P hysi cs | 18.

25

Solved Examples

JEE Main/Boards Sol: Formula based.

On giving electrons, body acquires-ve charge and to
Example 1: A block having mass m and charge –q is acquire a net charge of 4pc
resting on a frictionless plane at a distance L from fixed
large non-conducting infinite sheet of uniform charge q = 4 x10−12 C
density s as shown in figure. Discuss the motion of the e = 1.6 x10−19 C
block assuming that collision of the block with the sheet
q 4x10−12
is perfectly elastic. Is it SHM? ⇒n= = = 2.5 x107
e 1.6x10−19
2.5 x107 electrons will have to be given.
R
Sheet
Example 3: What is the value of charge on a body if it
m qE has an excess of 1.5 x 107 electrons?

Sol: Electrons are negatively charged

L
mg n = 1.5 x107 and the body has excess of electrons
⇒ it is- vely charged and charge on it is q=ne
Sol: Electric force produced by sheet will accelerate the 1.5 x107 x1.6 x10−19 C
⇒q=
block towards the sheet producing an acceleration.
⇒q=
2.4pC
Acceleration will be uniform because electric field E due
to the sheet is uniform
Example 4: When 1022 electrons are removed from a
F qE neutral metal sphere, what is the charge on the sphere?
a = = , where E =
σ / 2ε0
m m
Sol: Loss of electrons make a body positively charged.
As initially the block is at rest and acceleration is
constant, from second equation of motion, time taken On removing electrons, body acquires +ve charge and
by the block to reach the wall its value is
q=ne = 1022 x1.6 x10−19 =1600 coulomb.
1 2 2L 2mL 4mLε0
=L at i.e.,
= t = =
2 a aE aσ
Example 5: Calculate the coulomb force between two
As collision with the wall is perfectly elastic, the block α -particles separated by a distance of 3.2 x10−15 m.
will rebound with same speed and as now its motion
is opposite to the acceleration, it will come to rest after Sol: Charge on α -particle
travelling same distance L in same time t. After stopping
We have qα = 3.2 x10−19 C
+ 2e =
it will be again accelerated towards the wall and so the
block will execute oscillatory motion with ‘span’ L and  
time period. A B
3.2 x 10 ¹⁵m
2mL 4mLε0
T 2t
= = 2 = 2
aE aσ
However, as the restoring force F=qE is constant and
1 qα qα 3.2 x10−19 x 3.2 x10−19
not proportional to displacement x, the motion is not F= = 9 x109 x
4 πε0 r 2 3.2 x 3.2 x10−30
simple harmonic.
=90 N (repulsive)
Example 2: How many electrons must be given to a
neutral body so that it could acquire a charge of 4.0 pC? Example 6: Consider two identical spheres P and Q with
charge q on each. A third sphere R of the same size but
 1 8 . 2 6 | Electric Charges, Forces and Fields

uncharged is successively brought in contact with the Let the charges divided on the two objects be q and Q-q
two spheres. What is the new force of repulsion between q(Q − q)
so that the force between them is f = K
P and Q? r2
dF
For maximum force, =0
Sol: Charge on two spheres will be equally divided on dq
two sphere each times on touching. d  q(Q − q) 
K =0
When R is kept in contact with R, charge q is equally dq  r2 
distributed between P and R.
q K d
Charge on P = ⇒ [q(Q − q)] =
0
2 r 2 dq
q
Charge on R = d
2 ⇒ [qQ − q2 ] =
0
dq
When R is kept in contact with Q, total charge will again
Q
be equally distributed. ⇒ Q − 2q = 0 ⇒ q =
2
q + (q / 2) 3q
Charge
= on Q =
2 4 i.e, the charge must be equally divided.
3q
Charge on R =
4 Example 9: Two identical point charges of magnitude
Initial force of repulsion between P and Q Q are kept at a distance r from each other. A third
point charge q is placed on the line joining the above
1  qxq  two charges, such that all the three charges are in
F(say)  
4 πε0  r 2  equilibrium. What is the sign, magnitude and position
of the third charge?
Final force of repulsion between P and Q
Sol: For equilibrium, net F on each charge = 0
 q 3q 
x Let identical charges Q be placed at A and B and
1 1 2 4  3
=F =  2  F another charge q is at a distance x from A so that it is in
4 πε0  r  8



 equilibrium.

Example 7: Compare the electrostatic force and +Q q +Q

gravitational force taking two protons. A B
r
x
Sol: Simply apply the formula for Gravitational and
Electrostatic force
2
1 e2 mp
Fe = ; Fg = G ; Mass of proton = 1.67×10-27kg ∴ Force on q due to charge at A in the + X direction
4 πε0 r 2
r2
1 Qq
e e = and force on a due to charge at B in the-X
4 πε0 x2
A B 1 Qq
r direction =
4 πε0 (r − x)2
mp mp
r
A B For equilibrium, these two forces must be equal i.e.,
Fe 1 1 r
⇒ 1.24 x1036
= = = or x If q was a negative charge, the
Fg x 2
(r − x)2 2
direction of force due to q at B would be in-X and at A

Example 8: A charge Q is to be divided on two objects. in +X direction.

What should be the value of the charges on the two
objects, so that the force between them can be
maximum?
Sol: If a + b constant, than a x b is maximum when a = b.
But, if all the three charges are of same nature, there
would be repulsion between charges at A and B also.
Hence to have equilibrium among three charges, Q must
be opposite of q so that force of attraction between Q
 P hysi cs | 18.27

and q=force of repulsion between Q and q. JEE Advanced/Boards

Q2 Oq Qq
= =
i.e.. 4 πε r 2 4 πε r 2 r
2 Example 1: An arc of radius r subtends an angle θ at
the center with x-axis in a Cartesian coordinate system.
0 0
4 πε0  
2 A charge is distributed over the arc such that the linear
Q charge density is λ . Calculate the electric field at the
∴q =
4 origin.

Y
Example 10: A charge Q is uniformly distributed on
the circumference of a circular ring of radius a. Find the rd
intensity of electric field at a point at a distance x from
the center on the axis of ring. d

X
Sol: Consider a small part of the ring. All points on the 

r
dE
ring are symmetrical to any point on the axis of the ring.
Given situation is depicted in the figure. Consider an Sol: Consider small element on the arc as point charge
infinitesimal element at point A on the circumference of and then proceed by integrating for all such points.
the ring. Let charge on this element be dq. The The electric charge distributed on the portion of the

magnitude of the intensity of electric field dE at a point arc making an angle d φ is dQ= λrdφ . The electric field
P situated at a distance x from the center on its axis is,
produced due to this portion at the origin will be,
1 dq dq kλr.dφ 
= dE = k . dE = The electric field vector dE of this portion
4 πε0 AP2 (a + x2 )
2
r2
of the arc is indicated in the diagram.

A
dE has two components

kλrdφ  kλr.dφ 
a
dE cos  dEx = − cos φ i and dEy =− cos φ j
2 2
 p r r
X   kλ 0  kλ 
0
dE ∴ Ex = ∫ cos φdφ i =− [sin φ]0 iθ
dE sin  r 0 r
 kλ 
Its direction is from A to P. Now consider two ∴ Ex = − sin φ i (θ not φ)
r

components of dE (i) dE sin θ , parallel to the axis of  kλ  kλ 
Now, Ey= ∫ sin φdφ j= [cos φ]00 jθ
the ring and (ii) dE cos θ , parallel to the axis. r r
Here it is clear that in the vector sum of intensities due  kλ 
∴ Ey = [ (cos θ − 1) j ]
to all such elements taken all over the circumference, r
the dE sin θ components of the diametrically opposite  kλ  
elements will cancel each other as they are mutually ∴
= Ey [(1 − sin θ) i + (cos θ − 1) j]
r
opposite. Hence only dEcos θ components should be
considered for integration. ( î component is just - sin θ)
∴ The total intensity of electric field at point P, Example 2: Two small spheres each having mass m kg
and charge q coulomb are suspended from a point by
dq
OP dq x insulating threads each 1 metre long but of negligible
= ∫ dEcos θ = ∫ k E= k ∫
(a + x ) AP
2 2
(a + x2 )
2 1
mass. If θ is the angle each string makes with the
(a2 + x2 ) 2
x dxQ vertical when equilibrium has been attained, show that
=∴E k = ∫ dq
3 surface 3 =q2 (4mgl2 sin2 θ tan θ) 4 πε0.
(a2 + x2 )2 (a2 + x2 )2
Sol: Gravitational as well as electrostatic force act on
1 xQ each sphere.
=
4 πε0 3
(a2 + x2 ) 2 Consider two small spheres A and B each of mass
 1 8 . 2 8 | Electric Charges, Forces and Fields

m kg and charge q coulomb. When the two spheres

are suspended from point S by two threads each of
length I, they repel each other and when equilibrium is
attained, each string makes an angle θ with the vertical q + = +10C
[See figure.]. O
S 5 cm
D C
10 cm
A B

Sol: Charge is symmetric to all faces of the cube, hence
by symmetry each face would have equal flux passing
l l though it.
Here, q =+10µC =10−5 C

x
T T O
qA qB
F A B F
0.16m
q O q
Consider that the charge q is at a distance of 5cm
mg mg from the square ABCD of each side 10 cm [figure]. The
square ABCD can be considered as one of the six faces
Each of the two spheres is acted upon by the following
of a cube of each side 10cm. Then, according to Gauss’s
three forces:
theorem, total electric flux through all the six faces of
q
(i) The electrostatic force of repulsion f directed away the cube, φ =
ε0
from each other.
(ii) The weight mg of the sphere acting vertically
downwards.
(iii) The tension T in the string directed towards point S. 
I x III - II
Since the two spheres are in equilibrium, the three
forces acting on a sphere can be represented by the
three sides of the ∆ AOS taken in order. For sphere A,
we have at equilibrium by Lami’s theorem
Obviously, the flux through the square ABCD will be
F mg T
= =  … (i) 1 1 q
OA SO AS =
φ x=
φ x
6 6 ε0
Here, OA =lsin θ ; SO =lcos θ And AB =2AO =2lsin θ
1 10−5
= = x 1.88 x105 N m2 C−1
1 qxq 1 q2 6 8.854x10−12
and F = ⋅ = ⋅
4 πε0 AB2 4 πε0 4l2 sin2 θ
Example 4: Two large thin metal plates are parallel and
OA
From equation (i), we have F = mgx close to each other as shown in the figure. On their
SO inner faces, the plates have surface charge densities
1 q2
lsin θ of opposite signs and of magnitude 17.0 × 10–22 Cm–2.
or ⋅ =mgx What is E (i) to the left of the plates, (ii) to the right of
4 πε0 4l2 sin2 θ lcos θ
the plates and (iii) between the plates?
or q2 (4mgl2 sin2 θ tan θ)4 πε0
=
Sol: Apply formula for Electric field intensity due to
Example 3: A point charge + 10 µ C is at a distance 5 charged plate.
cm directly above the center of a square of side 10 cm Here σ =17.0 x10−22 Cm−2
as shown in Fig. What is the magnitude of the electric
flux through the square? (i) To the left of plates: The region I is to the left of the
plates. Therefore, the electric field to the left of plates
is zero.
 P hysi cs | 18.29

(ii) To the right of plates: The region II is to the right Example 7: Electric field in the above figure is directed
of the plates. Again, the electric field in the region II is along + x direction and given by =Ex 5Ax + 2B , where E
zero. is in NC−1 and x is in meter. A and B are constants with
dimensions.
(iii) Between the two plates, the electric field given by
Y
σ 17.0x10−22
E =
= = 1.92x10−10 NC−1
ε0 8.854x10−12
M N
Example 5: A parallel plate capacitor is to be designed
X

with a voltage rating 1 kV, using a material of dielectric -10 cm

constant 3 and dielectric strength about 107 Vm–1.
Z

(Dielectric strength is the maximum electric field a Taking A= 10NC−1 m−1 and B = 5 NC−1 , Calculate
material can tolerate without breakdown, i.e., without
(i) The electric flux through the cube.
starting to conduct electricity through partial ionization.)
For safety, we should like the field never to exceed, say (ii) Net charge enclosed within the cube.
10% of the dielectric strength. What minimum area of
the plates is required to have a capacitance of 50 pF? Sol: Vector rotation of area and Gauss’s Law for net
enclosed charged is applied.
Sol: Maximum field strength should be 10% of the
Ex 5Ax + 2B . The electric field at face
(i) Given =
dielectric strength of the material,.
M where x=0 is E1 = 2B The electric field at face N where
10% of the given field i.e. 107 Cm−1 x = 10cm=0.010m is E2 =5A x 0.10+ 2B= 0.5A+2B
Given E = 0.1 x107 Cm−1 The electric flux through face M is

dV V φ1 = E1 .S1 = E1S1 cos π = −E1S1
Using E = − i.e. E = , we get
dr r = −2Bxl2 where 1=10 cm= 0.01 m
V 1000
r
= = = 10−3 m The electric flux through face N
E 0.1 x107 
φ2 = E2 ⋅ S2 = E2S1 cos 0 = (0.5 A + 2B)l2
∈0 ∈r A
Using C = , we get Net electric flux φ = φ1 + φ2
d
−12 −3
Cd Cr (450 x10 )(10 )
=
=A = = 19 cm2 . = −2Bl2 + (0.5A + 2B)l2 = 0.5Al2
−12
∈0 ∈r ∈0 ∈r 8.854 x10 x 3
= 0.5
= x10 x (0.10)2 5 x10−2 Vm

Example 6: The electrostatic force on a small sphere
of charge 0.4 µ C due to another small sphere of
charge-0.8 µ C in air is 0.2 N.
(i) What is the distance between the two spheres?
(ii) What is the force on the second sphere due to the
first?
Sol: Consider each sphere as a point change and apply
Coulomb’s law.
(i) Force on charge 1 due to charge 2 is given by the
relation
(ii) If θ is net charge enclosed within the cube, then by
1
Gauss’s theorem φ = q
ε0
φ = ε0 φ = 8.85 x10−12 x5 x10−2 C = 4.425 x10−13 C
Example 8: Four electric charges, +q,+q, -q and –q are
respectively placed on the vertices A, B, C and D of
square. The length of the square is a. Calculate the
intensity of the resultant electric field at the center.
+q +q
A B

qq O
F12 = 9 x109 1 2 EB+ED EA+EC
r2
F 0.2

E
⇒ r 2 = 12 = D C
(9 x10 )q1q2 (9 x10 )(0.8 x10−6 )(0.4 x10−6 )
9 9
-q -q
Sol: Apply Superposition of electrostatic forces.
i.e. r=0.12m
All the electric charges are equidistant from the center
(ii) F12 = 0.2 N, Attractive F21=F12.
= F12
1 8 . 3 0 | Electric Charges, Forces and Fields
O. If r is the distance of vertices from the center, we
kq
have, E=A E=
B E=C E=
D
r2
The directions of these electric fields are as shown in
figure.
If E’ is the resultant field of EB and ED
kq
E' = EB + ED = 2
r2
JEE Main/Boards
Exercise 1
Q.1 Electrostatic force between two charges is called
central force. Why?
Q.2 In Coulomb’s law, on what factors the value of
electrostatic force constant k depends?
Q.3 Define dielectric constant of a medium.
Q.4 Dielectric constant of water is 80. What is its
permittivity?
Q.5 State the principle of superposition of forces in
electrostatics.
Q.6 How many electrons must be removed from a
conductor, so that it acquires a charge of 3.5nC?
Q.7 A point charge of 10−7 coulomb is situated at the
center of a cube of 1 m side. Calculate the electric flux
through its surface.
Q.8 Find the electric flux through each face of a hollow
cube of side 10 cm, if a charge of 8.854 µ C is placed at
its center.
Q.9 What is the force between two small charged
spheres having charges of 2 x 10−7 C and 3 x 10−7 C
placed 30 cm apart in air?
Q.10 A polythene piece rubbed with wool is found to
have a negative charge of 3 x 10−7 C.
(i) Estimate the number of electrons transferred (from
E is the resultant of E’ and E’’. It is evident from the
geometry of the figure that,
8k 2q2
E2 =E'2 + E''2 = Using
r4
a q
r= ,E = 4 2k
2 a2
which to which?)
(ii) Is there a transfer of mass from wool to polythene?
Q.11 Give two properties of electric lines of force.
Sketch them for an isolated positive charge.
Q.12 An infinite line charge produces a field of 9 x 10 4
N/C at a distance of 2 cm. Calculate the linear charge
density.
Q.13 Calculate the Coulomb’s force between a proton
and electron separated by 0.8 x 10−15 m.
Q.14 If the distance between two equal point charges is
doubled and their individual charges are also doubled,
what would happen to the force between them?
Q.15 Which is bigger, a coulomb or charge on an
electron? How many electronic charge form one
coulomb of charge?
Q.16 What is the amount of charge possessed by 1kg
of electrons? Given that mass of an electron is 9.1 x
10−31 kg.
Q.17 Four charges +q, ..+q,-q,-q are placed respectively
at the four corners of a square of side a. Find the
magnitude and direction of the electric field at the
center of the square.
Q.18 Four point charges qA = 2 µC, qB
=−5µC, qC = 2µC and qD =5µC are located at corners
of a square ABCD of side 10 cm. What is the force on a
charge of 1 µ C placed at the center of the square?

Q.19 Two point charges qA = 3µC are
3 µC and qB =
located 20 cm apart in vacuum.
(i) What is the electric field at the midpoint O of the line
AB joining the two charges?
(ii) If a negative test charge of magnitude 1.5 x 10−9 C
is placed at this point, what is the force experienced by
the test charge?
 plate.
Q.20 Consider a uniform electric field E=3 x 103 i N/C.
(i) What is the flux of this field through a square of 10
cm on a side whose plane is parallel to the yz plane?
(ii) What is the flux through the same square if the
normal to its plane makes a 60o angle with the x-axis?
Q.21 A point charge +10 µ C is at 5 cm
a distance of 5 cm directly above
the center of a square of side 10
m
cm, as shown in figure What is the
10 c
magnitude of the electric flux
through the square?
10 cm
Q.22 Show that the electric field at the surface of a
σ 
charged conductor is given by E = n , where σ is the
 ε 0
surface charge density and n is a unit vector normal to
the surface in the outward direction.
Q.23 A copper atom consists of copper nucleus
surrounded by 29 electrons. The atomic weight of
copper is 63.5 g Let us now take two pieces of copper
weighing 10 g. Let us transfer one electron from one
piece. What will be the Coulomb force between the two
pieces after the transfer of electrons, if they are 1 cm
apart? Avogadro number = 6 × 1023 C mol–1, charge on
an electron = 1.6 × 10–19 C.
Q.24 Two fixed point charged 4Q and 2Q are separated
by a distance x. Where a third point charge q should be
placed for it to be in equilibrium?
Q.25 It is required to hold four equal point charges +q
in equilibrium at the corners of a square. Find the point
charge that will do this, if placed at the center of the
square.
Q.26 Four point charges, each having a charge q are
placed on the four corners A, B, C and D of a regular
pentagon ABCEDE. The distance of each corner from
the center is a. Find the electric field at the center of
the pentagon.
P hysi cs | 18.31
Q.27 Define electric flux, Write its S.I. unit, A charge q is
enclosed by a spherical surface of radius R. If the radius
is reduced to half, how would the electric flux through
the surface charge?
Q.28 A positive point charge (+q) is kept in the vicinity
of an uncharged conducting plate. Sketch electric field
lines originating from the point on to the surface of the
Derive the expression of the electric field at the surface
of a charged conductor.
Exercise 2
Single Correct Question
Q.1 A point charge 50µC is located in the XY plane
 
at the point of position vector r= 2 i + 3 j what is the
0  
electric field at the point of position vector= r 8i +5 j .
(A) 1200V/m (B) 0.04V/m
(C) 900V/m (D) 4500V/m
Q.2 A point charge q is placed at origin. Let EA, EB and EC
be the electric field at three points A (1, 2, 3), B (1, 1,-1)
and C (2, 2, 2) due to charge q Then
[i] EA ⊥ EB [ii] EB |= 4 | EC | Select the correct alternative
(A) Only [i] is correct
(B) (B) only [ii] is correct
(C) Both [i] and [ii] are correct
(D) (D) both [i] and [ii] are wrong
Q.3 Two identical point charges are placed at a
separation of l. P is a point on the line joining the
charges, at a distance x from any one charge, The field
at P is E. E is plotted against x for values of x from close
to zero to slightly less than l. Which of the following
best represents the resulting curve?
E E
(A) (B)
O L
x
O L
x
E E
(C)
L (D) L
O
x
O
x
1 8 . 3 2 | Electric Charges, Forces and Fields

Q.4 Four charges are arranged at the corners of a equilibrium of the particle will be stable
square ABCD, as shown. The force on a +ve charge kept R
at the center of the square is  (A) for all values of H (B) only if H>
A B 2
(A) Zero
+q -q
R R
(C) only if H < (D) only if H=
(B) Along diagonal AC 2 2
(C) Along diagonal BD
Q.9 Point P lies on the axis of a dipole. If the dipole is
-2q +2q
(D) Perpendicular to the side AB
rotated by 90o anti-clock wise, the electric field vector
C D

E at P will rotate by
(A) 90o Clock wise (B) 180o
Q.5 Two free positive charges 4q and q are a distance l
apart. What charge Q is needed to achieve equilibrium (C) 90o Anti clock wise (D) no ne
for the entire system and where should it be placed
from charge q ? Q.10 The Fig. shows
4 l the electric field lines in
(A) Q =
9
q(negative)at
3 the vicinity of two point q₁
charges. Which one of q₂
4 l l
(B) Q = q(positive)at (C) Q = q(positive)at the following statements
9 3 3 concerning this situation
l is true?
(D) Q = q(negative)at
3 (A) q1 is negative and q2 is positive

Q.6 A small particle of mass m and charge –q is placed (B) The magnitude of the ratio ( q2 / q1 ) is less than one
at point P on the axis of uniformly charged ring and (C) Both q1 and q2 have the same sign of charge
released. If R >> x, the particle will undergo oscillation
(D) The electric field is strongest midway between the
along the axis of symmetry with an angular frequency
charges.
that is equal to
Q
Q.11 Electric flux through a surface of area 100 m2
R
P lying in the xy plane is (in V-m) if E =
ˆi + 2ˆj + 3kˆ
X (A) 100 (B) 141.4
(C) 173.2 (D) 200
qQ qQx
(B)

(A)
4 πε0mR 3 4 πε0mR 4 Q.12 An infinite, uniformly
charged sheet with surface
qQ qQx charge density σ cuts through
(C) (D)
a spherical Gaussian surface of
3
R
4 πε0mR 4 πε0mR 4
radius R at a distance x from its X
center, as shown in the Fig.
Q.7 Which of the following is a volt: 18.80. The electric flux Φ
(A) Erg per cm through the Gaussian surface is

(B) Joule per coulomb πR 2 σ 2 2

(A) (B) 2π(R − x )
(C) Erg per ampere ε0 σ ε0

(D) Newton/(Coulomb x m2 ) (C)

π(R − x)2
(D)
π(R 2 − x2 )2 σ
σ ε0 ε0
Q.8 A charged particle having some mass is resting
in equilibrium at a height H above the center of a Q.13 Two identical small conducting spheres, having
uniformly charged non-conducting horizontal ring charges of opposite sign, attract each other with a
of radius R. The force of gravity acts downwards. The force of 0.108 N when separated by 0.5 m. The spheres
 P hysi cs | 18.33

are connected by a conducting wire, which is then electric field. The lines of force follow the path(s) shown
removed, and thereafter, they repel each other with a in figure as (1996)
force of 0.036 N. The initial charges on the spheres are 1 1
(A) ± 5 x10 −6
C and  15 x10 −6
C 2 2

(B) ± 1.0 x10−6 C and  3.0 x10−6 C 3 3

(C) ± 2.0 x10−6 C and  6.0 x10−6 C

4 4

(A) 1 (B) 2 (C)3 (D) 4

(D) ± 0.5 x10−6 C and  1.5 x10−6 C

Q.6 An electron of mass me , initially at rest, moves

Previous Years’ Questions through a certain distance in a uniform electric field
in time t1 . A proton of mass mp , also initially at rest,
Q.1 An alpha particle of energy 5 MeV is scattered takes time t2 to move through an equal distance in this
through 180o by a fixed uranium nucleus. The distance uniform electric field. Neglecting the effect of gravity,
of closest approach is of the order of  (1981) the ratio t2 / t1 is nearly equal to.  (1997)
(A) l  (B) 10−10 cm (A) 1 (B) (mp / me )1/2

(C) 10−12 cm (D) 10−15 cm (C) (me / mp )1/2 (D) 1836

Q.2 Two equal negative charges – q are fixed at points Q.7 A non-conducting ring of radius 0.5 m carries a total
(0,-a) and (0,a) on y-axis. A positive charge Q is released charge of 1.11×10-10 C distributed non-uniformly on its
from rest at the point (2a, 0) on the x-axis. The charge Q
circumference producing an electric field E everywhere
will  (1984)  
in space. The value of the integral ∫ tt ==∞
0
−E ⋅ dl (l=0 being
(A) Execute simple harmonic motion about the origin
center of the ring) in volt is  (1997)
(B) Move to the origin and remain at rest
(A) +2 (B) -1 (C) -2 (D) zero
(C) Move to infinity
(D) Execute oscillatory but not simple harmonic motion Q.8 Three charges Q, +q and +q are placed at the
vertices of a right angle triangle (isosceles triangle) as
Q.3 A charge q is placed at the centre of the line joining shown. The net electrostatic energy of the configuration
two equal charges Q. The system of the three charges is zero, if Q is equal to  (2000)
will be in equilibrium if q is equal to  (1987) −q −2q
(A) (B) (C)-2q (D) +q
Q Q Q Q 1+ 2 2+ 2
(A) − (B) − (C) + (D) +
2 4 4 2
Q.9 Three positive charges of equal value q are placed
Q.4 The at the vertices of an equilateral triangle. The resulting
 magnitude of electric
Q

field E in the annular region of a lines of force should be sketched as in (2001)
charged cylindrical capacitor 
 (1996)
(B)
(A) Is same throughout (A)

(B) Is higher near the outer

cylinder than near the inner
-q +q
a
cylinder
(C) Varies as 1/r where r is the distance from the axis
(D) Varies as 1/ r 2 where r is the distance from the axis
(C)
(D)
Q.5 A metallic solid sphere is placed in a uniform
1 8 . 3 4 | Electric Charges, Forces and Fields

Q.10 A metallic shell has a point charge q kept inside its q2

cavity. Which one of the following diagrams correctly +q1
represent the electric lines of force? (2003)

-q1
(A) (B)
(A) Negative and distributed uniformly over the surface
of the sphere
(B) Negative and appears only at the point on the
sphere closest to the point charge

(C) (D) (C) Negative and distributed non-uniformly over the

entire surface of the sphere
(D) zero

Q.11 Six charges, three positive and three negative
of equal magnitude are to be placed at the vertices
of a regular hexagon such that the electric field at
O is double the electric field when only one positive
charge of same magnitude is placed at R. Which of the
following arrangements of charge is possible for, P, Q,
R, S, T and U respectively?  (2004)
(A) +, -, +, -, -,+ (B) +, -, +, -, +, -
(C) +, +, -, +, -, - (D) -, +, +, -, +, -
Q.15 A spherical portion has been
removed from a solid sphere having a
charge distributed uniformly in its
volume as shown in the figure. The
electric field inside the emptied space
is  (2007)
(A) Zero everywhere (B) Non-zero and uniform
(C) Non-uniform (D) Zero only at its center

a
Q.12 Consider the charge configur- P Q Q.16 A disk of radius having a uniformly distributed
4
ation and a spherical Gaussian charge 6C and 6C is placed in the x-y plane with its
surface as shown in the figure. U O R
When calculating the flux of the  −a 
center at  ,0,0  . A rod of length a carrying a
electric field over the spherical  2 
surface, the electric field will be due
S
uniformly distributed charge 8C is placed on the x-axis
T
to  (2004)
a 5a
(A) q2 (B) Only the positive charges from x = to x = . Two point charges -7C and 3C
4 4
(C) All the charges (D) + q1 and − q1  a −a   −3a 3a 
are placed at  , ,0  and  , ,0  . Respectively.
4 4   4 4 
Q.13 Three infinitely long charge sheets are placed as
Consider a cubical surface formed by six surfaces
shown in figure. The electric field at point P is (2005)
a a a
z x=
± ,y= ± . The electric flux through this
± ,z=
2 2 2
cubical surface is
 z =3a
P (2009)
-2 z =0
x y
- z =-a

2σ  2σ  4σ  4σ 
(A) k (B) − k (C) k (D) − k x
ε0 ε0 ε0 ε0

Q.14 Consider a neutral conducting sphere. A positive

point charge is placed outside the sphere. The net −2C 2C 10C 12C
(A) (B) (C) (D)
charge on the sphere is then (2007) ε0 ε0 ε0 ε0
 P hysi cs | 18.35

Q.17 Three concentric metallic spherical shells of
radii R, 2R and 3R are given charges Q1 , Q2 and Q3
respectively. It is found that the surface charge densities
on the outer surfaces of the shells are equal. Then the
ratio of the charges given to the shells, Q1 :Q2 : Q3 is
 (2009)
(A) 1:2:3 (B) 1:3:5 (C) 1:4:9 (D) 1:8:18
Q.21 In a uniformly charged sphere of total charge Q
and radius R, the electric field E is plotted as a function
of distance from the centre. The graph which would
correspond to the above will be (2012)
E E
(A) (B)

Q.18 A tiny spherical oil drop carrying a net charge q is

R r R r

balanced in still air with a vertical uniform electric field

E E
81π
of strength x105 Vm−1 , When the field is switched
7
off, the drop is observed to fall with terminal velocity
(C) (D)

2 x10−3 ms−1 . Given g= 9.8ms−2 , viscosity of the air

=1.8 x 10−5 Ns m−2 and the density of oil = 900 kg m-3,
R r R r

the magnitude of q is (2010)

Q.22 Two charges, each equal to q, are kept at x = −a
(A) 1.6 x10-19C (B) 3.2 x10-19C and x = a on the x-axis. A particle of mass m and charge
q
q0 = is placed at the origin. If charge q0 is given a
(C) 4.8 x10-19C (D) 8.0 x10-19C 2
small displacement (y << a) along the y-axis, the net
force acting on the particle is proportional to:  (2013)
Q.19 A uniformly charged thin spherical shell of radius 1
R carries uniform surface charge density of σ per (A) – y (B)
y
unit area. It is made of two hemispherical shells, held
together by pressing them with force F (see figure). F is (C) −
1
(D) y
proportional to (2010) y

Q.23 A long cylindrical shell carries positive surface

F F charge σ in the upper half and negative surface charge
- σ in the lower half. The electric field lines around
the cylinder will look like figure given in: (figures are
schematic and not drawn to scale)  (2015)
1 2 2 1 2 1 σ2 1 σ2
(A) σR (B) σ R (C) (D)
ε0 ε0 ε0 R ε0 R 2
+
++ ++ +
++ ++

(A) (B)
+ +
 + +
Q.20 Consider an electric field E = E0 x , where E0 is a
+ + + +
- -
- - - -
-- --
- -

constant. The flux through the shaded area (as shown

-
--
-
--

in the figure) due to this field is  (2011)

z
+
(a,0,a) (a,a,a) ++ ++ +
++ ++
(C) (D)
+ + + +
+ + + +
-
- -
-
- -
--
-
--
-
-
--
-
--

y
(0,0,0) (0,a,0)

x
E0 a2
(A) 2E0 a2 (B) 2E0 a2 (C) E0 a2 (D)
2
1 8 . 3 6 | Electric Charges, Forces and Fields

JEE Advanced/Boards

Exercise 1 Q.7 A charge +Q is uniformly distributed over a thin

Q.1 A negative point charge 2q and a positive charge q
are fixed at a distance l apart. Where should a positive
test charge Q be placed on the line connecting the
charge for it to be in equilibrium? What is the nature
of the equilibrium with respect to longitudinal motion?
Q.2 Draw E-r graph for 0<r<b,
if two point charges a & b are
located r distance apart, when
ring with radius R. A negative point charge –Q and
mass m starts from rest at a point far away from the
center of the ring and moves towards the center. Find
the velocity of this particle at the moment it passes
through the center of the ring.
Q.8 A point charge +q & mass 100 gm experiences a
force of 100 N at a point at a distance 20 cm from a
long infinite uniformly charged wire. If it is released find
its speed when it is at a distance 40 cm from wire

Q.9 consider the configuration of a system of four

0

charges each of value +q. Find the work done by

a b
(i) Both are + ve r
(ii) Bothe are – ve external agent in changing the configuration of the
system from figure (i) and figure (ii).
(iii) a is + ve and b is – ve +q
+q +q
(iv) a is – ve and b is + ve
a

Q.3 A clock face has negative charges –q, -2q, -3q, +q +q

…….., , -12q fixed at the position of the corresponding
+q +q
numerals on the dial. The clock hands do not disturb +q
the net field due to point charges. At what time does a
(I) (II)
the hour hand point in the same direction as electric
field at the center of the dial. Q.10 Two identical particles of mass m carry charge
Q each. Initially one is at rest on a smooth horizontal
Q.4 A charge + 10−9 C is located at the origin in free plane and the other is projected along the plane
space & another charge Q at (2, 0, 0). If the X-component directly towards the first from a large distance with an
of the electric field at (3, 1, 1) is zero, calculate the value initial speed V. find the closest distance of approach.
of Q. Is the Y-component zero at (3, 1, 1)? R

Q.5 A simple pendulum of length l and  a

bob mass m is hanging in front of a +
+
large non - conducting sheet having +
surface charge density σ . If suddenly a + Q
+
charge +q is given to the bob & it is + l Q.11 A particle of mass m and negative charge q is
released from the position shown in +
thrown in a gravity free space with speed u from the
figure. Find the maximum angle
+
+ point A on the large non conducting charged sheet
through which the string is deflected with surface charge density σ , as shown in figure. Find
from vertical. the maximum distance from A on sheet where the
particle can strike.
Q.6 A particle of mass m and charge –q moves along +
+
a diameter of a uniformly charged sphere of radius R +
and carrying a total charge + Q. Find the frequency of +
S.H.M. of the particle if the amplitude does not exceed + u
+ 
R. +
+
+ A


Q.12 The length of each side of a cubical closed surface
is l. If charge q is situated on one of the vertices of the
cube, then find the flux passing through shaded face of
the cube.
q will the 2nd ball be at this instant? The air drag & the
Q.13 A point charge Q is located on the axis of a disc
of radius R at a distance a from the plane of the disc.
If one fourth (1/4th) of the flux from the charge passes
through the disc, then find the relation between a & R.
Q.14 Two thin conducting shells of radii R and 3R are
shown in figure. The outer shell carries a charge +Q
and the inner shell is neutral. The inner shell is earthed
with the help of switch S. find the charge attained by
the inner shell.
+Q
3R
R S
Q.15 Consider three identical metal spheres A, B and
C. spheres A carries charge + 6q and sphere B carries
charge -3q. Sphere C carries no charge. Spheres A and
B are touched together and then separated. Sphere C is
then touched to sphere A and separated from it. Finally
the sphere C is touched to sphere B and separated from
it. Find the final charge on the sphere C.
Q.16 Six charges are placed at the vertices of a regular
hexagon as shown in the figure. Find the electric field
on the line passing through O and perpendicular to
the plane of the figure as a function of distance x from
point O.
+Q -Q
-Q +Q
O
+Q -Q
a
Q.17 A circular ring of radius R with uniform positive charge
density λ per unit length is fixed in the Y-Z plane with its
center at the origin O. A particle of mass m and positive
charge q is projected from the point P ( 3 R,0,0) on the
positive X-axis directly towards O, with initial velocity v.
P hysi cs | 18.37
Find the smallest value of the speed v such that the
particle does not return to P.
Q.18 2 small balls having the same mass & charge &
located on the same vertical at heights h1 & h2 are
thrown in the same direction along the horizontal at
the same velocity v. The 1st ball touches the ground
at a distance l from the initial vertical. At what height
charges induced should be neglected.
Q.19 Two identical balls of charges q1 & q2 initially have
equal velocity of the same magnitude and direction.
After a uniform electric field is applied for some time,
the direction of the velocity of the first ball changes
by 60o and the magnitude is reduced by half. The
direction of the velocity of the second ball changes by
90o . In what proportion will the velocity of the second
ball changes?
Q.20 Small identical balls with equal charges are fixed
at vertices of regular 2008- g on with side a. At a certain
instant, one of the balls is released & a sufficiently long
time interval later, the ball adjacent to the first released
ball is freed. The kinetic energies of the released balls
are found to differ by K at a sufficiently long distance
from the polygon. Determine the charge q of each part.
Q.21 A non - conducting ring of mass m and radius R
is charged as shown. The charged density i.e. charge
per unit length is λ . It is then placed on a rough non
- conducting horizontal surface plane. At time t=0, a
uniform electric field E = E0i is switched on and the ring
start rolling without sliding. Determine the frictional
force (magnitude and direction) acting on the ring,
when it starts moving.
y
+
+
+
+ x
-
-
-
-
Q.22 Find the electric field at the center of semicircular
ring shown in figure.
Y
-q - - - + + q
-- +
- +
- +
-
X
R
1 8 . 3 8 | Electric Charges, Forces and Fields
Q.23 Two concentric rings, one of radius ‘a’ and the
other of radius ‘b’ have the charges +q and −(2 / 5)−3/2
q respectively as shown in the figure. Find the ratio
b/a if a charge particle placed on the axis at z=a is in
equilibrium.
qB=-(2/5)
-3/2
q (B) A charged particle may move along the line of force.
b
a z=a
qA=+q
Q.24 A positive charge Q is uniformly distributed
throughout the volume of a non - conducting sphere
of radius R. A point mass having charge +q and mass
m is fired towards the center of the sphere with velocity
v from a point at distance r(r > R) from the center of
the sphere. Find the minimum velocity v so that it can
penetrate R/2 distance of the sphere. Neglect any
resistance other than electric interaction. Charge on the
small mass remain constant throughout the motion.
Q.25 A cavity of radius r is present inside a solid
dielectric sphere of radius R, having a volume charge
density of ρ . The distance between the centers of the
sphere and the cavity is a. An electron e is kept inside
the cavity at an angle θ = 45o as shown. How long will
it take to touch the sphere again?
e
r 
a zero is on AB outside AB.
Exercise 2
Single Correct Choice Type
Q.1 Mid way between the two equal and similar charges,
we placed the third equal and similar charge. Which of
the following statements is correct, concerning to the
equilibrium along the line joining the charges
(A) The third charge experienced a net force inclined to
the line joining the charges.
(B) The third charge is in stable equilibrium.
(C) The third charge is in unstable equilibrium.
(D) The third charge experiences a net force
perpendicular to the line joining the charges.
Q.2 Select the correct statement: (Only force on a
particle is due to electric field)
(A) A charged particle always moves along the electric
lines of force.
(C) A charged particle never moves along the line of
force.
(D) A charged particle moves along the line of force
only if released from rest.
Q.3 A conducting sphere of radius r has a charge. Then
(A) The charge is uniformly distributed over its surface,
if there is an external electric field.
(B) Distribution of charge over its surface will be non-
uniform if no external electric field exists in space.
(C) Electric field strength inside the sphere will be equal
to zero only when no external electric field exists.
(D) Potential at every point of the sphere must be same.
Multiple Correct Choice Type
Q.4 Two fixed charges 4Q (positive) and Q (negative)
are located at A and B, the distance AB being 3 m.
+ 4Q -Q
A 3m B
(A) The point P where the resultant field due to both is
(B) The point P where the resultant field due to both is
zero is on AB inside AB.
(C) If a positive charge is placed at P and displaced
slightly along AB it will execute oscillation
(D) If a negative charge is placed at P and displaced
slightly along AB it will execute oscillations.
Q.5 Three point charges Q, 4Q and 16Q are placed on
a straight line 9 cm long. Charges are placed in such
a way that the system has minimum potential energy.
Then
(A) 4Q and 16Q must be at the ends and Q at a distance
of 3 cm from the 16Q.
(B) 4Q and 16Q must be at the ends and Q at a distance
of 6 cm from the 16Q.
(C) Electric field at the position of Q is zero.
Q
(D) Electric field at the position of Q is .
4πε0
 P hysi cs | 18.39

Q.6 Two infinite sheets of uniform charge density Qnet

+σ and − σ are parallel to each other as shown in the
enclosed
=
φE ∫ E.dA
=
ε0
Fig. 18.103, Electric field at the
Qnet enclosed
= 0 implies
= φE 0
+ -
+ -
+ + - -
+ - Q.11: Statement-I: In a given situation of arrangement
+ -
+ -
+ - of charges, an extra charge is placed outside the
+ - Q
Gaussian surface. In the Gauss Theorem ∫ E.ds = in Qin
(A) Points to the left or to the right of the sheets is zero. ε0
remains unchanged whereas electric field E at the site
(B) Midpoint between the sheets is zero.
of the element is changed.
(C) Midpoint of the sheets is σ / ε0 and is directed
towards right. Statement-II: Electric field E at any point on the
(D) Midpoint of the sheet is 2 σ / ε0 and is directed Gaussian surface is due to inside charge only.
towards right.
Q.12: Statement-I: The flux crossing through a closed
Q.7 A particle of mass m and charge q is thrown in surface is independent of the location of enclosed
a region where uniform gravitational field and electric charge.
field are present. The path of particle Statement-II: Upon the displacement of charges within
(A) May be a straight line (B) May be a circle a closed surface, the E at any point on surface does not
charge.
(C) May be a parabola (D) May be a hyperbola

Assertion Reasoning Type Previous Years’ Questions

(A) Statement-I is true, statement-II is true and
statement-II is correct explanation for statement-I
(B) Statement-I is true, statement-II is true and
statement-II is NOT the correct explanation for statement-I
(C) Statement-I is true, statement-II is false.
(D) Statement-I is false, statement-II is true.
Q.8: Statement-I: A positive point charge initially
at rest in a uniform electric field starts moving along
electric lines of forces. (Neglect all other forces except
electric forces)
Statement-II: Electric lines of force represents path of
charged particle which is released from rest in it.
Paragraph: (Q.1-Q.4) The nuclear charge (Ze) is non-
uniformly distributed within a nucleus of radius R.
The charge density p(r) (change per unit volume) is
dependent only on the radial distance r from the center
of the nucleus as shown in figure, the electric field is
only along the radial direction.
(r)
d
r
a R

Q.1 The electric field r=R is  (2008)

Q.9: Statement-I: For a non-uniformly charged thin
(A) Independent of a
circular ring with net charge zero, the electric potential
at each point on axis of the ring is zero. (B) Directly proportional to a
Statement-II: For a non-uniformly charged thin circular (C) Directly proportional to a2
ring with net charges zero, the electric field at any point (D) Inversely proportional to a
on axis of the ring is zero.

Q.2 For a=0, the value of d (maximum value of p as

Q.10: Statement-I: If a concentric spherical Gaussian
shown in the figure) is (2008)
surface is drawn inside this spherical shell of charge,
electric field (E) at each point of surface must be zero. 3Ze 3Ze 4Ze Ze
(A) (B) (C) (D)
3 3 3
tatement-II: In accordance with Gauss’s law 4 πR πR 3πR 3πR 3
1 8 . 4 0 | Electric Charges, Forces and Fields

Q.3 The electric field within the nucleus is generally Q.8 A spherical metal shell A of radius R A and a solid
observed to be linearly dependent on r. This implies metal sphere B of radius RB ( < R A ) are kept for apart
 (2008) and each is given charge +Q. Now they are connected
R 2R by a thin mental wire. Then (2011)
(A) a=0 (B) a = (C) a = R (D) a =
2 3
(A) Einside
A = 0 (B) Q A > QB
Q.4 Under the influence of the coulomb field of charge σA RB
(C) = (D) Eonsurface < EBonsurface
+Q, a charge –q is moving around it in an elliptical σB RA A

orbit. Find out the correct statement(s).  (2008)

(A) The angular momentum of the charge –q is constant
(B) The linear momentum of the charge –q is constant
(C) The angular velocity of the charge –q is constant
(D) The linear speed of the charge –q is constant.
Q.5 A positively charged thin metal ring of radius R is
fixed in the x-y plane with its centre at the origin O. A
negatively charged particle P is released from rest at
the point (0, 0, z 0 ) where z 0 >0. Then the motion of P is
 (1998)
(A) Periodic for all values of z 0 satisfying 0< z 0 < ∞ .
(B) Simple harmonic for all values of z 0 satisfying 0<
z 0 ≤ R.
(C) Approximately simple harmonic provided z 0 <<R.
(D) Such that P crosses O and continues to move along
the negative z-axis towards z=- ∞ .
Q.6 A non-conducting solid sphere of radius R is
uniformly charged. The magnitude of the electric field
due to the sphere at a distance r from its center.(1998)
(A) Increases as r increases for r<R
Q.9 A cubical region of side a has its centre at the origin.
It encloses three fixed point charges , -q at (0, -a/4, 0), +
3q at (0, 0, 0) and -q at (0, +a/4, 0). Choose the correct
option(s)  (2012)
(A) The net electric flux crossing the plane x = +a/2 is
equal to the net electric flux crossing the plane x = −a/2
(B) The net electric flux crossing the plane y = +a/2 is
more than the net electric flux crossing the plane y =
−a/2.
q
(C) The net electric flux crossing the entire region is
ε0
(D) The net electric flux crossing the plane
z = +a/2 is equal to the net electric flux crossing the
plane x = +a/2.
Q.10 An infinitely long solid cylinder of radius R has
a uniform volume charge density ρ . It has a spherical
cavity of radius R/2 with its centre on the axis of the
cylinder, as shown in the figure. The magnitude of the
electric field at the point P, which is at a distance 2R
from the axis of the cylinder, is given by the expression
23 ρ R
. The value of k is (2012)
16k ε0
z

(B) Decreases as r increases for 0 <r< ∞

(C) Decreases as r increases for R<r< ∞
(D) Is discontinuous at r=R R
R/2
P
Q.7 A few electric field lines for a y

system of two charges Q1 and 2R

Q2 fixed at two different points Q1 Q2

x
on the x-axis are shown in the
figure. These lines suggest that 
 (2010)
Q.11 Two non-conducting solid spheres of radii R and
(A) Q1 > Q2 2R, having uniform volume charge densities ρ1 and ρ2
respectively, touch each other. The net electric field at
(B) Q1 < Q2 a distance 2R from the centre of the smaller sphere,
(C) At a finite distances to the left Q1 the electric field along the line joining the centre of the spheres is zero.
is zero. The ratio ρ1 / ρ2 can be  (2013)
(D) At a finite distance to the right of Q2 the electric 32 32
(A) – 4 (B) − (C) (D) 4
field is zero. 25 25
 P hysi cs | 18.41

Q. 12 Two non-conducting spheres of radii R1 and R2 Q.15 Four charges Q1, Q2, Q3 and Q4 of same magnitude
and carrying uniform volume charge densities + ρ and are fixed along the x axis at x = -2a, - a, +a and +2a,
− ρ , respectively, are placed such that they partially respectively. A positive charge q is placed on the
overlap, as shown in the figure. At all points in the positive y axis at a distance b > 0. Four options of the
overlapping region,  (2013) signs of these charges are given in List I. The direction
of the forces on the charge q is given in List II. Match
List I with List II and select the correct answer using the
 - code given below the lists. (2014)
R2
R1
List I List II
P. Q1, Q2, Q3, Q4 all positive 1. +x
(A) The electrostatic field is zero
Q. Q1, Q2 positive , Q3, Q4 negative 2. -x
(B) The electrostatic potential is constant
R. Q1, Q4 positive , Q2, Q3 negative 3. +y
(C) The electrostatic field is constant in magnitude
S. Q1, Q3 positive , Q2, Q4 negative 4. -y
(D) The electrostatic field has same direction
Codes:
Q.13 Let E1 (r ) , E2 (r ) and E3 (r ) be the respective (A) P-3, Q-1, R-4, S-2 (B) P-4, Q-2, R-3, S-1
electric fields at a distance r from a point charge Q, an
(C) P-3, Q-1, R-2, S-4 (D) P-4, Q-2, R-1, S-3
infinitely long wire with constant linear charge density
λ , and an infinite plane with uniform surface charge
1 ( r0 ) E=
2 ( r0 ) E3 ( r0 ) at a given distance
(+0, b)
density σ . If E=
q
r0 , then  (2014)
λ
(A) Q= 4 σ πr02 (B) r0 =
2πσ
(C) E1 (r0 / 2 ) = 2E2 (r0 / 2 ) (D) E2 (r0 / 2 ) = 4E3 (r0 / 2 ) Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4
(-2a, 0) (-a, 0) (+a, 0) (-2a, 0)

Q.14 Charges Q, 2Q and 4Q are uniformly distributed Q.16 The figures below depict two situations in which
in three dielectric solid spheres 1, 2 and 3 of radii R/2, two infinitely long static line charges of constant
R and 2R respectively, as shown in figure. If magnitudes positive line charge density λ are kept parallel to each
of the electric fields at point P at a distance R from other. In their resulting electric field, point charges
the centre of spheres 1, 2 and 3 are E1 ,E2 and E3 q and -q are kept in equilibrium between them. The
respectively, then (2014) point charges are confined to move in the x direction
(A) E1 > E2 > E3 (B) E3 > E1 > E2 only. If they are given a small displacement about their
equilibrium positions, then the correct statement(s) is
(C) E2 > E1 > E3 (D) E3 > E2 > E1 (are)  (2015)
P
P (A) Both charges execute simple harmonic motion.
R R
(B) Both charges will continue moving in the direction
2Q
Q
of their displacement.
R/2
(C) Charge +q executes simple harmonic motion while
charge - q continues moving in the direction of its
Sphere 1 Sphere 2
displacement.
(D) Charge -q executes simple harmonic motion while
charge +q continues moving in the direction of its
P
R
displacement.
4Q
Q.17 Consider a uniform spherical charge distribution
of radius R1 centred at the origin O. In this distribution,
2R
a spherical cavity of radius R2, centred at P with distance
OP= a= R1 − R 2 (see figure) is made. If the electric field
Sphere 3
1 8 . 4 2 | Electric Charges, Forces and Fields

   
inside the cavity at position r is E ( r ) , then the correct (C) E is uniform, its magnitude is independent of a but

statement(s) is(are)  (2015) its direction depends on a

(D) E is uniform and both its magnitude and direction

    depend on a

x x
+q -q
R1
O

(A) E is uniform, its magnitude is independent of R 2
 
but its direction depends on r (B) E is uniform, its
magnitude depends on R 2 and its direction depends

on r

PlancEssential Questions
JEE Main/Boards JEE Advanced/Boards
Exercise 1 Exercise 1
Q. 17 Q.18 Q.19 Q.4 Q.20 Q.23
Q.23 Q.24 Q.25

Exercise 2 Exercise 2
Q. 1 Q.3 Q.6

Previous Years’ Questions Previous Years’ Questions

Q.7 Q.8 Q.11 Q.1 Q.2 Q.3
Q.4 Q.5 Q.8

Answer Key

JEE Main/Boards 5 2 −1
Q.8 1.67 ×10 Nm C
Q.9 6 ×10−3 N(repulsive)
Exercise 1
Q.10 (i) 2 × 1012, from wool to polythene,
Q.2 System of Units and nature of medium
(ii) Yes, but of a negligible amount (=2 ×1018 kg in the
10
Q.6 2.1875 ×10 example).
Q.7 1.13 ×10 4 Nm2C−1 Q.12 0.1 µC/m
 P hysi cs | 18.43

Q.13 -360 N
Q.21 22 × 105 Nm2 / C
Q.14 No change
Q.23 2.06 × 1018 N (attractive)
18
Q.15 One coulomb, 6.25 ×10
Q.24 At a distance 2a/3 from the charge +4 q; Q=4q/9
Q.16 1.76 ×1011 C (negative)
Q.17 4 2kq / a2 1+2 2
Q.25 q (negative)
Q.18 Zero N 4
Q.26 kq / a2 along OE
Q.19 (i) 5.4 × 106 Nm−1 alongOB
Q.27 No change
(ii) 8.1 × 10−3 N alongOA
Q.28 (i) dV=4E, (ii) Vc > VA
Q.20 (i) 30Nm2 / C , (ii) 15Nm2 / C

Exercise 2
Q.1 D Q.2 C Q.3 D Q.4 D Q.5 A Q.6 A
Q.7 B Q.8 B Q.9 A Q.10 B Q.11 C Q.12 D
Q.13 B

Previous Years’ Questions

Q.1 C Q.2 D Q.3 B Q.4 C Q.5 B Q.6 B
Q.7 A Q.8 B Q.9 C Q.10 C Q.11 D Q.12 C
Q.13 B Q.14 D Q.15 B Q.16 A Q.17 B Q.18 D
Q.19 A Q.20 C Q.21 C Q.22 D Q.23 D

JEE Advanced/Boards
Exercise 1
Q.1 =
a (1 + 2) , the equilibrium will be stable
E E E E

Q.2 (i) a (ii) a (iii) a (iv) a



br br br br

3
 3 
Q.3 9:30 Q.4 −3   × 10−9 C , No field along y-axis
 11 
 

 σq0  1 qQ
Q.5 2 tan−1  Q.6
 2ε mg  2π 4 πε mR3
 0  0
2kQ2
Q.7 Q.8 20 ln2
mR

kq2 4KQ2
Q.9 −
a
(
3− 2 )

Q.10 r =
mV 2
1 8 . 4 4 | Electric Charges, Forces and Fields

2ε0u2m q
Q.11 Q.12
qσ 24 ∈0

R
Q.13 a = Q.14 -Q/3
3

Q.15 1.125 q Q.16 0

2
λq 
Q.17 Q.18 H2 = h1 + h2 − g  
2ε0m V

v
Q.19 Q.20 4 πε0Ka
3

4kq
Q.21 λ RE0 ˆi Q.22 − î
πR 2

2kQq  −1 11 
Q.23 2 Q.24  + 
m  r 8R 

6 2mr ε0
Q.25
epa

Exercise 2

Single Correct Choice Type

Q.1 B Q.2 B Q.3 D

Multiple Correct Choice Type

Q.4 A, D Q.5 B, C Q.6 A, C Q.7 A, C

Assertion Reasoning Type

Q.8 C Q.9 C Q.10 D Q.11 C Q.12 C

Previous Years’ Questions

Q.1 A Q.2 B Q.3 C Q.4 A, C Q.5 A, C Q.6 A

Q.7 A, D Q.8 A, B, C, D Q.9 A, C, D Q.10 6 Q.11 B, D Q.12 C, D

Q.13 C Q.14 C Q.15 A Q.16 C

 P hysi cs | 18.45

Solutions

JEE Main/Boards 10−7

= = 1.13 × 104 Nm2 C-1
8.854 × 10−12
Exercise 1
Sol 8:
Sol 1: Because, the forces act towards or away from
centre of the charge

Electric flux through all surfaces

+ - −6
Sol 2: The value of a quantity depends on the units it’s charge enclosed 8.854 × 10
cube = = =106 Nm2 C-1
1 εo 8.854 × 10 −12
been given. Electrostatic force constant k = where
4πε
ε = permittivity of medium flux through one surface
∴ k is dependent on nature of medium 1
= (106) Nm2 C-1 = 1.67 × 105 Nm2 C-1
6
Sol 3: Dielectric constant of a medium is the ratio of (By symmetry)
permittivity of medium to permittivity of vacuum,
ε Sol 9:
30cm
k=
ε0 -7
2 x 10 C
-7
3 x 10 C

Sol 4: Given, dielectric constant = 80 k.q1q2 9 × 109 × 6 × 10−14

F= = = 6 × 10-3N (repulsive)
⇒ ε = 80 × ε0 = 80 × 8.854 × 10-12 r2 9 × 10−2
= 0.708 × 10-9 C2/N-m2
Sol 10: (i) q = ne
Sol 5: If a system contains many number of particles q 3 × 10−7
⇒n= = ≅ 2 × 1012
then the force on the system is the sum of forces on e 1.6 × 10−19
the particles.
     electrons should be present in polythene.
F = F1 + F2 + F3 + ..... Fn .
∴ Direction of flow of electrons is from wool to
polythene.
Sol 6: q = ne
(ii) Yes, since electrons have mass, there is mass transfer.
q 3.5 × 10−9
⇒n= = = 2.1875 × 1010 electrons
e 1.6 × 10−19
Sol 11: Properties:
Sol 7: → Electric lines of forces start at a positive charge and
terminate at a negative charge.
→ No two lines of forces can intersect one another.

Electric flux through the surfaces of cube

charge enclosed +
=
∈o
1 8 . 4 6 | Electric Charges, Forces and Fields

Sol 12: mass of electrons = 9.1 × 10-31 kg

1
No. of electron =
9.1 × 10−31

Charge of 1 kg of electrons = n.e
1
= × 1.6 × 10-19 C= 1.76 × 1011 C
−31
9.1 × 10
r
Electric flux through the imaginary cylinder Sol 17:

= charge enclosed
+q +q
0 a 0
εo

⇒ E(2prl) = λ a
εo
0 0
1 λ
⇒E= .
2π ε o r -q -q

λ = 2 π εo E r Electric field due +q at center

⇒ λ=2p × (8.854 × 10-12) × 9 × 104 × 2 × 10-2 kq kq 2kq
= = =
⇒ λ = 10-7 C/m r2  a 
2
a2
⇒ λ = 0.1 µC/m  
 2
Addition of the four vectors gives field 2 2 (Eq)
proton electron downward
Sol 13: + –
-15
0.8×10 m kq
∴ Electric field = 4 2 .
k.q1q2 a2
F=
r2
Sol 18: 10 cm
9 × 109 × (1.6 × 10−19 ) × ( −1.6 × 10−19 ) A B
= 5c
(0.8 × 10−15 )2 2c
C 10 cm
= -360 N (attractive)
2c
kq1q2 5c
Sol 14: F1 = D C
r2
k(2q1 )(2q2 ) kq1q2 We can see that the forces acting on 1µC are pairs of
F2 = = = F1 forces with equal magnitude and opposite direction
(2r)2 r2 
∴ Net force = 0
∴ No change is observed. 20 cm
A B
3c o -3c
Sol 15: Electron charge 1.6 × 10-19 C << 1 C
10 cm
∴ Coulomb is bigger
1 Sol 19: (i) Electric field at O
q
q = ne⇒ n = =
e 1.6 × 10−19 k(3mC)  k( −3ì C)  2k(3ì C)
= î +  ( −ˆi)  = î
2 2
= 6.25 × 1018 electrons are required (10cm)  (10cm)  10−2
= 5.4 × 106 Nm-1 along OB
Sol 16: Given,
(ii) If a charge of -1.5 × 10-9 C is placed at O, then the
1 kg of electrons force it experiences=E×q= –8.1 × 10-3 N along OA
 P hysi cs | 18.47

Sol 20: z
electric field as in direction of n̂

>
3
E=3x10 iN/c
 σ
10 cm ⇒E= ⋅ nˆ
ε0
x
cm
Sol 23: No. of copper molecules
10
109
= × 6.023 × 1023 = 0.95 × 1023 atoms
y 63.59

(i) Flux= E.A =3×103 î × (10-2) î =30 Nm2/C No. of electrons transferred

  ˆi 3 ˆj  0.95 × 1023
= = 0.95 × 1021 electrons
(ii) Flux= E.A = 3×103 î (10-2)  +  100
2 2 

Charge of the pieces = n.e.
= 15 Nm2/C
= 1.52 × 102 = 152 C

Sol 21: Force between the two pieces

kq1q2 9 × 109 × (152) × ( −152)

= =
r2 10−4
5cm

10 Sol 24:
5cm
10
10 n
10 9Q Q
10
region (1) region (2) region (3)
Construct a Gaussian surface as shown
The electric flux through the surfaces of cube = Charge q should be negative to achieve equilibrium
charge enclosed Also if charge is placed in region (1) or (3) the charge
εo will attract the charge in the middle while the other
positive charge pushes the middle charge towards q.
= 10µC = 4π × 9 × 109 × 10 × 10-6 = 36π × 104 Nm2 C-1 So only region (2) is appropriate
εo
Let distance between 4Q and q be ‘d’ then for
Flux through one plate (bottom plate) equilibrium
1 ∴
= × (total/flux) ( Symmetry) k(4Q)(Q) (k)(4Q)(q)
6 =
2
1 x d2
= × 10µC = 6π × 104 Nm2 C-1 = 2 × 105 Nm2 C–1
6 εo q d2
=
Q x2
Sol 22:
k(4Q)(Q) (k)(Q)(q)
Also =
2
x (x − d)2
q 4(x − d)2
>

n
dA ⇒ =
Q x2
d
⇒ d2 = 4(x – d)2 ⇒ x = d ±
2
qenclosed 2x q 4 4Q
⇒d= or d = 2x and = ⇒q=
flux = E. πr 2 = (gauss law) 3 Q 9 9
∈0
−4Q
∴ q ∴q= (negative charge)
⇒E= σ ( σ= ) 9
ε0 πr 2
1 8 . 4 8 | Electric Charges, Forces and Fields

Sol 25: kq
2 2 Sol 27: Electric flux is the rate of flow of the electric
kq
2 2 field through a given area
2a a 
q
φ = E.A
2
kq q
2
a SI units of flux is Volt-meter
Electric flux is independent of the radius of spherical
qenclosed
surface since flux = (Gauss law)
q q εo
∴ No change will be observed.
The force on one charge due to others is

2 2 Sol 28: - -
 kq2   kq2  kq2 1  kq2
=  2  + 2  + =  2+ 
 a   a  2a2  2  q2 - -
   
- -
The charge to be placed at the center should be
O - -
negative and let value be Q
tq - -
2
kQ(q) kq  1 - -
2
=  2+ 
 a 
2
a  2 - -
 
 2 For derivation of the expression, please refer the theory.
1 + 2 2 
⇒Q=   q
 4 
 
(1 + 2 2) Exercise 2
∴Q=– q
4
Sol 1: (D)
Sol 26: B C
Q Q 3 (2,3)
(50

Eq
c
)

A Ea
Q a 0
2
Ea Ea QO
E (8,-5)
kq
E=
a2 (
Direction of field = 6iˆ − 8ˆj m )
The system will be stable if a force Eq is placed at O distance = 10 m
∴
along EO ( symmetric and equal forces are acting)
kq 9 × 109 × (90µc)
Magnitude of field = = = 4500 V/m
∴ By adding a force Eq along EO and OE we get r2 102
Eq
Sol 2: (C)
Eq=Ea
Eq C
Eq
B
A
Eq O
Eq
Eq

∴ final electric field is E along OE

 
kq EA is parallel to OA and similarly are others.
E=
a2  
OA . OB = 1 + 2 – 3 = 0
 P hysi cs | 18.49

    ∴ˆ
⇒ OA ⊥ OB ⇒ EA ⊥ EB ( j components get cancelled while integration)
 
OB  = 3 OC  = 2 3 kQx
    ⇒E=
(R + x2 )3/2
2

1 1 E 1
⇒ EB ∝  , EC ∝  ⇒ C = kQx
OB
2
OC
2 EB 4 ⇒E= if R ≫> x
R3
⇒ F = moa = - Eq
P kQq
Sol 3: (D) ⇒a=− .x
q x q m0R 3
kQq
at x=0 w2 =
E=- m0R 3
Qq
E ⇒ω=
4 π ε0m0R 3
x /2 at x = 1
at x = 1/2
E =- Sol 7: (B) Volt = joule/coulomb
E=0
(Since volt is S.I. unit of electric potential =W/q)
kq kq
E= − kQx( +q)
p
x 2
( − x)2 Sol 8: (B) F = -mg
(R 2 + x2 )3/2

Sol 4: (D) dF
A D if < 0 then the particle is in stable equilibrium
+q -q dx
3
2E (due to =2q) (R 2 + x2 )3/2 − (R 2 + x2 )1/2 (2x2 )
E (due to -q) ⇒ 2 <0
(R + x2 )3
2

E (due to +q) ⇒ R2 + x2 – 3x2 < 0

2E R R
⇒x> or x < −
The vector sum gives field in direction perpendicular 2 2
to AB
R
∴ Only if x > , the equilibrium will be stable.
2
Sol 5: (A) Refer question 24 of exercise I JEE Main

Sol 9: (A) Initial Final

Sol 6: (A)
2 2
+

R +X
R - +  P
 P
 
x P E - 
E
The field vector is rotated by 90° clockwise

Electric field due to ring at x is Sol 10: (B) q1 is positive, (emission of field lines), q2 is
negative, (termination of field lines).
=E= ∫ dE = ∫ dEcos θ ˆi + ∫ dEsin θ ˆj q2
= =
7 number of linesabsorbed
<1
Q Q q1 10 number of linesemitted
K cos θ dq ˆ K sin θ dq ˆ
⇒E= ∫ 2 2
i+ ∫
2 2
j Electric field is strongest at some point closer to q2.
0 (x + R ) 0 (x + R )

Q
x
⇒E= ∫ (x2 + R2 )3/2 dq + 0
0
1 8 . 5 0 | Electric Charges, Forces and Fields

Sol 11: (C) z q1 kq1q2

substituting q2 = in = 0.108N gives
3 r2

>

>

>
E = i+ 2j + 3k
y ⇒ q1 = ±3 × 10-6 C and q2 = ±1 × 10-6 C

x
A = 100 m
2
Previous Years’ Questions
Only z-component of field is responsible for flux Sol 1: (C) From conservation of mechanical energy
through plate
 Decrease in kinetic energy = increase in potential
⇒ Flux= E.A = (iˆ + 2ˆj + 3k)
ˆ . (100 k̂ ) = 173.2 V-m energy
1 (Ze)(2e)
or =5MeV=5×1.6×10–13 J
Sol 12: (D) 4πε0 rmin

2Ze2
R
∴ rmin = 1
x 4πε0 5 × 1.6 × 10 –13

(9 × 109 )(2)(92)(1.6 × 10 –19 )2

= ( Z = 92)
5 × 1.6 × 10 –13

qenclosed = σ. Aenclosed
+Ze +2e
Aenclosed = pr2 = π(R2 – x2)
qenclosed π(R 2 − x2 ) σ rmin
∴ Flux through sphere = =
∈o ∈0
= 5.3 × 10–14 m
Sol 13: (B) q1 q2 = 5.3 × 10–12 cm

0.5m i.e., rmin is of the order of 10–12 cm

Sol 2: (D) Motion is simple harmonic only if Q is

kq1q2
= 0.108 N released from a point not very far from the origin on
(0.5)2 x-axis. Otherwise motion is periodic but not simple
When connected with a wire, the charges on them will harmonic.
be distributed equally giving
−q1 + q2 Sol 3: (B) Since, q is at the centre of two charges Q and
q= on each sphere Q, net force on it is zero, whatever the magnitude and sign
2
of charge on it.
(Since one of them is negative)
kq2 Q q Q
= 0.036 N
(0.5)2 For the equilibrium of Q, q should be negative because
q2 0.036 1 other charge Q will repel it, so q should attract it.
⇒ = = Simultaneously these attractions and repulsions should
q1q2 0.108 3
be equal.
4q1q2
⇒ (q2 – q1)2 = 1 QQ 1 Qq
3 4πε0 r 2 4πε0 (r / 2)2
10q1q2
⇒ q22 + q12 – =0 Q
3 or q =
q1 q2 4
⇒ q2 = or q1 = Q
3 3 or with sign q = -
4
 P hysi cs | 18.51

Sol 4: (C) The magnitude of electric field at a distance Sol 11: (D) According to option (d) the electric field
r from the axis is given as: due to P and S and due to Q and T add to zero. While
λ
due to U and R will be added up.
E=
2πε0r
1 Sol. 12: (C) At any point over the spherical Gaussian
i.e., E ∝ surface, net electric field is the vector sum of electric
r
fields due to +q1, –q1 and q2. Don’t confuse with the
Here, λ is the charge per unit length of the capacitor. electric flux which is zero (net) passing over the Gaussian
surface as the net charge enclosing the surface is zero.
Sol 5: (B) Electric Field lines never enter a metallic
conductor (E = 0, inside a conductor) and they fall Sol 13: (B) All the three plates will produce electric field
normally on the surface of a metallic conductor at P along negative z-axis, Hence,
(because whole surface is at same potential and lines
are perpendicular to equipotential surface) →  σ 2σ σ  2σ
Ep =  + +  (– k̂ )= – k̂
2ε
 0 2ε 0 2ε 
0 ε0
Sol 6: (B) Electrostatic force, Fe = eE (for both the
∴ Correct answer is (b)
particles)
But acceleration of electron, ae = Fe/me and acceleration
Sol 14: (D) Charge will be induced in the conducting
of proton, ap = Fe/mp
sphere, but net charge on it will be zero.
1 1
S= ae t2 = ap t22 ∴ Option (d) is correct.
2 1 2
t2 ae mp Sol 15: (B) Inside the cavity, field at any point is uniform
∴ = =
t1 ap me and non-zero.

 =0 → →  =0
Therefore, correct option is (b).
Sol 7: (A) − ∫ E .d = ∫ dV = V (centre) – V (infinity)
 =∞  =∞ Sol 16: (A) Total enclosed charge as already shown is
But V(infinity) = 0 6C 8C
 =0 → →
qnet = + – 7C = – 2C
2 4
∴ − ∫ E .d corresponds to potential at centre of ring. qnet –2C
 =∞
From Gauss theorem, net flux, φnet = =
ε0 ε0
1 q (9 × 109 )(1.11 × 10 –10 )
And V(centre) = . = =2 volt
4πε0 R 0.5 Sol 17: (B) (36R )
2

2
-16R 2
Sol 8: (B) Net electrostatic energy of the configuration S=(16R )
will be -Q1

 q.q Q.q Q.q  Q1

1
U=K  + +  Here, K=
 a 2a a  4πε0

–2q
Putting U = 0 we get, Q =
2+ 2

Sol 9: (C) Electric lines of force never form closed loops. Q1 = σ(4pR2) = 4psR2
Q2 = 16psR2 – Q1 = 12psR2
Sol 10: (C) Electric field is zero everywhere inside a
∴ Q3 = 36psR2 – 16psR2 = 20psR2
metal (conductor) i.e., field lines do not enter a metal.
Simultaneously these are perpendicular to a metal Q1 : Q2 : Q3 = 1 : 3 : 5
surface (equipotential surface).
1 8 . 5 2 | Electric Charges, Forces and Fields

Sol 18: (D) qE = mg  … (i) → →

Here, θ is the angle between E and S
6phrv = mg →
In this question θ = 45°, because S is perpendicular
4 3
pr rg = mg  … (ii) to surface.
3
1/3 E = E0
 3mg 
∴r=   … (iii)
 4 πρg  S = ( 2 a)(a) = 2 a2

Substituting the value of r in Eq. (i) we get, ∴ φ = (E0)( 2 a2) cos 45° = E0a2
1/3
 3mg   1
6phv   = mg Q
Sol 21: (C) Einside =  r
 4 πρg   4 π ε R 3 
 0 
 3mg 
or (6phv)3  4 πρg  =(mg)3  1 Q
Eoutside =  r
   4 πε R 3 
 0 
Again substituting mg = qE we get. ∴ E
 3 
(qE)2 =   (6phv)
3

 4 πρg 
r
1/2 R
 3 
or qE =   (6phv)3/2 Sol 22: (D)
 4 πρg 
k.q.q / 2 y kq2 y
1  3 
1/2 Fnet 2 Fcos θ = 2
= . = ( y << a)
∴q= (6phv)3/2  a2 + y 2 
  a2 + y 2 a3
 
E  4 πρg   
F   F
Substituting the values we get
q/2
7 3
q= × 216π3 y
81π × 105 4 π × 900 × 9.8
q a a q
× (1.8 × 10 –5 × 2 × 10 –3 )3

= 8.0 × 10–19 C Sol 23: (D) It originates from +Ve charge and terminates
at - Ve charge. It can not form close loop.
1 2
Sol 19: (A) Electrical force per unit area = eE
2 0
1  σ 2 σ2 JEE Advanced/Boards
= e0   =
2 ε  2ε0
 0
Exercise 1
Projected area = pR2
x
 σ2  Sol 1:
∴ Net electrical force =   (pR2)
 2ε  -2q Q q
 0 

In equilibrium, this force should be equal to the applied
force. For equilibrium x >  and Q should be positive
balancing force equations,
πσ2R 2 σ2R 2
∴F= or F ∝ k(2q)(Q) kq(Q)
2ε0 ε0 =
2
(x) (x −  )2
→ →
Sol 20: (C) Electric flux, φ = E . S 2
  1  1
⇒ 1 −  = ⇒1- =±
or φ = ES cos q  x  2 x 2
 P hysi cs | 18.53

 2 ±1 ⇒ θ = 15°
⇒ = ⇒x=2± 2 
x 2 The hour hand should be midway of between 9 and 10
∴ Time =
9 : 30
x >  ⇒ x = (2 + 2) 

(1 + 2 )  from q Sol 4: )
1,1
(3,
It is in stable equilibrium w.r.t. longitudinal motion q Q
(0,0,0) (2,0,0)
Sol 2:

 kQ  3iˆ + ˆj + kˆ 
Eq =  
(32 + 12 + 12 )  11 
E
 kQ  ˆi − ˆj − kˆ 
r EQ =  
 12 + 12 + 12   3 
 
 
(i) (ii) At P x-Component of field is zero

  3kq −QK
⇒ (EP + EQ )x = 0 ⇒ =
( 11 ) ( 3)
3 3

3
 3 
⇒ Q = -3   × 10-9 C
 11 
 
y-component has zero field.
(iii) (iv)
σ
Sol 3: -12q Sol 5: Electric field due to plate =
2∈0
-q
(Non-conducting plate)
-2q
The force that is being applied on bob = Eq

Q T
Direction of electric field at center is
Eq
Eq
mg
12E 6E mg
6E
9E 3E

6E Change in gravitational potential = mg  (1 – cosθ)
6E
Change in electrical potential = Eq  sin q
6E 6E
6E
mg  (2 sin2 θ /2) = Eq  (2 sin θ /2 cos θ/2)
 Eq
ER ⇒ tan θ/2 =
mg

ER  σq 
6E 6 ⇒ θ = 2 tan-1  
≡ ≡ 0.1  2 ε0mg 
6+6+6 3 6(2+ 3 )

1
tan θ =
2+ 3
tan θ = 2 - 3
1 8 . 5 4 | Electric Charges, Forces and Fields

Sol 6: +++ Sol 8:

+ +

+
+ + -q

+
+ + ++ +

++
+ ++

+ + + +
Q
+ ++ + + +

+++
.Q
+ + + +++ +
+ ++ +++
++ + 

+
+ +
++ E=
+ + 2r

At any point x from center, the acceleration of the

r2
charge is  −λ 
V = - ∫ Edr =  nr 
Eq  2π  r1
a=-
m λ r
DV = ln 1
But, electric field at the point is 2π r2
qencloses
E.(4pr2) = (Gauss’s law) By energy conservation
ε0
1 λ r 
Q 4 3 mv2 = ln  2 
⇒ E.4pr2 = 1 . . πr 2
ε0 4 3 3
2π  r1 
πR
3
Qr λ  r2  2Er
v= ln   ⇒ v = .ln2
⇒E= πm  r1  m
4 π ε0R3

−Qq 2 × 100 × 0.2

v= .ln2
⇒ a= .x 0.1
4x ε0R 2
⇒ v = 20 ln2
Qq
⇒∴ω= a
4 π ε0R3 Sol 9:
+q +q
ω 1 Qq
⇒f= =
2π 2π 4 π ε0R3
Q

Sol 7: +Q +q
+q

-Q Initial configuration
-Q kq2 kq2
t>t Initial potential energy = ×4+ ×2
t>0 a 2a
=(4 + 2 ) kq2 /a
kQ
Electric potential at center of ring = +q
R
By energy conservation, 2a

1 kQ(Q) +q +q
mv2 =
2 R 2a

+q
2kQ2
⇒v= Final configuration
mR
Final potential energy
kq2 kq2
= ×4+ × 2 = (2 2 + 1) kq2 /a
2a 2a

work done = Uf − Ui
 P hysi cs | 18.55

Construct Gaussian surface as below

= (( ) (
2 2 +1 − 4 + 2 ))
kq2
a
(
=− 3− 2 ) kq2
a Construct gaussian surface

Sol 10: Q Q
← V Initial
Q Q
← ←
V′ V′
1
r such that the original is th
of it
8
At closest distance of approach qenclosed
Flux =
By momentum conservation V ′ = V/2 ε0
flux through one forth of one surface
By energy conservation,
1 1 q
1 1  V′  kQ2
2 = . = q (By symmetry)
mV2 = m   ×2+ 4 6 ε0 24 ε0
2 2 2 r

1 1 Sol 13: R
⇒ kQ2 = mV2
r 4
4KQ2 a
⇒r=
2
mV
Q
Sol 11: +
+ Take an elemental part with thickness dr as below
+ E cos
+ a E
+ r dx
+ 
4
a
Eq 
a=
m
Q
u2 sin2θ
⇒ Maximum horizontal distance = The electric field at the elemental part is
a
u 2 kQ
⇒ Hmax = E=
a a + r2
2

flux through the element dφ = E. dA cos θ

mu2 2 ε0mu2
⇒ Hmax = = R Ea ( 2πr )
Eq σq ⇒ φ =∫ dr
(a )
1/2
∴ σ 0 2
+r 2
( E= for non-conducting plate)
2 ε0 R
r
⇒ φ = 2pkQa ∫ (a2 + r2 )3/2 dr
Sol 12: 0
R
 
 (a2 + r 2 )−1/2 
⇒ φ = apkQ  
 1 
 − 
 2 0
q
 1 1
⇒ φ = apkQ [-2]  2 − 
2 1/2
 (a + R ) a
1 8 . 5 6 | Electric Charges, Forces and Fields

 a  Sol 16: y
⇒ φ = 2pkQ 1 − 2 2 1/2 
 (a + R )  +Q
Given -Q x
a
-Q
φ= Q x
4 ε0 +Q
+Q a
 a 
⇒ Q  1 − 2  =
2 1/2 
Q
z
Q/2 -Q
2 ε0  (a + R )  4 ε0
Consider electric field due to +Q charges,
a 1 R
⇒ = ⇒ 3a2 = R2 ⇒ a = We will get,
(a2 + R 2 )1/2 2 3
 kQ2 x
E+ Q = ( +ˆj)
2 2
a +x a + x2
2
Sol 14:
+ 3R + + while due to negative charges,
E+q EQ-q
+
 kQ2 x
R q E−Q = ( −ˆj)
2 2
q a +x 2
a +x 2

∴ Electric field at point on the y-axis

 
= E+ Q + E−Q = 0
The potential at r = R is zero
k(Q − q) kq kq Sol 17: x
⇒ + - =0
3R 3R R
V( 3R, 0) P y
Q
⇒q= (negative)
3
z
R
Sol 15:

C
+6q –3q Initial electric potential energy = q.VP
A B
kQ kQq kλ (2πR)q
= q. = = = λq
R 2 + ( 3R)2 2R 2R 4 ε0

kQ
q = λq
+ 1.5q + 1.5q O
Final potential energy =
I. A B C R 2 ε0
for minimum velocity, final kinetic energy = 0
By conservation of Energy,
K.E.i + P.Ei = K.E.f + P.E.f
+0.75q +1.5q +0.75q
1
A +B C ⇒ mv2 + λq = 0 + λq
II. 2 4 ε0 2 ε0

λq
⇒v=
2 ε 0m

+0.75q
 1.5 + 0.75
2 
q

1.125q Sol 18: Consider the two balls of system, the only
external force is gravitational force. Initial position of
III. A +B C
h1 + h2
COM is at . The vertical distance moved by
2
∴ Charge on C = 1.125 q
 P hysi cs | 18.57

 1 
2 Sol 20: +q
+q
COM during time t =   is h = g  
v 2 v
+q
+q
Final height of COM is
2

h1 + h2 − g  
H= V
2 2008-Gm

If the COM is at H, and one particle is on ground then the The potential energy of the system be U = U12 + U13 +
2(HCOM ) − H1 …… U20062007
height of the other will be at height H2 =
2 −1 The K.E. of the first ball after being released for a long

2
time
⇒ H2 = h1 + h2 – g  
v By energy conservation

∴ Height at which the body is located is K.Ef + P.Ef = K.Ei + P.Ei

2 ⇒ K1 = 0 + (P.Ei - P.Ef )

H = h1 + h2 – g   ⇒ K1 = U12 + U13 + U14 + …… U2007
v
The K.E. of second ball after being released for a long
time
Sol 19: I. t = 0 → ΙΙ. t = t
By energy conservation
v
q1 q1
K2 = (P.E.’ i – P.E’f )
o
60

V/2 = U23 + U24 + U25 + ….. + U2 2007

= U12 + U13 + U14 + …. + U1 2006
v
q2 q2 ∴
( Un n + 1 = Un-1 n by symmetry)
kq2 ∴
⇒ K1 – K2 = U1 2007 = = K( K1 – K2 = K Given)
1
V 2
Acceleration of first ball in x-direction due to a
⇒q= 4 π ε0 aK
3V ˆ
field = (a1 )x = (i)
4t

3V Sol 21:
Similarly (a1 )y = ( −ˆj) ++
4t
>

E0 i +
T
−V ˆ +
(a2)x = (i)
t
−V' ˆ f
(a2)y = ( j)
t Friction acts in forward direction decreases angular
 acceleration and increasing linear acceleration
 E.q1 3v 3v ˆ
a1 = =- î - j
m 4t 4t ⇒ f = ma

 −3mv 3mv ˆ and Te – f. R = Iα = mR2α

⇒E = î - j
4q1 t 4q1 t also a = Rα

 Eq2 −3vq2ˆi 3vq2 ˆ −v v1 ˆ Te
a2 = = - j = î - j ⇒f=
m 4q1 t 4q1 t t t 2R
Q
q2 4 3V  4  v but Te = ∫ dTe =
⇒ = and V1 =   = ∫ E0dq.R cos θ
q1 3 4 3 3 0
1 8 . 5 8 | Electric Charges, Forces and Fields

π /2
2
Sol 23: -3/2q
⇒ Te = 2 × ∫ E0 λ.R
0
cos θ dθ
 
-
2
5
(2 is multiplied considering –ve changes also) a
π /2
= 2 × E0 λ R2 sin θ  b O z=a
0

⇒ Te = 2E0 lR2
+q
⇒ f = E0 lR î
 kQ(a)
dq
EA = ˆ
(i)
E0dq (a + a2 )3/2
2

 kQ'(a)
EB = ( −ˆi)
(b + a2 )3/2
2
Rcos
d
   
E = EA + EB = 0 (given)
Q −Q'
⇒ =
Sol 22: 2 3/2
(2a ) (b + a2 )3/2
2

- ++ +
-q
---- ++ q 5
- - ++ ⇒ b2 + a2 = 2a2  
-
---- + 2
---
E +
---
E + b
+ ⇒ b = 2a ⇒ =2
a
ER
E+1
E+ Sol 24: ++
++++
+
++ R ++
dw +++
+ + ++ + + vq
+++ +++ +
+ ++
 k r
d
+ + dq
dEtsin + + +
 ++ +++ +
+ +
r
+
dEt + +++ +R/2 + dr
dEtcos ++ ++
R
The x-component of field = ∫ dE sin θ
+
∴ potential at R/2 is
π /2
k.dq k Q1
= ∫ sinθ = λ ∫ sin θ dθ k.dq
Q
kdq
R 2 R 0 V= ∫ dV = ∫ R 
+ ∫ r
0 Q'
 
kλ π /2 kλ kq 2kq 2
=  − cos θ  = (1) = =
R  0 R  πR  πR 2 (element part is a hollow sphere of rad radius r)
R 
 2 
R /2 R
The y-component of positive charges’ field cancels the k.ρ.4 πr 2dr kρ4 π r 2dr  Q 
y-component field of negative charges’ field.
= ⇒V ∫ R 
+ ∫
r
=  ρ 
3
(4 / 3)πR 
0 R /2 
 
∴ The total electric field will be 2
R
   4kQ R
Etotal = E+ + E− = ( −ˆi) 2kρ  r3  2  r2 
πR 2 ⇒V= × 4π   + 4pρk  
R  3   2  R
0
2

2k Q 9 kQ 11 kQ
⇒V= + =
R 8 8 R 8 R
 P hysi cs | 18.59

By energy conservation we get, (Included charge)

K.E.i + P.E.i = K.E.f + P.E.f  ρa 
⇒ Erequired = along OO'
1 kQq 3ε0
11kQq
⇒ mv2 + =0+
2 r 8R It is true for any point inside cavity.

2kQq  −1 11 
⇒V=  +  Exercise 2
m  r 8R 
Single Correct Choice Type
Sol 25:
The electric field inside the cavity will be Sol 1: (B)
kQ
E= along OO’ (proof next page)
a2
+q +q +q

e
r
---  The charge in the middle experiences force along the
line.
1
Oa 0E

The equilibrium is stable along the line connecting

charges while
The distance the electron has to travel is The equilibrium is unstable along the line perpendicular
2a cos θ = 2r to the line of charges
s = 1/2 at 2 ∴ Only option B is correct (given consider equilibrium
only along line joining charges)

Sol 2: (B) It is not necessary for particle to move along

f i
lines of force. Lines of forces only denote the direction
of force that exists on particle.
  ∴ Option B is correct (It may move in a uniform electric
field)
2s 2 2r ∴ Eq To contradict option D, take negative charge.
⇒t= = [ a= ]
a Eq m
m
Sol 3: (D) Charge won’t be uniformly distributed if there
6 2mr ε0 is an external field, even in an external electric field, the
⇒t= 2m 2r = field strength inside sphere is zero (by Gauss law)
1 ρ × (4 / 3) πa3 eρa
e. Potential must be same at every point of sphere
4 π ε0 a2
  
Erequired = Ewhole - Ecut
Multiple Correct Choice Type

P Sol 4: (A, D)
= 1
0
P
+4Q -Q
O
1
0 A B

   The resultant electric field will be zero at point closer to
= OP - O'P = OO' B and outside AB (by analysing directions of field and
kq 4 magnitudes)
Field at center of cavity = where q = ρpa3
2
a 3
1 8 . 6 0 | Electric Charges, Forces and Fields

If a positive charge is placed at P and distributed, the qenclosed σπr 2

positive charge either goes towards, -Q or moves away ⇒ flux = E.(pr2) = =
ε0 ε0
∴ d2 vP
from –Q but won’t oscillate ( > 0) (unstable ⇒ E = σ = towards right
dx2 ε0
∴ d2Un
equilibrium) while negative charge oscillate (
d2 x Sol 7: (A, C)
d2UP
= − < 0) (Stable equilibrium) E
d2 x v
Sol 5: (B, C) For the system to be at minimum potential m
energy, the higher charged particles should be far apart.
Eq ∴
a= + g ( F = ma = Eq + mg)
x m
Eq
if + g = 0 ⇒ (linear motion)
4Q Q 16Q m
9 cm Eq
if + g = k (constant) ⇒ parabolic motion
m
and now potential energy
(k)(64Q2 ) k(16Q2 ) k4Q2 Assertion Reasoning Type
U= + +
d2 d−x x
dU +16 4 Sol 8: (C) Electric lines of force represent the force
=0⇒ =
dx (d − x)2
x2 acting on particle at that point
⇒ ±2x = d – x
⇒ x ± 2x = d Sol 9: (C) Refer to question 30 of exercise - III

⇒ x = d/3 or x = -d
Sol 10: (D) Drawing Gaussian surface won’t change
9 electric field.
⇒ x= = 3cm.
3
Field at Q is Sol 11: (C) Statement-I is true, since Qenclosed is same but
k(4Q) k(16Q) E at that site changes depending on external charge.
= - =0 But Gauss law is still valid since the flux by the external
2
(3cm) (6cm)2
change is zero.

Sol 6: (A, C) Q+ -
+ - Sol 12: (C) Statement-I is true by Gauss law.
t -
+
- Statement-II is false since distance between the point
+
+ - charge and the site decreases which changes electric
+ - field.
+ -
+ -
Previous Years’ Questions
qenclosed
flux = E (2πr 2 ) = = 0 =0
ε0 ε0 Sol 1: (A) At r = R. From Gauss’s law
∴E=0 qnet Ze
E (4pR2) = =
Also for any point between plates ε0 ε0
+ -
1 Ze
+ - or E =
+ - 4πε0 R 2
+ -
O
+ E

- E is independent of a.
+ -
+ -
+ -
 P hysi cs | 18.61

Sol 2: (B) For a = 0 1 Qq

Fe = qE= . .z  ….(i)
4πε0 (R 2 + Z 2 )3/2 0
0
 d 
ρ(r) =  – .r + d 
 R  Similarly, when it crosses the origin, the force is again
towards centre O.
R
 d  Thus, the motion of the particle is periodic for all values
Now ∫ (4 πr 2 )  d – r  dr = net charge = Ze.
a  R  of z0 lying between 0 and ∞.
 Secondly, if z0 <<R, (R2 + z 20 )3/2 = R3
d
1 Qq
Fe = . .z [From Eq. (i)]
4πε0 R 3 0
i.e., the restoring force Fe ∝ – z0. Hence, the motion of
r the particle will be simple harmonic. (Here negative
R
3Ze sign implies that the force is towards its mean position.)
Solving this equation, we get d =
πR3 1 Q
Sol 6: (A) Inside the sphere E = r
Sol 3: (C) In case of solid sphere of charge of uniform 4πε0 R 3
volume density
( r )
⇒ E ∝ r for r ≤ R
1 q
E= . .r i.e., E at centre = 0 as r = 0
4πε0 R 3
1 Q
or E ∝ r and E at surface = . as r = R
4πε0 R 2
Thus, for E to be linearly Outside the sphere
t
dependent on r, volume charge R
1 Q 1
density should be constant. E= . for r ≥ R or E ∝
4πε0 r 2 r2
or a = R
Thus, variation of electric field (E) with distance (r) from
the centre will be as shown
Sol 4: (A, C) Net torque on (–q) about a point (say P) E
lying over +Q is zero. Therefore, angular momentum of
(–q) about point P should remain constant. 1 Q
E=
40 R2
Sol 5: (A, C) Let Q be the charge on the ring, the Er
E
1
2
negative charge –q is released from point P (0, 0, z0). r
The electric field at P due to the charged ring will be t
O
along positive z-axis and its magnitude will be r=R

y Sol 7: (A, D) From the behaviour of electric lines, we

E can say that Q1 is positive and Q2 is negative. Further,
Q |Q1| > |Q2|
-q
O z At some finite distance to the right of Q2, electric field
P(0,0z0) will be zero. Because electric field due to Q1 is towards
R
right (away from Q1) and due to Q2 is towards left
F0 (towards Q2). But since magnitude of Q1 is more, the
two fields may cancel each other because distance of
1 Qz 0 that point form Q1 will also be more
E=
4πε0 (R + z 2 )3/2
2
0
Sol 8: (A, B, C, D) Inside a conducting shell electric field
E = 0 at centre of the ring because z0 = 0 is always zero. Therefore, option (a) is correct. When the
two are connected, their potentials become the same.
Force on charge at P will be towards centre as shown,
and its magnitude is ∴ VA = VB
 1 8 . 6 2 | Electric Charges, Forces and Fields

QA QB  1 Q
or =  V= 
RA RB  4 πε0 R 

Since, RA > RB ∴ QA > QB P2 P1
1
σR
Potential is also equal to, V = , VA = VB 2R 2
ε0
σA RA
∴ σARA = σBRB or = or σA < σB
σB RB
Sol 12: (C, D) In triangle PC1 C2
σ
Electric field on surface, E = or E ∝ s   
ε0 r2= d + r1
Since σA < σB ∴ EA < EB
The electrostatic field at point P is
qin q
Sol 9: (A, C, D) φout = =  4   4  
ε0 ε0 K  ρ π R13  r2 K  ρ π R32  ( − r1 )
By symmetry
=E  3  +  3 
3 3
R1 R2
Sol 10: (1) + (2) = Complete cylinder 4  
E=K ρ π ( r2 − r1 )
E1 + E2 =
E 3
 ρ 
ρ × πR 2 ρR E= d
=E = 3 ε0
2πε0 (2R) 4ε0
 
3  r2 r1 -
4π R  1 ρR P
E2 = ρ ×   × = C2
( )
C1
3 2
  4 π ε0 4R 2 24 × 4 ε0 R1 R2

ρR  1  ρ R 23 23 ρ R
E1 =E − E2 ⇒ 1 − = = d
4 ε0  24  4 ε0 4 × 6 16 ε0 × 6

Q λ σ
1 Sol 13: (C) = =
2
4 π ε0r0 2 π ε0 r0 2 ε0

2 r  Q r  λ r  σ
E1  0 
= = , E2  0  = ,E3  0 
 2  π ε0r0  2  π ε0r0  2  2 ε0
2

r  r 
∴ E1  0  =
2E2  0 
2 2
Sol 11: (B, D)

1 ρ1 ( 4 / 3) π R
3
ρ R Sol 14: (C)
At point P1 , = 2
4 π ε0 4R 2 3 ε0 Q
For point outside dielectric sphere E =
4 π ε0 r 2
ρ1 R ρ2 R r
= For point inside dielectric sphere E = Es
12 3 R
ρ1 Exact Ratio E1 : E2 : E3 = 2 : 4 : 1
=4
ρ2
ρ1 ( 4 / 3) πR3 ρ2 ( 4 / 3) π 8R3
At point P2 , + 0
= Sol 15: (A)
( 2R ) (5R )
2 2
P: By Q1 and Q4, Q3 and Q2 F is in +y
ρ1 32
∴ =
−
ρ2 25 Q: By Q1 and Q4, Q2 and Q3 F is in + ve x.
R: By Q1 and Q4, F is in + ve y
 P hysi cs | 18.63

By Q2 and Q3, F is in –ve y

But later has more magnitude, since its closer to (0, b).
Therefore net force is in –y
S: By Q1 and Q4, F is in +ve x and by Q2 and Q3, F is in –x,
but later is more in magnitude, since its closer to (0, b).
Therefore net force is in –ve x.
(+0, b)

Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4
(-2a, 0) (-a, 0) (+a, 0) (-2a, 0)

Sol 16: (C) In Case I:

λq λq
F=
2 π ε0 ( r + x )
ˆi + = ( )
2 π ε0 ( r − x )
−ˆi λq
( )
x −ˆi
π ε0 r 2

Hence +q, charge will performs SHM with time period

π r 2 ε0 m
T= 2 π
λq

In case II: Resultant force will act along the direction of

displacement.

 ρ
Sol 17: (D) E = CC
3 ε0 1 2
C1 ⇒ Centre of sphere and C2 ⇒ centre of cavity.