16

Electrostatic Potential
and Capacitance
TOPIC 1 So, the potential of the bigger drop,
σ 1 q1 R2
2
K × 27q Kq ⇒ =
Electrostatic Potential V′ =
3r
⇒ V′ =9
r σ 2 q 2 R 12
and Potential Energy V ′ = 9V [from Eq. (i)] σ 1 R1 R2
2
⇒ = [from Eq. (i)]
= 9 × 220 = 1980 V σ 2 R 2 R 12
01 Twenty seven drops of same size σ 1 R2
are charged at 220 V each. They 02 Two charged spherical conductors ⇒ =
σ 2 R1
combine to form a bigger drop. of radii R 1 and R 2 are connected
Calculate the potential of the bigger by a wire. Then, the ratio of
surface charge densities of the
03 The variation of electrostatic
drop. [NEET 2021]
potential with radial distance r
(a) 660 V (b) 1320 V spheres (σ 1 / σ 2 ) is [NEET 2021]
R2
from the centre of a positively
(c) 1520 V (d) 1980 V R1
(a) (b) charged metallic thin shell of
R2 R1
Ans. (d) radius R is given by the graph
Given, the number of small drops, n = 27 R  R12 [NEET (Oct.) 2020]
(c)  1  (d)
Potential on each charged drop,V = 220 V  R2  R22 V
Consider r be the radius of the small
drops and R be the radius of the bigger Ans. (b) (a)
drop. When two charged spherical
According to the question, 27 small conductors are connected by a
r
drops of same size combine to form a conducting wire, then the potential R
bigger drop. So, the volume remains becomes same in both the spherical
V
same, i.e. conductor, i.e. V1 = V2
Vbigger = 27 × Vsmall Kq 1 Kq 2 q R (b)
⇒ = ⇒ 1 = 1 …(i)
4 4 R1 R2 q2 R2
⇒ πR 3 = 27 × πr 3
3 3 As we know that, the surface charge r
⇒ R 3 = 27 × r 3 ⇒ R = 3 r density of the charged spherical R
V
Now, the potential of the small drop, conductor,
Kq q
V= …(i) σ= (c)
r 4 πR 2
Here, q is the charge on the small drop. where, q is the charge on the spherical r
The potential of the bigger drop, conductor, R
KQ r is the radius of the spherical V
V′ =
R conductor.
q1 (d)
Here, Q is the charge on the bigger
drop. σ 1 4 πR 12
∴ =
The charge on the bigger drop is 27 σ2 q2 r
times the charge on the smaller drop, 4 πR 22 R
i.e. Q = 27q
 Ans. (b) 1 After separation, the new surface
9 × 10 9 × 16 × 10 −9 ×
p cosθ 2 charge densities on P and Q will be
Since, electric potential remains V= =
constant inside the metallic spherical 4 π ε0 r 2 (0.6) 2 Q′ 1 Qt 1 20 πσR 2 5
σP = P = = = σ
shell and same as the surface of = 2 × 10 2 = 200 V Area 3 Area 3 4 πR 2 3
spherical shell. Hence, correct option is (a). Q Q′ 2 Qt 2 20 πσR 2
1 and σ Q = = = ×
Outside the spherical shell, V ∝ Area 3 Area 3 4 π (2R) 2
r 06 Two metal spheres, one of radius 2 5 5
Hence, variation of potential (V ) with = × σ= σ
R and the other of radius 2R 3 4 6
distance r is given as respectively have the same
V surface charge density σ. They are 07 The diagrams below show regions
brought in contact and separated. of equipotentials.
1 What will be the new surface 20 V 40 V 20 V 40 V
V∝ r
charge densities on them?
[NEET (Odisha) 2019] A B A B
r
R 5 5
(a) σ 1 = σ, σ2 = σ 10 V 30 V 10 V 30 V
6 2
04 In a certain region of space with 5 5
(b) σ 1 = σ, σ2 = σ
volume 0.2m3 , the electric 2 6 40 V
5 5 10 V 30 V 20 V
potential is found to be 5 V (c) σ 1 = σ, σ2 = σ
throughout. The magnitude of 2 3
5 5 A B A B
electric field in this region is (d) σ 1 = σ, σ2 = σ
[NEET (Sep.) 2020]
3 6 10 V
20 V 40 V 30 V
(a) 0.5 N/C (b) 1 N/C Ans. (d) (iii) (iv)
(c) 5 N/C (d) zero The surface charge density of a closed A positive charge is moved from A
surface area having charge Q is given by
Ans. (d) Charge Q to B in each diagram. [NEET 2017]
σ= = or Q = σA (a) Maximum work is required to
Given, volume,V = 0.2m3 Area A
Electric potential = 5 V = constant move q in figure (iii)
Thus, the charges on sphere P and Q
Electric field = ? having same charge density as shown in (b) In all the four cases, the work
the figure below is given by done is the same
We know that, for constant electric
potential the value of electric field is s (c) Minimum work is required to move
zero. s q in figure (i)
−dV −d (5 ) (d) Maximum work is required to
i.e., E= = =0
dr dr move q in figure (ii)
R 2R
Hence, correct option is (d). Ans. (b)
P We know that,
05 A short electric dipole has a dipole Q Work done (W) = q ∆V
moment of 16 × 10 −9 C-m. The
Q P = σ × 4 πR = 4 πσR
2 2
…(i) ∆V is same in all the cases. So, work
electric potential due to the dipole done will be same in the all cases.
and Q Q = σ × 4 π (2R) 2 = 16 πσR 2 …(ii)
at a point at a distance of 0.6 m
when they are brought in contact with
from the centre of the dipole, each other, the total charge will be 08 If potential (in volts) in a region is
situated on a line making an angle Q t = QP + QQ expressed as
of 60° with the dipole axis is = 4 πσR 2 + 16 πσR 2 V (x, y, z) = 6xy − y + 2yz, the
 1  [From Eq. (i) and (ii)] electric field (in N/C) at point (1, 1,
 = 9 × 10 9 Nm2 / C 2  = 20 πσR 2 …(iii)
 4πε 0  0) is [CBSE AIPMT 2015]
In connection of two charged (a) − (3i$ + 5 $j + 3k$ ) (b) − (6 i$ + 5 $j + 2 k$ )
[NEET (Sep.) 2020]
conducting bodies, the potential will
(a) 200 V (b) 400 V (c) zero (d) 50 V become same on both, i.e. (c) − (2 $i + 3$j + k$ ) (d) − (6 i$ + 9 $j + k$ )
Ans. (a) QP QQ
= Ans. (b)
Given, electric dipole moment, 4 π ∈0 R 4 π ∈0 2R Given, potential in a region,
p = 16 × 10 −9 C-m Q Q Q 1 V = 6xy − y + 2yz.
⇒ P = Q ⇒ P =
Distance, r = 0.6 m R 2R QQ 2 Electric field in a region,
1 ∂V $ ∂V $ ∂V $
Angle, θ = 60 ° ⇒ cos60 ° = So, the charges on the sphere P and Q E=− i− j − k
2 ∂x ∂y ∂z
after separation will be distributed as
Electric potential at a point which is at a 1 2
⇒ Q P′ = Q t and Q Q′ = Q t ⇒ E = − 6y$i − (6x − 1) $j − 2y k$
distance r at some angleθ from electric 3 3
dipole is
 +q –q
At, (1, 1, 0), electric field can be expressed, 11 A, B and C are three points in a
E = − (6 × 1 $i ) − (6 × 1 − 1) $j − 2 × 1. k$ uniform electric field. The electric L
= − (6 i$ + 5 $j + 2 k$ ) N / C potential is [NEET 2013]
A
A
09 A conducting sphere of radius R is B
E
L
given a charge Q. The electric
C
potential and the electric field at the +q 2L –q
centre of the sphere respectively (a) maximum at A
are (b) maximum at B 1 2q  1 
[CBSE AIPMT 2014] (a) 1 + 
Q (c) maximum at C 4 πε 0 L  5
(a) zero and (d) same at all the three points
4 πε 0 R 2 1 2q  1 
A, B and C (b) 1 − 
Q 4 πε 0 L  5
(b) and zero Ans. (b)
4 πε 0 R (c) zero
Q Q The electric field is maximum at B, 1 2q
(c) and because electric field is directed along (d) (1 + 5 )
4 πε 0 R 4 πε 0 R 2 4 πε 0 L
decreasing potentialVB > VC > VA .
(d) Both are zero Ans. (b)
Ans. (b) 12 Four point charges −Q, − q,2q and Potential at any distance r due to a
In a conducting sphere charge is 2Q are placed, one at each corner point charge is given by,
present on the surface of the sphere. kq  1 
of the square. The relation V= k = 
So, electric field inside will be zero and between Q and q for which the r  4πε0 
potential remains constant from centre
potential at the centre of the Given, V = 2Vpositive + 2Vnegative
to surface of sphere and is equal to
1 Q square is zero, is 1  2q 2q 
= −
4 πε0 R [CBSE AIPMT 2012] 4 πε0  L L 5 
1
(a) Q = − q (b) Q = − 2q  1 
q V= 1 − 
10 In a region, the potential is 4 π ε0 L  5
represented by V (x, y, z) 1
(c) Q = q (d) Q =
= 6x − 8xy − 8y + 6yz, where V is in q 14 The electric potential at a point
volts and x, y, z are in metres. The (x, y, z) is given by V = − x 2 y − xz 3 + 4
Ans. (a)
electric force experienced by a
As, shown in figure The electric field E at that point is
charge of 2 C situated at point [CBSE AIPMT 2009]
–q 2q
(1, 1, 1) is [CBSE AIPMT 2014]
(a) E = (2 xy + z ) i$ + x 2 $j + 3xz 2 k$
3

(a) 6 5 N (b) 30 N
(c) 24 N (d) 4 35 N (b) E = 2 xy $i + (x 2 + y 2 ) $j + (3xz − y 2 ) k$
Ans. (d) O (c) E = z 3 $i + xyz$j + z 2 k$
As we know that relation between (d) E = (2 xy − z 3 ) i$ + xy 2 $j + 3z 2 xk$
potential difference and electric fieldE 2Q
–Q
in a particular region is given by, Ans. (a)
dV If potential at centre is zero, then
E=− Potential gradient relates with electric
dr V1 + V2 + V3 + V4 = 0 field according to the following relation,
kQ kq k2 Q k2q − dV
As V = 6x − 8xy − 8y + 6yz ⇒− − + + =0 E=
r r r r dr
dV
So, E = − E=−
dV
dr ⇒ − Q − q + 2q + 2 Q = 0
dr
∴ Q = −q
= − [(6 − 8y) $i + (−8x − 8 + 6z) $j + 6yk$ ] As V = − x 2 y − xz 3 + 4
The value of E at coordinate (1, 1, 1) 13 Four electric charges dV $ dV $ dV $
So, E=− i− j− k
E = − [−2$i − 10 $j + 6k$ ] +q, + q, − q and − q are placed at the dx dy dz
corners of a square of side 2 L E = (2 xy + z 3 ) i$ + x 2 $j + 3xz 2k$
So, E net = (−2) 2 + (−10) 2 + 62
(see figure). The electric potential
= 2 35N/C at point A, mid-way between the 15 Three concentric spherical shells
and force on chargeq due to E net is two charges + q and + q is have radii a, b and c (a < b < c) and
given by [CBSE AIPMT 2011] have surface charge densities
F = q E net = 2 × 2 35 = 4 35 N σ, − σ and σ respectively. If
 VA , VB and VC denote the potentials 17 Charges + q and − q are placed at 18 Two charges q 1 and q 2 are placed
of the three shells, then for points A and B respectively which 30 cm apart, as shown in the
c = a + b, we have are a distance 2L apart, C is the figure. A third charge q 3 is moved
[CBSE AIPMT 2009] midpoint between A and B. The along the arc of a circle of radius
(a) VC = VA ≠ VB (b) VC = VB ≠ VA work done in moving a charge + Q 40 cm from C to D. The change in
(c) VC ≠ VB ≠ VA (d) VC = VB = VA along the semicircle CRD is the potential energy of the system
Ans. (d) [CBSE AIPMT 2007] q
1 σ4 π a 2
1 σ4 π b 2 R is 3 k , where k is
VA = − 4πε 0
4 π ε0 a 4 π ε0 b
[CBSE AIPMT 2005]
1 σ4 πc 2 q3
+ ⋅ C
4 π ε0 c
A C B D
σ σ
= (a − b + c) = (2a) qQ qQ
ε0 ε0 (a) (b) 40 cm
4 πε 0 L 2 πε 0 L
(Qc = a + b) qQ qQ
1 σ4 π a 2 1 σ4 π b 2 (c) (d) − q2
VB = ⋅ − 6 πε 0 L 6 πε 0 L q1
D
4 π ε0 c 4 π ε0 b A 30 cm B
Ans. (d)
1 σ4 πc 2 (a) 8 q 2 (b) 8 q 1
+ ⋅ In case I, when charge + Q is situated at
4 π ε0 c (c) 6 q 2 (d) 6 q 1
C.
σ a2  σ Ans. (a)
=  − b + c  = (2a) +q +Q –q
ε0  c  ε0 When chargeq 3 is at C, then its potential
A C B energy is
(Qc = a + b) L L 1  q1 q3 q2 q3 
1 σ4 π a 2 1 σ4 π b 2 UC =  + 
and VC = ⋅ − 4 πε0  0.4 0.5 
4 π ε0 c 4 π ε0 c 2L
1 σ4 πc 2 Electric potential energy of system, When chargeq 3 is at D, then potential
+ ⋅ 1 (q) (− q) 1 (− q) Q
4 π ε0 c U1 = + energy is
4 πε0 2L 4 π ε0 L 1  q1 q3 q2 q3 
σ a2 b2  σ UD =  + 
=  − + c  = (2a) 1 qQ 4 πε0  0.4 0.1 
ε0  c c  ε0 +
4 π ε0 L Hence, change in potential energy
(Qc = a + b)
Hence,VA = VC = VB In case II, when charge + Q is moved 1  q2 q3 q2 q3 
∆U = U D − U C =  – 
from C to D. 4 πε0  0.1 0.5 
16 The electric potential at a point in +q –q +Q q
but ∆U = 3 k
free space due to a charge Q A B D 4πε0
coulomb is Q × 10 11 V. The electric 2L L q3 1  q2 q3 q2 q3 
k=  – 
field at that point is 4 πε0 4 πε0  0.1 0.5 
[CBSE AIPMT 2008] Electric potential energy of system in
that case, k = q 2 (10 − 2) = 8q 2
(a) 4 πε 0 Q × 10 V/m22
1 (q) (− q) 1 qQ
(b) 12 πε 0 Q × 1020 V/m U2 = ⋅ + ⋅
4 π ε0 2L 4 π ε0 3 L 19 As per this diagram a point charge
(c) 4 πε 0 Q × 1020 V/m 1 (− q) (Q )
(d) 12 πε 0 Q × 1022 V/m + +q is placed at the origin O. Work
4 π ε0 L done in taking another point charge
Ans. (a)
As we know that work done in moving a – Q from the point A
As potential at any point due to a point charge is equal to change in potential [coordinates (0, a)] to another
charge is given by, energy between the points it has been
kQ  1 
point B [coordinates (a, 0)] along
V= moved.
k =  the straight path AB is
r  4πε0  Work done, ∆U = U 2 − U 1
 [CBSE AIPMT 2005]
1 Q 1 q2 1 qQ 1 qQ 
V= × = − + ⋅ − 
 4 πε0 2L 4 πε0 3L 4 πε0 L  Y
4 π ε0 r
1 Q  1 q 2
1 qQ 1 qQ  A
E= × − − − ⋅ + 
4 π ε0 r 2  4 πε0 2L 4 πε0 L 4 π ε0 L 
4 π ε0 V 2 Q 2 × 10 22 qQ  1 1  qQ (1 − 3)
E= = 4 π ε0 × = ⋅ − =
Q Q 4 π ε0  3 L L  4 π ε0 3 L X
− 2qQ qQ O B
E = 4 πε0 Q × 10 22 V/m = =−
12 πε0 L 6 π ε0 L
 (a) zero Ans. (c) 24 An electron of mass m and charge
 − qQ 1  Concept An equipotential surface has e is accelerated from rest through
(b)   2a
 4 πε 0 a 2  a constant value of potential at all a potential difference of V volt in
points on its surface. The surface and
 qQ 1  a vacuum. Its final speed will be
(c)  . interior of a charged conductor is
 4 πε 0 a 2  2 equipotential. Therefore, the potential [CBSE AIPMT 1996]
eV eV
 qQ 1  is same throughout the charged (a) (b)
(d)   2a conductor. 2m m
 4 πε 0 a 2 
2eV eV
22 Identical charges (−q) are placed (c) (d)
Ans. (a) m 2m
1 q at each corners of a cube of side
Potential at A, VA =
4 πε0 a b, then the electrostatic potential Ans. (c)
y In J J Thomson’s method, as the
energy of charge (+q) placed at the
electron beam is accelerated from
A
centre of the cube will be cathode to anode, its potential energy
[CBSE AIPMT 2002] at the cathode appears as gain in
4 2 q2 8 2 q2 kinetic energy at the anode. IfV is the
a (a) − (b)
π ε0 π ε0 b potential difference between cathode
and anode, then potential energy of
4 q2 8 2 q2
O a B x (c) − (d) electron at cathode
3 π ε0 b 4 π ε0 b = charge × potential difference = eV
Potential at B,
1 q Gain in kinetic energy of electron at
VB = Ans. (c)
anode
4 πε0 a Electrostatic potential energy of charge 1
+q placed at the centre of cube is = mv 2
Thus, work done in carrying a test 2
charge − Q from A to B 1 q (−q)
U=8× × According to conservation of energy,
W = (VA − VB ) (− Q ) = 0 4 πε0 half - diagonal distance
we have
1 −q 2
=8× 1
eV = mv 2
20 A bullet of mass 2 g is having a 4 πε0 3 2
b
charge of 2 µC. Through what 2  2eV 
potential difference must it be diagonal of cube = 3b  ∴ v=  
 m 
accelerated, starting from rest, to  
 where, b = side of cube
acquire a speed of 10 m/s? −4q 2 25 There is an electric field E in
[CBSE AIPMT 2004] =
3 πε0b x-direction. If the work done on
(a) 5 kV (b) 50 kV (c) 5 V (d) 50 V
moving a charge of 0.2 C through a
Ans. (b) 23 In bringing an electron towards distance of 2 m along a line making
Kinetic energy of bullet = qV another electron, the electrostatic an angle 60° with x-axis is 4 J, then
q = charge on bullet 
V = potential difference  potential energy of the system what is the value of E ?
  [CBSE AIPMT 1999] [CBSE AIPMT 1995]
From energy conservation, (a) decreases (b) increases (a) 3 N/C (b) 4 N/C
1 mv 2
mv 2 = qV ⇒ V = (c) remains same (d) becomes zero (c) 5 N/C (d) 20 N/C
2 2q
Ans. (b) Ans. (d)
Given, m = 2 g = 2 × 10 −3 kg, v = 10 m / s , The electron has negative charge. Work done in moving the charge,
q = 2 µC = 2 × 10 −6 C When an electron is brought towards W = Fd cosθ
Substituting the values in relation forV, another electron, then due to same As F = qE
we obtain negative charges repulsive force is ∴ W = qEd cosθ
2 × 10 −3 × (10) 2 produced between them. So, to bring W
V= them closer a work is done against this or E=
2 × 2 × 10 −6 q d cosθ
repulsive force. This work is stored in
= 50 × 10 3 V = 50 kV the form of electrostatic potential Here, q = 0.2 C, d = 2m
energy. Thus, electrostatic potential θ = 60 ° , W = 4 J
21 Some charge is being given to a 4
energy of system increases. ∴ E=
conductor, then its potential is Alternative 0.2 × 2 × cos 60 °
[CBSE AIPMT 2002] Electrostatic potential energy of = 20 N/C
(a) maximum at surface system of two electrons Alternative
(b) maximum at centre 1 ( − e) ( − e) 1 e2 As we know that potential at any point
U= =
(c) same throughout the conductor 4 πε0 r 4 πε0 r in the direction ofθ and electric fieldE
(d) maximum somewhere between Thus, as r decreases, potential energy U is given bydV = − E ⋅dr
surface and centre increases.
  negative sign indicates decreasing  σ σ ε0 A
  (a) (b) (R − r) ∴ Capacitance, C =
 potential in direction of electric field  ε0 ε0 (d − t) +
t
σ k
So, for the given situation (c) (R + r) (d) None of these ε0 A
ε0 =
dr = d cosθ  d  d /2
So, dV = Ed cosθ d −  +
Ans. (c)  2 4
Now, work done for a charge moving in
Let Q and q be the charges on the ε0 A 8 ε0 A
potential differencedV is given by = = ⋅
spheres. The potential at the common d d 5 d
W = q dV centre will be +
⇒ W = qEd cosθ 2 8
1 Q 4 q 8 ε0 A
Given, q = 0.2 C, d = 2 m, θ = 60 ° , W = 4 J V=  +   ⋅
4 π ε0  R  4 π ε0  r  C C 8
So, 4 J = 0.2 × E × 2 × cos 60 ° ∴ =5 d ⇒ =
4  Q
1 q  C0 ε0 A C0 5
⇒ E= × 2 = 20 J =  4 πR 2 × R + 4 πr 2 × r 
0.2 × 2 ε0  d
Q q ⇒ C :C 0 = 8 : 5
But, = = σ
26 A hollow metal sphere of radius 10 4 πR 2 4 πr 2
cm is charged such that the 1 29 The capacitance of a parallel plate
∴ V= [σ R + σ r]
potential on its surface is 80 V. ε0 capacitor with air as medium is 6
The potential at the centre of the σ µF. With the introduction of a
= (R + r)
sphere is [CBSE AIPMT 1994] ε0 dielectric medium, the
(a) zero (b) 80 V capacitance becomes 30 µF. The
(c) 800 V (d) 8 V TOPIC 2 permittivity of the medium is
(ε 0 = 8.85 × 10 −12 C 2 N −1 m −2 )
Ans. (b) Capacitors and Capacitance [NEET (Sep.) 2020]
In case of spherical metal conductor
hollow or solid for an internal point (a) 1.77 × 10−12 C 2N−1m−2
(i.e. r < R) potential everywhere inside is 28 A parallel plate capacitor having . × 10−10 C 2N−1m−2
(b) 044
same. It is maximum at the surface of cross-sectional area A and (c) 5.00 C 2N−1m−2
sphere and further going out of sphere separation d has air in between . × 10−13 C 2N−1m−2
(d) 044
its value decreases. the plates. Now, an insulating slab Ans. (b)
of same area but thickness d /2 is Given,C 0 = 6µF
inserted between the plates as C m = 30µF
R shown in figure having dielectric ∴ As, dielectric constant
constant K(=4). The ratio of new C 30
K = εr = m = =5
capacitance to its original C0 6
capacitance will be Permittivity of the medium,
[NEET (Oct.) 2020]
1 .q εm = K × ε0 = 5 × ε0
Vs = d
4πε0 R = 5 × 8.85 × 10 −12
V
= 0.44 × 10 −10 C2 N−1 m−2
V ∝ 1/r
r<R Hence, correct option is (b).
K
r>R
30 The electrostatic force between
r=R r the metal plates of an isolated
So, according to above graph parallel plate capacitor C having a
Vin = Vcentre = Vsurface d/2 charge Q and area A, is [NEET 2018]
1 q
= × = 80 V (a) proportional to the square root of
4 πε0 R (a) 2 : 1 (b) 8 : 5 the distance between the plates
[QVsurface = 80 V] (c) 6 : 5 (d) 4 : 1 (b) linearly proportional to the
Ans. (b) distance between the plates
27 Two concentric spheres of radii R Capacitance of parallel plate capacitor (c) independent of the distance
and r have similar charges with when medium is air between the plates
equal surface charge densities (σ). ε A (d) inversely proportional to the
C0 = 0 … (i)
What is the electric potential at d distance between the plates
their common centre ? According to second condition, Ans. (c)
[CBSE AIPMT 1991] A ′ = A, t = d /2, k = 4 As we know that, the total work done in
transferring a charge to a parallel plate
capacitor is given as
 Q2 Given capacitor is equivalent to P + – Q
W= …(i)
2C capacitors K 1 , K 2 and K 3 in parallel and
+ –
part of K 4 in series with them
where,C is the capacitance of the + –
capacitor. –
+
We can also wirte a relation for work C1 C2 C3 –
K1 K2 K3 +
done as,
+ –
W = F ⋅d …(ii) K4 K4 K4 C4/3 C4/3 C4/3
+ –
where,F is the electrostatic force –
between the plates of capacitor andd is +
K1 K2
the distance between the plates.
1 3 3d 3d
From Eqs. (i) and (ii), we get + = + The variation of electric field E
C 1 C 4 2K 1 ε0 A 2K 4 ε0 A
Q 2 between the plates with distance
W= = Fd 3d  1 1 
= d as measured from plate P is
 + 
2C
Q2 2ε0 A  K 1 K 4  correctly shown by
⇒ F= …(iii)
2Cd Kε A [CBSE AIPMT 2014]
⇒ Ceq = 0
As, the capacitance of a parallel plate is d
E
given as 2ε0 A  K 1K 4 K K K K 
ε A =  + 2 4 + 3 4 
C= 0 3d  K 1 + K 4 K 2 + K 4 K 3 + K 4  (a)
d
2 K K K K K K  0
Substituting the value ofC in Eq. (iii), we K=  1 4 + 2 4 + 3 4  d
get 3 K 1 + K 4 K 2 + K 4 K 3 + K 4 
Q 2d Q2 E
F= = No option is matching.
2 ε0 Ad 2 ε0 A
(b)
This means, electrostatic force is 32 A parallel plate air capacitor has
independent of the distance between capacity C, distance of separation 0
the plates. d
between plates is d and potential
difference V is applied between E
31 A parallel-plate capacitor of area the plates. Force of attraction
A, plate separation d and (c)
between the plates of the parallel
capacitance C is filled with four plate air capacitor is 0
dielectric materials having [CBSE AIPMT 2015] d
dielectric constants k 1 , k 2 , k 3 and C2 V2 CV 2 CV 2 C 2V 2 E
(a) (b) (c) (d)
k 4 as shown in the figure below. If 2d 2d d 2d 2
a single dielectric material is to be (d)
Ans. (b)
used to have the same 0
Force between plates of parallel
capacitance C in this capacitor, capacitor,
d
then its dielectric constant k is  σ  Ans.(c)
given by [NEET 2016] F =q E =q   Graph (c) will be the right graph, the
 2ε0 
A/3 A/3 A/3 electric field inside the dielectrics will
q
QSurface charge density σ = be less than the electric field outside
A the dielectrics. The electric field inside
k1 k2 k3 d/2  q  q2 the dielectrics could not be zero.
∴ F =q   ⇒ F=
d  2Aε0  2Aε0 E
k4 So, net charge across a capacitor,q = CV
C 2V 2  Aε 
F= C= 0
A 2Aε0  d 
 Aε0 
 × CV
2
(a) k = k 1 + k 2 + k 3 + 3k 4 
 d 
2
CV
2 ⇒ F= = O
a
(b) k = (k 1 + k 2 + k 3 ) + 2k 4 2 A ε0 2d
3 As K 2 > K 1 , the drop in electric field for
2 3 1 K 2 dielectric must be more thanK 1 .
(c) = + 33 Two thin dielectric slabs of
k k1 + k2 + k3 k4
dielectric constants K 1 and K 2 34 A parallel plate air capacitor is
1 1 1 1 3
(d) = + + + (K 1 < K 2 ) are inserted between charged to a potential difference
k k 1 k 2 k 3 2k 4
plates of a parallel plate capacitor, of V volts. After disconnecting the
Ans. (*) as shown in the figure. charging battery the distance
 between the plates of the 37 A parallel plate capacitor has a
Comparing Eqs. (i) and (ii), we get
capacitor is increased using an C = KC 0 uniform electric field E in the
C C
insulating handle. As a result the ⇒ C0 = = (K = 2)
space between the plates. If the
potential difference between the K 2 distance between the plates is d
plates [CBSE AIPMT 2006] and the area of each plate is A ,
(a) decreases (b) does not change
TOPIC 3 the energy stored in the capacitor
(c) becomes zero (d) increases Combination of Capacitors and is (ε 0 = permittivity of free space).
Ans. (d) Energy Stored in a Capacitor [NEET 2021]
1
If the battery is removed after charging, (a) ε 0 E 2 (b) ε 0 EAd
then the charge stored in the capacitor 2
36 The equivalent capacitance of the 1 E 2 Ad
remains constant. (c) ε 0 E 2 Ad (d)
combination shown in the figure is ε0
q = constant 2
[NEET 2021]
Change in capacitance, Ans. (c)
ε A C
C′ = 0 We know that, capacitance of a parallel
d′ plate capacitor,
As d′> d Aε
C C= 0 …(i)
Hence, C′< C d
As, potential difference between the The relation between the potential
plates of capacitor is given by difference (V ) and electric field (E),
C
q V = Ed
V= …(ii)
C (a) 3C (b) 2C The energy stored in the capacitor,
So, for the new capacitor formed C 3C 1
1
(c) (d) U = CV 2
V′ ∝ [q = constant] 2 2 2
C′ 1  ε A
Ans. (b) U =  0  (Ed) 2
As capacitance decreases, so potential
Consider the nodes be A, B, E and F 2 d 
difference increases. as shown in the figure [Q from Eqs. (i) and (ii)]
NOTE 1 1
C
F U= (ε0 A)(E) 2 d = ε0 E 2 Ad
If the battery remains connected, the 2 2
charge stored increases. Also, the
potential difference V becomes 38 Two identical capacitors C 1 and C2
C
constant. A B
of equal capacitance are
35 A parallel plate condenser with oil E connected as shown in the circuit.
C
(dielectric constant 2) between Terminals a and b of the key k are
the plates has capacitance C. If oil The potential at node A is equal to the connected to charge capacitor C 1
is removed, the capacitance of potential at node B. using battery of emf V volt. Now,
capacitor becomes Similarly, the potential at F is equal to disconnecting a and b the
[CBSE AIPMT 1999] the potential at node E. terminals b and c are connected.
(a) 2 C (b) 2 C So, there is no potential difference Due to this, what will be the
C C between the EF arms, thus, no current percentage loss of energy?
(c) (d)
2 2 (hence, charge) will flow in the circuit. [NEET (Odisha) 2019]
Ans. (d) So, EF behave as open circuit. k
a c
The capacitance of a parallel plate C
capacitor with dielectric (oil) between b
its plates is V C1 C2
Kε A
C= 0 ...(i)
d A B
where, ε0 = electric permittivity of free
space C (a) 75% (b) 0% (c) 50% (d) 25%
K = dielectric constant of oil
Now, the two capacitors are arranged in Ans. (c)
A = area of each plate of capacitor
parallel. When C 1 is connected to voltage
d = distance between two plates
The net equivalent capacitors, source, it is charged to a potential V and
When dielectric (oil) is removed, so this will be stored as a potential energy
capacitance of capacitor becomes, C eq = C 1 + C 2
ε A in the capacitor given by
C0 = 0 …(ii) ⇒ C eq = C + C 1
d U = CV 2
⇒ C eq = 2C 2
 1 (a) The potential difference between
U 1 = CV 2
2 the plates decreases K times
Finally, potential drop across each (b) The energy stored in the capacitor
capacitor will be still V. decreases K times
So, finally stored energy (c) The change in energy stored is
1 1 
1 1 1
U 2 = CV 2 + CV 2 = (2C) V 2 CV 2  − 1
2 K 
When key is disconnected from battery 2 2 2
and b and c are connected, the charge 1  (d) The charge on the capacitor is not
= 2  CV 2  = 2U 1 conserved
will be transformed from the capacitor 2 
C 1 to capacitor C 2 , Ans. (d)
then 40 A capacitor of 2µF is charged as When a parallel plate air capacitor
connected to a cell of emfV, then
shown in the figure. When the
charge stored will be
switch S is turned to position 2, q
the percentage of its stored q = CV ⇒ V =
C
energy dissipated is [NEET 2016] 1 q2
Also energy stored is U = CV 2 =
1 2 2 2C
The loss of energy due to redistribution
S As the battery is disconnected from the
of charge is given by
C 1C 2 capacitor the charge will not be
∆U = (V1 − V2 ) 2 destroyed, i.e.q ′ = q with the
2(C 1 + C 2 ) V 2 µF
8 µF
C ×C 1 introduction of dielectric in the gap of
= (V − 0) 2 = CV 2 capacitor the new capacitance will be
2(C + C) 4
q q
[QC 1 = C 2 ] C ′ = CK ⇒ V ′ = =
(a) 20% (b) 75% C ′ CK
∆U
∴Percentage loss = × 100 (c) 80% (d) 0% The new energy stored will be
U
Ans. (c) q2
1 2 U′ = ⇒ ∆U = U ′ − U
CV Consider the given figure, 2CK
= 4 × 100 = 50%
1 2 When the switch S is connected to point q2  1  1 2  1 
CV =  − 1 = CV  − 1
2 1, then initial energy stored in the 2C  K  2 K 
1 Hence, option (d) is incorrect
capacitor can be given as = (2µF) × V 2 .
39 A capacitor is charged by a 2
battery. The battery is removed When the switch S is connected to point 42 A parallel plate condenser has a
and another identical uncharged 2, energy dissipated on connection
uniform electric field E (V/m) in
capacitor is connected in parallel. the space between the plates. If
across 8 µF will be
The total electrostatic energy of the distance between the plates is
1 CC 
resulting system [NEET 2017] =  1 2  . V 2 d(m) and area of each plate is
2  C1 + C2  A(m 2 ), the energy (joule) stored in
(a) increases by a factor of 4
1 2µF × 8 µF the condenser is
(b) decreases by a factor of 2 = × ×V2
2 10 µF [CBSE AIPMT 2011]
(c) remains the same 1
(d) increases by a factor of 2 1
= × (16 . µF) × V 2 (a) ε 0 E 2 (b) ε 0 EAd (c)
2 2
Ans.(d) 1
Therefore, % loss of energy ε 0 E 2 Ad (d) E 2 Ad / ε 0
Thinking Process Energy stored in a 2
16
.
= × 100 = 80%.
system of capacitors 2 Ans. (c)
1 As we know that the energy stored in
= Σ CV 2
2 41 A parallel plate air capacitor of the capacitor is given by,
1
capacitance C is connected to a U = CV 2
2
cell of emf V and then C = capacitance of capacitor 
disconnected from it. A dielectric V = voltage across the plate 
 
slab of dielectric constant K, 1  Aε0 
+ – U=  2
which can just fill the air gap of  (Ed)
V 2 d 
the capacitor, is now inserted in it.  ε0 A 
Which of the following is QC = and V = Ed 
Also, potential drop remains same in  d 
parallel across both capacitors. incorrect? [CBSE AIPMT 2015] 1 εo A 1
U= (Ed) , U = ε0 E Ad
2 2

Initially stored energy 2 d 2

43 A series combination of n 1 C1 C2 C3 The work done in charging the
+Q –Q +Q –Q +Q –Q
capacitors, each of value C 1 , is equivalent capacitor is stored in the
V1 V2 V3
charged by a source of potential form of potential energy.
1
difference 4V. When another Hence, W = U = CV 2
2
parallel combination of n2 + – So, for the equivalent capacitorC ′
capacitors, each of value C2 , is 1  3C   3C 
V =   V2 C ′ = 
charged by a source of potential 2 2   2
difference V, it has the same 1 1 1 1 3 2
= + + [QC 1 = C 2 = C 3 = C] = CV
(total) energy stored in it, as the Cs C1 C2 C3 4
first combination has. The value of Cs =
C
C2 , in terms of C 1 , is then 3 47 A network of four capacitors of
[CBSE AIPMT 2010] capacity equal to C 1 = C, C2 = 2 C,
2 C1 n2 45 The energy required to charge a C3 = 3 C and C 4 = 4C are connected
(a) (b) 16 C1
n1 n2 n1 parallel plate condenser of plate to a battery as shown in the figure.
n 16 C 1 separation d and plate area of The ratio of the charges on C2 and
(c) 2 2 C 1 (d) cross-section A such that the
n1 n1 n2 C 4 is [CBSE AIPMT 2005]
uniform electric field between the
Ans. (d) plates E, is [CBSE AIPMT 2008] C2
Case I When the capacitors are joined in 1 ε0 E 2
ε0 E 2

series, (a) (b)

2 Ad Ad C3 C1
1 C1
Useries = (4V ) 2 1 ε0 E2
2 n1 (c) ε 0 E Ad2
(d) C4
Case II When the capacitors are joined 2 Ad
in parallel, Ans. (c)
1
U parallel = (n2 C 2 ) V 2 1
Energy of charged capacitor = CV 2 V
2 2
Given, U series = U parallel 22 3
Aε (a) (b)
Energy given by cell = CV 2 = 0 × (Ed) 2 3 22
1 C1 1 d
So, (4V ) 2 = (n2 C 2 ) V 2 7 4
2 n1 2 As, V = Ed = Aε0 E 2 d (c) (d)
4 7
16C 1
⇒ C2 = 46 Two condensers, one of capacity C Ans. (a)
n2 n1
C The charge flowing throughC 4 is
and the other of capacity , are
2 q 4 = C 4 × V = 4 CV
44 Three capacitors each of The series combination ofC 1 , C 2 and C 3
capacitance C and of breakdown connected to a V volt battery, as
gives
voltage V are joined in series. The shown. 1 1 1 1
= + +
capacitance and breakdown C eq C 2 C 3 C
voltage of the combination will be 6 + 3 + 2 11 6C
= = ⇒ C eq =
[CBSE AIPMT 2009] C 6C 6C 11
C V V V C
(a) , (b) 3C, 2
Charge flowing through capacitorsC 1 ,
3 3 3 C 2 and C 3 will be same as they are in
C
(c) , 3V (d) 3C, 3V series.
3
The work done in charging fully So, q 1 flowing through C 1 , C 2 and C 3 is
Ans. (c) given by
both the condensers is 6C
In series arrangement charge on each q 1 = C eq V = ×V
[CBSE AIPMT 2007] 11
plate of all the capacitors have same
magnitude. The potential difference is 2 1
(a) 2 CV (b) CV 2 Now, ratio of charge onC 4 and C 2 is
distributed inversely in the ratio of 4 given by,
capacitors, i.e. 3 2 1 q 4 4CV × 11 22
(c) CV (d) CV 2 = =
V = V1 + V2 + V3[QV1 = V2 = V3 = V ] 4 2 q1 6CV 3
Here, V = 3V Ans. (c)
The equivalent capacitanceCs is given The two condensers in the circuit are in 48 Three capacitors each of capacity
by parallel order, hence 4µF are to be connected in such a
C 3C way that the effective capacitance
C′ = C + =
2 2 is 6µF. This can be done by
[CBSE AIPMT 2003]
(a) connecting two in series and one 49 A capacitor of capacity C 1 is 51 A capacitor is charged by
in parallel connecting a battery across its
(b) connecting two in parallel and one charged upto potential V volt and
then connected in parallel to an plates. It stores energy U. Now the
in series
(c) connecting all of them in series uncharged capacitor of capacity battery is disconnected and
(d) connecting all of them in parallel C2 . The final potential difference another identical capacitor is
across each capacitor will be connected across it, then the
Ans. (a)
[CBSE AIPMT 2002] energy stored by both capacitors
Given, C 1 = C 2 = C 3 = 4 µF
C2V C 1V of the system will be
(a) The network of three capacitors can (a) (b)
be shown as C1 + C2 C1 + C2 [CBSE AIPMT 2000]
U 3
4µ F 4µ F  C   C  (a) U (b) (c) 2 U (d) U
(c) 1 + 2  V (d) 1 − 2  V 2 2
 C1   C1 
C1 C2 Ans. (b)
A B Ans. (b) When a capacitor is charged by
4 µF The common potential difference connecting a battery across its plates,
across two capacitors connected in the initial energy stored,
C3 parallel. q2
C V + C 2 V2 U=
Here, C 1 and C 2 are in series and the Veq = 1 1 2C
C1 + C2
combination of two is in parallel withC 3 . When the battery is disconnected, then
C C  4 × 4 Here, potential of charged capacitor
C net = 1 2 + C 3 =   +4 the charge remains constant i.e.
C1 + C2  4 + 4 V1 = V ,
potential of uncharged capacitorV2 = 0 q = constant. Now, another identical
= 2 + 4 = 6µF C 1V capacitor is connected across it i.e. the
∴ Veq =
(b) The corresponding network is shown C1 + C2 capacitors are connected in parallel, so
in figure below
the equivalent capacitance
4 µF
50 In a parallel plate capacitor, the Ceq = C 1 + C 2
4µ F = C + C = 2C
C1 distance between the plates is d
4µ F and potential difference across Thus, final energy stored by the system
C3 plates is V. Energy stored per unit of capacitors,
A C2 B
volume between the plates of q2 q2
U′ = ⇒ U′ =
capacitor is [CBSE AIPMT 2001] 2 C eq 2 (2 C)
Here, C 1 and C 2 are in parallel and this Q2 1 ε 0V 2 1
U′ = U
combination is in series withC 3 . (a) (b)
2V 2 2 d2 2
(C + C 2 ) × C 3 (4 + 4) × 4 U
So, C net = 1 = 1 V2 1 V2 ∴ U′ =
(C1 + C 2 )+ C 3 (4 + 4) + 4 (c) (d) ε 0 2
32 8
2 ε 0d 2 2 d
= = µF
12 3 Ans. (b) 52 The effective capacitance
(c) The corresponding network is shown Energy stored, in parallel plate between points X and Y of figure
below. capacitor is given by shown is [CBSE AIPMT 1999]
All of three capacitors are in series. 1 q2 6 µF
U=
1 1 1 1 1 1 1 3 2 C
So, = + + = + + =
C net C1 C 2 C 3 4 4 4 4 q ε A
but σ = and C = 0 6 µF 6 µF
4 A d X Y
∴ C = µF A C B D
3 1 (σA) 2 Aσ 2 d 6 µF
∴ U= =
(d) The corresponding network is shown 2  ε0 A  2 ε0
 
below.  d  6 µF
2
C1 1σ (a) 6 µF (b) 12µF (c) 18 µF (d) 24 µF
or =   × ε0 Ad
4 µF 2  ε0 
Ans. (a)
C2 1
or U = E 2 ε0 Ad The given circuit can be redrawn as,
A B 2
4 µF B
C3 Energy stored per unit volume i.e.
energy density is thus given by 6 µF 6 µF
4 µF U U 1
u= = = ε0 E 2 X 6 µF Y
All of them are in parallel. V Ad 2 A D
2
So, C net =C1 + C 2 + C 3 1 V  1 V2 6 µF 6 µF
⇒ = ε0   = ε0 2
= 4 + 4 + 4 = 12µF 2  d  2 d C
Thus, options (a) is correct.
 It is a balanced Wheatstone’s bridge Ans. (c) As from the given diagram, potential
 C AB C AC 6  Energy stored in a charged capacitor is difference across each capacitor is
 as 
 C = C = 6 . in the form of electric field energy and it 200 V.
 BD CD  resides in the dielectric medium So, charge on each plate of capacitor is
So, potential of B and C are equal and a 6 between the plates. This energy stored given by
µF capacitor between B and C is in the capacitor is given by Q = ± CV
ineffective. The simplified circuit is 1
U = CV 2 C = capacitance of capacitor 
shown as below. 2 V = voltage or potential difference
If initial potential isV1 and final potential  
6 µF 6 µF  across the capactor 
is V2 , then increase in energy (∆U)
−6 −3
1
∆U = C (V22 − V12 ) = ± 25 × 10 × 200 = ± 5 × 10 C
X Y 2
1 55 A 4µF capacitor is charged to 400
= × (6 × 10 −6 ) × [(20) 2 − (10) 2 ]
2
6 µF 6 µF
V and then its plates are joined
= (3 × 10 −6 ) × 300 = 9 × 10 −4 J
Capacitors of 6 µF and 6 µF in upper arms
through a resistance of 1 kΩ. The
are in series order, so 54 The four capacitors, each of 25µF heat produced in the resistance is
6 × 6 36 [CBSE AIPMT 1989]
C ′eq 1 = = = 3 µF are connected as shown in figure.
6 + 6 12 (a) 0.16 J (b) 1.28 J
The DC voltmeter reads 200 V. (c) 0.64 J (d) 0.32 J
Similarly,6 µF and 6 µF in lower arms are
in series order, so
The charge on each plate of Ans. (d)
6×6 capacitor is [CBSE AIPMT 1994]
C ″ eq 2 = = 3µF The energy stored in the capacitor
6+6 1
V = CV 2 .
Now, C ′eq 1 and C ″ eq 2 are in 2
parallel, hence – + – + This energy will be converted into heat
C net = C ′eq 1 + C ″ eq 2 in the resistor.
– + – +
= 3 + 3 = 6 µF ∴ Heat produced = energy stored
1
= CV 2
53 If the potential of a capacitor 2
having capacity 6µF is increased 1
= × 4 × 10 −6 × (400) 2
from 10 V to 20 V, then increase in (a) ± 2 × 10−3 C (b) ± 5 × 10−3 C 2
its energy will be (c) ± 2 × 10−2 C (d) ± 5 × 10−2 C = 0.32 J
[CBSE AIPMT 1995]
Ans. (b)
(a) 4 × 10−4 J (b) 4 × 10−14 J
(c) 9 × 10− 4 J (d) 12 × 10−6 J