ELECTROSTATICS 1

EXERCISE - 4 : PREVIOUS YEAR JEE ADVANCED QUESTIONS

1. Three charges Q, +q and +q are placed at the vertices of a

right-angled isosceles triangle as shown. The net electrostatic (c) (d)
energy of the configuration is zero if Q is equal to
(JEE Advanced 2000)

Ans. (c)
Sol. The electric field lines emanate from a positive charge. They
do not intersect and do not form closed loops in
electrostatics.

q  2q
(a) (b)
1 2 2 2
(c) –2q (d) +q
Ans. (b)
Sol. The electrosttic energy of charges q1 and q2, separated by a
q1q2
distance r, is given by U  . Electrostatic energy of
4 0 r
the given configuration is

1  Qq qq Qq  By symmetry, the field is zero at the centroid. The fields at

U      0. the middle point of each side are non-zero. The direction of
4 0  a a 2a  electric field along the perpendicular bisector is as shown in
the figure.
Qq
Qq  q 2  0 3. A uniform electric field pointing in positve x-direction exists
2 in a region. Let A be the origin, B be the point on the x-axis
at x = +1 cm and C be the point on the y-axis at y = +1 cm.
Q
Qq 0 Then the potentials at the points A, B and C satisfy :
2 (JEE Advanced 2001)
 1  (a) VA < VB (b) VA > VB
 Q 1    q (c) VA < VC (d) VA > VC
 2
Ans. (b)
2q Sol. Since, potential decreases in the direction of Electric field.
Solve to get Q  .
2 2 So, VA  VB
2. Three positive charges of equal value are placed at the
vertices of an equilateral triangle. The resulting lines of force
should be sketched as in
(2001)
(a) (b)

 (b) is correct
ELECTROSTATICS 2
–3
4. A small ball of mass 2 × 10 kg having a charge of 1 C is 5. Two equal point charges are fixed at x = –a and x = + a on the x-
suspended by a string of length 0.8 m. Another identical ball axis. Another point charge is placed at the origin. The change
having the same charge is kept at the point of suspension. in the electrical potential energy of Q, when it is displaced by a
Determine the minimum horizontal velocity which should be small distance x along the x-axis, is approximately proportional
imparted to the lower ball, so that it can make complete to
revolution. (JEE Advanced 2001)
(JEE Advanced 2001) (a) x (b) x
2

Ans. (5.86 m/s) (c) x

3
(d) 1/x
Sol. Let = 1 C be the charge and m = 2×10–3 kg be the mass of a Ans. (b)
particle moving in a circle of radius r = 0.8 m. The forces Sol. Let O be the origin and O’ be a point to the right of O at a
acting on the particle are its weight mg downward, tension distance x.
1 q2
T radially inward, and electrostatic force Fe 
4 0 r 2
radially outward. Let vA and vB be its velocities at the lowest
point A and the highest point B.
The potentials at O and O’ due to charges at (–a, 0) and (a, 0)
are
q q q
VO    ,
4 0 a 4 0 a 2 0 a

q q q  a 
VO '    .
4 0  a  x  4 0  a  x  2 0  a 2  x 2 
The potential energy of charge placed in a potential V is QV.
Thus, the change in potential energy of charge when it is
displaced by a small distance x is

qQ  a 1
U  QVO '  QVO    
2 0  a  x
2 2
a

At B, the radially inward force provides the centripetal qQ x2 qQ x 2

  .  for x  a  .
acceleration i.e.,

2 0 a a 2  x 2 
2 0 a 3
mg + TB – Fe = mvB2 /r . (1)
6. Charges +q and –q are located at the corners of a cube of
The electrostatic potential energies of the particle at A and side as show in the figure. Find the work done to separate
B are same. Using the conservation of mechanical energy the charges to infinite distance.
between A and B, we get (JEE Advanced 2003)
1 2 1 2
mv A  mvB  2mgr . (2)
2 2
Eliminate vB from equations (1) and (2) to get

v 2A  5rg / m  rTB / m  rFe / m. (3)

Velocity vA is minimum when TB = 0 (since TB  0). Substitute
TB = 0 in equation (3) to get the minimum value of vA as
1/ 2 1/ 2
 rF   1 q2 
v A   5rg  e    5 gr  
 m   4 0 mr 

Substitute the values of q, m, r, and g to get vA = 5.86 m/s.
We encourage you to analyse the problem if Fe >mg.
 ELECTROSTATICS 3
The conservation of energy, K + U = 0, gives dipole kinetic
1 q2 4
Ans.
4 0 a
.
6

3 3 3 6  2  energy asK = –U = qp/(40r2). The electric field at the origin
by the dipole and force on the charge are
 2p   2 pq ˆ
1 q 2  3 3 1  Ep  iˆ, Fq  qE p  i.
Sol. Wextenal  PE     4 4 0 r3
4 0 r 3
4 0 a  1 2 3
qp
1 q2 4  U
  3 3 3 6  2 4 0 d 2
4 0 a 6  
9. Consider the charge configuration and a spherical Gaussian
7. A metallic shell has a point charge kept inside its cavity.
surface as shown in the figure. When calculating the flux of
Which one of the following diagrams correctly represents
the electric field over the spherical surface, the electric field
the electric lines of forces? (JEE Advanced 2003)
will be due to
(a) (b) (JEE Advanced 2004)

(c) (d)

(a) q2 (b) only the positive charges

(c) all the charges (d) +q1 and –q1
Ans. (c)
Sol. Gauss’s law gives the electric flux  through a surface S by
  qenc
Ans. (c)    E.dS 
Sol. The electric field inside the conductor is zero. The field lines
S 0 .
are normal to the equipotential surface of the conductor. In the given case, = 0 because qenc = q1 + (–q1) = 0. However,
Note that field outside the metallic shell is same as the field 
the electric field E in equation (1) is the net electric field by
of a point charge kept at its centre.
all the charges. It is interesting to note that if q2 is moved
8. A positive point charge is fixed at origin. A dipole with a 
 then E on Gaussian surface adjusts in such a way that
dipole moment p is placed along the x-axis far away from  
  E. dS remains zero.
the origin with p pointing along positive x-axis. Find : (a)
the kinetic energy of the dipole when it reaches a distance d 10. There are two large parallel metallic plates S1 and S2 carrying
from the origin, and (b) the force experienced by the charge surface charge densities 1 and 2 respectively (1 > 2)
at this moment. placed at a distance d apart in vacuum. Find the work done
(JEE Advanced 2003) by the electric field in moving a point charge a distance a (a
< d) from S1 towards S2 along a line making an angle /4 with
qp  pq ˆ the normal to the plates.
Ans. (a) KE  , (b) F  i
40 d 2
20 d 3 (JEE Advanced 2004)
  1  2  qa
Sol. Total energy of a dipole p  piˆ when it is far away from the Ans.
charge q, is zero. Now, this dipole is placed in the electric 2 0
field of charge q. The electric field of charge and the potential
Sol. The electric field near a large metallic plate having a charge
energy of the dipole are given by
density is /0. The electric field by two plates in the region
 1 q ˆ   qp of interest is opposite to each other, giving the net electric
Eq  i , U   p.Eq   .,
4 0 r 2  r  d .
4 0 r 2 field
ELECTROSTATICS 4
  2 4 3
E 1 iˆ, of liquid in the droplet of radius r is Vd   r . Equate Vb
0 3
= Vd to get
where iˆ is the unit vector normal to the plates. The force on
r = (3a2t)1/3.
 
a charge particle in an electric field is F  qE and work The potential on a spherical shell of radius a and charge is V
  = q/(40a). Thus, charge on the bubble having potential V
done by F in displacing charge by S is
is = 40aV. The charge conservation gives charge on the
droplet as = 40aV. The potential on the droplet is given by
  q  1   2  qa  1   2 
W  F .S  a cos 45  .
0 2 0 q 4 0 aV a
1/ 3
Vd     V.
4 0 r
 
1/ 3
11. Six charges of equal magnitude, 3 positive and 3 negative 3a 2t  3t 
are to be placed on PQRSTU corners of a regular hexagon,
such that field at the centre is double that of what it would 13. Three infinitely long charge sheets are placed as shown in
have been if only one +ve charge is placed at R. figure. The electric field at point P is (JEE Advanced 2005)
(JEE Advanced 2004)

2 2
(a) k̂ (b)  k̂
0 0
(a) +, +, +, –, –, – (b) –, +, +, +, –, –
(c) –, +, +, –, +, – (d) +, –, +, –, +, – 4 4
(c) k̂ (d)  k̂
Ans. (c) 0 0
Sol. The given condition is met if the charge at U is negative, Ans. (b)
charge at R is positive and field at O due to P, Q, S and T is Sol. The electric field at point P is given by
zero.
 
E
2 0
kˆ 
2 ˆ 
2 0
k
2 0
 kˆ  
2 ˆ
0
k.  
14. For spherical symmetrical charge distribution, variation of
electric potential with distance from centre is given in
diagram. Given that (JEE Advanced 2006)
q q
V for r  R 0 and V  for r  R 0
This is possible if the line joining the two charges and 4 0 R 0 40 r
passing through O has charges of same sign on its two
ends. Two such possibilities are shown in the figure.
12. A conducting bubble of radius a, thickness t (t << a) has
potential V. Now the bubble collapses into a droplet. Find
the potential of the droplet.
(JEE Advanced 2005)
1/ 3
 a 
Ans. V '  V  
 3t 
Then which option(s) are correct
Sol. The volume of liquid in a bubble of radius a and thickness t is
(a) Total charge within 2R0 is q
Vb 
4
3
  a  t   a   4 a t (since t<<a). The volume
3 3 2 (b) Total electrostatic energy for r  R0 is zero
(c) At r = R0 electric field is discontinuous
(d) There will be no charge anywhere except at r = R0
ELECTROSTATICS 5
Ans. (a,b,c,d)
dV
Sol. Use relation, E   , to get the electric field from given
dr
potential

 q
 4 R if r  R0 ,

V r  
0 0
;
 q
if r  R0,
 4 0  r

 0 if r  R0 ,

E r    q
if r  R0,
 4 r 2
 0 The potentials at the point A and B are given by
Consider a spherical shell of radius 2R0 as Gaussian surface. 1 q 1 q
Using Gauss’s law for this surface, we get VA    0,
4 0 rA 4 0 rA
q
qenc   0   0 . .16 R02  q. 1 q 1 q
16 0 R02 VB    0.
4 0 rB 4 0 rB
The electrostatic energy density for r  R 0 is
Since VA = VB, the work done in taking a unit charge from A
1
 0 E 2  0 (since E = 0) and hence the total electric energy to B is zero. The electrostatic forces are conservative and
2 work done by them do not depend on the path. We encourage
stored in this region is zero. you to show that work done in taking a unit charge from A to
The electric field is discontinuous at r = R0. This can be seen B is zero even if both the charges are positive.
by taking left and right limits 16. Consider a neutral conducting sphere. A positive point
q charge is placed outside the sphere. The net charge on the
lim E  r   0, lim E  r   .

x  R0 
x  R0 4 0 r 2 sphere is then
Since electric field is continuous at all points except at r = R0, (JEE Advanced 2007)
there is no charge distribution except at r = R0. We encourage (a) negative and distributed uniformly over the surface of
you to realize that the given potential is same as the potential the sphere
due to a spherical shell of radius R0 having a charge q. (b) negative and appears only at the point on the sphere
15. Positive and negative point charges of equal magnitude are closest to the point charge
 a  (c) negative and distributed non-uniformly over the entire
kept at  0,0,  and  0,0,  respectively. The work done
a
surface of the sphere
 2  2 
(d) zero
by the electric field when another positive point charge is
moved from (–a, 0, 0) to (0, a, 0) is Ans. (d)
(JEE Advanced 2007) Sol. The positive point charge induces negative charge in its
vicinity but an equal amount of positive charge is induced
(a) positive
in the remaining portion of the sphere. The net charge on
(b) negative the sphere remains zero.
(c) zero 17. A spherical portion has been removed from a solid sphere
(d) depends on the path connecting the initial and final having a charge distributed uniformly in its volume as shown
positions in the figure. The electric field inside the emptied space is
Ans. (c) (JEE Advanced 2007)
Sol. The charge configuration is shown in the figure. The point A
(–a, 0, 0) is at a distance rA  5a / 2 from both the charges.

Also, the point B (0, a, 0) is at a distance rB  5a / 2 from

both the charges.
ELECTROSTATICS 6
(a) zero everywhere (b) non-zero and uniform 19. Consider a neutral conducting sphere. A positive point
(c) non-uniform (d) zero only at its centre charge is placed outside the sphere. The net charge on the
Ans. (b) sphere is then (JEE Advanced 2007)
Sol. Let  be the charge density of the bigger sphere and O be its (a) negative and distributed uniformly over the surface of
centre. the sphere
(b) negative and appears only at the point on the sphere
closest to the point charge
(c) negative and distributed non-uniformly over the entire
surface of the sphere
(d) zero
Ans. (d)
Sol. The positive point charge induces negative charge in its
vicinity but an equal amount of positive charge is induced
in the remaining portion of the sphere. The net charge on
the sphere remains zero.
Removing a spherical portion from the bigger sphere is q q 2q
equivalent to adding a spherical portion of opposite charge 20. Consider a system of three charges , and  placed
3 3 3
density (–). The electric field at a point in the cavity is at points A, B and C respectively, as shown in the figure.
equal to superposition of the fields by bigger sphere with Take O to be the centre of the circle of radius R and angle
charge density and field by the smaller sphere with charge CAB = 60°
density –. Using Gauss’s law, field at an inside point P by
(JEE Advanced 2008)
the bigger sphere is

  r1    r2
E1  , and field by the smaller sphere is E2 
3 0 3 0
The resultant field at P is
 
     r1  r2   r
E  E1  E2   .
3 0 3 0
Hence field in the cavity is non-zero and uniform as r remains
same for all points inside the cavity. q
(a) The electric field at point O is directed along
18. A long, hollow conducting cylinder is kept coaxially inside 8 0 R 2
another long, hollow conducting cylinder of larger radius. the negative x–axis
Both the cylinders are initially electrically neutral. (b) The potential energy of the system is zero
(JEE Advanced 2007) (c) The magnitude of the force between the charges at C and
(a) a potential difference appears between the two cylinders
q2
when a charge density is given to the inner cylinder B is
(b) a potential difference appears between the two cylinders 54  0 R 2
when a charge density is given to the outer cylinder
q
(c) no potential difference appears between the two (d) The potential at point O is
cylinders when a uniform line charge is kept along the axis 12 0 R
of the cylinders Ans. (c)
(d) no potential difference appears between the two Sol. The charges at A, B and C are qA = q/3, qB = q/3, and qC = –2q/
cylinders when same charge density is given to both the 3. The electric fields at O due to qA and qB are equal in
cylinders magnitude but opposite in direction. Thus, the resultant
Ans. (a) electric field at O is only due to charge qC and is given by
Sol. Using gauss law, Electric field exists in between coaxial  –q
cylinders as it encloses charge contained on inner cylinder. EO  iˆ
Due to electric field, potential difference exists. 6 0 R 2
 ELECTROSTATICS 7
The triangle ABC is right-angled with A = 60°, C = 90°, (ii)The earth is a good conductor. It is easily accessible for
electrical circuits geographically distributed over it and hence
and rAB = 2R. Thus, rAC = R and rBC  3R . The potential
it is used as a common reference with zero potential.
energy for the given charge distribution is
PASSAGE
1  q A qB q A qC qB qC  The nuclear charge (Ze) is non-uniformly distributed within
U     a nucleus of radius R. The charge density (r) (charge per
4 0  rAB rAC rBC 
unit volume) is dependent only on the radial distance r from
the centre of the nucleus as shown in figure. The electric
1  q 2 q 2 2q   field is only along the radial direction.
      0.
4 0  18 R 9 R 9 3 R 

The magnitude of force between qC and qB is

1 qB qC q2
FBC   .
4 0 rBC
2
54 0 R 2
The potential at O is
1
V  q A / R  qB / R  qC / R   0.
4 0 22. The electric field at r = R is
(JEE Advanced 2008)
21. Statement I : For practical purposes, the earth is used as a
reference at zero potential in electrical circuits. (a) independent of a (b) directly proportional to a
Statement II : The electrical potential of a sphere of radius R (c) directly proportional to a2 (d) inversely proportional to a
with charge uniformly distributed on the surface is given by Ans. (a)
Q Sol. The problem has spherical symmetry. Let us consider a
spherical shell of radius R as Gaussian surface. Using
4 0 R . (JEE Advanced 2008)
Gauss’s law, E(4R2) = qenc/0. But qenc = Ze is independent of
(a) Statement–I is true, Statement–II is true; Statement–II is a. Hence, E is independent of a.
the correct explanation for Statement–I. 23. For a = 0, the value of d (maximum value of as shown in the
(b) If Statement–I is true, Statement–II is true; Statement–II is figure) is (JEE Advanced 2008)
not a correct explanation for Statement–I.
3Ze 3Ze
(c) If Statement–I is true; Statement–II is false. (a) (b)
4R 3 R 3
(d) If Statement–I is false; Statement–II is true.
Ans. (b) 4Ze Ze
(c) (d)
Sol. The potential at a point is generally defined with respect to a 3R 3 3R 3
reference of zero potential at infinity. The potential on the Ans. (b)
surface of a sphere of radius R with charge uniformly
Sol. If a = 0 then the expression for volume charge density in the
Q region 0 < r < R is (r) = d (1 - r/R) which is a straight line
distributed on it is 4 R when reference point is at infinity.. passing through (0, d) and (R, 0). Consider a spherical shell
0
of radius r and thickness dr. The charge inside this shell is
The earth has a negative charge density of approximately c
(r)4r2dr. Total charge inside a sphere of radius R is
= 1 nC/m 2 giving us Qe  4 Re2 e  0.5  106 C and
R R  dR 3
9
Ve  0.7  10 V , where Re = 6378 km is the radius of the qenc     r  4 r 2 dr  4 d  1  r / R  r 2 dr  .
0 0 3
earth. But for all practical purposes, the earth is used as a
reference with zero potential. The reasons are: 3

Substitute qenc  Ze to get d  3Ze /  R . 
(i) Due to large size of the earth, its potential does not change
24. The electric field within the nucleus is generally observed
even if a small amount of charge is given to the earth or
to be linearly dependent on r. This implies
taken away from it. Also, all conductors on the earth which
are not given any external charge, are nearly at the potential (JEE Advanced 2008)
Ve. The choice of reference is quite arbitrary and is largely R
governed by convenience. (a) a = 0 (b) a 
2
ELECTROSTATICS 8

2R  8Q1  3Q1  Q3
(c) a = R (d) a 
3  Q1 : Q3  1: 5
Ans. (c)
So, Q1 : Q2 : Q3  1: 3 : 5
Sol. The electric field inside a uniformly charged sphere is
proportional to r. The volume charge density inside a 26. Under the influence of the coulomb field of charge +Q, a
uniformly charged sphere is constant and hence a = R. We charge – is moving around it in an elliptical orbit. Find out
encourage you to find qene in terms of a, R, and d and then the correct statement(s).
analyse. (JEE Advanced 2009)
(a) The angular momentum of the charge – is constant
a R d R  r d
Hint: qene   d 4 r 2 dr 
0 a Ra
4 r 2 dr 
3
(b) The linear momentum of the charge –is constant
(c) The angular velocity of the charge –is constant
(R +a R + aR + a ).
3 2 2 3
(d) The linear speed of the charge – is constant
25. Three concentric metallic spherical shells of radii R, 2R and
Ans. (a)
3R are given charges Q1, Q2 and Q3, respectively. It is found
that the surface charge densities on the outer surfaces of Sol.   q moves around q
the shells are equal. Then, the ratio of the charges given to T 0
the shells, Q1 : Q2 : Q3, is
(JEE Advanced 2009) dL
 0
(a) 1 : 2 : 3 (b) 1 : 3 : 5 dt
(c) 1 : 4 : 9 (d) 1 : 8 : 18  L is constant
Ans. (b) Net toruqe on (–q) about a point (say P) lying over +is zero.
Sol. Since, surface charge densities are same, Therefore, angular momentum of (–q) about point P should
remain constant.
Q1 Q1  Q2 Q1  Q2  Q3
  a
4  2 R 
2 2
4 R 4 (3R) 2 27. A disk of radius having a uniformly distributed charge 6C
4
Q1  Q2 Q1  Q2  Q3 a
Solving them we get : Q1   is placed in the x–y plane with its centre at  , 0, 0  . A
4 9  2 
rod of length a carrying a uniformly distributed charge 8C is
a 5a
placed on the x–axis from x  to x  . Two point
4 4

charges –7C and 3C are placed at  a , a , 0  and

4 4 

 3a 3a  , respectively. Consider a cubical surface

 , ,0
 4 4 
a a a
formed by six surfaces x   , y   , z   . The
2 2 2
electric flux through this cubical surface is
(JEE Advanced 2009)

4Q1  Q1  Q2

 3Q1  Q2

 Q1 : Q2  1: 3

Q1  Q2  Q3
and Q1 
9
 9Q1  Q1  Q2  Q3
ELECTROSTATICS 9
Ans. (d)
2C 2C
(a) (b) Sol. In equilibrium, mg = qE
0 0
In absence of electric field, mg = 6rv
10C 12C qE = 6rv
(c) (d)
0 0 4 3 qE
m r d 
Ans. (a) 3 g , d is density
Sol. By Gauss’s law, flux through a closed surface enclosing a
3
charge qenc is qenc/0. The charge enclosed within the given 4  qE  qE
cubical surface consists of charge on half of the disc, charge   d
3  6 v  g
on one-fourth of the rod, and the point charge –7C. Charge
on half of the disc is 3C and that on one-fourth of the rod is After substituting value we get, = 8×10–19 C
2C. Thus, qenc = 3C + 2C + (–7C) = –2C. Hence the desired 30. A uniformly charged thin spherical shell of radius R carries
flux is –2C/0. uniform surface charge density of per unit area. It is made
28. A few electric field lines for a system of two charges Q1 and of two hemispherical shells, held together by pressing them
Q2 fixed at two different points on the x–axis are shown in with force F. F is proportional to
the figure. These lines suggest that (JEE Advanced 2010)
(JEE Advanced 2010)

1 2
(a) 1  2 R 2 (b) R
0 0

1 2
(c) 1 
2

(a) |Q1| > |Q2| (d)

0 R 0 R 2
(b) |Q1| < |Q2|
Ans. (a)
(c) at a finite distance to the left of Q1 the electric field is zero
2
(d) at a finite distance to the right of Q2 the electric field is Sol.  P 
2 0
zero
Ans. (a,d) 2 2
F  P. A  2   R
Sol. Since density of electric field line is greatest around Q1 0

 Q1  Q2 and along the line, to right of Q2 Electric field 2

 F
may be 0. 0 R2
 (a) is correct
29. A tiny spherical oil drop carrying a net charge is balanced in
31. A spherical metal shell A of radius RA and a solid metal sphere
still air with a vertical uniform electric field of strength
B of radius RB (<RA) are kept far apart and each is given
81 charge +Q. Now they are connected by a thin metal wire.
 105 Vm 1 . When the field is switched off, the drop is
7 Then
observed to fall with terminal velocity 2×10–3 ms–1. Given (JEE Advanced 2011)
g=9.8 ms–2, viscosity of the air = 1.8×10–5 Ns m–2 and the
density of oil = 900 kg m–3, the magnitude of charge is
(a) Einside
A 0 (b) QA > QB
(JEE Advanced 2010) A R B
(a) 1.6×10–19 C (b) 3.2×10–19 C (c)   R (d) E on
A
surface
 Eon
B
surface
B A
(c) 4.8×10–19 C (d) 8.0×10–19 C
Ans. (a,b,c,d)
ELECTROSTATICS 10
Sol. Inside a conducting shell electric field is always zero. with the vertical if qE = mg i.e., q(X/d) = mg. Thus,
Therefore, OPTION (A) is correct. When the two are
connected, their potentials become the same.
X 
mgd

  
1.67  1027  9.8  1 102 
 10 9 V .
19
 VA  VB q 1.6 10
33. A spherical metal shell A of radius RA and a solid metal sphere
QA QB  1 Q 
   V   B of radius RB (<RA) are kept far apart and each is given
RA RB  4 0 R
 charge +Q. Now they are connected by a thin metal wire.
Since, RA > RB Then
(JEE Advanced 2011)
 QA  QB
So, OPTION (B) is correct.
(a) Einside
A 0 (b) QA > QB

R A R B
Potential is also equal to, V  (c)   R (d) E on surface
 Eon surface
0 B A
A B

Since VA = VB Ans. (a,b,c,d)

Sol. Inside a conducting shell electric field is always zero.
  A RA   B RB Therefore, OPTION (A) is correct. When the two are
 A RB connected, their potentials become the same.
 
 B RA  VA  VB

 A  B QA QB  1 Q 
   V  
So, OPTION (C) is correct. RA RB  4 0 R 
 Since, RA > RB
Electric field on surface, E 
0  QA  QB
 E  So, OPTION (B) is correct.

Since,  A   B  E A  E B R
Potential is also equal to, V 
0
So, OPTION (D) is also correct. Since VA = VB
Hence the correct OPTIONS are (A), (B), (C) and (D).
  A RA   B RB
32. Two large vertical and parallel metal plates having a
separation of 1 cm are connected to a DC voltage source of  A RB
potential difference X. A proton is released at rest midway  
 B RA
between the two plates. It is found to move at 45° to the
vertical just after release. Then X is nearly  A  B
(a) 1 × 10–5 V (b) 1 × 10–7 V So, OPTION (C) is correct.
(c) 1 × 10–9 V (d) 1 × 10–10 V
Ans. (c)

Electric field on surface, E 
Sol. The electric field in the region between the two plates is
0
given by E = X/d.  E 
Since,  A   B  E A  E B
So, OPTION (D) is also correct.
Hence the correct OPTIONS are (A), (B), (C) and (D).
34. Which of the following statement(s) is/are correct?
(JEE Advanced 2011)
(a) If the electric field due to a point charge varies as r–2.5
The proton moves at 45° to the vertical if the acceleration instead of r–2, then the Gauss’s law will still be valid
(resultant force) is in this direction. The resultant of electric (b) The Gauss’s law can be used to calculate the field
force qE and gravitational force mg makes an angle of 45° distribution around an electric dipole
ELECTROSTATICS 11
(c) If the electric field between two point charges is zero 
somewhere, then the sign of the two charges is the same A  2a 2
1 ˆ
2
i – 2a 2
1 ˆ
2
k  a 2 i – kˆ 
(d) The work done by the external force in moving a unit
positive charge from point A at potential VA to point B at 
E  E0 iˆ
potential VB is (VB – VA)
 
Ans. (c,d) 
  E. A  E0iˆ. a 2iˆ – a2 kˆ 
Sol. Gauss’s law is based on 1/r2 (inverse square) nature of electric
   E0 a 2iˆ.iˆ – E0 a 2 iˆ.kˆ
field. Let E due to a point charge has r-2.5 dependence i.e.,
 k  iˆ.kˆ  0 
E  2.5 rˆ . Consider a sphere of radius r as Gaussian
r   E0 a 2
surface. The direction of electric field is radial and its
magnitude is same at all points of Gaussian surface. Thus, 36. A cubical region of side a has its centre at the origin. It
the flux through Gaussian surface is encloses three fixed point charges, –at (0, –a/4, 0), +3at (0,
0, 0) and –at (0, +a/4, 0). Choose the correct option(s).
  4 k
   E.dS 
r
k
2.5  
  r 2 
r
.
(JEE Advanced 2012)

The flux varies with r and hence Gauss’s law is not valid
  qene /  0  . Gauss’s law is useful for calculating the
electric field in problems with some underlying symmetry
e.g., spherical, cylindrical, or plane charge distribution etc.
The electric field between two point charges becomes zero
only when both charges have the same sign. Last option is
true by the definition of electric potential.

35. Consider an electric field E  E 0 x,ˆ where E0 is a constant. (a) The net electric flux crossing the plane x = + a/2 is equal
The flux through the shaded area (as shown in the figure) to the net electric flux crossing the plane x = –a/2
due to this field is (b) The net electric flux crossing the plane y = + a/2 is more than
(JEE Advanced 2011) the net electric flux crossing the plane y = –a/2

q
(c) The net electric flux crossing the entire region is 
0

(d) The net electric flux crossing the plane z = + a/2 is equal
to the net electric flux crossing the plane x = + a/2
Ans. (a,c,d)
Sol. From the reflection symmetry of the given charge distribution
about y - z plane, the electric flux crossing the plane x = +a/
2 is equal to the electric flux crossing the plane x = –a/2.
Also, by the reflection symmetry about x - z plane, the electric
flux crossing the plane y = + a/2 is equal to the electric flux
crossing the plane y = –a/2. By the rotational symmetry
(a) 2E0a2 (b) 2 E0 a 2 about y-axis, the electric flux crossing the plane x = +a/2 is
equal to the electric flux crossing the plane z = a/2. From
E0 a 2 Gauss’s law, the net electric flux crossing the entire region is
(c) E0a2 (d) qenc/0 = q/0.
2
37. An infinitely long solid cylinder of radius R has a uniform
Ans. (c) volume charge . It has a sphererical cavity of radius R/2
  with its centre on the axis of the cylinders, as shown in the
Sol. Required flux    E. A , A is projected area shaded area
figure. The magnitude of the electric field at the point P,
flux to calculate. which is at a distance 2R from the axis of the cylinder, is

A  A cos 45iˆ  A sin 45kˆ 23 R
given by the expression 16k . The value of k is

ELECTROSTATICS 12
(JEE Advanced 2012) Gauss’s law,

 R 2l    
Ecyl .2  2 R  l  to get Ecyl   R /  4 0  ˆj .
0
Thus, the resultant electric field at P is given by
    R ˆ  R ˆ 23 R ˆ
E  Ecyl  Esph  j j j.
4 0 96 0 96 0
38. Two non-conducting solid spheres of radii R and 2R, having
uniform volume charge densities 1 and 2 respectively,
touch each other. The net electric field at a distance 2 R
from the centre of the smaller sphere, along the line joining
1
the centre of the spheres, is zero. The ratio  can be
Ans. (0.6) 2

Sol. Given configuration is equivalent to an infinitely long solid

cylinder of radius R having a uniform charge density  and (JEE Advanced 2013)
a solid sphere of radius R/2 having a uniform charge density
–. By the principle of super-position, the electric field at P 32
     (a) –4 (b) 
25
is E  Ecyl  Esph . By symmetry, both Esph and Ecyl point
towards the y-direction. 32
(c) (d) 4
25
Ans. (b,d)
Sol.

If resultant electric field is zero, then

KQ1 R

4R 2 3 0
Q1
 1 
4
 R3
3
K 4  R3 1   2 R

3 4R2 3 0
1
 4
For sphere, consider a shell of radius 2R as Gaussian surface. 2
Apply Gauss’s law, At point Q

Esph .4  2 R  
2  4 / 3   R / 2      ,
3
If resultant electric field is zero, then
KQ1

KQ2
0
0 4R2 25 R 2
 1 32
to get Esph    R /  96 0  ˆj . For cylinder, consider a 
2 25 ( 1 must be negative)
cylinder of radius 2R and height l as Gaussian surface. Apply
ELECTROSTATICS 13
39. Two non-conducting sphere of radii R1 and R2 and carrying 
uniform volume charge densities + and –, respectively, (a) is incorrect, r0 

are placed such that they partially overlap, as shown in the
figure. At all points in the overlapping region.  r0 
(b) is incorrect, E1    4 E1  r0 
(JEE Advanced 2013) 2
1
As E1 
r2
r  1
E2  0   2 E2  r0  as E2 
2
  r
(a) the electrostatic field is zero  (c) is correct
(b) the electrostatic potential is contant
r 
(c) the electrostatic field is constant in magnitude E3  0   E3  r0   E2  r0 
(d) the electrostatic field has same direction 2 

Ans. (c,d) as E3  r 0  (d ) is incorrect.

Sol. 41. Charges Q, 2Q and 4Q are uniformly distributed in three
dielectric solid spheres 1, 2 and 3 of radii R/2, R and 2R
respectively, as shown in figure. If magnitudes of the electric
fields at point P at a distance R from the centre of spheres 1,
2 and 3 are E1, E2 and E3 respectively, then
(JEE Advanced 2014)

  
d  r1 – r2 ...... 1

4
1    R13 ......  2 
3

4
 2    R23 ......  3
3 (a) E1 > E2 > E3 (b) E3 > E1 > E2
 
 k .r k  – 2  r2 (c) E2 > E1 > E3 (d) E3 > E2 > E1
E net  13 1  (using 2 & 3)
R1 R23 Ans. (c)
kQ k  2Q  2kQ
    Sol. E1  R 2 , E2  R 2  R 2
Enet   r1 – r2 
3 0
1
k
   4 0
Enet  d
3 0  
Calculating E3 E3  E p
40. Let E1 (r), E2 (r) and E3 (r) be the respective electric fields at
a distance r from a point charge Q, an infinitely long wire
with constant linear charge density  and an infinite plane  
 4Q   4 3 
with uniform surface charge density  . If E1 (r0) = E2 (r0) = E3 Q'     R 
(r0) at a given distance r0, then 4 3 3
   2R   
(JEE Advanced 2014) 3 

 4Q Q  kQ kQ
(a) Q  4r02 (b) r0  Q'   E p  enclosed  2
2 8 2 R 2
2R
(c) E1(r0/2) = 2 E2 (r0/2) (d) E2 (r0/2) = 4E3 (r0/2)
 kQ
Ans. (c)  E3 
2R2
Q  
   Q  2 r02 E2  E1  E3
Sol. 4 0 r02 2 0 r0 2 0
 ELECTROSTATICS 14
42. Four charges Q1, Q2, Q3 and Q4 of same magnitude are fixed
qq
along the x axis at x = – 2a, –a, +a and +2a, respectively. A F1.4  ,
positive charge is placed on the positive y axis at a distance 
4 0 b 2  4a 2  and that by q2 and q3 as
b > 0. Four options of the signs of these charges are given in
List I. The direction of the forces on the charge is given in qq '
F2.3 
List II. Match List I with List II and select the correct answer
using the code given below the lists. 
4 0 b 2  a 2 
(JEE Advanced 2014) Thus, F1.4 < F2.3. See the figure for the directions of forces in
four cases. Resolve the forces in x and y directions and
compare the magnitudes to get the answer.
43. The figure below depict two situations in which two
infinitely long static line charges of constant positive line
charge density  are kept parallel to each other. In their
resulting electric field, point charges and –are kept in
equilibrium between them. The point charges are confined
to move in the x-direction only. If they are given a small
displacement about their equilibrium positions, then the
correct statement(s) is (are)
(JEE Advanced 2015)
List I List II
P. Q1, Q2, Q3, Q4 all positive 1. +x
Q. Q1, Q2 positive; Q3, Q4 negative 2. –x
R. Q1, Q4 positive; Q2, Q3 negative 3. +y
S. Q1, Q3 positive; Q2, Q4 negative 4. –y
Codes :
(a) P -3, Q-1, R-4, S-2 (b) P-4, Q-2, R-3, S-1
(c) P-3, Q-1, R-2, S-4 (d) P-4, Q-2, R-1, S-3
(a) Both charges execute simple harmonic motion
Ans. (a)
(b) Both charges will continue moving in the direction of
Sol. Let |q1| = |q2| = |q3| = |q4| = q’. The forces on by q1,q2,q3, and q4 their displacement
in all the four cases (P, Q, R, S) are shown in the figure.
(c) Charge +executes simple harmonic motion while charge
continues moving in the direction of its displacement.
(d) Charge –executes simple harmonic motion while charge
+continues moving in the direction of its displacement.
Ans. (c)
Sol. Charge –q executes simple harmonic moiton while charge
+q continues moving in the direction of its displacement.
44. Consider a uniform spherical charge distribution of radius
R1 centred at the origin O. In this distribution, a spherical
cavity of radius R2, Centred at P with distance OP = a = R1 – R2
(see figure) is made. If the electric field inside the cavity at
 
position r is E  r  , then the correct statement(s) is (are)
(JEE Advanced 2015)

Coulomb’s law gives the magnitude of the force by q1 and q4

as
 ELECTROSTATICS 15

(a) E is uniform, its magnitude is independent of R2 but its Ans. (0.6)
direction depend on r Sol. Considering ABCD as one side of rectangle containing line
 charge.
(b) E is uniform, its magnitude depends on R2 and its
1  flux 
direction depend on ABCD    
 flux through 6  Total 
(c) E is uniform, its r magnitude is independent of a but
46. Which one of the following statements is correct?
its direction depend on a
(JEE Advanced 2016)

(d) E is uniform and both its magnitude and direction (a) The balls will execute simple harmonic motion between
the two plates
depend on
a (b) The balls will bounce back to the bottom plate carrying
Ans. (d) the opposite charge they went up with
Sol. (c) The balls will bounce back to the bottom plate carrying
the same charge they went up with
(d) The balls will stick to the top plate and remain there
Ans. (c)
Sol. The distance between the two plates is h. The potential of
the bottom plate is V0 and that of the top plates is –V0 . The
electric field between the plates is E = 2V0/h (directed
upwards). The radius of each ball is r (<< h). Let m be the
mass and C be the capacitance of each ball.
Here, a  r1  r 2
r
at any point inside sphere, E  3
0


  r   r  R1  R 2   a 
So, Ereq   
3 0
3 0 3 0 3 0
 
Since, E in cavity = E due to larger sphere - E due to
smaller sphere
45. An infinitely long uniform line charge distribution of charge
per unit length  lies parallel to the y-axis in the y-z plane at z
When the ball touches the bottom plate, it gets a positive
3 charge = CV 0 (we assume that the charge transfer is
= a (see figure.) If the magnitude of the flux of the electric
2 instantaneous). This positively charged ball experiences an
field through the rectangular surface ABCD lying in the xy upward force, F = qE = 2CV02/h, which accelerates the ball
upwards. Since the force is constant, the ball cannot do
L SHM (for SHM, the force should be proportional to the
plane with its centre at the origin is ( = permittivity of
n0 0 displacement and directed towards the centre).
free space), then the value of n is When the ball hits the top plate, it transfers the positive
charge to the plate and gets negative charge = –CV0. This
(JEE Advanced 2015)
negatively charged ball again experience a force F = qE
(downward) and starts accelerating downwards. Thus, the
ball keeps moving between the bottom and the top plates
carrying a charge +upwards and -downwards.
47. A length-scale (l) depends on the permittivity () of a
dielectric material, Boltzmann constant (kB), the absolute
temperature (T), the number per unit volume (n) of certain
charged particles, and the charge (q) carried by each of the
particles. Which of the following expression(s) for l is(are)
dimensionally correct?
(JEE Advanced 2016)
ELECTROSTATICS 16
Ans. (P–5; Q–3; R–1, 4; S–2)
 nq 2   k B T 
Sol. The electric field at point P(0, 0, d) due to a point charge at
(a) l    (b) l   2 
 k B T   nq  the origin is given by
 1 q ˆ
 q2   q2  E1  k.
(c) l   2/3  (d) l   1/3  4 0 d 2
 n k B T   n k B T 
The electric field at point P(0, 0, d) due to a small dipole with
Ans. (b,d) point charge at (0, 0, l) and –at (0, 0, –l) i.e., held due to a
Sol. The dimensions of thermal energy kBT is ML2T-2. From 
Coulomb’s law, F = q1q2 /(4r2), the dimensions of q2/is dipole of dipole moment p  2lqkˆ, is given by
ML3T–2. The dimensions of number per unit volume n is L–3.
Substitute these dimensions in given expressions to get  1 2p ˆ
E2  k.
dimensions of 4 0 d 3
[n]  c 3 The electric field at point P(0, 0, d) due to an infinite line
q2 charge coincident with the x-axis and having a uniform linear
substituting diamension of n, k BT and all 4 options we charge density  is given by

get (b,d) as correct choice.
  ˆ
E3  k.
 k BT q 2 2 0 d
and as L.
nq 2 en1/ 3 k B T Two infinite wires carry a uniform linear charge density
48. The electric field E is measured at a point P(0, 0, d) generated parallel to x-axis. The one along (y = 0, z =1) has a charge
due to various charge distributions and the dependence of density + and the one long (y = 0, z = -l) has a charge
E on d is found to be different for different charge density –. The electric field at point P(0, 0, d) due to this
distributions. List-I contains different relations between E configuration is given by
and d. List-II describes different electric charge distributions,
   l ˆ
along with their locations. Match the functions in List-I with E4  kˆ  kˆ  k.
the related charge distributions in List-II. 2 0  d  l  2 0  d  l   0 d 2
(JEE Advanced 2018)
The electric field at point P(0, 0, d), due to an infinite plane
List-I List-II
charge coincident with the x-y plane, and having a uniform
(P) E is independent of d 1. A point charge at the origin
surface charge density , is given by
1
(Q) E 2. A small dipole with point   ˆ
d E5  k.
charges at (0, 0, l) and 2 0
–at (0, 0, –l). Take 2l <<d
Note: that power of d has increased by one when
1 configuration is changed from point charge (mono-pole) to
(R) E 3.An infinite line charge
d2 dipole. Similar was the case when configuration is changed
coincident with the x-axis with from single line charge to two line charges (of opposite
uniform linear charge density . charge density). Think over it !
1 49. An infinitely long thin non-con
(S) E 3 4. Two infinite wires carrying ducting wire is parallel to the z-axis and carries a uniform
d
uniform linear charge density line charge density . It pierces a thin non-conducting
parallel to the x-axis. The one spherical shell of radius R in such a way that the arc P
along (y = 0, z = l) has a charge subtends an angle 120° at the centre O of the spherical
density + and and the one along shell, as shown in the figure. The permittivity of free space
(y = 0, z = -l) has a charge density is  0 . Which of the following statements is (are) true?
–. Take 2l<<d.
5.Infinite plane charge coincident (JEE Advanced 2018)
with the xy-plane with uniform
surface charge density.
ELECTROSTATICS 17

(b) is true as E is 0 along z .

(c) is false, as  through shell is same as (a)

(d) is false as E is not perpendicular along z .

50. A thin spherical insulating shell of radius R carries a
uniformly distributed charge such that the potential at its
surface is V0. A hole with small area  4 R 2 (  1) is
made on the shell without affecting the rest of the shell.
Which one of the following statement is correct?
(JEE Advanced 2019)
(a) The electric flux through the shell is 3R / 0 (a) The ratio of the potential at the center of the shell to that
1
(b) The z-component of the electric field is zero at all the of the point at R from center towards the hole will be
2
points on the surface of the shell 1 
(c) The electric flux through the shell is 2R / 0 1  2
(d) The electric field is normal to the surface of the shell at (b) The potential at the centre of shell is reduced by 2V0 .
all points (c) The magnitude of electric field at the center of the shell
Ans. (a,b)  V0
is reduced by
Sol. Let Gaussian surface be same as the non-conducting 2R
spherical shell. The charge enclosed by this Gaussian (d) The magnitude of electric field at a point, located on a
surface is the charge on the line segment Pi.e., line passing through the hole and shell’s center, on a
distance 2R from the center of the spherical shell will be
qenc  PQ  3 R.
 V0
where we used law of cosines in triangle OPto get reduced by
2R
PQ  R 2  R 2  2  R   R  cos120  3 R . The electric Answer: (a)
flux through the shell (Gaussian surface) is given by Gauss’s Solution:
law

  qenc /  0  3 R  /  0 . Hence (a) is true.

The electric field at a point due to the infinitely long line
charge is radial i.e., perpendicular to the line PQ. The non-
conducting spherical shell does not affect or alter the electric
field. Thus, electric field at a point lying on the suface of the
shell is perpendicular to the z-axis i.e., its z component is
zero. The figure shows electric field on the surface of the
shell for a positive line charge. Note that the magnitude of
electric field is inversely proportional to the distance of the
point from the line charge. Given V at surface
KQ
V0 
R
V at C
KQ KQ
Vc    V0 (1  )
R R
V at B
KQ K(Q)
VB    V0 (1  2)
R R/2
ELECTROSTATICS 18

VC 1   1/3
  kp0  kp 
VB 1  2  E0  r   0 
r3  E0 
E at A
At point B net electric field will be zero.
KQ KQ KQ V0 EB = 0
EA  2
  
(2R) R2 4R 2 R 2kp0
(EA)Net = 3  E0  3E0
V0 r
So reduced by  3
R
Electric field at point A E A  E0 i  j
2  
E at C
K(Q) V0 (EB)Net=0
Ec  
R2 R

So Increased by
V0
R

51. An electric dipole with dipole moment

2
 
p0  
i  j is held

fixed at the origin O in the presence of an uniform electric

field of magnitude E-0. If the potential is constant on a circle
of radius R centered at the origin as shown in figure, then
the correct statement(s) is/are: ( ε 0 is permittivity of free 52. A charged shell of radius R carries a total charge Q. Given
space. R>>dipole size)
 as the flux of electric field through a closed cylindrical
(JEE Advanced 2019)
surface of height h, radius r and with its centre same as that
of the shell. Here, centre of the cylinder is a point on the
axis of the cylinder which is equidistant from its top and
bottom surfaces. Which of the following option(s) is/are
correct? [ 0 is the permittivity of free space]
(JEE Advanced 2019)

(a) If h  2R and r 
4R Q
then  
5 50

3R Q
(b) If h  2R and r  then  
5 5 0
(a) The magnitude of total electric field on any two points of 8R 3R
the circle will be same. (c) If h  and r  then   0
5 5


(b) Total electric field at point A is E A  2E0 i  j  Q
(d) If h  2R and r  R then  
1/3 0
 p0 
(c) R=   Ans: (b),(c),(d)
 4πε 0 E 0  Sol: (a) h>2R and in between r>R

(d) Total electric field at point B is EB  0
Ans: (c),(d)
Sol: R  dipole size
Circle is equipotential
So, E net Should be to surface so
ELECTROSTATICS 19

Q 53. A uniform electric field, E   400 3yˆ NC 1 is applied in a
 clearly from Gauss’ Law
0 region. A charged particle of mass m carrying positive
charge is projected in this region with an initial speed of
8R 3R 2 10  106 ms 1. This particle is aimed to hit a target T,,
(b) Suppose h  r
5 5 which is 5 m away from its entry point into the field as
q
shown schematically in the figure. Take  1010 Ckg 1.
m
Then –
(JEE Advancd 2020)

0
8R
So for h 
5
(c) for h=2R (a) the particle will hit T is projected at an angle 45º from the
horizontal
(b) the particle will hit T if projected either at an angle 30º or
60º from the horizontal

5
(c) time taken by the particle to hit T could be s as
6

5
well as s
2

5
(d) time taken by the particle to hit T is s
3
Q Q
Shaded Charge  2(1  cos53º )  
4 5 Ans: (b, c)

2Q Sol: a y   400 3  1010 [qE y  ma y ]

 qenclosed 
5 3
sin 2 
2Q 2
 
5 0 2  60º ,120    30º ,60º
4R 2Q Time of flight
 for h  2R r   
5 5 0
1
2  2 10  106 
3R T1  2  5 s (for   30º )
(d) like option c for h = 2R r 
5 400 3  1010 6

Q Q Time of flight
qenclosed  2  2(1  cos370 ) 
4 5 3
2  2 10  106 
Q T2  2  5 s (for   60º )
  400 3  1010 2
50
ELECTROSTATICS 20
Ans: (2.00)
54. Two large circular discs separated by a distance of 0.01 m Sol:
are connected to a battery via a switch as shown in the
figure. Charged oil drops of density 900 kg m–3 are released
through a tiny hole at the center of the top disc.Once some
oil drops achieve terminal velocity, the switch is closed to
apply a voltage of 200 V across the discs. As a result,
an oil drop of radius 8 × 10–7m
stops moving vertically and floats between the discs.
The number of electrons present in this oil drop is
________. (neglect the buoyancy force, take acceleration
due to gravity =10 ms–2 and charge on an electron (e) 1.6 ×
10–19 C) (JEE Advanced 2020)
Ui = 0

KqP ……….(i)
Uf = 2
+ mgh
 
 2 sin 
2

Now, from OAB

 + 90 -  + 90 -  = 180
Ans: (6.00)   = 2

V 200  
Sol: E = = = 2×104 V / m From ABC:h = 2 sin  sin 
d 0.01  2 
When terminal velocity is achieved qE = mg
   
h = 2 sin   sin  
-19 4 4  2  2
 n ×1.6×10 × 2×10 = (8×10-7 )3 ×900×10
3
 
 n 6  h = 2 sin 2  
 2
55. A point charge of mass m is suspended vertically by a string
of length l. A point dipole of dipole moment p is now Now charge is in equilibrium at point B.
brought towards from infinity so that the charge moves So, using sine rule
away. The final equilibrium position of the system including
mg qE
the direction of the dipole, the angles and distances is  =
  sin 180 - 2 
shown in the figure below. If the work done in bringing sin 90 + 
 2
the dipole to this position is N × (mgh), where g is the
acceleration due to gravity, then the value of N is mg qE
_________ . (Note that for three coplanar forces keeping  =
 sin 2
F sin
a point mass in equilibrium, is the same for all forces, 2
sin 
where F is any one of the forces and  is the angle between mg qE mg qE
 =  =
 sin    
the other two forces) (JEE Advanced 2020) cos cos 2 sin cos
2 2 2 2

 
 qE = mg2 sin  
 2

q2kp 
 3
= mg2sin  
  2
 2 sin 2 
kpq   
 2
= mg sin   ×  2 sin 
   2   2
 2 sin 2 
ELECTROSTATICS 21

kpq 1 
 2
= mgh  substituting this in equation (i) = 1-
  er d
 2 sin 2  d = density of sphere

kpq 1 800
U f = mgh + = 1-
2 21 d
 
 2  sin 2  d = 840

 Uf = 2mgh 57. Two point charge –Q and +Q / 3 placed in the xy-plane

at the origin (0, 0) and a point (2, 0) respectively, as shown
W = U = Nmgh= N = 2 in the figure. This results in an equipotential circle of radius
56. Two identical non-conducting solid spheres of same mass R and potential V = 0 in the xy-plane with its center at (b, 0).
and charge are suspended in air from a common point by All lengths are measured in meters.
two non-conducting, massless strings of same length. At
equilibrium, the angle between the strings is . The spheres
are now immersed in a dielectric liquid of density 800 kgm–3
and dielectric constant 21. If the angle between the strings
remains the same after the immersion, then
(JEE Advanced 2020)
(a) electric force between the spheres remains unchanged
(b) electric force between the spheres reduces
The value of B is _ meter.
(c) mass density of the spheres is 840 kg m–3
Ans. (03.00)
(d) the tension in the strings holding the spheres remains
unchanged Sol.
Ans: (a, c)
Sol: The net electric force on any sphere is lesser but by
Coulomb law the force due to one sphere to another remain
the same.

 
1  Q Q 
V  x, y  = = – + 
4πε 0 

x 2 + y2 3  x – 2 2 + y 2 

 3  x – 2  + 3y 2 = x 2 + y2
2

 
 3
2
  x – 3 + y 2 =
2
In equilibrium T cos = mg and T sin = F
2 2
After immersed is dielectric liquid. 58. A circular disc of radius R carries surface charge density
As given no change in angle .  r
 (r)   0  1   , where  0 is a constant and r is the
 R

So T cos = mg - Vg distance from the center of the disc. Electric flux through a
2
large spherical surface that encloses the charged disc
 F
when  = 800 Kg / m 3 and T sin = completely is 0 . Electric flux through another spherical
2 er
R
mg mg - V g surface of radius and concentric with the disc is .
 = 4
F F
er 0
Then the ratio is ………. . (JEE Advanced 2020)

ELECTROSTATICS 22
Ans: (6.40) Which of the following statement(s) is (are) correct in SI
Sol:
units?
(a) When x = q, the magnitude of the electric field at O is
zero
(b) What x  q , the magnitude of the electric field at O is
q
6 0 a 2

7q
(c) When x = 2q, the potential at O is
4 3 0 a

R r
 0  1   2 r dr
 dq 0  R 3q
0   (d) When x  3q , the potential at O is 
0 0 4 3 0 a
(JEE Advanced 2022)
R /4
 r
  0 1   2r dr Ans. (a, b, c)
 dq 0  R
 
0 0 Sol. When x = q, the situation is symmetric
R r2   Electric field at O would be zero.
 0 2   r   dr
 0 R  A is correct.
 0 
 R /4  r2  When x = -q, we can think of x as q   2q   magnitude
 0 2   r   dr
0  R
of electric field
R2 R2

 22 3  32 1  2q 
= 6.40 O
R R2 5 4 0  2
 At 3a 
32 3  64  2  
 2 
59. Six charges are placed around a regular hexagon of side
length a as shown in the figure. Five of them have charge q, 1 2q q
 
4 0 3a 2
6 0 a 2
and the remaining one has charge x. The perpendicular from
B is correct
each charge to the nearest hexagon side passes through
For x = 2q potential at O is
the center O of the hexagon and is bisected by the side.
1 q 1 q
V0  6   
4 0 3a 4 0 3a

7q

4 3 0 a
C is correct.
1 q q
For x  3q,V0  2  4  
0 3a 2 3 0 a
D is not correct.

60. A charge q is surrounded by a closed surface consisting of

an inverted cone of height h and base radius R, and a
hemisphere of radius R as shown in the figure. The electric
ELECTROSTATICS 23

nq 3
flux through the conical surface is 6 (in SI units). The (b) If rB  , then the electric potential just outside B is
0 2
value of n is _________. k
0
(c) If rB  2 , then the charge of the configuration is 15 k

5
(d) If rB  , then the magnitude of the electric field outside
2
13 k
B is 0 (JEE Advanced 2022)

Ans. (b)
Sol.

(JEE Advanced 2022)

Ans. (3.00)
q
Sol.  through cone  2
0

61. If the figure the inner (shaded) region A represents a sphere

of radius rA  1 , within which the electrostatic charge
density varies with the radial distance r from the centre as
rA ra
 A  kr , where k is positive. In te spherical shell B of our 2k
QTotal   kr  4 r 2  dr    4 r 2  dr
r
radius rB , the electrostatic charge density varies as 0 rA

4 k 4 8 k 2 2
B 
2k
r
. Assume that dimensions are taken care of. All 
4
rA 
2
 rB  rA 
physical quantities are in their SI units.   k  4 k  rB2  rA2 

3
If rB 
2

3 
QTotal   krA4  4 k   rA2 
2 

3 
  k  4 k   1
2 
  k  2 k  3 k
3
If rB 
Which of the following statements (s) is (are) correct? 2
3 9 
(a) If rB  , then the electric field is zero everywhere QTotal   k  4   1
2 4 
outside B
ELECTROSTATICS 24

5 Ans. (a, c, d)

  k  4 k    6 k
 4
1 6 k 3k 2 k
Sol. V  z   2 
0

 R2  z2  z 
V  
4 0 rB 2 3 0  0 U _ z  cz
B is correct.
If rB  2  U  z net 
q
2 0
 
R 2  z 2  z  cz

QTotal   k  4 k  4  1
 13 k
 q
 c
 2c 0
 
R2  z2  z  z 


Option C is in correct.
5 1
If rB   c  4 R 2  z 2  3z  at  
2   4

 25  1
QTotal   k  4 k   1 At z  0,  
 4  4

  k   k  21 U  z  net  c  4 R   4 Rc...  i 

 2 k 25 1
At, z  z0  R,  
7 4
1 22 k
E 4
4 0 25  26 R 25R  29
U  z  net  c  4   3  Rc ...  ii 
 7 7  7
22k

25 0 3 1
At z  z0  R,  
7 4
62. A disk of radius R with uniform positive charge density 
is placed on the xy plane with its center at the origin. The  58 9R 
U  z  net  c  4  R   3Rc...  iii 
Coulomb potential along the z-axis is  7 7 

V  z 

2 0
 
R2  z2  z . At z 
R
3
, 
1
4
A particle of positive charge q is placed initially at rest at a
 8 R 3R 
point on the z-axis with z = z0 and z0 > 0. In addition to the U  z  net  c     2.887 Rc...  iv 
Coulomb force, the particle experiences a vertical force  3 3
 In option (A) particle reaches at origin with positive
 2c 0
F  ckˆ with c > 0. Let   q . which of the following kinetic energy.
dU  z  3R
statement (s) is (are) correct?  0 at z 
dz 7
1 25
(a) For   and z0  R , the particle reaches the origin.
3R 1
4 7 At z  and  
7 4
1 3
(b) For   and z0  R , the particle reaches the origin
4 7 U  z net  7 Rc  2.645

1 R In option B at U(z)net  3R
(c) For   and z0  , the particle returns back to c
4 3  The kinetic energy at origin will become negative
z  z0 R
at z 
(d) For   1 and z0  1 , the particle always reaches the 3
origin. (JEE Advanced 2022)
ELECTROSTATICS 25

R
In option C, U  z  net at z   U  z net at z  0
3
R 3R
And U  z  net at z   u  z net at z 
3 7
 Particle will return back to z0
In option (D)    1, z0  0 

U  z  net will keep on increasing with z

 particle always reaches the origin.
 Answer (A, C, D)
63. An electric dipole is formed by two charges +q and -q
located in xy-plane at (0, 2) mm and (0, -2) mm, respectively, P1  q  4 

as shown in the figure. The electric potential at point P(100, P1  P1 ˆj
100) mm due to the dipole is V0 . The charges +q and -q are 
then moved to the points (-1, 2) mm and (1, -2) mm,

r  100 iˆ  ˆj mm

respectively. What is the value of electric potential at P due KP1r K 100 P1 
v0  
 
to the new dipole? r3 3
100 2

tan   2

P2  P2  cos  iˆ  sin  ˆj 


r  100 iˆ  ˆj mm
V0 V0 P2  q
(a) (b) 
4 2
KP .r
v  32
V0 3V0 r
(c) (d)
2 4
K 100 P2     cos   sin  
(JEE Advanced 2022) v
100 2 
3

Ans. (b)
Sol. v0 P2
   cos   sin  
P1

q
v  v0   cos   sin  
q  4

v0 v
  2  4   0
4 2