Chapter – 2

Electrostatic Potential and Capacitance

BASIC CONCEPTS

1. Electric Potential
The electric potential is the physical quantity which determines the direction of charge flow
between two bodies when brought in contact. The positive charge always flows from a body
at higher potential to that at lower potential.
Definition: The electric potential at any point in an electric field is defined as the work done
in bringing a unit positive test charge from infinity to that point without acceleration.
If W is the work done in bringing infinitesimal positive test charge q0 from infinity to given
point, then electric potential
𝑊
𝑉=𝑞
0
Electric potential at any point is also defined as the negative line integral of electric field
from infinity to given point (independent of path followed).
𝑟
i.e., 𝑉=− ∞
𝐸 . 𝑑𝑙
The unit of electric potential is joule/coulomb or volt and its dimensional formula is [ML2T-
3 -1
A ].
2. Potential Difference
The potential difference between two points in an electric field is defined as the work done
in bringing unit positive charge from one point to another.
3. Formulae for Electric Potential
1 𝒒
(a) Due to a point charge q at a point distant r is V = 4𝜋𝜀
0 𝒓
(b) Due to a short electric dipole at a distance r from its centre
1 𝑝
(i) at its axis is V = 4𝜋𝜀
0 𝑟2
(ii) at its equatorial position, V = 0
(iii) at a general point having polar coordinates (r, θ) with respect to centre of dipole
is
1 𝑝 cos 𝜃
𝑉=
4𝜋𝜀 0 𝑟2
(c) due to a system of charges is
𝑁 1 𝑞𝑖 1 𝑞1 𝑞 𝑞
V = V1 + V2 + ... + VN = 𝑖=1 4𝜋𝜀 𝑟 = 4𝜋𝜀 + 𝑟2 + ⋯ + 𝑟 𝑁
0 𝑖 0 𝑟1 2 𝑁
4. Equipotential Surface
An equipotential surface is the surface having the same potential at each point. The surface
of a charged conductor in equilibrium is a equipotential surface.
5. Electric Potential Energy of a System of Point Charges
1 𝑞 1 𝑞2
If q1 and q2 are point charges at separation r12, then electric potential energy U = 4𝜋𝜀 .
0 𝑟12
If there are n pint charges q1, q2.......qn in system at separation rij between ith and jth charge (i
= 1, 2, ......n, j = 1, 2, ....n) then potential energy of system
1 𝑞1 𝑞𝑗
U = 4𝜋𝜀 𝑖 𝑗 >𝑖 𝑟 (i = 1, 2,..., n, j = 1, 2, ....n)
0 𝑖𝑗

6. Electric Potential Energy of a Dipole in Uniform Electric Field

 Potential energy of dipole in uniform electric field is
U = −𝑝𝐸 cos 𝜃 = −𝑝. 𝐸
Work done in rotating the dipole in uniform electric field from inclination θ1 to θ2
W = U2 – U1 = pE (cos θ1 – cos θ2)
If dipole is initially in stable equilibrium position (θ1 = 0) and finally its inclination is θ, then
W = pE (1 – cos θ)
7. Conductors and Insulators
Conductors are those substances which contain free charge carriers and so allow easy flow
of current.
Insulators are those substances which contain practically no free charge carriers and do not
allow the flow of current.
8. Free and Bound Charges Inside a Conductor
The electrons are free charge carriers inside a metallic conductor while positive ions fixed in
lattice are bound charge carriers.
9. Dielectrics and Electric Polarisation
The insulators are often referred as dielectrics. Each dielectric is formed of atoms/molecules.
In some dielectrics the positive and negative charge centres coincide, such dielectrics are
said to be non-polar dielectrics. While in some other dielectrics the centres of positive and
negative charges do not coincide, such dielectrics have permanent electric dipole moment
and said to be polar dielectrics. The example of polar dielectric is water, while example of
non-polar dielectric is carbon dioxide (CO2).
When a dielectric is placed in an external electric field, the centres of positive and negative
dipoles get separated (in non-polar dielectrics) or get farther away (in polar dielectrics), so
that molecules of dielectric gain a permanent electric dipole moment; this process is called
polarisation and the dipole is said to be polarised.
The induced dipole moment developed per unit volume in an electric field is called
polarisation density. Numerically it is equal to surface charge density induced at the faces
which are perpendicular to the direction of applied electric field.
10. The behaviour of a conductor and dielectric in the presence of external electric field.
Conductor Dielectric

1. No electric field lines travel inside 1. Alignment of atoms takes place due
conductor. to electric field.
2. Electric field inside a conductor is 2. This results in a small electric field
zero inside dielectric in opposite direction.
𝐸
Net field inside the dielectric is 𝐾 .

11. Capacitor and Capacitance

A capacitor contains two oppositely charged metallic conductors at a finite separation. It is a
device by which capacity of storing charge may be varied simply by changing separation
and/or medium between the conductors.
The capacitance of a capacitor is defined as the ratio of magnitude of charge (Q) on either
plate and potential difference (V) across the plate, i.e.,
 𝑄
C=𝑉
The unit of capacitance is coulomb/volt or farad (F).
12. Combination of Capacitors in Series and Parallel
(a) Series Combination: When capacitors are connected in series, then net capacitance C is
given by
1 1 1 1
=𝐶 +𝐶 +𝐶
𝐶 1 2 3
Net charge Q=q1 = q2 = q3 (remain same)
Net potential difference V = V1 + V2 + V3
(b) Parallel Combination: When capacitors are connected in parallel, then the net
capacitance
C = C1 + C2 + C3
In parallel combination net charge Q = q1 + q2 + q3
Net potential difference V = V1 = V2 = V3 (remain same)
13. Capacitance of Parallel Plate Capacitor
A parallel plate capacitor consists of two parallel metallic plates separated by a dielectric.
The capacitance, charge and voltage of parallel plate capacitor is given by
𝐾𝜀 0 𝐴 𝑉
C= , 𝑄 = 𝐾𝐶0 𝑉, 𝑉 ′ = 𝐾
𝑑
where K is dielectric constant, A = area of each plate and d = separation between the plates.
Special Cases:
(i) When there is no medium between the plates, then K = 1, so
𝜀0 𝐴
𝐶𝑣𝑎𝑐𝑢𝑢𝑚 = = 𝐶0
𝑑
(ii) When space between the plates is partly filled with a medium of thickness t and
dielectric constant K, then capacitance
𝜀0 𝐴 𝜀0 𝐴
C= 𝑡 = 1
𝑑−𝑡+ 𝑑−𝑡 1−
𝐾 𝐾
Clearly, C > C0, i.e., on introduction of a dielectric slab between the plates of a
parallel plate capacitor, its capacitance increases.
14. Charge Induced on a Dielectric
1
q' = – q 1 − 𝐾 where q is free charge on the capacitor plates.
15. Energy stored in a Charged Capacitor
1 𝑄2 1
U = 2 𝐶𝑉 2 = 2𝐶 = 2 𝑄𝑉
This energy resides in the medium between the plates.
The unit is joule (J). The energy stored per unit volume of a charged capacitor is given by
𝑈 1
𝑢 = 𝑉 = 2 𝜀𝐸 2
where E is electric field strength. The unit is joule/m3(J/m3)

Very Short Answer Questions

1. Name the physical quantity whose SI unit is JC-1. Is it a scalar or a vector quantity?
Ans. Electric potential. It is a scalar quantity.
2. In the given figure, charge +Q is place at the centre of a dotted circle. Work done in taking
another charge +q from A to B is W1 and from B to C is W2. Which one of the following is
correct: W1> W2 and W1< W2?

Ans. The points A and C are at same distance from the charge +Q at the centre, so
VA = VC
Therefore, VA – VB = VB – VC
Hence, the magnitude of work done in taking charge +q from A to B or from B to C will be
the same i.e., W1 = W2.
3. Figure shows the field lines on a positive charge. Is the work
done by the field in moving a small positive charge from Q to P
positive or negative? Give reason.
Ans. The work done by the field is negative. This is because the
charge is moved against the force exerted by the field.
4. The field lines of a negative point charge are as shown in the figure. Does the kinetic energy
of a small negative charge increase or decrease in going from B to A?

Ans. The kinetic energy of a negative charge decreases while going from point B to point A,
against the movement of force of repulsion.
5. A point charge +Q is placed at point O as shown in the figure. Is the potential difference VA
- VB positive, negative or zero?

Ans. The potential due to a point charge decreases with increase of distance. So, VA – VB is
positive.
Explanation : Let the distance of point A and B from charge Q be rA and rB respectively.
+𝑄 +𝑄
𝑉𝐴 = 4𝜋𝜀 𝑎𝑛𝑑 = 4𝜋𝜀
0 𝑟𝐴 0 𝑟𝐵
+𝑄 1 1
𝑉𝐴 − 𝑉𝐵 = 4𝜋𝜀 −𝑟
0 𝑟𝐴 𝐵
Also rA< rB
1 1 1 1 1 1
⇒ >𝑟 ⇒ 𝑟 − 𝑟 > 0 ⇒ 𝑟 − 𝑟 has positive value
𝑟𝐴 𝐵 𝐴 𝑏 𝐴 𝐵
Also Q is positive.
Hence VA – VB is positive.
6. A point charge Q is placed at point „O‟ as shown in figure. Is
the potential at point A, i.e., VA, greater, smaller or equal to
 potential, VB, at point B, when Q is (i) positive, and (ii) negative charge?

Ans. (i) If Q is positive,

𝐾𝑄 𝐾𝑄
𝑉𝐴 = 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑉𝐵 =
𝑟1 𝑟2
Clearly, VA> VB
(ii) If Q is negative,
𝐾𝑄 𝐾𝑄
𝑉𝐴 = 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑉𝐵 =
𝑟1 𝑟2
Clearly, VA< VB
7. A 500 μC chare is at the centre of a square of side 10 cm. Find the
work done in moving a charge of 10 μC between two diagonally
opposite points on the square.
Ans. The points A and B are equidistant from the centre of square
where charge q = 500 μC is located; therefore, points A and B are at
the same potential i.e., VA = VB.
∴ Work done is moving charge q0 = 10 μC from A to B is
W = q0(VB – VA) = 0
8. Draw the equipotential surfaces corresponding to a uniform electric field in the z-direction.
Ans. The equipotential surfaces are the equidistant planes normal to the z-axis, i.e., planes
parallel to the X-Y plane.

9. A point charge Q is placed at point O as shown in the figure. The potential difference VA –
VB is positive. Is the charge Q negative or positive?

1 𝑄
Ans. We know that, 𝑉 = 4𝜋𝜀
0 𝑟
1
⇒ 𝑉∝𝑟
The potential due to a point charge decreases with increase of distance.
VA – VB> 0 ⇒ VA> VB
Hence, the charge Q is positive.
10. Depict the equipotential surfaces for a system of two
identical positive point charges placed a distance „d‟ apart.
Ans. Equipotential surfaces due to two identical charges is
shown in figure.
11. Draw an equipotential surface for a system consisting of
two charges Q, – Q separated by a distance r in air. Locate the points where the potential due
to the dipole is zero.
 Ans. The equipotential surface for the system is a shown. Electric potential is zero at all
pointsin the plane passing through the dipole equator AB.
12. Why do the equipotential surfaces due to a uniform electric field not intersect each other?
Ans. This is because, at the point of intersection there will be two values of electric
potential, which is not possible.
13. “For any charge configuration, equipotential surface through a point is normal to the electric
field.” Justify.
Ans. The work done in moving a charge from one point to another on an equipotential
surface is zero. If electric field is not normal to the equipotential surface, it would have non-
zero component along the surface. In that case work would be done in moving a charge on
an equipotetnial surface.
14. Why is the potential inside a hollow spherical charged conductor constant and has the same
value as on its surface?
Ans. Electric field intensity is zero inside the hollow spherical charged conductor. So, no
work is done in moving a test charge inside the conductor and on its surface. Therefore,
there is no potential difference between any two points inside or on the surface of the
conductor.
𝑉𝐴 − 𝑉𝐵 = − 𝐸 . 𝑑𝑙 = 0 ⇒ 𝑉𝐴 = 𝑉𝐵 = Constant
15. A hollow metal sphere of radius 5 cm is charged such that the potential on its surface is 10
V. What is the potential at the centre of the sphere?
Ans. Potential at centre of sphere = 10 V. Potential at all points indie the hollow metal
sphere (or any surface) is always equal to the potential at its surface.
16. A charge „q‟ is moved from a point A above a dipole of dipole
moment „p‟ to a point B below the dipole in equatorial plane
without acceleration. Find the work done in the process.
Ans. Work done in the process is zero. Because, equatorial plane of
a dipole is equipotential surface and work done in moving charge
on equipotential surface is zero.
W = qVAB = q × 0 = 0
17. Why is there no work done in moving a charge from one point to another on an
equipotential surface?
Ans. The potential difference between any two points of equipotential surface is zero. We
have
𝑊
𝑉1 − 𝑉2 = =0 ⇒W=0
𝑞
therefore, the work done in moving a charge on an equipotential surface is zero.
18. What is the work done in moving a test charge q through a distance of 1 cm along the
equatorial axis of an electric dipole?
Ans. At every point on equatorial axis, the potential is zero, so work
done W = q ΔV = 0 (zero).
19. Figure shows the field lines due to a negative point charge. Give the sign of the potential
energy difference of a small negative charge between the points A and B.
1 𝑞 1 𝑞2
Ans. U = 4𝜋𝜀 .
0 𝑟
Since rA< rB
𝑘𝑞 1 𝑞 2 𝑘𝑞 1 𝑞 2
∴ >
𝑟𝐴 𝑟𝐵
∴ UA> U B
Therefore, UA – UB is positive.
20. What is the amount of work done in moving a point charge Q around a
circular are of radius „r‟ at the centre of which another point charge „q‟ is
located?
Ans. The potential of points A and B are same being equal to
1 𝑞
𝑉𝐴 = 𝑉𝐵 = 4𝜋𝜀
0 𝑅
where R is the radius of the circle.
Work done W = q(VB – VA) = q(VA – VA) = 0.
21. A metal plate is introduced between the plates of a charged parallel plate capacitor. What is
its effect on the capacitance of the capacitor?
Ans. By introducing the metal plate between the plates of charged capacitor, the capacitance
of capacitor increases.
Reason: If t is thickness of metal plate, then
𝜀0 𝐴
C= 1
𝑑−𝑡 1−
𝐾
𝜀0 𝐴
For metal plate K = ∞, 𝐶 = 𝑑−𝑡
Obviously, effective separation between plates is decreased from d to (d – t).
22. The figure shows the field lines of a positive point charge. What will be the sign of the
potential energy difference of a small negative charge between the points Q and P? Justify
your answer.

Ans. The sign of the potential energy difference of a small negative charge will be positive.
This is because negative charge moves a point at a lower potential energy to a point at a
higher potential energy.
23. Do free electrons travel to region of higher potential or lower potential?
Ans. Free electrons would travel to regions of higher potentials as they are negatively
charged.
24. Can there be a potential difference between two adjacent conductors carrying the same
charge?
Ans. Yes.
25. Show that the equipotential surfaces are closed together in the regions of strong field and far
apart in the regions of weak field. Draw equipotential surfaces for an electric dipole.
 Ans. Equipotential surfaces are closer together in the regions of strong field and farther apart
in the regions of weak field.
𝑑𝑉
E = − 𝑑𝑟
E = negative potential gradient
1
For same change in dV, E ∝ 𝑑𝑟 where „dr‟ represents
the distance between equipotential surfaces.
26. Concentric equipotential surfaces due to a charged body placed at
the centre are shown. Identify the polarity of the charge and draw
the electric field lines due to it.
1 𝑞
Ans. For a single charge the potential is given by V = 4𝜋𝜀
0 𝑟

This shows that V is constant if r is constant. Greater the radius smaller will be the potential.
In the given figure, potential is increasing. This shows that the polarity of charge is negative
(–q). The direction of electric field will be radially inward. The field lines are directed from
higher to lower potential.

Short Answer Questions

1. Three points A, B and C lie in a uniform electric field (E) of 5 × 103 NC-1 as shown in the
figure. Find the potential difference between A and C.
Ans. The line joining B to C is perpendicular to electric
field, so potential of B = potential of C i.e. VB = VC
Distance AB = 4 cm
Potential difference between A and C = E × (AB)
= 5 × 103 (4 × 10-2)
= 200 volt
2. Two uniformly large parallel thin plates having charge densities +σ and – σ are kept in the
X-Z plane at a distance „d‟ apart. Sketch an equipotential surface due to electric field
between the plates. If a particle of mass m and charge „–q‟ remains stationary between the
plates, what is the magnitude and direction of this field?
Ans. The equipotential surface is at a distance d/2
from either plate in X-Z plane. For a particle of
charge (–q) at rest between the plates, then
(i) weight mg acts vertically downward
(ii) electric force qE acts vertically upward.
so mg = qE
 𝑚𝑔
E= , vertically downward, i.e. along (–) Y-axis.
𝑞
3. Plot a graph comparing the variation of potential „V‟ and electric field „E‟ due to point
charge „Q‟ as a function of distance „R‟ from the point charge.
Ans. The graph of variation of potential and electric field due to a point charge Q with
distance R from the point charge is shown in figure.

4. What is electrostatic shielding? How is this property used in actual practice? Is the potential
in the cavity of a charged conductor zero?
Ans. Whatever be the charge and field configuration outside, any cavity in a conductor
remains shielded from outside electric influence. The field inside a conductor is zero. This is
known as electrostatic shielding.
 Sensitive instruments are shielded from outside electrical influences by enclosing them
in a hollow conductor.
 During lightning it is safest to sit inside a car, rather than near a tree. The metallic body
of a car becomes an electrostatic shielding from lightening.
Potential inside the cavity is not zero. Potential is constant.
5. Draw 3 equipotential surfaces corresponding to a field that uniformly increases in magnitude
but remains constant along Z-direction. How are these surfaces different from that of a
constant electric field along Z-direction?
Ans. For constant electric field 𝐸

Difference: For constant electric field, the equipotential surfaces are equidistant for same
potential difference between these surfaces; while for increasing electric field, the separation
between these surfaces decreases, in the direction of increasing field, for the same potential
difference between them.
6. Why does current in a steady state not flow in a capacitor
connected across a battery? However momentary current does
flow during charging or discharging of the capacitor. Explain.
Ans. (i) In the steady state no current flows through capacitor
because, we have two sources (battery and fully charged
capacitor) of equal potential connected in opposition.
(ii) During charging or discharging there is a momentary flow of current as the potentials of
the two sources are not equal to each other.
7. A test charge „q‟ is moved without acceleration from A to C along the path from A to B and
then from B to C in electric field E as shown in the figure.
 (i) Calculate the potential difference between A and C. (ii) At
which point (of the two) is the electric potential more and
why?
Ans. (i) Since electric field is conservative in nature, the
amount of work done will depend upon initial and final
positions only.
∴ Work done W = 𝐹 . 𝑑 = 𝑞 𝐸 . 𝑑= qE.4 cos 1800
= – 4 qE
𝑊
Hence 𝑉𝑐 − 𝑉𝐴 = = −4𝐸
𝑞
(ii) VC> VA, because direction of electric field is in decreasing potential.
8. Figure shows a sheet of aluminium foil of negligible thickness placed between the plates of
a capacitor. How will its capacitance be affected if:
(i) the foil is electrically insulated?
(ii) the foil is connected to the upper plate with a conducting wire?
Ans. (i) No effect on capacitance if foil is electrically neutral.
(ii) If foil is connected to upper plate with a conducting wire, the effective
separation between plates becomes half, so capacitance is doubled.
9. (i) How many electrons must be added to one plate and removed from the other so as to
store 25.0 J of energy in a 5.0 nF parallel plate capacitor?
(ii) How would you modify this capacitor so that it can store 50.0 J of energy without
changing the charge on its plates?
Ans. (i) Here, C = 5 × 10-9 F, U = 25 J
𝑄2
U = 2𝐶
⇒ Q2 = 2UC = 2 × 25 × 10-9
Q2 = 25 × 10-8 ⇒ Q = 5 × 10-4C
Also, Q = ne
𝑄 5 ×10 −4
𝑛= = 1.6 ×10 −19 = 3.125 × 1015 electrons
𝑒
𝜀0 𝐴
(ii) Without changing charge on the plates, we can make C half. (C = ), i.e., doubling the
𝑑
plate separation or by inserting dielectric of a value such that C becomes half.
10. Find the charge on the capacitor as shown in the circuit.
Ans. Total resistance, R = 10 Ω + 20 Ω = 30 Ω
𝑉 2𝑉 1
The current, I = 𝑅 = 30 𝛺 = 15 𝐴
1 2
Potential difference, V = IR = 15 × 10 = 3 𝑉
2
Charge, q = CV = 6 × 3 = 4μC
11. Figure shows two identical capacitors, C1 and C2, each of 1 mF capacitance connected to a
battery of 6 V. Initially switch „S‟ is closed. After sometimes „S‟ is left open and dielectric
slabs of dielectric constant K = 3 are inserted to fill completely the space between the plates
of the two capacitors. How will the (i) charge and (ii) potential difference between the plates
of the capacitors be affected after the slabs are inserted?
Ans. When switch S is closed, p.d. across each
capacitor is 6V
V1 = V2 = 6 V
 C1 = C2 = 1 μC
∴ Charge on each capacitor
q1 = q2 (= CV) = (1 μF) × (6 V) = 6 μC
When switch S is opened, the p.d. across C1 remains 6 V, while the charge on capacitor C2
remains 6 μC. After insertion of dielectric between the plates of each capacitor, the new
capacitance of each capacitor becomes
C‟1 = C‟2 = 3 × 1 μF = 3 μF
(i) Charge on capacitor C1, q‟1 = C‟1V1 = (3 μF) × 6 V = 18 μC
Charge on capacitor C2 remains 6 μC
(ii) Potential difference across C1 remains 6 V.
Potential difference across C2 becomes
𝑞 6 𝜇𝐶
𝑉2′ = 𝐶2′ = 3 𝜇𝐹 = 2 𝑉
2
12. (a) A parallel plate capacitor (C1) having charge Q is connected, to an identical uncharged
capacitor C2 in series, What would be the charge accumulated on the capacitor C2?
(b) Three identical capacitors each of capacitance 3 μF are connected, in turn, in series and
in parallel combination to the common source of V volt. Find out the ratio of the energies
stored in two configurations.
Ans. (a) Since the capacitor C2 is uncharged so when connected to an identical capacitor C1
𝑄
charged to Q then charge Q is equally shared and charge acquired by capacitor C2 is 2 .
3𝜇𝐹
(b) We have Cseries = = 1𝜇𝐹
3
Also, Cparallel = (3 + 3 + 3) = 9 μF
1
Energy stored = 2 𝐶𝑉 2
1 10 −6
∴ Energy in series combination = 2 × 1 × 10−6 × 𝑉 2 ⇒ 𝑈𝑠𝑒𝑟𝑖𝑒𝑠 = 𝑉2
2
1 10 −6 ×9
∴ Energy in parallel combination = 2 × 9 × 106 × 𝑉 2 ⇒ 𝑈𝑝𝑎𝑟𝑎𝑙𝑙𝑒𝑙 = 𝑉2
2
∴ Useries = Uparallel = 1 : 9
13. Net capacitance of three identical capacitors in series is 1 μF. What will be their net
capacitance if connected in parallel?
Find the ratio of energy stored in the two configurations if they are both connected to the
same source.
Ans. Let C be the capacitance of each capacitor, then in series.
1 1 1 1 3
=𝐶+𝐶+𝐶 =𝐶
𝐶𝑆
or C = 3Cs = 3 × 1 μF = 3 μF
When these capacitors are connected in paralle, net capacitance, Cp = 3 C = 3 × 3 = 9 μF
When these two combinations are connected to same source the potential difference across
each combination is same.
Ratio of energy stored,
1
𝑈𝑠 𝐶𝑠 𝑉 2 𝐶 1𝜇𝐹 1
= 12 = 𝑐 𝑠 = 9𝜇𝐹 = 9
𝑈𝑝 𝐶 𝑉2 𝑝
2 𝑝
Us : Up = 1 : 9
14. Find the equivalent capacitance of the network shown in the figure, when each capacitor is
of 1 μF. When the ends X and Y are connected to a 6 V battery, find out (i) the charge and
(ii) the energy stored in the network.
 Ans. The given circuit can be rearranged as

It is known as wheatstone bridge of the capacitor.

Since VA = VB, so the bridge capacitor between points A and B can be removed.
(i) The equivalent capacitor of the network
𝐶 ×𝐶 𝐶 ×𝐶
𝐶𝑒𝑞 = + 𝐶+𝐶
𝐶+𝐶
𝐶 𝐶
=2+2
= C = 1 μF
Charge in the network, Q = Ceq V
=C×V
= 1 μF × 6V = 6 μC
(ii) Energy stored in the capacitor,
1 1
U = 𝐶𝑒𝑞 𝑉 2 = × 1 𝜇𝐹 × 6 2
2 2
= 18 μJ
15. A network of four capacitors each of 15 μF capacitance is connected to a 500 V supply as
shown in the figure. Determine (a) equivalent capacitance of the network and (b) charge on
each capacitor.
Ans. (a) C1, C2 and C3 are in series, their equivalent capacitance C‟ is given by
1 1 1 1 1 1 1
= 𝐶 + 𝐶 + 𝐶 = 15 + 15 + 15
𝐶′ 1 2 3
⇒ C’ = 5 μF
C4 is in parallel with C’, s equivalent capacitance of network
Ceq = C’ + C4 = 5 + 15 = 20 μF
(b) Charge on capacitor C4 is
q4 = C4V = (15 μF) × 500 V = 7500 μC = 7.5 mC
Charge on C1, C2 and C3 is
q1 = q2 = q3 = C‟ V
= 5 μF × 500 V = 2500 μC = 2.5 mC
16. Four charges +q, –q, +q and – q are to be arranged respectively
at the four corners of a square ABCD of side „a‟.
(a) Find the work required to put together this arrangement.
(b) A charge q0 is brought to the centre of the square, the four charges being held fixed.
How much extra work is needed to do this?
Ans. (a) Work done in bringing charge +q at point A
WA = 0
Work done in bringing charge –q to the point B
 1 𝑞 1 𝑞2
WB = WAB = –q × 4𝜋𝜀 = − 4𝜋𝜀
0 𝑎 0 𝑎
Work done in bring the charge +q to the point C
WC = WAC + WBC
1 𝑞 1 𝑞 1 𝑞2 1 𝑞2
= q × 4𝜋𝜀 . 𝑎 + 𝑞 × − 4𝜋𝜀 = 4𝜋𝜀 . 𝑎 − 4𝜋𝜀 .
0 2 0 𝑎 0 2 0 𝑎
Work done in bringing a charge – q to the point D
WD = WAD + WBD + WCD
1 𝑞 1 −𝑞 1 𝑞
= – q × 4𝜋𝜀 + −𝑞 + −𝑞 × 4𝜋𝜀 . 𝑎
0 𝑎 4𝜋𝜀 0 𝑎 2 0
Total work done W = WA + WB + WC + WD
1 𝑞2 1 𝑞2 1 𝑞2
= 2 × 4𝜋𝜀 − 4 × 4𝜋𝜀 = 4𝜋𝜀 2−4
0 𝑎 2 0 𝑎 0 𝑎
(b) Work done in bringing a charge from infinity to a point is given by
W = q0 Vp (Vp = Electric potential at the point)
Electric potential at the centre of the square is
1 +𝑞 1 −𝑞 1 +𝑞 1 −𝑞
𝑉𝐶 = 4𝜋𝜀 + 4𝜋𝜀 + 4𝜋𝜀 + 4𝜋𝜀 =0
0 𝑠 0 𝑠 0 𝑠 0 𝑠
and electric potential at infinity is always zero.
Hence, work done W = 0.
17. Consider two conducting spheres of radii R1 and R2 with R1> R2. If the two are at the same
potential, the larger sphere has more charge than the smaller sphere. State whether the
charge density of the smaller sphere is more or less than that of the larger one.
Ans. Since two spheres are at the same potential, therefore
V1 = V2
𝑄1 𝑄2
= 4𝜋𝜀
4𝜋𝜀 0 𝑅1 0 𝑅2
𝑄1 𝑅1
⇒ =𝑅 … i
𝑄2 2
Given, R1> R2, ∴ Q1> Q2
⇒ Larger sphere has more charge
𝑄1 𝑄
Now, 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝜎2 = 4𝜋𝑅2 2
4𝜋𝑅12 2
𝜎2 𝑄2 𝑅12
= 𝑄 . 𝑅2
𝜎1 1 2
𝜎2 𝑅2 𝑅2
⇒ 𝜎 = 𝑅 . 𝑅12 [From equation (i)]
1 1 2
Since R1> R2, therefore σ > σ1.
Charge density of smaller sphere is more than that of larger one.
18. The two graphs are drawn below, show the variations of electrostatic
1
potential (V) with 𝑟 (r being the distance of field point from the point
charge) for two point charges q1 and q2.
(i) What are the signs of the two charges?
(ii) Which of the two charges has the larger magnitude and why?
Ans. (i) The potential due to positive charge is positive and due to
negative charge, it is negative, so, is q1positive and q2 is negative.
1 𝑞
(ii) V = 4𝜋𝜀
0 𝑟
1 𝑞
The graph between V and 𝑟 is a straight line passing through the origin with slope 4𝜋𝜀
0
 As the magnitude of slope of the line due to charge q2 is greater than that due to q1, q2 has
larger magnitude.
19. Two identical capacitors of 12 pF each are connected in series across a 50 V battery.
Calculate the electrostatic energy stored in the combination. If these were connected in
parallel across the same battery, find out the value of the energy stored in this combination.
Ans. Net capacitance in series combination is given by
1 1 1 1 1 1
=𝐶 +𝐶 ⇒ 𝐶 = 12 + 12
𝐶𝑠 1 2 𝑠
⇒ Cs = 6 pF
1
Es = 2 𝐶𝑠 𝑉 2
1
Es = 2 × 6 × 10−12 × 50 × 50
= 7500 × 10-12 J
= 7.5 × 10-9 J
Net capacitance in parallel combination is given by
Cp = 12 pF + 12 pF
= 24 pF
1
Ep = 2 𝐶𝑝 𝑉 2
1
Ep = 2 × 24 × 50 × 50 × 10−12
= 3 × 10-8 J

Long Answer Questions-I

1. Define an equipotential surface. Draw equipotential surfaces:

(i) in the case of a single point charge and
(ii) in a constant electric field in Z-direction.
(iii) Can electric field exist tangential to an equipotential surface? Give reason.
Ans. An equipotential surface is the surface with a constant
value of potential at all points on the surface.
Equipotential surface:
(i) In case of a single point charge
Here point charge is positive, if it is negative then
electric field will be radially inward but equipotential
surfaces are same and are concentric spheres with centres at the charge.
(ii) In case of electric field in Z-direction
1 𝑞
Potential of a point charge at a distance r = 4𝜋𝜀
0 𝑟
1
∴ 𝑉 ∝𝑟
Hence euipotential surfaces about a single charge are not
equidistant.
(iii) No if the field lines are tangential, work will be done in
moving a charge on the surface which goes against the definition of equipotential
surface.
2. Show that the potential energy of a dipole making angle θ with the direction of the field is
given by U(θ) = −𝑃. 𝐸 . Hence find out the amount of work done in rotating it from the
position of unstable equilibrium to the stable equilibrium.
Ans. The potential energy of an electric dipole in an electric field is defined as the work
done in bringing the dipole from infinity to its present position in the electric field.
Suppose the dipole is brought from infinity and placed at orientation θ with the direction of
electric field. The work done in this process may be supposed to be done in two parts.
(i) The work done (W1) in bringing the dipole perpendicular to electric field from
infinity.
(ii) Work done (W2) in rotating the dipole such that if finally makes an angle θ from the
direction of electric field.
Let us suppose that the electric dipole is brought from infinity in the region of a uniform
electric field such that its dipole moment 𝑃 always remains perpendicular to electric field.
The electric forces an charges +q and –q are qE and
qE, along the field direction and opposite to field
direction respectively.
As charges +q and –q traverse equal distance under
equal and opposite forces; therefore, net work done in
bringing the dipole in the region of electric field
perpendicular to field-direction will be zero, i.e., W1 = 0.
Now the dipole is rotated and brought to orientation making an angle θ with the field
direction (i.e., θ0 = 900 and θ1 = θ0), therefore, work done
W2 = pE (cos θ0 – cos θ1)
= pE (cos 900 – cos θ = – pF cos θ
∴ Total work done in bringing the electric dipole
from infinity, i.e.,
Electric potential energy of electric dipole
U = W1 + W2 = 0 – pE cos θ0 = –pE cos θ
In vector form U = –𝑝. 𝐸
For rotating dipole from position of unstable equilibrium θ0 = 1800) to the stable
equilibrium θ = 00)
∴ Wreq = pE (cos 1800 – cos 00)
pE(–1 –1) = –2pE
3. Three concentric metallic shells A, B and C of radii a, b and c (a < b < c) have surface
charge densities +σ, –σ and +σ respectively as shown in the figure.
If shells A and C are at the same potential, then obtain the relation between the radii a, b and
c.
Ans. Charge on shell A, qA = 4πa2 σ
Charge on shell B, qB = –4πb2 σ
Charge of shell C, qC = 4πc2 σ
Potential of shell A: Any point on the shell A lies inside the
shells B and C.
1 𝑞𝐴 𝑞𝐵 𝑞𝐶
𝑉𝐴 = 4𝜋𝜀 + +
0 𝑎 𝑏 𝑐
 1 4𝜋𝑎 2 𝜎 4𝜋𝑏 2 𝜎 4𝜋𝑐 2 𝜎
= 4𝜋𝜀 − +
0 𝑎 𝑏 𝑐
𝜎
= 𝜀 (𝑎 − 𝑏 + 𝑐)
0
Any point on B lies outside the shell A and inside the shell C. Potential of shell B.
1 𝑞𝐴 𝑞𝐵 𝑞𝐶
𝑉𝐵 = 4𝜋𝜀 + +
0 𝑏 𝑏 𝑐
1 4𝜋𝑎 2 𝜎 4𝜋𝑏 2 𝜎 4𝜋𝑐 2 𝜎 𝜎 𝑎2
= 4𝜋𝜀 − + =𝜀 −𝑏+𝑐
0 𝑏 𝑏 𝑐 0 𝑏
Any point on shell C lies outside the shells A and B. Therefore, potential of shell C.
1 𝑞𝐴 𝑞𝐵 𝑞𝐶
𝑉𝐶 = 4𝜋𝜀 + +
0 𝑐 𝑏 𝑐
1 4𝜋𝑎 2 𝜎 4𝜋𝑏 2 𝜎 4𝜋𝑐 2 𝜎 𝜎 𝑎2 𝑏2
= 4𝜋𝜀 − + =𝜀 − +𝑐
0 𝑐 𝑐 𝑐 0 𝑏 𝑐
Now, we have
VA = VC
𝜎 𝜎 𝑎2 𝑏2
=𝜀 − +𝑐
𝜀 0 𝑎−𝑏+𝑐 𝑐0 𝑐
𝑎−𝑏 𝑎+𝑏
𝑎−𝑏 = 𝑐
or a+b=c
4. A paralle plate capacitor each with plate area A and separation „d‟ is charged to a potential
difference VG. The battery used to charge it is then disconnected. A dielectric slab of
thickness d and dielectric constant K is now placed between the plates. What change if any,
will take place in
(i) charge on the plates
(ii) electric field intensity between the plates,
(iii) capacitance of the capacitor
Justify your answer in each case.
𝜀0 𝐴
Ans. Initial capacitance C0 = , Potential difference = V
𝑑
𝜀0 𝐴
(i) Initial charge, q0 = C0 V = 𝑉
𝑑
∴ When battery is disconnected the charge on the capacitor remains unchanged
and equal to
𝜀0 𝐴
𝑞 = 𝑞0 = 𝑉.
𝑑
𝜎 𝑞/𝐴 𝑞
(ii) Initial electric field between the plates, E0 = 𝜀 = = 𝐴𝜀
0 𝜀 0
After introduction of dielectric; the permittivity of medium becomes Kε0;
𝑞 𝐸0 1
so final electric field between the plates, E = 𝐴𝐾𝜀 = i.e., electric field reduces to 𝐾
0 𝐾
times.
(iii) After introduction of dielectric, the capacitance becomes KC0.
5. A parallel plate capacitor is charged by a battery, which is then disconnected. A dielectric
slab is then inserted in the space between the plates. explain what changes, if any, occur in
the values of:
(i) capacitance
(ii) potential difference between the plates
(iii) electric field between the plates, and
(iv) the energy stored in the capacitor.
 𝐾𝜀 0 𝐴
Ans. (i) The capacitance of capacitor increase to K times (since C = ∝ 𝐾)
𝑑
1
(ii) The potential difference between the plates becomes 𝐾 times.
𝑄 𝑉
Reason: V = 𝐶 ; 𝑄 same, C increases to K times: 𝑉 ′ = 𝐾
𝑉 1
(iii) As E = 𝑑 and V is decreased; therefore, electric field decreases to 𝐾 times.
𝑄2 𝑄2 𝑈0
(iv) Energy stored will be decreased. The energy becomes, U = 2𝐶2 = 2𝐾𝐶0 =
0 𝐾
1
Thus, energy is reduced to 𝐾 times the initial energy.
6. A parallel plate is charged by a battery. When the battery remains connected, a dielectric
slab is inserted in the space between the plates. explain what changes if any, occur in the
values of
(i) potential difference between the plates
(ii) electric field strength between the plates
(iii) capacitance
(iv) charge on the plates
(v) energy stored in the capacitor?
Ans. (i) When battery remains connected, the potential difference remains the same.
𝑉
(ii) As electric field E = 𝑑 , 𝑉 = constant and d = constant, therefore, electric field strength
remains the same.
(iii) The capacitance of capacitor increases as K > 1.
(iv) The charge Q = CV, V = same, C = increases; there, charge on plates increases.
1
(v) Energy stored by capacitor U = 2 𝐶𝑉 2 , also increases.
7. (i) Find equivalent capacitance between A and B in the combination given below. Each
capacitor is of 2 μF capacitance.

(ii) If a dc source of 7V is connected across AB, how much charge is drawn from the source
and what is the energy stored in the network?
Ans. (i) Capacitors C2, C3 and C4 are in parallel
C234 = C2 + C3 + C4 = 2μF + 2μF + 2μF
∴ C234 = 6μF
Capacitors C1, C234 and C5 are in series,
1 1 1 1 1 1 1
=𝐶 +𝐶 +𝐶 =2+6+2
𝐶𝑒𝑞 1 234 5
7
= 6 𝜇𝐹
6
𝐶𝑒𝑞 = 7 𝜇𝐹
(ii) Charge drawn from the source
Q = Ceq V
6
= 7 × 7 𝜇𝐶 = 6𝜇𝐶
𝑄2
Energy stored in the network, U = 2𝐶
6 ×6 ×10 −12 ×7
= 𝐽 = 21 × 10−6 𝐽
2 ×6 ×10 −6
= 21 μJ
8. Two parallel plate capacitors X and Y have the same area of plates and same separation
between them. X has air between the plates while Y contains a dielectric medium εr = 4.
(i) Calculate the capacitance of each capacitor if equivalent
capacitance of the combination is 4 μF.
(ii) Calculate the potential difference between the plates of
X and Y.
(iii) Estimate the ratio of electrostatic energy stored in X and
Y.
𝜀0 𝐴
Ans. (i) Capacitance of X, 𝐶𝑋 = 𝑑
𝜀𝑟 𝜀0 𝐴 𝜀0 𝐴
Capacitance of Y, 𝐶𝑌 = =4
𝑑 𝑑
𝐶𝑌
∴ = 4 ⇒ 𝐶𝑌 = 4𝐶𝑋 … i
𝐶𝑋
As X and Y are in series, so
𝐶 𝐶 𝐶 .4𝐶
𝐶𝑒𝑞 = 𝐶 𝑋+𝐶𝑌 ⇒ 𝜇𝐹 = 𝐶 𝑋+4𝐶𝑋
𝑋 𝑌 𝑋 𝑋
⇒ 𝐶𝑋 = 5𝜇𝐹 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝐶𝑌 = 4𝐶𝑋 = 20𝜇𝐹
(ii) In series charge on each capacitor is same, so
𝑄 1
P.d. V=𝐶 ⇒𝑉∝𝐶
𝑉𝑋 𝐶
∴ = 𝐶 𝑌 = 4 ⇒ 𝑉𝑋 = 4𝑉𝑌 … ii
𝑉𝑌 𝑋
Also 𝑉𝑋 + 𝑉𝑌 = 15 …(iii)
From (i) and (ii),
4𝑉𝑌 + 𝑉𝑌 = 15 ⇒ 𝑉𝑌 = 3 𝑉
𝑉𝑋 = 15 − 3 = 12 𝑉
Thus potential difference across X, VX = 12 V, P.d. across Y, VY = 3 V
𝐸𝑛𝑒𝑟𝑔𝑦 𝑠𝑡𝑜𝑟𝑒𝑑 𝑖𝑛 𝑋 𝑄 2 2𝐶𝑋 𝐶 𝟒 𝑈𝑋 𝟒
(iii) 𝐸𝑛𝑒𝑟𝑔𝑦 = = 𝐶𝑌 = 𝟏 ⇒ =𝟏
𝑠𝑡𝑜𝑟𝑒𝑑 𝑖𝑛 𝑌 𝑄 2 2𝐶𝑌 𝑋 𝑈𝑌
9. In a parallel plate capacitor with air between the plates, each plate has an area of 5 × 10-3 m2
and the separation between the plates is 2.5 mm.
(i) Calculate the capacitance of the capacitor.
(ii) If this capacitor is connected to 100 V supply, what would be the charge on each
plate?
(iii) How would charge on the plates be affected, if a 2.5 mm thick mica sheet of K = 8 is
inserted between theplates while the voltage supply remains connected?
𝜀0 𝐴
Ans. (i) Capacitance, C = 𝑑
8.85 ×10 −12 ×5 ×10 −3
= 25 ×10 −3
= 17.7 × 10-12 F
(ii) Charge Q = CV
= 17.7 × 10-12 × 100
= 17.7 × 10-10 C
(iii) New charge, Q = KQ
= 8 × 17.7 × 10-10
= 1.416 × 10-8 C
10. A capacitor of unknown capacitance is connected across a battery of V volts. The charge
stored in it is 360 μC. When potential across the capacitor is reduced by 120 V, the charge
stored in it becomes 120 μC.
(i) The potential V and the unknown capacitance C.
(ii) What will be the charge stored in the capacitor, if the voltage applied had increased
by 120 V?
Ans.

(i) If unknown capacitor of capacitance „C‟ is connected to a battery of „V‟ volts,

Q = CV
⇒ CV = 360 μC ...(i)
On reducing the potential/voltage by 120 V
So, Q‟ = C(V – 120)
⇒ C(V – 120) = 120 μC ...(ii)
On solving equation (i) and (ii)
360𝜇𝐶 120𝜇𝐶
=
𝑉 𝑉−120
⇒ V = 180 V
Unknown capacitance from equation (i)
Q = CV
360 μC = C × 180 V
360𝜇𝐶
⇒ C= =2
180𝑉
⇒ C = 2 μF
(ii) Charge on the capacitor, if voltage is increased by 120 V
Q = C(V + 120) = 2(180 + 120) = 600 μC
11. A parallel plate capacitor of capacitance C is charged to a potential V. IT is then connected
to another uncharged capacitor having the same capacitance. Find out the ratio of the energy
stored in the combined system to that stored initially in the single capacitor.
1
Ans. Energy stored in the capaicotr = 2 𝐶𝑉 2
𝑞2
=
2𝐶
Net capacitance of the parallel combination (when capacitors are connected together)
= C + C = 2C
𝑞2
Since the total charge Q remains same initial energy = 2𝐶
𝑞2
Final energy = 2 2𝐶
𝑈𝑓
=1:2
𝑈𝑠
12. Calculate the equivalent capacitance between points A and B in the circuit below. If a
battery of 10 V is connected across A and B, calculate the charge drawn from the battery by
the circuit.
 𝐶1 𝐶
Ans. ∴ = 𝐶3
𝐶2 4
This is the condition of balance so there will be no
current across PR 50 μF capacitor
Now C1 and C2 are in series
𝐶 𝐶 10 ×20 20
𝐶12 = 𝐶 1+𝐶2 = = 𝜇𝐹
1 2 10+20 3
∵ C3 and C4 are in series
𝐶 𝐶 5 ×10 50 10
C34 = 𝐶 3+𝐶4 = = 15 = 𝜇𝐹
3 4 5+10 3
Equivalent capacitance between A and B is
20 10
𝐶𝐴𝐵 = 𝐶12 + 𝐶34 = + = 10 𝜇𝐹
3 3

Hence, charge drawn from battery (Q) = CV

= 10 × 10 μC = 100 μC = 10-4C
13. Two capacitors of unknown capacitances C1 and C2 are connected first in series and then in
parallel across a battery of 100 V. If the energy stored in the two combinations is 0.045 J
and 0.25 J respectively, determine the value of C1 and C2. Also calculate the charge on each
capacitor in parallel combination.
1
Ans. Energy stored in a capacitor, E = 2 𝐶𝑉 2
1 2
In parallel, 0.25 = 2 𝐶1 + 𝐶2 100 ...(i)
1 𝐶1 𝐶2 2
In series, 0.045 = 2 100 ...(ii)
𝐶1 +𝐶2
From (i) C1 + C2 = 0.25 × 2 × 10-4
C1 + C2 = 5 × 10-5 ...(iii)
𝐶1 𝐶2 −4
From (ii) = 0.045 × 2 × 10
𝐶1 +𝐶2
𝐶1 𝐶2
= 0.09 × 10−4 = 9 × 10−6
𝐶1 +𝐶2
2 ×0.045 ×5 ×10 −5
From (iii) C1 C2 = = 4.5 × 10−10
10 4
𝐶1 − 𝐶2 = 𝐶1 + 𝐶2 2 − 4𝐶1 𝐶2
𝐶1 − 𝐶2 = 2.64 × 10−5 ...(iv)
Solving (iii) and (iv) C1 = 38.2 μF
C2 = 11.8 μF
In parallel Q1 = C1V
= 38.2 × 10-6 × 100 = 38.2 × 10-4 C
 Q2 = C2V
= 11.8 × 10-6 × 100 = 11.8 × 10-4 C
14. Two capacitors of capacitance 10 μF and 20 μF are connected in series with a 6 V battery.
After the capacitors are fully charged, a slab of dielectric constant (K) is inserted between
the plates of the two capacitors. How will the following be affected after the slab is
introduced:
(a) the electric field energy stored in the capacitors?
(b) the charges on the two capacitors?
(c) the potential difference between the plates of the capacitors?
Justify your answer.
𝐶 𝐶
Ans. Let Q be the charge on each capacitor. SO, Q = 𝐶 1+𝐶2 𝑉.
1 2
Initial electric field energy in each capacitor becomes
1 𝑄2 1 𝑄2
U1 = 2 𝐶 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑈2 = 2 𝐶
1 2
Initial charge on each capacitor
𝐶 𝐶
Q = C1V1, Q = C2V2 and Q = 𝐶 1+𝐶2 . 𝑉
1 2
where V1 and V2 are p.d across the capacitors
On inserting the dielectric slab the capacitance eof each capacitor becomes
C‟1 = KC1 and C‟2 = KC2
and equivalent capacitance becomes
′ 𝐾𝐶1 ×𝐾𝐶2 𝐶1 𝐶2
𝐶𝑒𝑞 = = 𝐾
𝐾𝐶1 +𝐾𝐶2 𝐶1 +𝐶2
New charge on the capacitor becomes
′ 𝐶1 𝐶2
Q‟ = 𝐶𝑒𝑞 𝑉′ = 𝐾 ×𝑉
𝐶1 +𝐶2
𝐶 𝐶
Q‟ = 𝐶1 𝐶2 . 𝑉 × 𝐾
1 2
Q‟ = 𝑄 × 𝐾
Q‟ = KQ
(a) New electric field energy becomes
𝑄′ 2 𝐾𝑄 2
𝑈1′ = 2𝐾𝐶 =
1 2𝐶1
1 𝑄′ 2 𝐾𝑄 2
𝑈2′ = 2 𝐾𝐶 =
2 2𝐶2
i.e., electric field energy increases in each capacitor.
(b) Q‟ = KQ (as stated above)
𝑄′ 𝐾𝑄 𝑄
(c) 𝑉1′ = 𝐶 ′ = 𝐾𝐶 = 𝐶
1 1
𝑄′ 𝐾𝑄 𝑄
and 𝑉2′ = 𝐶 ′ = 𝐾𝐶 = 𝐶 (Remains same)
2 2 2
i.e., p.d across each capacitor decreases.
15. A 12 pF capacitor is connected to a 50 V battery. How much electrostatic energy is stored in
the capacitor? if another capacitor of 6 pF is connected in series with it with the same
battery connected across the combination, find the charge stored and potential difference
across each capacitor.
1
Ans. Electrostatic energy stored, U = 2 𝐶𝑉 2
1
= 2 × 12 × 10−12 × 50 × 50𝐽 = 1.5 × 10−8 𝐽
 C = Equivalent capacitance of 12 pF and 6 pF, in series
1 1 1 1+2
∴ = + =
𝐶 12 6 12
⇒ C = 4 pF
Charge stored across each capacitor
Q = CV = 4 × 10-12 × 50 V
= 2 × 10-10 C
In series combination, charge on each capacitor is same.
Charge on each capacitor, 12 pF as well as 6 pF is same.
∴ Potential difference across capacitor C1 (12 pF capacitor)
2 ×10 −10 50 𝑄
∴ V1 = = 𝑉 𝑉=𝐶
12 ×10 −12 𝑉 3
Potential difference across capacitor C2 (6 pF capacitor)
2 ×10 −10 𝟏𝟎𝟎
𝑉2 = 𝑉= 𝑽
6 ×10 −12 𝟑
16. Two identical capacitors of 12 pF each are connected in series across a battery of 50 V. How
much electrostatic energy is stored in the combination? If these were connected in parallel
across the same battery, how much energy will be stored in the combination now?
Also find the charge drawn from the battery in each case.
1 1 1 1 1
Ans. In series combination : 𝐶 = + 12 ⇒ 𝐶 = 6
𝑆 12 𝑆
∴ Cs = 6 × 10-12 F
1
Us = 2 𝐶𝑉 2
1
𝑈𝑠 = 2 × 6 × 10−12 × 50 × 50 𝐽
∴ Us = 75 × 10-10 J
Qs = CsV = 6 × 10-12 × 50
= 300 × 10-12 C = 3 × 10-10 C
In parallel combination: Cp = (12 + 12)pF
∴ Cp = 24 × 10-12 F
1
Cs = 2 × 24 × 10−12 × 2500 𝐽
= 3 × 10-8 J
Qp = CpV
Qp = 24 × 10-12 × 50 C
Qp = 1.2 × 10-9 C
17. In the given circuit in the steady state, obtain the expression for (a) the potential drop (b) the
charge and (c) the energy stored in the capacitor, C.

Ans. (a) In steady state BE will behave as open circuit.

In steady state, current in the circuit ACDFA
2𝑉−𝑉 𝑉
𝐼 = 2𝑅+𝑅 = 3𝑅
 Potential at point E, assuming
𝑉 4𝑉
Potential difference across EB = 2V – 2IR = 2V – 2R × 3𝑅 = 3
4𝑉 𝑉
Potential difference across capacitor = −𝑉 =
3 3
𝑉
Hence, potential drop across the capacitor is 3
𝑉 1
(b) Charge on the capacitor q = C = 3 𝐶𝑉
3
1 𝑉 2 𝟏
(c) Energy stored in the capacitor U =2 𝐶 = 𝟏𝟖 𝑪𝑽𝟐
3
18. Calculate the potential difference and the energy stored in the capacitor C2 in the circuit
shown in the figure. Given potential at A is 90 V, C1 = 20 μF, C3 = 15 μF.

Ans. Capacitors C1, C2 and C3 are in series. So, its net capacitance is
1 1 1 1 1 1 1
= 𝐶 + 𝐶 + 𝐶 = 20 + 30 + 15
𝐶𝑆 1 2 3
20
𝐶𝑆 = 𝜇𝐹
3
Net charge on the capacitors, C1=, C2 and C3 remain same.
q = CS (VA – VE)
20
= 𝜇𝐹 × 90 − 0 = 600𝜇𝐶
3
The p.d across C2 due to charge 600 μC is
𝑞 600
Vs = = = 20𝑉
𝐶2 30
Energy stored in the capacitor C2.
1 𝑞2 1 1
U2 = 2 𝐶 𝑜𝑟 2 𝐶2 𝑉22 = 2 × 30𝜇𝐹 × 20 2
= 6000𝜇𝐽 = 𝟔 × 𝟏𝟎−𝟑 𝑱
2
19. In the following arrangement of capacitors, the energy stored in the 6 μF capacitor is E. Find
the value of the following:
(i) Energy stored in 12 μF capacitor.
(ii) Energy stored in 3 μF capacitor.
(iii) Total energy drawn from the battery.
Ans. Given that energy stored in 6 μF is E.
(i) Let V be the voltage across 6 μF capacitor
Also, 6 μF and 12 μF capacitors are in parallel.
Therefore, voltage across 12 μF = Voltage across 6 μF capacitor
1 1 𝐸
E = 2 𝐶𝑉 2 = 2 × 6 × 𝑉 2 ⇒V= 3
2
1 𝐸
Energy stored in 12 μF = 2 × 12 = 𝟐𝑬
3

(ii) Since charge remains constant in series. Sum of charge on 6 μF capacitor and 12 μF
capacitor is equal to charge on 3 μF capacitor.
Charge on 3 μF capacitor = (6 + 12) × V = 18 × V
2
𝑄2 18𝑉 2 18 ×18 𝐸
Energy stored in 3 F capacitor = 2𝐶 = = =18 E
2 ×3 6 3
(iii) Total energy drawn from battery = E + 2E + 18 E = 21E
20. Two identical paralle plate (air) capacitors C1 and C2 have
capacitances C each. The space between their plates is now
filled with dielectrics as shown. If the two capacitors still have
equal capacitance, obtain the relation between dielectric
constants K, K1 and K2.
Ans. Let A → area of each plate.
𝜀0 𝐴
Let initially C1 = C = = 𝐶2 ...(i)
𝑑
After inserting respective dielectric slabs:
C‟1 = KC
𝜀 0 𝐴/2 𝐾2 𝜀 0 𝐴/2 𝜀0 𝐴
and C‟2 = K1 + = 𝐾1 + 𝐾2
𝑑 𝑑 2𝑑
𝐶
𝐶2′ = 𝐾1 + 𝐾2 ...(ii)
2
From (i) and (ii)
𝐶 1
𝐶1′ = 𝐶2′ ⇒ 𝐾𝐶 = 2 𝐾1 + 𝑘2 ⇒ 𝐾 = 2 𝐾1 + 𝐾2

21. You are given an air filled parallel plate capacitor C1. The space
between its plates is now filled with slabs of dielectric constants K1
and K2 as shown in C2. Find the capacitances of the capacitors C2.
If area of the plates is A and distance between the plates is d.
𝜀0 𝐴
Ans. C1 = 𝑑
1 1 1
= 𝜀 𝐴 + 𝜀 𝐴
𝐶𝑠 𝐾1 0 𝐾2 0
𝑑 /2 𝑑 /2
𝑑 𝑑
= 2.𝐾 + 2.𝐾
1 𝜀0 𝐴 2 𝜀0 𝐴
1 𝑑 1 1 2.𝜀 0 𝐴 𝐾1 𝐾2
= 2𝜀 + ⇒ 𝐶2 =
𝐶2 0 𝐴 𝐾1 𝐾2 𝑑 𝐾1 +𝐾2
𝐾1 𝐾2 2𝐾1 𝐾2
𝐶2 = 2𝐶1 𝐾 +𝐾 ⇒ 𝐶2 = 𝐶1
1 2 𝐾1 +𝐾2
22. A slab of material of dielectric constant K has the same area as that of the plates of a parallel
plate capacitor but has the thickness d/2, where d is the separation between the plates. Find
out the expression for its capacitance when the slab is inserted between the plates of the
capacitor.
Ans.

Capacitance with dielectric of thickness „t‟

𝜀0 𝐴 𝑑
𝐶= 𝑡 Put t = 2
𝑑−𝑡+
𝐾
𝜀0 𝜀 𝐴 𝜀0 𝐴 2𝜀 0 𝐴𝐾
𝐶= 𝑑 𝑑 = 𝑑 0𝑑 ⇒ 𝑑 1 =𝑑
𝑑− + + 1+ 𝐾+1
2 2𝐾 2 2𝐾 2 𝐾
23. Two identical parallel plate capacitors A and B are connected to a battery of V volts with the
switch S closed. The switch is now opened and the free space between the plates of the
capacitors is filled with a dielectric of dielectric constant K. Find the ratio of the total
 electrostatic energy stored in both capacitors before and after the introduction of the
dielectric.

Ans. Two capacitors are connected in parallel. Hence, the potential on each of them remains
the same. So, the charge on each capacitor is
QA = QB = CV
1 1 𝑄2
Formula for energy stored = 2 𝐶𝑉 2 = 2 𝐶
Net capacitance with switch S closed = C + C = 2C
1
∴ Energy stored = 2 × 2𝐶 × 𝑉 2 = 𝐶𝑉 2
After the switch S is opened, capacitance of each capacitor = KC
In this case, voltage only across A remains the same.
𝑄 𝑄
The voltage across B changes to V‟ = 𝐶 ′ = 𝐾𝐶
1
∴ Energy stored in capacitor A = 2 𝐾𝐶𝑉 2
1 𝑄2 1 𝐶2𝑉2 1 𝐶𝑉 2
Energy stored in capacitor B = 2 𝐾𝐶 = 2 =2
𝐾𝐶 𝐾
1 2 1 𝐶𝑉 2
∴ Total energy stored = 2 𝐾𝐶𝑉 + 2 𝐾
1 2 1
= 2 𝐶𝑉 𝐾+𝐾
1 𝐾 2 +1
= 2 𝐶𝑉 2 𝐾
2𝐶𝑉 2 .𝐾 2𝐾
Required ratio = 𝐶𝑉 2 =
𝐾 2 +1 𝐾 2 +1
24. A charge Q is distributed over the surfaces of two concentric hollow spheres of radii r and R
(R >> r), such that their surface charge densities are equal. Derive the expression for the
potential at the common centre.
Ans. If charge q1 is distributed over the smaller sphere and q2 over the larger sphere, then
Q = q 1 + q2 …(i)
If σ is the surface charge density of the two spheres, then
𝑞 𝑞
σ = 4𝜋 1𝑟 2 = 4𝜋𝑅2 2
or q1 = 4πr2σ and q2 = 4πR2σ
From (i), we have
Q = 4πr2σ + 4πR2σ
= 4πσ (r2 + R2)
𝑄
or 𝜎 = 4𝜋 𝑟 2 +𝑅 2
The potential at a point inside the charged sphere is equal to the potential at its surface. So,
the potential due to the smaller sphere at the common centre,
1 𝑞1
𝑉1 = 4𝜋𝜀 .
0 𝑟
Also, the potential due to the larger sphere at the common centre,
1 𝑞2
𝑉2 = 4𝜋𝜀 .
0 𝑅
 ∴ Potential at common centre
1 𝑞1 𝑞2
𝑉 = 4𝜋𝜀 +
0 𝑟 𝑅
1 4𝜋𝑟 2 𝜎 4𝜋𝑅 2 𝜎
= 4𝜋𝜀 × +
0 𝑟 𝑅
𝑟 +𝑅 𝜎 1 𝑄 𝑟+𝑅
= = 4𝜋𝜀 (By putting the value of σ
𝜀0 0 𝑟 2 +𝑅 2
25. (a) Derive an expression for the electric potential at any point along the axial line of an
electric dipole.
(b) Find the electrostatic potential at a point on equatorial line of an electric dipole.
Ans. (a) Potential at point P
Vp = 𝑉−𝑞 + 𝑉+𝑞
1 −𝑞 1 𝑞
= +
4𝜋𝜀 0 𝑟+𝑎 4𝜋𝜀 0 𝑟−𝑎
𝑞 1 1
= 4𝜋𝜀 −
0 𝑟−𝑎 𝑟 +𝑎
𝑞 𝑟+𝑎−𝑟+𝑎
= 4𝜋𝜀
0 𝑟−𝑎 𝑟+𝑎
𝑞 2𝑎 𝑞 ×2𝑎
= 4𝜋𝜀 × = 4𝜋𝜀
0 𝑟 2 −𝑎 2 0 𝑟 2 −𝑎 2
1 𝑝
= 4𝜋𝜀 × (where p is the dipole moment)
0 𝑟 2 −𝑎 2
(b) Let P be a point on the Equatorial line of an electric dipole due to charges –q and +q
with separation 2a
The distance of point P from centre of dipole = r
AP = BP = 𝑟 2 + 𝑎2
1 𝑞 𝑞
Electrostatic potential at P, VP = 4𝜋𝜀 − 𝐴𝑃
0 𝐵𝑃
1 𝑞 𝑞
⇒ 𝑉𝑃 = − =0
4𝜋𝜀 0 𝑟 2 +𝑎 2 𝑟 2 +𝑎 2
That is electrostatic potential at each equatorial point of an electric dipole is zero.
26. If N drops of same size each having the same charge, coalesce to form a bigger drop. How
will the following vary with respect to single small drop?
(i) Total charge on bigger drop
(ii) Potential on the bigger drop
(iii) Capacitance
Ans. Let r, q and v be the radius, charge and potential of the small drop.
The total charge on bigger drop is sum of all charge on small drops.
(i) ∴ Q = Nq (where Q is charge on bigger drop)
4
(ii) The volume of N small drops N = 3 𝜋𝑟 3
4
Volume of the bigger drop 3 𝜋𝑅 3
4 4
Hence, N3 𝜋𝑟 3 = 3 𝜋𝑅 3 ⇒ R = N1/3r
1 𝑄
Potential on bigger drop, V = 4𝜋𝜀 × 𝑅
0
1 𝑁𝑄 1 𝑁 2/3 .𝑞
= =
4𝜋𝜀 0 𝑁 1/3 𝑟 4𝜋𝜀 0 𝑟
1 𝑞 1 𝑞
= . 𝑁 2/3 = 𝑁 2/3 𝑣 ∴ 𝑣 = 4𝜋𝜀
4𝜋𝜀 0 𝑟 0 𝑟
(iii) Capacitance = 4πε0R
= 4πε0N1/3r
 = N1/3 (4πε0r)
= N1/3C [where C is capacitance of the small drop]
27. A capacitor is made of a flat plate of area A and second plate having a stair like structure as
shown in figure below. If width of each stair is A/3 and height is d. Find the capacitance of
the arrangement.

Ans. Let C1, C2, C3 be the capacitor formed by this system.

𝜀0 𝐴 𝜀0 𝐴 𝜀0 𝐴
C1 = ; 𝐶2 = and C =
3𝑑 6𝑑 9𝑑
∵ All these capacitors are connected in parallel
𝜀0 𝐴 1 1 𝜀0 𝐴 11 𝟏𝟏𝜺𝟎 𝑨
∴ 𝐶𝑒𝑑 = 1+2+3 = × =
3𝑑 3𝑑 6 𝟏𝟖

Long Answer Questions – II

1. Derive an expression for the electric potential at a point due to an electric dipole. Mention
the contrasting features of electric potential of a dipole at a point as compared to that due to
a single charge.
Ans. Consider an electric dipole having charges – q and +q at separation „2a‟. The dipole
moment of dipole is 𝑝 = 𝑞 2𝑎 , directed from –q to +q.
The electric potential due to dipole is the algebraic sum of potentials due to charges +q and
–q.

→P
← 2a →
If r1 and r2 are distances of any point P from charge +q and –q respectively as shown in the
figure, then the potential due to electric dipole at point P, is
1 𝑞 1 𝑞 𝑞 1 1
V = 4𝜋𝜀 − 4𝜋𝜀 = 4𝜋𝜀 −𝑟 …(i)
0 𝑟1 0 𝑟2 0 𝑟1 2
If (r, θ) are polar coordinates of point P with respect to mid-point O of dipole, then
By geometry, 𝑟12 = 𝑟 2 + 𝑎2 − 2𝑎𝑟 cos 𝜃 …(ii)
2 2 2
and, 𝑟2 = 𝑟 + 𝑎 − 2𝑎𝑟 cos 𝜃 …(iii)
2𝑎 cos 𝜃 𝑎2
From (ii), 𝑟12 = 𝑟 2 1 − + 𝑟2
𝑟
𝑎 𝑎
If r >>a ie., 𝑟 ≪ 1, then it is sufficient ot retain terms only upto first order in .
𝑟
 2𝑎 cos 𝜃 2𝑎 cos 𝜃 1/2
∴ 𝑟12 = 𝑟 2 1 − ⇒ 𝑟1 = 𝑟 1 − … iv
𝑟 𝑟
2𝑎 cos 𝜃 2𝑎 cos 𝜃 1/2
Similarly from (iii), 𝑟22 = 𝑟 2 1 + ⇒ 𝑟2 = 𝑟 1 + …(v)
𝑟 𝑟
1 1 2𝑎 cos 𝜃 1/2 1 1 2𝑎 cos 𝜃 −1/2
From (iv) and (v), 𝑟 = 𝑟 1 − and, 𝑟 = 𝑟 1 +
1 𝑟 2 𝑟
𝑎
Using binomial theorem ad retaining terms upto first order in 𝑟 only, we have
1 1 1 2𝑎 cos 𝜃 1 𝑎
= 𝑟 1− −2 = 𝑟 1 + 𝑟 cos 𝜃 …(vi)
𝑟1 𝑟
1 1 𝑎
and, = 𝑟 1 − 𝑟 cos 𝜃 …(vii)
𝑟2
Substituting these values in (i), we get
𝑞 1 𝑎 1 𝑎
𝑉= 1 + cos 𝜃 − 1 − cos 𝜃
4𝜋𝜀 0 𝑟 𝑟 𝑟 𝑟
1 𝑞 𝑎 𝑎
= 4𝜋𝜀 1 + 𝑟 cos 𝜃 − 1 + 𝑟 cos 𝜃
0 𝑟
1 𝑞 2𝑎 1 𝑞.2𝑎 cos 𝜃
= cos 𝜃 = 4𝜋𝜀
4𝜋𝜀 0 𝑟 𝑟 0 𝑟2
1 𝑝 cos 𝜃
or, V = 4𝜋𝜀 …(viii)
0 𝑟2

But, p cos θ = 𝑝. 𝑟 where, 𝑟 is unit vector along position vector 𝑂𝑃 = 𝑟.

Electric potential due to an electric dipole is
1 𝑝 .𝑟 1 𝑝 .𝑟
V = 4𝜋𝜀 𝑓𝑜𝑟 𝑟 ≫ 𝑎 = 4𝜋𝜀
0 𝑟2 0 𝑟3
Contrasting features: The electric potential due to a dipole depends on distance r and also
on the angle between position vector 𝑟 and dipole moment 𝑝. The electric potential at large
1 1
distances falls off, as 𝑟 2 and not as 𝑟 which is the characteristic of potential due to a single
charge.
Special Cases:
(i) When point P lies on the axis of dipole, then θ = 00
∴ cos θ = cos 0 = 1
1 𝑝
∴ V = 4𝜋𝜀
0 𝑟2
(ii) When point P lies on the equatorial plane of the dipole, then
∴ cos θ = cos 900 = 0
∴ V=0
It may be noted that the electric potential at any point on the equatorial line of a
dipole is zero.
2. Briefly explain the principle of a capacitor. Derive an expression for the capacitance of a
parallel plate capacitor, whose plates are separated by a dielectric medium.
Ans. Principle of a Capacitor: A capacitor works on the principle that
the capacitance of a conductor increases appreciably when an earthed
conductor is brought near it.
Parallel Plate Capacitor: Consider a parallel plate capacitor having
two plane metallic plates A and B, placed parallel to each other (see
fig.). The plates carry equal and opposite charges +Q and –Q
respectively.
In general, the electric field between the plats due to charges +Q and –Q
remains uniform, but at the edges, the electric field lines deviate outwards. If the separation
 between the plates is much smaller than the size of plates, the electric field strength between
the plates may be assumed uniform.
Let A be the area of each plate, „d‟ the separation between the plates, K the dielectric
constant of medium between the plates. If σ is the magnitude of charge density of plates,
then
𝑄
σ=𝐴
The electric field strength between the plates
𝜎
E = 𝐾∈ where ε0 = permittivity of free space. …(i)
0
𝜎𝑑
The potential difference between the plates, VAB = Ed = 𝐾𝜀 …(ii)
0
Putting the value of σ, we get
𝑄𝐴 𝑑 𝜎𝑑
𝑉𝐴𝐵 = = 𝐾𝜀
𝐾𝜀 0 0𝐴
∴ Capacitance of capacitor,
𝑄 𝑄 𝐾𝜀 0 𝐴
𝐶=𝑉 = 𝑜𝑟 𝐶 =
𝐴𝐵 𝑄𝑑 /𝐾𝜀 0 𝐴 𝑑
This is general expression for capacitance of parallel plate capacitor. Obviously, the
capacitance is directly proportional to the dielectric constant of medium between the plates.
𝜀0 𝐴
For air capacitor (K = 1); capacitance C = . This is expression for the capacitance of a
𝑑
parallel plate air capacitor. It can be seen that the capacitance of parallel plate (air) capacitor
is:
(a) directly proportional to the area of each plate.
(b) inversely proportional to the distance between the plates.
(c) independent of the material of the plates.
3. Derive an expression for the capacitance of a parallel plate capacitor when a dielectric slab
𝑑
of dielectric constant K and thickness t = 2 but of same area as that of the plates is inserted
between the capacitor plates. (d = separation between the plates).
Ans. Consider a parallel plate capacitor, area of each plate being –
A, the separating between the plates being d. Let a dielectric slab
of dielectric constant K and thickness t < d be placed between the
plates. The thickness of air between the plates is (d – t). If
charges on plates are +Q and – Q then surface charge density
𝑄
𝜎=𝐴
𝜎 𝑄
The electric field between the plates in air, E1 = 𝜀 = 𝜀
0 0𝐴
𝜎 𝑄
The electric field between the plates in slab, E2 = 𝐾𝜀 = 𝐾𝜀
0 0𝐴
∴ The potential difference between the plates
VAB = work done in carrying unit positive charge from one plate to another
= ΣEx as field between the plates is not constant).
𝑄 𝑄
= E1(d – t) + E2t = 𝜀 𝑑 − 𝑡 + 𝐾𝜀 𝑡
0𝐴 0𝐴
𝑄 𝑡
∴ 𝑉𝐴𝐵 = 𝜀 𝑑−𝑡+𝐾
0𝐴
𝑄 𝑄
∴ Capacitance of capacitor, C=𝑉 = 𝑄 𝑡
𝐴𝐵 𝑑−𝑡+
𝜀0𝐴 𝐾
 𝜀0 𝐴 𝜀0 𝐴
or, C= 𝑡 = 1
𝑑−𝑡+ 𝑑−𝑡 1−
𝐾 𝐾
𝑑 𝜀0 𝐴 𝜀0 𝐴
Here, 𝑡 = ∴ C= 𝑑 1 =𝑑 1
2 𝑑− 1− 1−
2 𝐾 2 𝐾
4. Derive an expression for equivalent capacitance of three capacitors when connected (i) in
series and (ii) in parallel.
Ans. (i) In fig. (a) three capacitors of capacitances C1, C2, C3 are connected in series
between points A and D.

In series first plate of each capacitor has charge +Q and second plate of each capacitor has
charge –Q i.e., charge on each capacitor is Q.
Let the potential differences across the capacitors C1, C2, C3 be V1, V2, V3 respectively. As
the second plate of first capacitor C1 and first plate of second capacitor C2 are connected
together, their potentials are equal. Let this common potential be VB. Similarly the common
potential of second plate of C2 and first plate of C3 is VC. The second plate of capacitor C3 is
connected to earth, therefore, its potential VD = 0. As charge flows from higher potential to
lower potential, therefore, VA> VB> VC> VD.
𝑄
For the first capacitor, V1 = VA – VB = …(i)
𝐶1
𝑄
For the second capacitor, V2 = VB – VC = 𝐶 …(ii)
2
𝑄
For the third capacitor, V3 = VC – VD = 𝐶 …(iii)
3
Adding (i), (ii) and (iii), we get
1 1 1
V1 + V2 + V3 = VA – VD = Q +𝐶 +𝐶 …(iv)
𝐶1 2 3
If V be the potential difference between A and D, then
∴ From (iv), we get
1 1 1
V = (V1 + V2 + V3) = Q +𝐶 +𝐶 …(v)
𝐶1 2 3
If in place of all the three capacitors, only one capacitor is placed between A and D such that
on giving it charge Q, the potential difference between its plates become V, then it will be
called equivalent capacitor. If its capacitance is C, then
𝑄
V=𝐶 …(vi)
Comparing (v) and (vi), we get
𝑄 1 1 1 1 1 1 1
=𝑄 +𝐶 +𝐶 or =𝐶 +𝐶 +𝐶 …(vii)
𝐶 𝐶1 2 3 𝐶 1 2 3
Thus in series arrangement, “The reciprocal of equivalent capacitance is equal to the sum
of the reciprocals of the individual capacitors.”
(ii) Parallel Arrangement: In fig. (c) three capacitors of capacitance C1, C2, C3 are
connected in parallel.
 In parallel the potential difference across each capacitor is same V (say). Clearly the
potential difference between plates of each capacitor
VA – VB = V(say)
The charge Q given to capacitors is divided on capacitors C1, C2, C3.
Let q1, q2, q3 be the charges on capacitors C1, C2, C3 respectively.
Then Q = q1 + q2 + q3 …(i)
and q1 = C1V, q2 = C2V, q3 = C3V
substituting these values in (i), we get
Q = C 1 V + C2 V + C3 V or Q = (C1 + C2 + C3)V …(ii)
If, in place of all the three capacitors, only one capacitor of capacitance C be connected
between A and B; such that on giving it charge Q, the potential difference between its plates
be V, then it will be called equivalent capacitor. If C be the capacitance of equivalent
capacitor, then
Q = CV …(iii)
Comparing equations (ii) and (iii), we get
CV = (C1 + C2 + C3)V or C = (C1 + C2 + C3) …(iv)
Important Note: It may be noted carefully that the formula for the total capacitance in series
and parallel combination of resistors in current electricity.
5. (a) Derive an expression for the energy stored in a parallel plate capacitor C, charged to a
potential difference V. Hence derive an expression for the energy density of a capacitor.
Or
Obtain an expression for the energy stored per unit volume in a charged parallel plate
capacitor.
(b) Find the ratio of the potential differences that must be applied across the parallel and
series combination of two capacitors C1 and C2 with their capacitances in the ratio 1 : 2 so
that the energy stored in the two cases becomes the same.
Ans. (a) When a capacitor is charged by a battery, work is done
by the charging battery at the expense of its chemical energy.
This work is stored in the capacitor in the form of electrostatic
potential energy.
Consider a capacitor of capacitance C. Initial charge on
capacitor is zero. Initial potential difference between capacitor
plates is zero. Let a charge Q be given to it in small steps. When
charge is given to capacitor, the potential difference between its
plates increases. Let at any instant when charge on capacitor be q, the potential difference
𝑞
between its plates V = 𝐶 .
 Now work done in giving an additional infinitesimal charge dq to capacitor.
𝑞
𝑑𝑊 = 𝑉 𝑑𝑞 = 𝑑𝑞
𝐶
The total work done in giving charge from 0 to Q will be equal to the sum of all such
infinitesimal works, which may be obtained by integration. Therefore total work
𝑄
𝑄 𝑄𝑞 1 𝑞2 1 𝑄2 0 𝑄2
𝑊= 0
𝑉 𝑑𝑞 = 0 𝐶
𝑑𝑞 =𝐶 =𝐶 − 2 = 2𝐶
2 0 2
If V is the final potential difference between capacitor plates, then Q = CV
𝐶𝑉 2 1
∴ W= = 2 𝐶𝑉 2 = 1.2 𝑄𝑉
2𝐶
This work is stored as electrostatic potential energy of capacitor i.e.,
𝑄2 1 1
Electrostatic potential energy, U = 2𝐶 = 2 𝐶𝑉 2 = 2 𝑄𝑉
Energy density: Consider a parallel plate capacitor consisting of plates, each of area A,
separated by a distance d. If space between the plates is filled with a medium of dielectric
constant K, then
𝐾𝜀 0 𝐴
Capacitance of capacitor, C= 𝑑
If σ is the surface charge density of plates, then electric field strength between the plates
𝜎
𝐸 = 𝐾𝜀 ⇒ 𝜎 = 𝐾𝜀0 𝐸
0
Charge on each plate of capacitor, Q = σA = Kε0EA
𝑄2 𝐾𝜀 0 𝐸𝐴 2 1
Energy stored by capacitor, U = 2𝐶 = 2 = 2 𝐾𝜀0 𝐸 2 𝐴𝑑
𝐾𝜀 0 𝐴/𝑑
But Ad = volume of space between capacitor plates
1
∴ Energy stored, U = 2 𝐾𝜀0 𝐸 2 𝐴𝑑
𝑈 1
Electrostatic Energy stored per unit volume, 𝑢𝑒 = 𝐴𝑑 = 2 𝐾𝜀0 𝐸 2
This is expression for electrostatic energy density in medium of dielectric constant K.
1
In air or free space (K = 1) therefore energy density, 𝑢𝑒 = 2 𝜀0 𝐸 2
1 1
(b) 𝑈𝑆 = 2 𝐶𝑆 𝑉𝑆2 ⇒ 𝑈𝑝 = 2 𝐶𝑃 𝑉𝑃2
𝐶 1
Also, 𝐶1 = 2 𝑔𝑖𝑣𝑒𝑛 ⇒ 𝐶2 = 2𝐶1
2
𝑉𝑠𝑒𝑟𝑖𝑒𝑠 𝐶𝑒𝑞𝑢𝑖𝑣𝑎𝑙𝑒𝑛𝑡 𝑝𝑎𝑟𝑎𝑙𝑙𝑒𝑙
⇒ =
𝑉𝑝𝑎𝑟𝑎𝑙𝑙𝑒𝑙 𝐶𝑒𝑞𝑢𝑖𝑣𝑎𝑙𝑒𝑛𝑡 𝑠𝑒𝑟𝑖𝑒𝑠

𝐶 1 +𝐶 2
𝐶1𝐶2
= 𝐶1 +𝐶2
𝐶1 +𝐶2 3𝐶1 3
= = =
𝐶1 𝐶2 2
2𝐶12

6. Find the expression for the energy stored in the capacitor. Also find the energy lost when the
charged capacitor is disconnected from the source and connected in parallel with the
uncharged capacitor. Where does this loss of energy appear?
Ans. Q = Q1 + Q2
V1 = V2 potential of both capacitors after they are connected with each other.
𝑄1 𝑄2 𝐶1
∴ = ⇒ 𝑄= + 1 𝑄2
𝐶1 𝐶2 𝐶2
𝑄𝐶2 𝑄𝐶1
𝑄2 = 𝐶 Q1 = 𝐶
1 +𝐶2 1 +𝐶2
 𝑄 𝑄2 𝑄1
𝑉2 = 𝑉1 = 𝐶 = =
1 +𝐶2 𝐶2 𝐶1
1 1 1 𝑄2 𝑄2
𝑈𝑓 = 2 𝐶1 𝑉12 + 2 𝐶2 𝑉22 = 2 𝐶1 + 𝐶2 =2
𝐶1 +𝐶2 2 𝐶1 +𝐶2
𝑄2
𝑈𝑖 = 2𝐶
1
𝑄2 𝑞2 𝑄 2 𝐶2
𝑈𝑖 − 𝑈𝑓 = 2𝐶 − 2 =
1 𝐶1 +𝐶2 𝐶1 𝐶1 +𝐶2
The lost energy appears in the form of heat.
7. If two similar large plates each of area A having surface charge densities +σ and – σ are
separated by a distance d in air, find the expressions for
(a) field at points between the two plates and on outer side of the plates, specify the
direction of the field in each case.
(b) the potential difference between the plates.
(c) the capacitance of the capacitor so formed.
Ans. Let the two large plates each of area A having surface charge
densities + σ and – σ are separated by a distance d in air. We know
that electric field due to plate having charge density σ is
𝜎
𝐸 = 2𝜀
0
If σ is positive, then electric field will be outward and if σ is negative,
then electric field will be inward.
(a) Field at point between the two plates
𝐸𝑛𝑒𝑡 = 𝐸1 + 𝐸2
+𝜎 𝜎
= 2𝜀 + 2𝜀
0 0
𝜎
(From plate having charge density + σ to plate having
𝜀0
charge density – σ)
Field on outer side of the plates:
𝐸𝑛𝑒𝑡 = 𝐸1 + 𝐸2
−𝜎 𝜎
+ 2𝜀 = 0
2𝜀 0 0
(b) The potential difference between the plates is
2→
𝑉 = 𝑉+ − 𝑉− = − 1
𝐸. 𝑑𝑟
(c) Capacitance,
𝑄 𝜀0 𝐴
𝐶=𝑉= 𝑑
8. (a) Explain why, for any charge configuration, the equipotential surface through a point is
normal to the electric field at that point.
Draw a sketch of equipotential surfaces due to a single charge (– q), depicting the electric
field lines due to the charge.
(b) Obtain an expression for the work done to dissociate the system of three charges placed
at the vertices of an equilateral triangle of side „a‟ as shown alongside.
Ans. (a) The work done in moving a charge from one point to another on an equipotential
surface is zero. If the field is not normal to an equipotential surface, it would have a non
zero component along the surface. This would imply that work would have to be done to
move a charge on the surface which is contradictory to the definition of equipotential
surface.
 Mathematically
Work done to move a charge dq, on a surface, can be expressed as
𝑑𝑊 = 𝑑𝑞 𝐸 . 𝑑 𝑟
But dW = 0 on an equipotential surface
∴ 𝐸 ⊥ 𝑑𝑟
Equipotentail surface for a charge –q is shown alongside.
(b) Work done to dissociate the system = – Potential energy of
the system
1 −4𝑞 𝑞 2𝑞 𝑞 −4𝑞 2𝑞
= 4𝜋𝜀 + +
0 𝑎 𝑎 𝑎
1 2 2 2 10𝑞 2
= 4𝜋𝜀 −4𝑞 + 2𝑞 − 8𝑞 =+
0 4𝜋𝜀 0 𝑎

9. (i) Compare the individual dipole moment and the specimen dipole moment for H2O
molecule and O2 molecule when placed in

(a) Absence of external electric field

(b) Presence of external electric field. Justify your answer.
(ii) Given two parallel conducting plates of area A and charge densities + σ and – σ. A
dielectric slab of constant K and a conducting slab of thickness d each are inserted in
between them as shown.
(a) Find the potential difference between the plates.
(b) Plot E versus x graph, taking x = 0 at positive plate and x = 5d at negative plate.
Ans.
Non-Polar (O2) Polar (H2O)
(a) Absence of electric
field Dipole moment exists
Individual No dipole moment exists Dipole are randomly oriented
Specimen No dipole moment exists Net P = 0
(b) Presence of electric
field Dipole moment exists Torque acts on the molecules
Individual (molecules become polarised) to align them parallel to 𝐸
Specimen Dipole moment exists Net dipole moment exists
parallel to dipole moment
exists 𝐸

(ii) (a) The potential difference between the plates is given by

 𝐸0
𝑉 = 𝐸0 𝑑 + 𝐸0 𝑑 + 0 + 𝐸0 𝑑 ⇒ 𝑉 = 3𝐸0 𝑑 + 𝑑
𝐾
(b) E versus x graph

Selected NCERT Textbook Questions

Electric Potential and Potential Energy

1. Two charges 5 × 10-8 C and – 3 × 10-8 C are located 16 cm apart. At what points(s) on the
line joining the two charges is the electric potential zero? Take the potential at infinity to be
zero.
Ans. Let P be a point on the line joining
charges q1 = 5 × 10-8 C and q2 = – 3 × 10-8 C at
a distance x cm from charge q1.
Its distance from charge q2 will be (16 – x) cm.
For potential at P
1 𝑞1 1 𝑞2 𝑞1 𝑞
𝑉1 + 𝑉2 = 0 ⇒ 4𝜋𝜀 + 4𝜋𝜀 =0 ⇒ + 𝑟2 = 0
0 𝑟1 0 𝑟2 𝑟1 2
Given, r1 = x cm = x × 10 m, r2 = (16 – x) cm = (16 – x) × 10-2 m
-2

5 ×10 −8 −3 ×10 −8
∴ + =0
𝑥 ×10 −2 16−𝑥 ×10 −2
5 3 5 3
⇒ − =0 ⇒𝑥=
𝑥 16−𝑥 16−𝑥
⇒ 5(16 – x) = 3x or 8x = 80 or x = 10 cm
2. A regular hexagon of side 10 cm has a charge 5 μC at each of its vertices. Calculate the
potential at the centre of the hexagon.
Ans. Key idea: The potential due to similar charges is additive.
Let O be the centre of the hexagon.
In triangle OAB all angles are 600, so
OA = OB = AB = a
So, in a regular hexagon distance of each corner from centre is
equal to the side of the hexagon
r = OA = OB = OC = OD = OE = OF = a = 10 cm = 0.10 m
1 𝑞
The net potential at O, V = 6 × 4𝜋𝜀 .
0 𝑎
Here q = 5 μC = 5 × 10-6C, a = 0.10 m
10 −6
∴ V = 6 × 9 × 109 × 5 × = 2.7 × 106 volt
0.10
3. Two charges 2 μC and –2 μC are placed at points A and B 6 cm apart.
(a) Identify an equipotential surface of the system.
 (b) What is the direction of the electric field at every point on this surface?
Ans. (a) Let P(x, y) be a point on zero potential surface.
Let O (location of charge q = 2 μC) be origin of
coordinate system.
Distance r1 = 𝑥 2 + 𝑦 2 , Distance r2 = 𝑑 − 𝑥 2 + 𝑦 2
where d = 6 cm = 6 × 10-2 m.
Potential at P due to charges q1 = +2 μC and q2 = – 2 μC
is given by
1 𝑞1 1 𝑞2 1 2 ×10 −6 1 −2 ×10 −6
𝑉 = 4𝜋𝜀 + =0 ⇒ + 4𝜋𝜀 =0
0 𝑟1 4𝜋𝜀 0 𝑟2 4𝜋𝜀 0 𝑥 2 +𝑦 2
0 𝑑−𝑥 2 +𝑦 2
1 1 𝑑
or = ⇒ 𝑥2 + 𝑦2 = 𝑑 − 𝑥 2
+ 𝑦2 ⇒ 𝑥 = = 3 cm
𝑥 2 +𝑦 2 𝑑−𝑥 2 +𝑦 2 2
So, plane passing through mid point of line joining A and B has zero
potential everywhere.
(b) The direction of electric field is normal to surface PCQ everywhere as
shown in figure.
4. A charge of 8 mC is located at the origin. Calculate the work done in taking a small charge
of –2 × 10–9 C from a point P (0, 0, 3 cm) to a point Q (0, 4 cm, 0), via a point R (0, 6 cm, 9
cm).
Ans. In electric field the work done in carrying a charge depends only on initial and final
points and is independent of path.
The points P, Q, R are shown in figure. Charge q = 8 mC = 8 × 10-3C is located at the origin
O. Clearly,
OP = tP = 3 cm = 3 × 10-2m
OQ = tQ = 4 cm = 4 × 10-2 m
As electrostatic field is conservative; so the work
done is independent of path. Hence, work done
along path PRQ (path 1) is same as work done
along path PQ directly (path 2). By work-energy
theorem, the work done is simply the change in
electrostatic potential energy at two positions of
charge q0(say) = – 2 × 10-9 C Work, W = Potential energy of system when charge q0 is at P
1 𝑞𝑞 0 1 𝑞𝑞 0 1 1 1
= 4𝜋𝜀 − 4𝜋𝜀 = 4𝜋𝜀 𝑞𝑞0 −𝑟
0 𝑟𝑄 0 𝑟𝑃 0 𝑟𝑄 𝑃

Substituting given values, we get

1 1 3−4
W = 9 × 109 × (8 × 10-3) × (-2 × 10-9) − 3 ×10 −2 = −144 × 10−1 = 1.2 joule.
4 ×10 −2 12
5. A cube of side b has a charge q at each of its vertices. Determine the potential and electric
field due to this charge array at the centre of the cube.
Ans. O is the centre of cube ABCDEFGH. Charge q is placed at each of eight corners of the
cube.
Electric Potential: Side of cube = b
Length of each diagonal = 𝑏 2 + 𝑏 2 + 𝑏 2 = 3𝑏
3𝑏
Distance of each corner from centre O = half the diagonal = 2
 1 𝑞 1 2𝑞
Potential at O due to charge at each corner = 4𝜋𝜀 = 4𝜋𝜀
0 3𝑏/2 0 3𝑏
∴ Net potential at O due to all 8 charges at corners of the cube
1 2𝑞 1 16𝑞
V = 8 × 4𝜋𝜀 = 4𝜋𝜀 .
0 3𝑏 0 3𝑏
Electric Field: The electric field at O due to charges at all corners of the cube is zero, since,
electric fields due to charges at opposite corners such as A and H, G and D, B and E, F and
C, are equal and opposite.
6. Two tiny spheres carrying charges 1.5 μC and 2.5 μC are located 30 cm apart. Find the
potential and electric field: (a) at the mid-point of the line joining the two charges, and (b) at
a point 10 cm from this midpoint in a plane normal to the line and passing through the mid-
point.
Ans. The potential due to similar charges is additive while electric field at a point due to
individual charges are added vectorially.
(a) The electric potential at mid point O.
1 𝑞1 𝑞
V = 4𝜋𝜀 + 𝑥2
0 𝑥1 2
0.30
Here, 𝑥1 = 𝑥2 = = 0.15𝑚
2
1.5 ×10−6 2.5 ×10 −6 50
𝑉 = 9 × 109 + = 9 × 109 10 × 10−6 + × 10−6
0.15 0.15 3
80 −6
= 9 × 109 × × 10 = 2.4 × 104 𝑉
3
Electric field at O due to q1 is towards 𝐴𝐵 and that due to q2 is towards 𝐵𝑂 is net electric
field at mid point O.
1 𝑞2 𝑞 2.5 ×10 −6 1.5 ×10 −6
E = E2 – E1 = 4𝜋𝜀 − 𝑥 1 = 9 × 109 2
−
0 𝑥2 1 0.15 0.15 2
5
= 4.0 × 10 N/C charge from q2 to q1.
(b) Let P be a point at distance 10 cm = 0.10 m from O, in a
plane normal to line AB.
AP = BP = 0.15 2 + 0.10 2 = 0.18𝑚
Electric potential at P.
1 𝑞1 𝑞2
𝑉𝑃 = +
4𝜋𝜀 0 𝐴𝑃 𝐵𝑃
−6 2.5 ×10 −6
9 1.5 ×10
= 9 × 10 +
0.18 0.18
9 ×10 9 ×4.0 ×10 −6
= = 2.0 × 105 𝑉
0.18
Electric field at P due to q1,
1 𝑞1 1.5 ×10 −6
𝐸1 = along 𝑃𝑄 = 9 × 109 × along 𝑃𝑄
4𝜋𝜀 0 𝑟12 0.18 2
Electric field at P due to q2
1 𝑞2 2.5 ×10 −6
𝐸2 = 4𝜋𝜀 2 along 𝑃𝑅 = 9 × 109 × along 𝑃𝑅
0 𝑟2 0.18 2
Resolving E1 and E2 along and normal to AB.
Net electric field along 𝐵𝐴, 𝐸𝑥 = 𝐸2 cos 𝜃 − 𝐸1 cos 𝜃
𝑥1
= 𝐸2 − 𝐸1 cos 𝜃 = 𝐸2 − 𝐸1 𝑟1
2.5 ×10 −1.5 ×10 −6
−6 0.15
= 9 × 109 ×
0.18 2 0.18
9 ×10 9 ×1.0 ×10 −6 0.15
= × = 2.3 × 105 N/C
0.18 2 0.18
 Net electric field normal to AB, Ey = (E2 + E1) sin θ
2.5 ×10 −6 + 1.5 ×10 −6 0.10
= 9 × 109 × 0.18
0.18 2
4.0 ×10 −6 10
= 9 × 109 × × 18 = 6.2 × 105 𝑁/𝐶
0.18 2

Net electric field E = 𝐸𝑥2 + 𝐸𝑦2 = 2.3 × 105 2 + 6.2 × 105 2 = 6.6 × 105 N/C
If α is the angle made by resultant field with Ab then
𝐸𝑦 6.2 ×10 5
tan 𝛼 = 𝐸 = 2.3 ×10 5 = 2.69
𝑥
⇒ α = tan-1 (2.69) = 69.60
That resultant electric field at point P is 6.6 × 105 N/C making an angle 69.60 to the
line joining the charge 2.5 μC to 1.5 μC.
7. In a hydrogen atom, the electron and proton are bound at a distance of about 0.53 Å:
(a) Estimate the potential energy of the system in eV, taking the zero of the potential energy
at infinite separation of the electron from proton.
(b) What is the minimum work required to free the electron, given that its kinetic energy in
the orbit is half the magnitude of potential energy obtained in (a)?
(c) What are the answers to (a) and (b) above if the zero of potential energy is taken at 1.06
Å separation?
Ans. (a) Charge on proton q1 = +1.6 × 10-19 C
Charge on electron q2 = – 1.6 × 10-19 C
Separation r = 0.53 Å = 0.53 × 10-10 m
Potential energy of system U = Uat r – Uat 𝑈𝑎𝑡 ∞
1 𝑞 1 𝑞2
= 4𝜋𝜀 −0
0 𝑟
1.6 ×10 −19 −1.6 ×10 −19
= 9 × 109 × 0.53 ×10 −10
−19
= −43.47 × 10 𝐽
As 1 eV = 1.6 × 10-19 J, we have
43.47 ×10 −19
U=− 𝑒𝑉 ≈ −27.2𝑒𝑉
1.6 ×10 −19
27.16
(b) Kinetic energy is always positive, so kinetic energy of electron = = 13.6 eV
2
Total energy of electron = – 27.2 + 13.6 = – 13.6 eV
Minimum work required to free the electron = – Total energy of bound electron = 13.6 eV
(c) Potential energy is at separation, r0 = 1.06 Å is
1 𝑞1 𝑞2
𝑈0 = 4𝜋𝜀
0 𝑟
1.6 ×10 −19 −1.6 ×10 −19
= 9 × 109 × 1.06 ×10 −10
−19
= −21.73 × 10 𝐽 = −13.6 𝑒𝑉
∴ Potential energy of system when zero of potential energy is taken at r0 = 1.06 Å
U = U(r) – U0 = – 27.2 + 13.6 = – 13.6 eV
Now total energy of hydrogen atom is zero
∴ Minimum work = E – U = 0 – (–13.6) eV = 13.6 eV
8. If one of the two electrons of a H2 molecule is removed, we get a hydrogen-molecular ion
𝐻2+. In the ground state of an 𝐻2+, the two protons are separated
by roughly 1.5 Å, and the electron is roughly 1 Å from each
 proton. Determine the potential energy of the system. Specify your choice of the zero of
potential energy.
Ans. The choice of zero potential energy is when all charges are initially at infinite distance
apart.
The system of charges: 2 protons (each of charge +e) and an electron (of charge – e) is
shown in figure.
The potential energy of system
1 𝑒.𝑒 𝑒 −𝑒 𝑒 −6
U = 4𝜋𝜀 + +
0𝑟 𝐴𝐵 𝑟 𝐴𝐶 𝑟 𝐵𝐶
1 1 1 1
= 𝑒2 𝑟 −𝑟 −𝑟
4𝜋𝜀 0 𝐴𝐵 𝐴𝐶 𝐵𝐶
Given: rAB = 1.5 Å = 1.5 × 10-10 m, rAC = rBC = 1 Å = 10-10 m, e = 1.6 × 10-19 C
1 1 1
∴ U = 9 × 109 × (1.6 × 10-19)2 − 10 −10 − 10 −10
1.5 ×10 −10
4
= 9 × 2.56 × 10-19 × 3 = − 30.72 × 10-19 J
= −𝟑𝟎. 𝟕𝟐 × 𝟏𝟎−𝟏𝟗 𝑱
Converting it into eV (keeping in mind 1 eV = 1.6 × 10-19 J)
−30.72 ×10 −19
U= 𝑒𝑉 = −19.2 𝑒𝑉
1.6 ×10 −19
Thus, electrostatic potential energy of system
𝑼 = −𝟑𝟎. 𝟕𝟐 × 𝟏𝟎−𝟏𝟗 joule or -19.2 eV
9. Two charged conducting spheres of radii a and b are connected to each other by a wire.
What is the ratio of electric fields at the surfaces of the two spheres? Use the result obtained
to explain why charge density on the sharp and pointed ends of a conductor is higher than on
its flatter portions.
Ans. When conducting spheres are connected by a wire, the potential of each sphere will be
the same.
i.e., V1 = V2
If q1 and q2 are charges on them after connection, then
1 𝑞1 1 𝑞2
=
4𝜋𝜀 0 𝑎 4𝜋𝜀 0 𝑏
𝒒𝟏 𝒂
Ratio of charges 𝒒 = 𝒃
𝟐
That is, the ratio of charges on two spheres after their electrical contact is the same as the
ratio of their radii.
Electric field strengths on the surfaces of two spheres
1 𝑞1 1 𝑞2
E1 = 4𝜋𝜀 2
, E2 = 4𝜋𝜀 2
0𝑎 0𝑏
𝐸1 𝑞 𝑏2 𝑎 𝑏 2
∴ = 𝑞1 . 𝑎 2 = . [using (i)]
𝐸2 2 𝑏 𝑎
𝑬𝟏 𝒃
or =𝒂
𝑬𝟐
Thus, the ratio of electric field strengths on their surfaces is equal to the inverse ratio of their
radii.
If σ1 and σ2 are the surface charge densities of two spheres, then q1 = 4πa2 σ1 and q2 = 4πb2
σ2
4𝜋𝑎 2 𝜎 𝑎 𝜎1 𝑏
From (i), 4𝜋𝑏 2 𝜎1 = 𝑏 ⇒ =𝑎
2 𝜎2
 A flat portion is equivalent to a spherical surface of large radius and a pointed portion that of
small radius.
σ flat small
∴ =
σ pointed large
Obviously, charge density on flatter parts is very small and on sharp and pointed ends it is
very large.
10. A small sphere of radius r1 and charge q1 is enclosed by a spherical shell of radius r2 and
charge q2. Show that if q1 is positive, charge will necessarily flow from the sphere to the
shell (when the two are connected by a wire) no matter what the charge q2 on the shell is.
Ans. The potential of inner sphere (due to its own charge and due to
charge ons hell) is
1 𝑞1 𝑞2
V1 = +
4𝜋𝜀 0 𝑟1 𝑟2
1 𝑞 2 +𝑞 1
Potential of shell, V2 = 4𝜋𝜀 0 𝑟2
1 𝑞1 𝑞
∴ Potential difference, V = V1 – V2 = 4𝜋𝜀 − 𝑟1
0 𝑟1 2
This is independent of q2. If q1 is positive, the potential of inner sphere is always greater
than the potential of shell; so if both inner sphere and shell are connected by a wire, the
charge will necessarily flow from sphere to shell.

Capacitors
11. A parallel plate capacitor with air between the plates has a capacitance of 8 pF (1pF = 10–12
F). What will be the capacitance if the distance between the plates is reduced by half, and
the space between them is filled with a substance of dielectric constant 6?
Ans. Capacitance of parallel plate air capacitor,
𝜀0 𝐴
C= = 8𝑝𝐹 ...(1)
𝑑
𝑑
When separation between the plates becomes 2 and the space between the plates is filled
with dielectric (K = 6), then new capacitance.
𝐾𝜀 0 𝐴 2𝐾𝜀 0 𝐴
C‟ = = ...(2)
𝑑/2 𝑑
𝐶′
⇒ = 2𝐾
𝐶
or C‟ = 2KC = 2 × 6 × 8pF = 96pF
12. Three capacitors each of capacitance 9 pF are connected in series.
(a) What is the total capacitance of the combination?
(b) What is the potential difference across each capacitor if the combination is connected to
a 120 V supply?
Ans. (a) Given C1 = C2 = C3 = 9pF
When capacitors are connected in series, the equivalent capacitance CS is given by
1 1 1 1 1 1 1 3 1
=𝐶 +𝐶 +𝐶 = 9+9+9=9=3
𝐶𝑆 1 2 3
CS = 3pF
(b) In series charge on each capacitor remains the same, so charge on each capacitor.
q = CSV = (3 × 10-12 F) × (120 V) = 3.6 × 10-10 coulomb
 𝑞 3.6 ×10 −10
potential difference across each capacitor, V = 𝐶 = = 40 V
1 9 ×10 −12
13. 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 100 V
supply.
Ans. C1 = 2 pF, C2 = 3 pF, C3 = 4 pF
(a) Total capacitance when connected in parallel, Cp = C1 + C2 + C3 = 2 + 3 + 4 = 9 pF
(b) In parallel, the Potential difference across each capacitor remains the same, i.e., V = 100
V.
Charge on C1 = 2 pF is q1 = C1V = 2 × 10-12 × 100 = 2 × 10-10 C
Charge on C2 = 3 pF, q2 = C2V = 3 × 10-12 × 100 = 3 × 10-10 C
Charge on C3 = 4 pF, q3 = C3V = 4 × 10-12 × 100 = 4 × 10-10 C
14. 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?
Ans. Capacitance of parallel plate air capacitor
𝜀0 𝐴
C= 𝑑
Given A = 6 × 10-3 m2, d = 3 mm = 3 × 10-3m, ε0 = 8.85 × 10-12 farad/m.
𝜀0 𝐴 8.85 ×10 −12 ×6 ×10 −3
∴ C= = = 17.7 × 10-12 farad
𝑑 3 ×10 −3
Charge on each plate of capacitor,
Q = CV = 17.7 × 10-12 × 100 = 1.77 × 10-9 coulomb = 1.77 nC
15. Explain what would happen if in the capacitor a 3 mm thick mica sheet (of dielectric
constant = 6) were inserted between the plates given in Q14 above.
(a) while the voltage supply remained connected.
(b) after the supply was disconnected.
Ans. Capacitance of parallel plate air capacitor,
𝜀0 𝐴
C= = 17.7 × 10−12 𝐹 = 17.7 pF
𝑑
When dielectric is introduced between the plates, the new capacitance
𝐾𝜀 0 𝐴
C‟ = = 6 × 17.7 𝑝𝐹 = 106.2 pF.
𝑑
(a) When voltage supply remains connected, voltage across plates remains 100 V and so
charge becomes 6-times = 6 × 1.77 nC = 10.62 nC.
(b) When voltage supply was disconnected, the charge on each plate remains the same q =
𝑞
1.77 nC. As capacitance is increased to K times, the potential difference V = 𝐶 must
1
decrease to 𝐾 times.
𝑉 100
New potential difference V‟ = 𝐾 = = 16.6 volt
6
16. A 12pF capacitor is connected to a 50V battery. How much electrostatic energy is stored in
the capacitor?
1
Ans. Electrostatic energy stored in capacitor, U = 2 𝐶𝑉 2
Here C = 12pF = 12 × 10-12 F, V = 50 V
1
∴ U = 2 × 12 × 10-12 × (50)2 = 1.5 × 10-8 J
17. A 600pF capacitor is charged by a 200V supply. It is then disconnected from the supply and
is connected to another uncharged 600 pF capacitor. How much electrostatic energy is lost
in the process?
Ans. Given, C1 = 600 pF = 600 × 10-12 F, V1 = 200 V
1 1
Initial energy stored, Uinitial = 2 𝐶1 𝑉12 = 2 × 600 × 10−12 × (200)2 = 12 × 10-6 J
When another uncharged capacitor C2 = 600 pE is connected across capacitor C1 then
common potential difference
𝑞 +𝑞 𝐶1 𝑉1 +0 𝐶 𝑉
V = 𝐶1 +𝐶2 = = 𝐶 1+𝐶1
1 2 𝐶1 +𝐶2 1 2
600 ×10 −12 ×200
= = 100 𝑉
600+600 ×10 −12
1 1
∴ Final electrostatic energy, Ufinal = 2 𝐶1 + 𝐶2 𝑉 2 = 2 600 + 600 × 10−12 ×
2
100 = 6 × 10−6 𝐽
∴ Energy lost, ΔU = Uinitial – Ufinal = 12 × 10-6 – 6 × 10-6 = 6 × 10-6 J
18. An electrical technician requires a capacitance of 2 μF in a circuit across a potential
difference of 1 kV. A large number of 1 μF capacitors are available to him each of which
can withstand a potential difference of not more than 400 V. Suggest a possible arrangement
that requires the minimum number of capacitors.
Ans. The potential difference can only be increased by connecting capacitors in series, while
capacitance can only be increased by connecting capacitances in parallel.
To acquire the required arrangement let there be m rows, connected in parallel, each row
containing n capacitors in series. Then total number of capacitors N = mn.
If V is the net potential difference and V0 the potential difference across each capacitor, then
𝑉 1𝑘𝑉 1000 𝑉
V = 𝑛𝑉0 , 𝑖. 𝑒. , 𝑛 = 𝑉 = 400𝑉 = = 2.5
0 400𝑉
As n cannot be a fraction, we must take n = 3. If C0 is capacitance of each capacitor,t he
𝐶0
capacitance of a row = 𝑛
As m rows are connected in parallel, net capacitance
𝑚 𝐶0
C= 𝑛
Given, C = 2 μF and C0 = 1 μF, n = 3
𝑚 × 1𝜇𝐹 2 ×3
∴ 2μF = or 𝑚 = =6
3 1
Minimum number of capacitors, N = mn = 3 × 6 = 18
19. What is the area of the plates of a 2 F parallel plate capacitor, given that the separation
between the plates is 0.5 cm? [You will realise from your answer why ordinary capacitors
are in the range of μF or less. However, electrolytic capacitors do have a much larger
capacitance (0.1 F) because of very minute separation between the conductors.]
Ans. Capacitance of a parallel plate capacitor
𝜀0 𝐴
C= 𝑑
𝐶𝑑 2 × 0.5 ×10 −2
Area A = = = 1.13 × 109m2
𝜀0 8.85 ×10 −12
This is too large. That is why ordinary capacitors are in the range of μF or even less.
However, in electrolytic capacitors the separation (d) is very small, so they have
capacitances of the order of 0.1 F.
20. Obtain the equivalent capacitance of the network in Figure alongside.
For a 300 V supply, determine the charge and voltage across each capacitor.
 Ans. Given, C1 = C4 = 100 pF, C2 = C3 = 200 pF.
The capacitors C2 and C3 are connected in series. Their
equivalent capacitance
𝐶 𝐶 200 ×200
C‟ = 𝐶 2+𝐶3 = = 100𝑝𝐹
2 3 200+200
The combination of C2 and C3 (i.e., C) is connected in parallel
with C1, therefore, equivalent capacitance of C1 and C‟.
C” = C1 + C‟ = 100 + 100 = 200 μF
The capacitance C” is in series with C4 hence equivalent
capacitance between A and B.
𝐶"𝐶 200 ×100 200
C‟ = 𝐶"+𝐶4 = = 𝑝𝐹 = 66.7 pF
4 200+100 3
200
Total charge, Q = CV = × 10−12 𝐹 × 300 𝑉 = 2 × 10−8 coulomb
3
As C4 is connected in series with battery, charge on C4 is Q4 = 2 × 10-8 C
𝑄𝐴 2 ×10 −8 𝐶
Potential difference across C4 is V4 = = 100 ×10 −12 𝐹 = 200 V
𝐶4
As C2 and C3 have resultant capacitance C‟ equal to C1 = 100 pF, so the charge Q is equally
𝑄
divided among two branches; charge on C1 is Q = 2 = 1 × 10−8 𝐶 = 10−8 𝐶
Change in branch C2 and C3 is also 1 × 10-8 C. As charge in series remains same, so charges
on C2 and C3 are equal to 1 × 10-8 C.
Q2 = Q3 = 10-8 C
𝑄2 10 −8
Potential across C1 = V1 = = = 100 V
𝐶1 100 ×10 −12
𝑄 10 −8
Potential across, C2 = 𝐶3 = 200 ×10 −12 = 50 V
2
𝑄3 10 −8
Potential across, C3 = 𝐶 = 200 ×10 −12 = 50 V
3
21. The plates of a parallel plate capacitor have an area of 90 cm2 each and are separated by 2.5
mm. The capacitor is charged by connecting it to a 400 V supply.
(a) How much electrostatic energy is stored by the capacitor?
(b) View this energy as stored in the electrostatic field between the plates, and obtain the
energy per unit volume u. Hence arrive at a relation between u and the magnitude of
electric field E between the plates.
Ans. (a) Given area, A = 90 cm2 = 90 × 10-4 m2
Separation, d = 2.5 mm = 2.5 × 10-3 m
𝜀0 𝐴 8.85 ×10 −12 ×90 ×10 −4
Capacitance, C = = = 31.9 × 10-12 F = 31.9 pF
𝑑 2.5 ×10 −3
Energy stored,
1 1
U = 2 𝐶𝑉 2 = 2 × 31.9 × 10−12 × 400 2
= 2.55 × 10−6 𝐽
(b) Volume of space between the plates
V = Ad = 90 × 10-4 × 2.5 × 10-3 = 22.5 × 10-6 m3
∴ Energy density or energy per unit volume
𝑈 2.55 ×10 −6
𝑢 = 𝑉 = 22.5 ×10 −6 = 0.113 𝐽𝑚−3
Expression for energy stored per unit volume
1 1 𝜀0𝐴
𝑈 𝐶𝑉 2 𝑉2 1 𝑉 2
2 2 𝑑
𝑢=𝑉= = = 2 𝜀0
𝐴𝑑 𝐴𝑑 𝑑
 𝑉
If E is electric field strength between the plates, then E = 𝑑 .
1
∴ Energy density, 𝑢 = 2 𝜀0 𝐸 2
22. A 4 μF capacitor is charged by a 200 V supply. It is then disconnected from the supply, and
is connected to another uncharged 2 μF capacitor. How much electrostatic energy of the first
capacitor is lost in the form of heat and electromagnetic radiation?
Ans. Given, C1 = 4 μF = 4 × 10-6, V1 = 200 V
Initial energy of first capacitor
1 1
U1 = 2 𝐶1 𝑉12 = 2 × 4 × 10−6 × 200 2
= 8 × 10−2 𝐽
When another uncharged capacitor C2 = 2 μF, is connected across first capacitor.
Common potential,
𝑞 +𝑞 𝐶1 𝑉1 +0 4 ×10 −6 ×200 400
V = 𝐶1 +𝐶2 = = = volt
1 2 𝐶1 +𝐶2 4+2 ×10 −6 3
1 1 400 2
Final energy, U2 = 2 𝐶1 + 𝐶2 𝑉 2 = 2 × 4 × 2 × 10−6 × 3
16 −2 −2
= × 10 𝐽 = 5.33 × 10 𝐽
3
Energy loss, ΔU = U1 – U2 = 8 × 10-2 = 2.67 × 10-2 J

Multiple Choice Questions

Choose and write the correct option(s) in the following questions.
1. A capacitor of 4 μF is connected as shown in the circuit. the internal resistance of the battery
is 0.5 Ω. The amount of charge on the capacitor plates will be

(a) 0 (b) 4 μC (c) 16 μC (d) 8 μC

2. A positively charged particle is released from rest in an uniform electric field. The electric
potential energy of the charge
(a) remains a constant because the electric field is uniform.
(b) increases because the charge moves along the electric field.
(c) decreases because the charge moves along the electric field.
(d) decreases because the charge moves opposite to the electric field.
3. The net charge on a capacitor is
(a) + q (b) – q (c) 2q (d) zero
4. A 500 μF capacitor is charged at a steady rate of 100 μC per second. A potential difference
of 10 V will be developed between the capacitor plates after
(a) 5 s (b) 10 s (c) 20 s (d) 50 s
5. Figure shows some equipotential lines distributed in space. A charged object is moved from
point A to point B.

(a) The work done in Fig. (i) is the greatest.

(b) The work done is Fig. (ii) is least.
(c) The work done is the same in Fig. (i) Fig. (ii) and Fig. (iii)
(d) The work done in Fig. (iii) is greater than Fig. (ii) but equal to that in Fig. (i).
6. The electrostatic potential on the surface of a charged conducting sphere is 100 V. Two
S1: At any point inside the sphere, electric intensity is zero.
S2: At any point inside the sphere, the electrostatic potential is 100 V.
Which of the following is a correct statement?
(a) S1 is true but S2 is false.
(b) Both S1 and S2 are false.
(c) S1 is true, S2 is also true and S1 is the cause of S2.
(d) S1 is true, S2 is also true but the statements are independent.
7. Equipotentials at a great distance from a collection of charges whose total sum is not zero
are approximately
(a) spheres (b) planes (c) paraboloids (d) ellipsoids
8. Four capacitors, each 50 μF are connected as shown. The DC voltmeter V reads 100 V. The
charge on each plate of each capacitor is

(a) 2 × 10-3 C (b) 5 × 10-3 C (c) 0.2 C (d) 0.5 C

9. Consider a uniform electric field in the 𝑧 direction. The potential is a constant
(a) in all space. (b) for any x for a given z
(c) for any y for a given z. (d) on the x-y plane for a given z.
10. A parallel plate capacitor is made of two dielectric blocks in series. One of the blocks has
thickness d1 and dielectric constant k1 and the other has thickness d2 and dielectric constant
k2 as shown in figure. This arrangement can be thought as a dielectric slab of thickness d(=
d1 + d2) and effective dielectric constant k. The k is
𝑘 1 𝑑 1 +𝑘 2 𝑑 2 𝑘 1 𝑑 1 +𝑘 2 𝑑 2 𝑘 1 𝑘 2 𝑑 1 +𝑑 2 2𝑘 1 𝑘 2
(a) (b) (c) (d) 𝑘
𝑑 1 +𝑑 2 𝑘 1 +𝑘 2 𝑘 1 𝑑 1 +𝑘 2 𝑑 2 1 +𝑘 2
11. Equipotential surfaces
(a) are closer in regions of large electric fields compared to regions of lower electric fields.
 (b) will be more crowded near sharp edges of a conductor.
(c) will be more crowded near regions of large charge densities.
(d) will always be equally spaced.
12. A 2 μF capacitor is charged to 200 volt and then the battery is disconnected. When it is
connected in parallel to another uncharged capacitor, the potential difference between the
plates of both is 40 volt. The capacitance of the other capacitor is
(a) 2 μF (b) 4 μF (c) 8 μF (d) 16 μF
13. Two identical metal plates, separated by a distance d form a parallel-plate capacitor. A metal
sheet of thickness d/2 is inserted between the plates. The ratio of the capacitance after the
insertion of the sheet to that before insertion is
(a) 2 : 1 (b) 2 : 1 (c) 1 : 1 (d) 1 : 2
14. Two identical parallel-plate capacitors are connected in parallel and joined to a 6-V battery.
the battery is then disconnected and the two capacitors are joined in series, as shown. the
potential difference between the points A and B is

(a) 3 V (b) 6 V (c) 9 V (d) 12 V

15. n identical capacitors joined in parallel are charged to a common potential V. The battery is
disconnected. Now, the capacitors are separated and joined in series. For the new
combination:
(a) energy and potential difference both will remain unchanged
(b) energy will remain same, potential difference will become nV
(c) energy and potential both will become n times
(d) energy will become n times. Potential difference will remain V.
16. Three capacitors C1, C2 and C3 are connected to a DC source of
100 volt as shown in figure. if the charges accumulated on the
plates of C1, C2 and C3 are respectively then
(a) qb + qd + qf = 100/9 coulomb
(b) qb + qd + qf = 0
(c) qa + qc + qe = 50 coulomb
(d) qb = qd = qf
17. Five capacitors are connected as shown in the figure.
(a) 1 μF (b) 2 μF
(c) 3 μF (d) 4 μF
7
18. The capacitance of a capacitor becomes 6 times its original value if a dielectric slab of
2
thickness 𝑡 = 3 𝑑 is introduced in between the plates, where d is the separation between the
plates. the dielectric constant of the slab is
14 11 7 11
(a) 11 (b) 14 (c) 11 (d) 7
 19. Two capacitors of capacitances 3 μF and 6 μF are charged to a potential of 12 V each. They
are now connectged to each other, with the positive plate of each joined to the negative plate
of the other. The potential difference across each will be
(a) 3 V (b) zero (c) 6 V (d) 4 V.
20. The plates of a parallel plate capacitor are 4 cm apart, the first plate is at 300 V and the
second plate at – 100 V. The voltage at 3 cm from the second plate is
(a) 200 V (b) 400 V (c) 250 V (d) 500 V.

Answers
1. (d) 2. (c) 3. (d) 4. (d) 5. (c) 6. (c)
7. (a) 8. (b) 9. (b), (c), (d) 10. (c) 11. (a), (b), (c) 12. (c)
13. (b) 14. (d) 15. (b) 16. (d) 17. (b) 18. (a)
19. (d) 20. (a)

Assertion –Reason Questions

In the following questions a statement of assertion followed by a statement of reason is given.

Choose the correct answer out of the following choices.

(a) Assertion and reason both are correct statements and reason is correct explanation for
assertion.
(b) Assertion and reason both are correct statements but reason is not correct explanation
for assertion.
(c) Assertion is correct statement but reason is wrong statement.
(d) Assertion is wrong statement but reason is correct statement.

1. Assertion: A capacitor can be given only a limited amount of charge.

Reason: After a limited value of charge, the dielectric strength of dielectric between the
capacitor plates breaks down.
2. Assertion: An applied electric field polarises a polar dielectric.
Reason: The molecules of a polar dielectric possess a permanent dipole moment, but in the
absence of electric field, these dipoles are randomly oriented and when electric field is
applied these dipoles align along the direction of electric field.
3. Assertion: The potential of earth is assumed zero.
Reason: Earth is insulator and so earth can not hold any charge.
4. Assertion: The capacitance of a parallel plate capacitor increases with increase of distance
between the plates.
 1
Reason: Capacitance of a parallel plate capacitor 𝑐 ∝ 𝑑
5. Assertion: The capacitance of a parallel plate capacitor increases when a dielectric constant
of medium between the plates.
Reason: Capacitance of a parallel plate capacitor is directly proportional to dielectric
constant of medium between the plates.
6. Assertion: The capacitance of a conductor does not depend on the charge given to it.
Reason: The capacitance of a conductor depends only on geometry and size of conductor.
7. Assertion: When a charged capacitor is filled completely with a metallic slab, its
capacitance is increased by a large amount.
Reason: The dielectric constant for metal is infinite.
8. Assertion: The surface of a conductor is always an equipotential surface.
Reason: A conductor contains free electrons which can move freely to equalise the
potential.
9. Assertion: When charged capacitors are connected in parallel, the algebraic sum of charges
remains constant but there is a loss of energy.
Reason: During sharing a charges, the energy conservation law does not hold.
10. Assertion: A point charges is placed at the centre of a sphere of radius R. The radius of
sphere is increased to 2R, the electric flux through the surface will remain unchanged.
1
Reason: According to Gauss‟s theorem the electric flux 𝜙 = 𝜀 × charge enclosed by
0
surface, is independent of the radius of spherical surface.

Answers
1. (a) 2. (a) 3. (c) 4. (d) 5. (a) 6. (a)
7. (a) 8. (a) 9. (c) 10. (a)

SELF ASSESSMENT TEST

Time allowed: 1 hour Max. Marks: 30

1. Choose and write the correct option in the following questions.

(i) A parallel plate condenser is filling with two dielectrics as shown. area of each plate
is A metre2 and the separation is d metre. The dielectric constants are K1 and K2
respectively. its capacitance in farad will be

𝜀0 𝐴 𝜀 0 𝐴 𝐾1 +𝐾2
(a) 𝐾1 + 𝐾2 (b) .
𝑑 𝑑 𝐾1 𝐾2
𝜀0 𝐴 2𝐾1 𝐾2 2𝜀 0 𝐴 𝐾1 +𝐾2
(c) (d)
𝑑 𝐾1 +𝐾2 𝑑 𝐾1 𝐾2
 (ii) The potential difference (VA – VB) between the points A and B in the given figure is

(a) – 3 V (b) + 3 V (c) + 6 V (d) + 9 V

(iii) A capacitor is charged by a battery. the battery is removed and another identical
uncharged capacitor is connected in parallel. The total electrostatic energy of
resulting system
(a) decreases by a factor of 2 (b) remains the same
(c) increases by a factor of 2 (d) increases by a factor of 4
2. In the following questions a statement of assertion followed by a statement of reason is
given.
(a) Assertion and reason both are correct statements and reason is correct explanation for
assertion.
(b) Assertion and reason both are correct statements but reason is not correct explanation for
assertion.
(c) Assertion is correct statement but reason is wrong statement.
(d) Assertion is wrong statement but reason is correct statement.

(i) Assertion: Electric field is discontinuous across the surface of spherical charged
shell.
Reason: Electric potential is continuous across the surface of a spherical charged
shell.
(ii) Assertion: If distance between the parallel plates of a capacitor is halved, then its
capacitance is doubled.
Reason: The capacitance depends on the introduced dielectric.
3. What is the electrostatic potential due to an electric dipole at an equatorial point?
4. A hollow metal sphere of radius 10 cm is charged such that the potential on its surface is
5V. What is the potential at the centre of the sphere?
5. Why is the electrostatic potential inside a charged conducting shell constant throughout the
volume of the conductor?
6. Net capacitance of three identical capacitors in series is 2 μF. What will be their net
capacitance if connected in parallel?
Find the ratio of energy stored in the two configurations if they are both connected to the
same source.
7. Three circuits, each consisting of a switch „S‟ and two capacitors, are initially charged, as
shown in the figure. After the switch has been closed, in which circuit will the charge on the
left-hand capacitor (i) increase, (ii) decrease and (iii) remain same? Give reasons.

8. A slab of material of dielectric constant K has the same area as that of the plates of a parallel
plate capacitor but has the thickness d/3, where d is the separation between the plates. find
 out the expression for its capacitance when the slab is inserted between the plates of the
capacitor.
9. Explain briefly the process of charging a parallel plate capacitor when it is connected across
a d.c. battery.
A capacitor of capacitance „C‟ is charged to „V‟ volts by a battery. After some time the
battery is disconnected and the distance between the plates is doubled. Now a slab of
dielectric constant, 1 < k < 2, is introduced to fill the space between the plates. how will the
following be affected:
(a) The electric field between the plates of the capacitor
(b) The energy stored in the capacitor
Justify your answer by writing the necessary expressions.
10. (a) Deduce the expression for the potential energy of a system of two charges q1 and q2
located at 𝑟1 and 𝑟2 respectively in an external electric field.
(b) Three point charges, + Q, + 2Q and – 3Q are placed at the vertices of an equilateral
triangle ABC of side l. If these charges are displaced to the mid-points A1, B1 and C1
respectively, find the amount of the work done in shifting the charges to the new locations.
11. (a) Derive the expression for the potential energy of an electric dipole of dipole moment 𝑝
placed in a uniform electric field 𝐸 .
Find out the orientation of the dipole when it is in (i) stable equilibrium, (ii) unstable
equilibrium.
(b) Figure shows a configuration of the charge array of two dipoles.

Obtain the expression for the dependence of potential on r for r >> a for a point P on the
axis of this array of charges.
12. In the given circuit, with steady current, calculate the potential difference across the
capacitor and the charge stored in it.

13. (a) Distinguish, with the help of a suitable diagram, the difference in the behaviour of a
conductor and dielectric placed in an external electric field. How does polarised dielectric
modify the original external field?
(b) A capacitor of capacitance C is charged fully by connecting it to a battery of emf E. It is
then disconnected from the battery. if the separation between the plates of the capacitor is
now doubled, how will the following change?
(i) charge stored by the capacitor.
(ii) field strength between the plates.
(iii) energy stored by the capacitor.
Justify your answer in each case.
Answers

1. (i) (b) (ii) (d) (iii) (a)

2. (i) (b) (ii) (b)

7. Cp = 18 μF, Ratio = 1: 9

10. (a) decreases (b) increases

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