2014, July 2016, March 2019]
Q. Derive the expression for the electric potential energy of an electric dipole placed in a
uniform electric field. [March 2019]
Q. What is an equipotential surface? [March 2018]
Q. What is a capacitor? [July 2014, March 2018]
Q. Derive the expression for capacity of a parallel plate capacitor with air as medium.
[March 2015]
Q. On what factor does the capacitance of parallel plate capacitors depends?
[March 2017, March 2018]
Q. Derive the expression for the equivalent capacitance of two capacitors connected in
series. [July 2018, June 2019]
Q. Derive the expression for the equivalent capacitance of two capacitors connected in
parallel. [March 2017]
Q. Derive the expression for energy stored in a capacitor.
[March 2016, March 2017, March 2018]
Q. A capacitor of capacitance 2µF is charged to a potential of 10V. Calculate the energy
stored in it. [March 2017]

Electrostatic Potential & Capacitance 39