1a.electro Statics & Capacitors (1-35)
1a.electro Statics & Capacitors (1-35)
1a.electro Statics & Capacitors (1-35)
W.E-1: Can two similarly charged bodies attrack Relative permitivity of a medium is defined as
each other? the electrostatic force ( F0 ) between two charges
Sol: Yes, when the charge on one body (q1 ) is much in air to the force (F) between the same two
greater than that on the other (q2 ) and they are charges kept in the medium at same distance.
close enough to each other so that force of Dielectric constant (or) Relative permitivity
attraction between q1 and induced charge on the Pemitivityof themedium
other exceeds force of repulsion between q1 and K=
Permitivityof freespace
q2
It has no units and no dimesions
Coulomb’s Law: ‘The force of attraction or Hence, the mathematical form of inverse square
repusion between two stationary electric charges law is given as
is directly proportional to the product of
1 q1q2 1 1 q1q2
magnitude of the two charges and is inversely F= =
4π ∈ r K 4π ∈0 r
2 2
proportional to the square of the distance
between them and this force acts along the line For force or vacuum or air K=1 and for a good
joining those two charges’ conductor like metals, K = ∞
1 qq Conclusion : 1) The introduction of a glass
Ø F = 4π ∈ ∈ 1 2 2 slab between two charges will decrease the
0 r r magnitude of rorce between them.
∈0 - permittivity of free space or vacuum or air.. 2) The introduction of a metallic slab between two
charges will decrase the magnitude of force to
∈r - Relative permittivity or dielectric constant zero.
of the medium in which the charges are situated. Note:1 When the some charges are separated by the
C2 farad some distance in two different media,
Ø ∈0 = 8.857 ×10−12 2 or
, 1 1 q1q2
Nm metre F1 = 2 --------(1)
1 K1 4π ∈0 r
and = 9 × 109 N m2 / C 2
4π ∈0 1 1 q1q2
Permitivity of Medium: Permitivity is the and F2 = K 4π ∈ r 2 ------(2)
2 0
measure of degree of the medium which resist
the flow of charges from (1) and (2) ⇒ F1 K1 = F2 K2
In SI. for medium other than free space, the Note:2 When the same charges are separated by
different distance in the same medium
1
constant K0 =
1
so that we can write the Fd2 = constant (or) F1d12 = F2d 22
4π ∈
equation for the force between the charges as Note : 3 If different charges are at the same separation
F0 ∈ F 1 q11q12
F=
1 q1q2 ∴ = =∈r in a given medium =
4π ∈ r
2
F ∈ 0
F q1q2
Note : 4 If the force between two charges in two
∈r is known as the relative permitivity of the different media is the same for different
medium. It is a constant for a given medium and separations.
it charges separated by a medium decreases 1 1 q1q2
compared with the force between the same F= 2 = constant
charges in free space separated by the same K 4π ∈0 r
distance. Kr2 =constant or K1r12 = K 2 r22
Relative permitivity ∈r is also known as If the force between two charges separated by a
dielectric constant K of the medium or specific distance ' r0 ' in vacuum or air is same as the
inductive capacity. force between the same charges separated by a
Relative permitivity of a medium is defined as distance ‘r’ in a medium.
the ratio of permitivity of the medium to
r
permitivity of free space (or) air Kr 2 = r02 ⇒ r = 0
(or) K
F1 (q1 + q2 )
2
Here F12 is force exerted by q1 on q2 and F21 is Sol: When charges seperated by certain distance the
force is given by
force exerted by q2 on q1
1 q1q2
Ø Suppose the position vector of two charges q1 Then F = 4π ∈ r 2 ------------(1)
ur ur 0
and q2 are r1 and r2 , then electric force on When charges brought in contanct and kept at
charge q1 due to q2 is, the same distance the force is given by
uur q1q2 ur ur
( ) 1 ( q1 + q2 )
1 2
F1 = r −r
4 πε 0 r − rur 3 1 2
ur F =
1
----------(2)
1 2 4π ∈0 4r2
F 1 ( q1 + q2 )
Similarly, electric force on q2 due to charge q1 2
W.E-4: A particle of mass ‘m’ carrying a charge Let v is the volume of each ball, then mass of
− q1 is moving around a fixed charge + q2 each ball is m = ρ v ; When balls are in air
along a circular path of radius ' r ' find time T cos θ = mg ; T sinθ = F
period of revolution of charge q1 F = mg tan θ = ρ vg tan θ ---------(1)
Sol: Electrostatic force on -q1 to +q 2 will provide When balls are suspended in liquid. The
the necessary centripetal force
F
coulumbic force is reduced to F =
1
K q1q2 mv 2 K q1 q2 and
Hence = ; v= K
r2 r mr apparent weight = weight - upthrust ;
2π r 16π 3 ∈0 mr 3 W 1 = ρ vg − σ vg
T= =
v q1q2 According to the problem, angle θ is
uncharged-Therefore
W.E-5: Two identical small charged spheres each
having a mass ‘m’ hang in equilibrium as F 1 = W 1 tan θ = ( ρ vg − σ vg ) tan θ ------(2)
shown in fig. The length of each string is ' l ' F ρ
and the angle made by any string with vertical From (1) and (2) ; =K=
is θ .Find the magnitude of the charge on each F 1
ρ −σ
sphere. Test charge: That small positive charge, which
So l :The forces acting on the sphere are tension in does not influence the other charges and by the
the string T, force of gravity ‘mg’ and repulsice help of which we determine the effect of other
charges, is defined as test charge.
force Fe.
l
θ θ
l Linear charge density ( λ ) is defined as the
T cos θ = mg ----(1) T T T cosθ charge per unit length.
2
Kq T sinθ
T sin θ = Fe = 2 ---(2)
F F dq
x λ=
r W W dl
From (1) and (2)
Kq 2 where dq is the charge on an infinitesimal length
F e = m g tan θ ; = mg tan θ dl.
r2
1 q2 Units of λ are Coulomb / meter (C/m)
from fig r = 2l sinθ ; 4π ∈ 2l sinθ 2 = mg tan θ
0 ( ) Examples:-Charged straight wire, circular
charged ring
q = 16π ∈0 l 2mg tan θ sin2 θ Surface charge density (σ ) is defined as the
W.E-6: Two identical balls each having density charge per unit area.
ρ are suspended from a common point by
two insulating strings of equal length Both dq
σ =
the balls have equal mass and charge. In ds
equilibrium, each string makes an angle θ where dq is the charge on an infinitesimal surface
with the vertical. Now both the ball are area ds. Units of σ are coulomb / meter 2 (C /
immersed in a liquid. As a result, the angle θ
does not change. The density of the liquid is m2 ) .
σ . Find the dielectric constant of the liquid. Examples:-Plane sheet of charge, conducting
Sol: sphere.
Volume charge density ( ρ ) is defined as charge
l l l l
θ θ θ θ per unit volume.
T T T cosθ T T T cosθ + σVg
dq
F T sin θ F F T sinθ F ρ=
x x
dv
W air W W Liquid W where dq is the charge on an infinitesimal volume
dθ
4π ∈0 3
r
0
(a 2
+x
2
) 2 ----(1)
F = 2 ∆T sin
2
(as r = ( a 2 + x 2 ) 2 and r = ( a 2 + x 2 ) 2 )
1 1
W.E-9: A point charge q is situated at a distance Electric Field: The space around electric
‘r’ from one end of a thin conducting rod of charge upto which its influence is felt is known
length L having a charge Q (uniformly as electric field.
distributed a long its length). find the Ø Electric field is a conservative field.
magnitude of electric force between the two. Intensity of Electric Field: The intensity of
L r electric field or electric field strength E at a point
Sol: dE in space is defined as the force experienced by
P unit positive test charge placed at that point”.
dx x
Consider a small element of the rod of length The intensity of electric field is also ofted called
dx, at a distance ‘x’ from the point charge q. as electric field strength.
Trating the element as a point charge, the force Consider an electric field in a given region.
between ‘q’ and charge element will be Bring a charge q0 to a given point in that field
without disturbing any other charge that has
1 qdQ Q
dF = ; But, dQ = dx produced the field.
4π ∈0 x
2
L r
Let F be the electric force experienced by q0
1 qQdx
So, dF = 4π ∈ Lx 2
and it is found to be proportional to q0
r r r r r
∝ ⇒ = Eq0 . Here
0
F F q0 F E is
1 qQ r + L dx
F = ∫ dF =
4π ∈0 L ∫r x
2
proportionality constant called electric field
strength
r
1 qQ 1 r+ L 1 1 1 r F
= − = − E=
4π ∈0 L x r 4π ∈0 r r + L
q0
Electric field strength is a vector quantity. Its
1 qQ
F= direction is the direction along which a free
4π ∈0 r ( r + L ) positive charge experiences the force in the
Lines of Force: Line of force is an imaginary electric field.
path along which a unit +ve test charge would The S.I unit of elctric field strength is newton
tend to move in an electric field. per coulomb (NC-1). It can also be expressed in
Ø Lines of force start from +ve charge and end at volt per metre (Vm-1).
–ve charge. Electric field internsity due to an isolated
Ø Lines of force in the case of isolated +ve charge point charge : Consider a point charge ‘Q’
are radially outwards and in the case of isolated placed at point A as shown. Let us find the
–ve charge are radially inwards. r
electric field E at a point P at a distance ‘r’’
Ø The tangent at any point to the curve gives the
from charge Q. Imagine a positive test charge
direction of electric field at that point. r
Ø Lines of force do not intersect. q0 P. The charge Q produces a field E at P..
Ø Lines of force tend to contract longitudinally q0
and expand laterally. Q
1 2 1 Eq 2
q1 q2 Displacement s = ut + at = t
2 2 m
or x 2 = ( r − x ) 2
Momentum, P = mv = ( Eq ) t
r Kinetic energy,
x=
on solving we get q2
+1
1 2 1 E2q2 2
K .E = mv = t
q1 2 2 m
Case 2 : If the charges are unlike, the neutral point Ø When a charged particle enters perpendicularly
will be outside the charge on the lime joining into a uniform electric field of intensity E with a
them. velocity ‘v’ then it describes parabolic path as
r shown in figure.
q1 q2 x
+ + + + + +
q1 q2
In this case x 2 = ( r + x )2 u
+
q
y
r
x=
q2
On solving we get −1 x
q1
Ø Along the horizontal direction, there is no
Ø If instead of a single charge, field is produced
acceleration and hence x = ut .
by no.of charges, by the principle of super Along the vertical direction, acceleration
of velocity, v x = u
u
Ø vertical componet of velocity
θ
Eq
v y = at = t O
x
m Initial velocity of the particle is
r
E q t 2 2 2
u = u cos θ iˆ + u sin θ ˆj
∴ v = v = v x2 + v y2 = u 2 +
m2 Force acting on the particle is
r r
Ø Two charges +Q each are separated by a F = qE (along-ve Y axis)
distance 'd'. The intensity of electric field at
r qE ˆ
the mid point of the line joining the charges is a =− j
zero. m
W.E-10 : Two charges +Q each are placed at the Velocity of the particle after time ‘t’ is
r r r r
v = u + at ; v = u cos θ iˆ + ( u sin θ − at ) ˆj
two vertices of an equilateral triangle of side
a. The intensity of electric field at the third
vertex is If the point of projection is taken as origin, its
E θ E position vector after time ‘t’ is
Sol: r
r = xiˆ + yjˆ where x=(ucos θ ) t
E1 = E 2 + E 2 + 2 EEC os θ a a
1
= 2E + 2 E Cosθ
2 2 y = ( u sin θ ) t − at 2
2
= 2E 2 (1 + cos θ ) +Q a +Q If the charged particle is projected along the x-
θ 1 Q axis, then θ = 0 0
= 2 ECos ; E= 3 4π ∈ a 2
2 0 Eq ˆ
W.E-11: Two charges +Q, -Q are placed at the ⇒ v = uiˆ − tj
m
two vertices of an equilateral triangle of side
1 Eq 2
‘a’, then the intensity of electric field at the Here x = ut and y = t
third vertex is 2 m
θ Direction of motion of particle after time ‘t’
Sol :E1 = 2E cos = E ( θ = 1200 ) makes an angle α with x-axis, where
2
Eqt
E tan α =
mu
120° Ø A charged particle of charge ±Q is projected
a E with an initial velocity u in a vertically upward
a electric field making an angle θ to the horizontal.
+Q a –Q Then
If gravitational force is considered
r
Net force mgr m F = mg m Eq
1 Q
E1 = 4 π ∈ a 2 .
0
b) Find the separation of the point mass and As collision with the wall is perfectly elastic,
wall at the equilibrium position of mass the block will rebound with same speed and as
c) Find the energy stored in the spring at the now is motion is oppisite to the acceleration,, it
equilibrium position of the point mass. will come to rest after travelling same distance
L in same time t. After stopping it will beagain
E
accelerated towards the wall and so the block
wall
m K will execute oscillatory motion with ‘spain’ L
q and time period
2mL
T = 2t =
L qE
Sol: At maximum separation, velocity of point mass However, as the restoring force F(=qE) when
is zero. From work energy theorem, the block is moving away from the wall is
Wspring + W field = 0 constance and not proportional to displacement
x, the motion is not simple harmonic.
1 2
qEx0 − kx0 = 0 (x0 is maximum elongation) W.E-15: Six charges are placed at the vertices of
2 a regular hexagon as shown in thg figure.
2qE 2qE The electric field on the line passing through
⇒ x0 = ; ∴ separation = L + point O and perpendicular to the plane of the
K k
b) At equilibrium position. figure at a distance of x ( >> a ) from O is
qE a
Eq Eq = kx ⇒ x = +Q –Q
k
qE
⇒ separation = L + +Q O –Q
k
2
1 2 1 qE q2 E2
c) U = kx = k = +Q –Q
2 2 k 2k
Sol: This is basically a problem of finding the electric
W.E-14: A block having mass ’m’ ad carge ‘q’ is field due to three dipoles. The dipole moment
resting on a frctionless plane at distance L
of each dipole is P = Q ( 2a )
from the wall as shown inf fig. Discuss the
motion of the block when a uniform electric KP
field E is applied horizontally towards the wall Electric field due to each dipole will be E = 3
x
assuming that collision of the block with the The direction of electric field due to each dipole
wall is perfectly elastic. is as shown below:
Sol: The situation is shown in fig. Electric forece
r r Enet = E + 2E cos600 = 2E
F = qE will accelerate the block towards the
a
wall producing an acceleration +Q –Q
F qE 1 2
a= = L = at
E
m m 2 1 2Qa Qa 60°
= 2 3 =
+Q E –Q
2L 2 mL 4πε 0 x πε 0 x 3 60°
i.e., t = = E
a qE +Q –Q
L +
L
2
r Qr dx
Ep = ∫
dE 4πε 0 L (r + x2 )
3/2
2
P −
L
dx x 2
Q x
Charge on the elemental length dx is dq = dx From the diagram tan θ =
L r
dq Qdx x = r tan θ ; On differentiation; dx = r sec2 θ dθ
dE = =
4πε 0 x 4πε 0 Lx
2 2
Qr r sec2 θ dθ Q r sec 2 dθ
4πε 0 L ∫ r 3 sec 3 θ 4πε 0 Lr ∫ r 3 sec 3 θ
The net electric field at point P can be given by Ep = ; =
integrating this expression over the length of the
Q Q
rod.
= ∫ cos θ dθ = [ sinθ ]
r+ L
Q Q r+ L
1 4πε 0 Lr 4πε 0 Lr
E p = ∫ dE = ∫ dx = ∫ dx
Lx 4πε 0 4πε 0 L
2
x2 −1 x −1 x
Substituting θ = tan r = sin
r r
r+L x +r2
2
Q −1
Ep =
4πε 0 L x r
L
Q 1 1 Q Q x =
Q 1 2
Ep = − = EP = 2 2 ;
4πε 0 L r r + L 4π ∈0 r ( r + L ) 4πε 0 L x + r − L 4πε 0 r L2
+ r2
At an equatorial point : To find the electric
2
4
field due to a rod at a point P situated at a
Q 2
distance ‘r’ from its centre on its equatorial line Ep = 2
dE dE cosθ 4π ∈0 r L + 4r 2
θ
P ELECTRIC FIELD DUE TO A UNIFORMLY
P CHARGED RING :
dE sinθ
r θ
r The intensity of electric field at a distance
+ + + + + + + + +++ + + + +
dx
‘x’ meters from the centre along the axis:
L Consider a circular ring of radius ‘a’ having a
(a) charge ‘q’ uniformly distributed over it as shown
(b)
in figure. Let ‘O’ be the cetnre of the ring .
Consider an element of length dx at a distance A
‘x’ from centre of rod as in figure (b). Charge on dx
Q a (x, 0) dE2
the element is dq = dx . O
θ
θ p X
L x dE1
The strength of electric field at P due to this point
dx B
charge dq is dE.
dq Consider an element dx of the ring at point A.
⇒ dE = The charge on this element is given by
4πε 0 ( r + x )
2 2
q qdx
The component dEsin θ will get cancelled and dq = dx × charge density dq = dx =
2π a 2π a
net electric field at point P will be due to a) The intensity of electric field dE1 at point P due
integration of dE cos θ only..
to the element dx at A is given by
Net electric field strength at point P can be given
as 1 dq
dE1 =
4πε 0 r
2
L
+
2
Qdx r 1
E p = ∫ dE cos θ = ∫ L (r × × The direction of dE1 is as shown in figure. The
+x ) r 2 + x 2 4πε 0
2 2
−
L component of intensity along x-axis will be
2
dq = σ 2π ydy
Similarly if we consider an element dx of the
ring opposite to A which lies at B, the component {Area of elemental ring ds= dy = 2π ydy }
of intensity perpendicular to the axis will be dy
equal and opposite perpendicular to the axis will P
be equal and opposite to the component of x dE
intensity perpendicular to the axis due to element
at A. Hence they cancel each other. Due to
symmetry of ring the component of intensity due Electirc field strength due to a ring of radius Y,
to all elements of the ring perpendicular to the charge Q at a distance x from its centre on its
axis will cancel. axis can be given as
So the resultant intensity is only along the axis Qx
of the ring. The resultant intensity is given by E=
4πε 0 ( x 2 + y 2 )
3/2
1 dq
E=∫ cos θ Due to the lemental ring electric field strength
4πε 0 r
2
1 qx 1
E= ×
4πε 0 ( 2π a )
× ∫ dx Net electric field at point P due to whole disc is
(a )
3
2
+x 2 2 given by integrating above expression within the
limits from 0 to R
∴ r 3 = ( a 2 + x 2 )3 / 2 R
σ 2π xydy
E = ∫ dE = ∫
4πε 0 ( x 2 + y 2 )
3/2
0
1 qx 1
E= × 2π a
4πε 0 2π a ( a 2 + x2 )
3/2 R
σπ x 2σπ x −1
R
2 ydy
= ∫ =
4πε 0 (x + y2) 4πε 0 x 2 + y 2
3/2
1 qx 2
E= 0
0
4πε 0 ( a 2 + x 2 )
3/2
σ x
At its centre x = 0 E= 1 − 2
∴ Electric field at centre is zero. 2ε 0 x +R 2
By symmetry we can say that electric field Electric field strength due to a uniformly charged
strength at centre due to every small segment on disc at a distance x from its surface is given as
ring is cancelled by the electric field at centre σ x
due to the element exactly opposite to it. As in E= 1 − 2
the figure the electric field at centre due to 2ε 0 x +R
2
property called dipole moment, which is similar Field at a point on the axial line : ( θ = 00 )
to magnetic moment of a bar magnet. If 2a is the 2p
E axial =
4 pe0 r 3
distance between the charges +q and –q, then
electric dipole moment is p = q.2a.
Field at a point on the equitorial line (θ = 900 )
2a
p
E equitorial =
4p e 0r 3
–q P +q
Dipole moment is a vector quantity and its The direction of E at any point is given by
direction is from negative charge to positive
psin q
charge as shown.
Eq 4pe0 r 3
ELECTRIC FIELD AT ANY POINT DUE tan f = = 1
TO A DIPOLE : We know that the electric Er 2pcos q Þ tan f = tan q
2
field is the -ve gradiant of potential. In polar 4pe0 r 3
form if V is the potential at ( r,?) the electric φ = tan −1 [1/2tan θ ]
field will have two components radial and Note : Electric dipole placed in an uniform electric
transverse components which are represented field experiences torque is given by
by Er & E? respectively..
τ = pEsin θ in vector form τ = p × E
E
Er
Eθ φ +q qE
P
θ 2a sinθ
qE –q
E
θ
–q O +q The torque on the dipole tends to align the dipole
æ ¶V ö pcos q ¶ æç 1 ö÷
along the direction of electric field.
Then E r = -ççç ÷÷÷ = - ç ÷ The net force experienced by it is zero.
è ¶r ø 4pe0 ¶r èç r 2 ø÷ Note : The potential energy of dipole in an electric
∂V field is
E r = − ∂ r
2pcos q
V1 V2
Er =
4 p e0r 3 1 ∂ V
E θ = − r ∂θ +q
θ
The tranverse component of electric field
1 æ psin q ö÷
–q
=- ççç-
1 ∂V ÷
r è 4 pe0 r 2 ø÷÷
Eθ = − E
r ∂θ 2a sinθ
psin q U= – pE cos ? .
r ur
Eq = In vector form U = - p.E
4 p e0r 3
if q = 0o ; t = 0 and U = -pE
E = E2θ + E2R if q = 90o ; t = pE and U = 0
if q = 180o ; t = 0 and U = pE
p2 sin2 q 4p2 cos 2 q r r
E= + So, if p is parallel to E then, potential energy
(4pe r )
0
3 2
(4pe r ) 0
3 2
is minimum and torque on the dipole is zero,
and the dipole will in stable equilibrium.
E=
p
4cos2 q +sin2 q r r
4pe0 r3 If p is anti parallel to E then, potential energy
ÞE=
p é1 + 3cos 2 qùú is maximum and again torque is zero, but it is in
4pe0r 3 êë û unstable equilibrium
d 2θ
+q dq
=
dθ τ = I d θ ---------(ii)
2 =
dt 2 ω =
R
dθ
dt 2
–q R –d
dt 2qR
Hence, from eqs (i) and (ii), we have The net dipole moment is pnet =
π
d 2θ d 2θ − pE d 2θ f/2
I = − pEθ = θ ∝ −θ
ò
or ----(iii); 2qR
dt 2 dt 2 I dt 2 If θ = φ p net = 2 dpcos q ; = sin φ / 2
This equation represents simple harmonic motion π
0
(SHM). when dipole is displaced from its mean If the arrangement is a complete circle,
position by small angle, then it will have SHM.
φ
d 2θ pE = π Þ pnet = 0 .
Eq (iii) can be written as + θ =0 2
dt 2 I FORCE BETWEEN TWO SHORT
On comparing above equation with standard DIPOLES Consider two short dipoles
equation of SHM. seperated by a distance r. There are two
dθ 2
pE pE possibilities.
2
+ ω 2 y = 0 , we have ; ω 2 = ⇒ω = a) If the dipoles are parallel to each other.
dt I I
I
T = 2π , where T is the time period of r
pE P1 P2
oscillations. E2 E1
+q –q 1
E∝
Electric filed at the axis of a circular E↑ r2
uniformly charged ring
dq dE sinθ
r1 = R
a 2 + x2 dE
a θ θ dE cosθ
y
→ Distance from the centre
Q
θ θ dE cosθ x Note : The field inside the cavity is always zero this
dE
dE sinθ
is known as elctro static shielding
σ x R
E= 1 −
2ε0 x 2 + R2 x
E v2 E
4pe0 (r-acosq) 4pe0 (r +acosq)
E
q é 1 1 ù
Ø Electric field at every point is normal to the V= ê - ú
equipotential surface passing through that point 4pe0 êë r-acosq r +acosq úû
Ø No work is required to move a test charge on q (2acosq )
V=
4 pe 0 (r 2 - a 2 cos 2 q )
unequipotential surface.
Zero Potential Point Two unlike charges Q1
and -Q2 are seperated by a distance ‘d’. The net But r >> a ∴ r 2 − a 2 cos2 θ ≈ r 2
p cos q
potential is zero at two points on the line joining
them, one (x) in between them and the other (y) \V =
4pe0r
2 .
outside them
Q1 Q Hence potential varies inversely as the square
Q1 Q
= 2 and = 2 of the distance from the dipole.
x d−x y d+y
Potential due to a dipole: An electric dipole SPECIAL CASSES
consists of two equal and opposite charges 1) On the axial line : For a point on the axial
seperated by a very small distance. If 'q' is the line θ = 00 \ Vaxial = p / 4pe0r 2 volts for a
charge and 2a the length of the dipole then electric dipole.
dipole moment will be given by p = (2a)q. 2) Point on the equitorial line : For a point on the
P equitorial line θ = 900 . ∴ Vequitorial = 0Volts .
Equitorial line is a line where the potential is
r
+q
–q
N zero at any point.
O θ
A
a θ a
B Equipotential surfaces : Equipotential
surface in an electric field is a surface on which
M the potential is same at every point. In other
Let AB be a dipole whose centre is at 'O' and 'P' words, the locus of all points which have the
be the point where the potential due to dipole is same electric potential is called equipotential
to be determined. Let r , θ be the position co- surface.
ordinates of 'P' w.r.t the dipole as shown in An equipotential surface may be the surface of a
figure. Let BN & AM be the perpendiculars material body or a surface drawn in an electric
drawn on to OP and the line produced along PO. field. The important properties of equipotential
surfaces are as given below.
From geometry ON = acos θ = OM . Hence the a) As the potential difference between any two
distance ,BP from +q charge is r − acos θ points on the equipotential surface is zero, no
[because PB = PN as AB is very small in work is done in taking a charge from one point
comparsion with r]. to another.
For similar reason
figure +
+
Y′
equipotential
surface We know that V ( r ) = −∫ E.dr
λ
Here E = 2π ∈ r and E.dr = Edr
0
The equipotential surfaces are a family of
λ
concentric spheres for a uniformly charged sphere So V ( r ) = −∫ Edr = −∫ 2π ∈ r dr
or for a point charge as shown in figure 0
−λ
∴V ( r ) = loge r + C
equipotential
surface
2π ∈0
Where C is constant of integration and V(r) gives
electric potential at a distance ‘r’ from the lin-
Equipotential surfaces in electrostatics are ear charge distribution
similar to wave fronts in optics. The wave fronts ELECTRIC POTENTIAL DUE TO INFINITE
in optics are the locus of all points which are in PLANE SHEET OF CHARGE
the same phase. Light rays are normal to the wave (NON CONDUCTING)
fronts. On the other hand the equipotential
Consider an infinite thin plane sheet of positivive
surfaces are perpendicular to the lines of force. charge having a uniform surface charge density
Note : 1) In case of non-uniform electric field, the σ on both sides of the sheet. by symmetry , it
field lines are not straight, and in that case follws that the electric filed is perpendicular to
equipotential surfaces are curved but still the plane sheet of charge and directed in out
perpendicular to the field. ward direction.
2) Electric potential and potential energy are always σ
defined relative to a reference. In general we The electric field intensity is E = 2ε
0
take zero reference at infinity. The potential at a Electrostatic potential due to an infinite plane
point P in an electric field is V if potential at sheet of charge at a perpendicular distance r from
the sheet given by V ( r ) = −∫ E.dr = −∫ Edr ⇒ V is constant and is equal to that on the surface
1 q
σ −σ So, V = 4π ∈ R for r ≤ R
V ( r ) = −∫ dr = r +C 0
2 ∈0 2 ∈0 The varitaion of V with distance ‘r’ from centre
where C is constant ofintegration similarly the is as shown in the graph.
electric pontential due to an infinite plane con-
↑ 1 q
ducting plate at a perpendicular distance r from V VS =
4πε0 R
the plate is given by V ( r ) = −∫ E.dr = −∫ Edr
v ∝ 1/r
σ −σ
V ( r ) = −∫ dr =
r+c r=R r→
∈0 ∈0 ELECTRIC POTENTIAL DUE TO A
where C is constant of intergration UNIFORMLY CHARGED
NON-CONDUCTING SOLID SPHERE:
ELECRTIC POTENTIAL DUE TO A CHARED
Consider a charged sphere of radius R with to-
SPERICAL SHELL (OR CONDUCTING
tal charge q uniformly distributed on it.
SPHERE):
Case (i) : For points Outside the sphere (r > R)
E The electric field at any point is
q P
+ + + dS 1 q
+ R r + Charged spherical E= , 2 (for r > R)
+
+ O
+ Shell 4πε 0 r
+ +
+ +
The potential at any point outside the shell is
V ( r ) = −∫ E.dr = −∫ Edr
Gaussian
Surface
Consider a thin spherical shell of radius R and
1 q 1 q
having charge+q on the spherical shell. = −∫ dr = +C
4π ∈0 r 4π ∈0 r
2
Case (i): When point P lies outside the spherical
shell. The electric field at the point is Where C is constant of integration
E=
1 q If r → ∞,V ( ∞ ) → 0 and C=0
2 (for r > R)
4πε 0 r
1 q
V (r ) =
The potential V ( r ) = −∫ E.dr = −∫ Edr (r > R)
4π ∈0 r
1 q 1 q Case (ii) : When point P lies on the surface of spheri-
= −∫ dr = +C cal shell then r = R
4π ∈0 r 4π ∈0 r
2
The electrostatic potential at P on the surface is
Where C is constant of integration
1 q
If r → ∞ , V ( ∞ ) → 0 and C = 0 V=
4π ∈0 R
1 q
V (r ) = ( r > R) Case (iii) : FOr points inside the sphere (r < R)
4πε 0 r 1 qr
Case (ii) : When point P lies on the surface of spheri- The electric field is E = 4π ∈ R3
0
cal shell then r = R
electrostatice potential at P on the surface is + E +
+ + +
1 q +
V= + + + +
4π ∈0 R r + +
+ + + +
Case (iii) : For points inside the charged spherical + +
+ +
shell (r < R), the electric field E = 0 R
+
dV
So we can write − =0 dV = E .dr = − Edr
dr
d between q1 and q2 .
Q1 Q2 The total work done in bringing the charge q2
Ø Three charges Q1 , Q2 , Q3 are placed at the three against the two fields from infinity to the point
vertices of an equilateral triangle of side 'a'. The B is
P.E. of the system of charges is 1 q1q2
W2 = q2V2 +
1 QQ QQ Q Q 1 ∑ Q1Q2 4πε 0 r12
U=
1 2
+ 2 3 + 3 1 or U = The total work done in assembling the
4π ∈0 a a a 4π ∈0 a
configuration or the potential energy of the
Q 3
system is
1 q1q2
W = q1V1 + q2V2 +
a a
4πε 0 r12
Q 1 a Q 2 W.E-22: Charge q1 is fixed and another point
Ø A charged particle of charge Q2 is held at rest at charge q2 is placed at a distance r0 from q1 on
a distance 'd' from a stationary charge Q1 . When a frictionless horizontal surface. Find the
velocity of q2 as a function of seperation r
the charge is released, the K.E. of the charge Q2 between them (treat the changes as point
1 Q1Q2 charges and mass of q2 is m)
at infinity is 4π ∈ . d . q1 q2
0
− q2 1 q1 1 q2
⇒ V2 − gl =
4π ∈o Ml
...( 1 ) and V2 = 4πε r + 4πε r
0 2 0 2
W.E-27: In the previous example, if the charge Sol: a) When an object is connected to earth
q1 = + q0 and the outer shell is earthed, then (grounded), its potential is reduced to zero. Let
a) determine the charge on the outer shell, q ' be the charge on A after it is earthed as shown
and in fig
b) find the potential of the inner shell. Q + q′
–q′
a
or q = −Q
'
b
This implies that a charge + Q ( a / b) has been
transferred to the earth leaving negative charge
kq0 k ( −q0 ) kq2 on A.
Vshell = + + = 0 ⇒ q2 = 0
r2 r2 r2 Final charge distribution will be as shown in
Hence, charge on outer surface of shell is zero. fig..
Final charges appearing are shown in fig Q b −a
+
b) Potential of inner sphere: +
+
+
+ b
+Q a
kq0 k ( −q0 )
+ +
q 1 1 + + b
V1 = + = 0 − + −Qa
++
r1 r2 4πε 0 r1 r2 +
b +
+ +
+ + + + +
W.E-28: Consider two concentric spherical metal + +
shells of radii ‘a’ and b > a. The outer shell As b>a, so charge on the outer surface of outer
has charge Q, but the inner shell has no
charge, Now, the inner shell is grounded. This Q (b − a )
means that the inner shell will come at zero shell will be >0.
b
potential and that electric field lines leave the
outer shell and end on the inner shell. b) Potential of outer surface VB = potential due
a) Find the charge on the inner shell. to charge on A + potential due to charge on B.
b) Find the potential on outer sphere.
1 q' 1 Q
VB = Va,o u t + Vbbothsurface = +
4πε 0 b 4πε 0 b
,
a
−Q
1 b 1 Q Q (b − a )
= + =
4πε 0 b 4πε 0 b 4πε 0b2
1 q q2 C. U. Q
V1 = 1+
4πε 0 R1 R22 + x 2 CHARGE & CONSERVATION OF CHARGE
1. Two identical metallic spheres A and B of
9 10 10−4
−4
= 9 ×10 + 2 exactly equal masses are given equal positive
5 9 + 12 2
and negative charges respectively. Then
1) mass of A > Mass of B
5 1 1
= 9 ×10 + = 2.40 ×10 V
5
2) mass of A < Mass of B
5 15 3) mass of A = Mass of B
4) mass of A ≥ Mass of B
1 q2 q1
2. Two spheres of equal mass A and B are given
similarly, V2 = 4πε R +
0 2 R1 + x
2 2 +q and -q charge respectively then
1) mass of A increases2) mass of B increases
3 1 1 198 3) mass of A remains constant
or V2 = 9 ×10 + = ×10
5
4) mass of B decreases
9 13 117
3 A soap bubble is given a negative charge, then
V2 = 1.69 ×105V its radius.
1) Decreases 2) Increases
So, V1 − V2 = ( 2.40 − 1.69) × 105 = 71 kV 3) Remanins unchanged
W.E-30: A circular ring of radius R with uniform 4) Nothing can be predicted as information is
positive charge density λ per unit length is insufficient
located in the y - z plane with its centre at the COULOMB’S LAW
origin O. A particle of mass ‘m’ and positive 4. Two charges are placed at a distance apart.
charge ‘q’ is projected from the point If a glass slab is placed between them, force
between them will
p − 3 R,0,0 on the negative x-axis directly 1) be zero 2) increase
towards O, with initial speed v. Find the 3) decrease 4) remains the same
smallest (non-zero) value of the speed such 5. A negatively charged particle is situated on a
that the particle does not return to P? straight line joining two other stationary
+ particles each having charge +q. The
+ + Q
1) θθ 2) θ
I II
+q +4q +q +4q 1) The electric fields in both I and II are
produced. by negative charge located
somewhere on the left and positive charges
4) located somewhere on the right
3) θ θ2 +q
+q +4q θ1 2) In both I and II the electric field is the same
+4q
every where
10. Two point charges − q and +2q are placed at 3) In both cases the field becomes stronger on
a certain distance apart. Where should a third moving from left to right
point charge be placed so that it is in 4) The electric field in I is the same everywhere,
equilibrium? but in II the electric field becomes stronger on
1) on the line joining the two charges on the moving from left to right
right of +2q 14. An electron is projected with certain velocity
2) on the line joining the two charges on the into an electric field in a direction opposite to
left of − q the field. Then it is
3) between − q and +2q 1) accelerated 2) retarded
4) at any point on the right bisector of the 3) neither accelerated nor retarded
line joining − q and + 2q . 4) either accelerated or retarded
X′ X 1) 2)
−q
Y−
1) Both ‘A’ and ‘R’ are true and ‘R’ is the 80. Assertion(A): In bringing an electron towards
correct explanation of ‘A’ a proton electrostatic potential energy of the
2) Both ‘A’ and ‘R’ are true and ‘R’ is not system increases.
the correct explanation of ‘A’ Reason (R): Potential due to proton is positive
3) ‘A’ is true and ‘R’ is false 81. Assertion(A): The surface of a conductor is
4) ‘A’ is false and ‘R’ is true an equipotential surface
72. Assertion(A) : Force between two point Reason (R): Conductor allows the flow of
charges at rest is not changed by the presence charge
of third point charge between them. 82. Assertion (A) : A charge ' q1 ' exerts some
Reason(R): Force depends on the magnitude
of the first two charges and seperation force on a second charge ' q2 ' . If a third
between them charge ' q3 ' is brought near , the force
73. Assertion (A): Electric potential at any point
on the equatorial line of an electric dipole is exerted by q1 on q2 does not change
zero Reason (R): The elecrtostatic force between
Reason (R): Electric potential is scalar two charges is independent of presence of
74. Assertion (A) : Electrons always move from third charge
a region of lower potential to a region of 83. Assertion (A) : A point charge 'q' is rotated
highe potential along a circle around another point charge
Reason (R) : Electrons carry a negative Q. The work done by electric field on the
charge rotating charge in half revolution is zero.
75. Assertion(A): A metallic shield in form of a Reason (R) : No work is done to move a
hollow shell may be built to block an electric charge on an equipotential line or surface.
field. 84. Assertion: (A): Work done by electric force
Reason (R): In a hollow spherical shield, the is path independent.
electric field inside it is zero at every point. Reason: (R): Electric force is conservative
76. Assertion (A): For practical purpose, the 85. Assertion (A): In bringing an electron towards
earth is used as a reference for zero potential a proton electrostatic potential energy of the
in electrical circuits. system increases.
Reason (R): The electrical potential of a Reason (R): Potential due to proton is
sphere of radius R with charge Q uniformly positive.
Q 86. Assertion(A): Two particles of same charge
distributed on the surface is given by 4πε R projected with different velocity normal to
0
77. Assertion(A): Coulomb force between electric field experience same force
charges is central force Reason (R): A charged particle experiences
Reason (R): Coulomb force depends on force, independent of velocity in electric field
medium between charges 87. Assertion(A): The coulomb force is the
78. Assertion(A): Electric and gravitational fields dominating force in the universe
are acting along same line. When proton and Reason (R): The coulomb force is stronger
α - particle are projected up veritically along than the gravitational force.
that line, the time of flights is less for proton. 88. Assertion(A): A circle is drawn with a point
Reason (R): In the given electric field positive charge ( +q ) at its centre. The work
acceleration of a charged particle is directly
done in taking a unit positive charge once
proportional to specific charge
around it is zero
79. Assertion(A): When a proton with certain
Reason (R): Displacement of unit positive
energy moves from low potential to high
potential then its KE decreases. charge is zero
89. Assertion(A): Electric potential at any point
Reason (R): The direction of electric field is
opposite to the potential gradient and work on the equatorial line of electric dipole is zero.
done against it is negative. Reason (R): Electric potential is scalar
an equipotential surface 0
3) When two like charges are brought nearer, 60
O B
then electrostatic potential energy of the system 1) the speed of the particle when it reaches B is
gets decreased.
4) Electric lines of force diverge from positive 2qEl
charge and converge towards negative charge. m
Q
d) The field at the point (x, 0, 0) is k
R + x2
2 2R