1 ELECTROSTATICS

EXERCISE–1: Basic Objective Questions

Electric Charge and its Properties Qe = 1.6 10−19 = 1e −
1
 1C = e−
1.6 10−19
1. A glass rod when rubbed with silk cloth acquires
1C = 0.625  1019 e− = 6.25  1018 e−
(a) +ve charge and silk cloth acquires equal –ve
charge
4. A spherical conducting ball is suspended by a
(b) No charge
conducting thread. A positive point charge is moved
(c) –ve charge and silk cloth acquires equal +ve near the ball. The ball will
charge
(a) be attracted to the point charge and swing towards
(d) +ve charge and silk cloth acquires more –ve it
charge
(b) be repelled from the point charge and swing away
Ans. (a) from it
Sol. When a glass rod is rubbed with a silk cloth, electrons (c) not be affected by the point charge
from the glass rod move to the silk cloth. During this
(d) either (a) or (b)
process, the glass rod becomes positively charged and
the silk cloth becomes negatively charged. Also, the Ans. (a)
magnitude of the charge on the silk cloth is the same Sol. When a positive point charge comes closer to
as that on the glass rod. conducting ball, negative charges will be induced on
2. Frictional electricity is produced on the two objects the side of ball facing positive point charge. This
due to: process is also known as induction. Due to this
(a) Loss of electrons by one object induced opposite charge, there will be an attractive
(b) Loss of protons by one object force between positive and negative charge.
(c) Loss of electrons by one object and equal number 5. When 1019electrons are removed from a neutral metal
of electrons gained by the other object plate, the electric charge on it is
(d) Loss of protons by one object and equal number (a) – 1.6 C (b) + 1.6 C
of protons gained by the other object +19 −19
(c) 10 C (d) 10 C
Ans. (c)
Ans. (b)
Sol. Frictional electricity is also called as static electricity,
Sol.
which gets developed on objects when they are
rubbed with each other. When rubbed with each Charge, q = ne
other, both the objects get electrically charged where  q = 1019  1.6  10 −19 = 1.6 C
in one object acquires a positive charge due to loss of
6. For the phenomenon of electrostatic induction, mark
electrons from it whereas the other object acquires an
out the correct statement.
equal negative charge due to gain of electrons by it. A
glass rod rubbed with a silk cloth is an example of (a) The magnitude of the net induced charge is zero
frictional electricity. (b) The magnitude of net induced charge is equal and
3. How many electrons will have a charge of one opposite to the inducing charge
coulomb? (c) The mass of the body changes slightly
(a) 6.25  10 19
(b)6.25  10 18
(d) Electrostatic induction is a permanent
(c) 6.25  10 15
(d) 1.6  10 -19 phenomenon
Ans. (b) Ans. (a)
Sol.
ELECTROSTATICS
Sol. In the phenomenon of electrostatic induction, the
magnitude of the net induced charge turns out to be
zero because both the objects involved in the process
develop opposite charges of equal magnitudes.
7. The specific charge of a proton is 9.6 × 10 7 C kg–1.
The specific charge of an alpha particle will be
(a) 9.6 × 107 C kg –1
(b) 19.2 × 107 C kg–1
(c) 4.8 × 107 C kg–1
(d) 2.4 × 107 C kg–1
Ans. (c)
Sol. Alpha particle is doubly ionized He atom. It carries a
+ve charge, two times the charge of proton and mass
of alpha particle is (2 Neutron + 2 Proton) almost 4
times the mass of proton.
+e
So, if specific charge of proton is =
mp
+2e
Then, specific charge of alpha particle =
4m p
1 Reason is not the correct explanation of the
= Specific charge of proton 
2
So, Specific charge of Alpha particle
9.6 107
= = 4.8 107 C kg −1
2 Sol.
8. A comb rubbed through one’s dry hair attracts small
bits of paper. This is because
(a) comb is a good conductor
(b) paper is a good conductor
(c) the atoms in the paper get polarized by the
charged comb
(d) the comb possesses magnetic properties
Ans. (c)
Sol. When the comb passes through dry hair it gets
electrically charged by friction. Hence, attracts small
bits of paper. This is because paper gets polarized in
the presence of charged comb resulting in a net force
of attraction.
9. Assertion: When charges are shared between any two
bodies, no charge is really lost, but some loss of
energy does occur.
2
Reason: Some energy disappears in the form of heat,
sparking etc.
(a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and the
Reason is the correct explanation of the
Assertion.
(b) Both Assertion and Reason are true, but the
Reason is not the correct explanation of the
Assertion.
(c) Assertion is true, but Reason is false.
(d) Both Assertion and Reason are false.
Ans. (b)
Sol. Charge is always conserved but energy is lost in the
terms of heat etc.
10. Assertion: Charge is invariant.
Reason: Charge does not depend on speed of frame
of reference.
(a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and the
Reason is the correct explanation of the
Assertion.
(b) Both Assertion and Reason are true, but the
Assertion.
(c) Assertion is true, but Reason is false.
(d) Both Assertion and Reason are false.
Ans. (a)
Any physical quantity which is independent of
reference frame is known as invariant. Since charge is
intrinsic property so it remains invariant.
11. Assertion: There is a spark or crackle when we take
off our synthetic clothes or sweater in dry weather.
Reason: Discharge of electric charges occurs through
our body, which accumulated due to rubbing of
insulating surface.
(a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and the
Reason is the correct explanation of the
Assertion.
(b) Both Assertion and Reason are true, but the
Reason is not the correct explanation of the
Assertion.
(c) Assertion is true, but Reason is false.
(d) Both Assertion and Reason are false.
Ans. (a)
3 ELECTROSTATICS

Sol. Due to rubbing between synthetic clothes and our Ans. (b)
body electrons are transferred so clothes become Sol. If two stationary point charges are kept at a particular
charged.
distance, then the force of attraction or repulsion
12. Assertion: It is observed that if two glass rods rubbed
between them is inversely proportional to the square
with silk cloth are brought close to each other, they
of the distance and directly proportional to the
repel.
product of magnitudes of charges. This law is nothing
Reason: Electrification causes repulsion of same but Coulomb’s law.
polarity.
15. If charge and distance between two charges are
(a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and the reduced to half, then force between them will be
Reason is the correct explanation of the
(a) remain same (b) increases four times
Assertion.
(c) reduce four times (d) None of the above
(b) Both Assertion and Reason are true, but the
Reason is not the correct explanation of the Ans. (a)
Assertion. q1 q 2
Sol. As per Coulomb’s law, F = k According to ,
(c) Assertion is true, but Reason is false. r2
(d) Both Assertion and Reason are false.  q1  q 2 
 2  2 
F' = k   2  = k 1 2 2 = F
Ans. (a) qq
Sol. When a glass rod is rubbed with silk, the rod becomes r r
 
positively charged while the silk becomes negatively  
2
charged. So both glass rods become positively Thus, force between them will remains same.
charged and repel with each other.
16. Two point charges +2C and +6C repel each other
13. Assertion: The mass of positively charged body is with a force of 12 N. If a charge of – 2C is given to
slightly less than the mass of negatively charged each of these charges, the force will be
body.
(a) zero (b) 8 N (attractive)
Reason: Loosely bound electrons in a material are
(c) 8 N (repulsive) (d) None of these
transferred on rubbing.
Ans. (a)
(a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and the
Reason is the correct explanation of the Sol. On adding – 2C to both, one charge becomes neutral
Assertion. and hence Coulomb’s force get equal to zero.
(b) Both Assertion and Reason are true, but the 17. Charges 4Q, q and Q are placed along x-axis at
Reason is not the correct explanation of the position x = 0, x = l / 2 and x = l, respectively. Find
Assertion. the value of q, so that force on charge Q is zero.
(c) Assertion is true, but Reason is false. (a) Q (b) Q/2
(d) Both Assertion and Reason are false. (c) – Q/2 (d) – Q
Ans. (b) Ans. (d)
Sol. A positively charged body loses electrons and a Sol. From Coulomb’s law, the force acting between two
negatively charged body has excess electrons. charges (q1, q2) separated at a distance r is given by
Therefore, both assertion and reason are true but 1 q1q 2
reason is not the correct explanation of the assertion. F=
4 0 r 2
Force Between Charges
Total force acting on charge Q is
1 qQ 1 4Q  Q
14. The law that governs the force between electric F= +
40 ( l / 2 )2 40 ( l )2
charges is called
(a) Ampere’s law (b) Coulomb’s law According to question, F = 0
(c) Faraday’s law (d) Ohm’s law
ELECTROSTATICS 4

1 qQ 1 4Q2 Sol.
 +  =0
40 ( l / 2 ) 40 ( l )2
2

 q = −Q
18. Two charges of 10C and 20C are separated by 20
cm. The ratio of force acting on them will be: Let a charge q is placed at a point C such that force at
(a) 1 : 1 (b) 2 : 1 C is zero.
(b) 1 : 2 (d) 1 : 4 Fq2 = force on q due to charge q 2 and
Ans. (a) Fq1 = force on q due to charge q1 .
F12 R2
Sol. F12 = F21  =
kQ1Q 2
 =1 As, Fq1 + Fq2 = 0  Fq1 = − Fq2
2
F21 R kQ1Q 2 1 q1q 2 1 qq 2
  = 
Therefore, the ratio of forces is 1 : 1 4 0 ( x + 0.2 ) 2
4 0 x 2

19. A charge q1 exerts some force on a second charge q2. 5  10 −11 2.7 10 −11
 =
( x + 0.2 )
2
If a third charge q3 is brought near, the force of q1 x2
exerted on q2 will:  x = 0.556 m
(a) increase (b) decrease
22. Three equal charges each +Q, placed at the corners
(c) remain unchanged (d) none of these
of an equilateral triangle of side a. What will be the
Ans. (c)
 1 
Sol. Force due to q1 exerted on q2 will remain the same, force on any charge  k = 
 4  0 
but the net force exerted on q2 will change.
20. An electron is moving around the nucleus of a kQ2 2 kQ 2
(a) (b)
hydrogen atom in a circular orbit of radius r. The a2 a2
Coulomb force between the two is
2 kQ 2 3 kQ2
e2 e2 (c) (d)
(a) K 3 r (b) K 2 rˆ a2 a2
r r
Sol. (d)
e2 e2
(c) −K 3 rˆ (d) −K 3 r Suppose net force is to be calculated on the charge
r r
which is kept at A. Two charges kept at B and C are
Ans. (d) applying force on that particular charge, with direction
( −e )( +e ) e2 as shown in the figure.
Sol. F=K 2
=K
r r2

Now, F is acting along ( −r ) :

−Ke2
F=K
e2
r3
( )
− r =
r3
r

21. The distance between charges

5 10−11 C and − 2.7 10−11 C is 0.2 m. The distance,
at which third charge should be placed from second
charge in order that it will not experience any force
along the line joining the two charges, is
(a) 0.44 m (b) 0.65 m
Q2
(c) 0.556 m (d) 0.350 m Since FB = FC = F = k
a2
Ans. (c)
5 ELECTROSTATICS

So, Fnet = FB2 + FC2 + 2FB FC cos 60 Now, the resultant force F = F12 + F22 = F1 2 where,
F1 and F2 are perpendicular to each other.
3 kQ 2
Fnet = 3 F =
a2 Now equating the resultant force and F3 ;
23. Three identical charges are placed at the corners of an kq 2
equilateral triangle. If the force between any two = F1 2
2x 2
charges is F, then the net force on each will be
−kq 2 kQq 2
(a) 2F (b) 2 F  =
2x 2 x2
(c) 3 F (d) 3 F  q = −2 2Q
Ans. (c) 25. A charge q is placed at the centre of the line
Sol. joining two exactly equal positive charges Q.
Net force on each charge will be The system of three charges will be in
equilibrium, if q is equal to
Fnet = F2 + F2 + 2F2 cos 60o
(a) –Q/4 (b) +Q
1 (c) –Q
 Fnet = 2F2 + 2F2  (d) Q/2
2
Ans.(a)
= 2F2 + F2
Sol.
 Fnet = 3F2 = 3F

24. A charge Q is placed at each of the opposite corners

of a square. A charge q is placed at each of the other For equilibrium Fnet = 0 on each charge
two corners. If the net electrical force on q is zero,
Fon one of Q = 0
then the q/Q equals
1 Qq 1 Q2
  +  =0
(a) −2 2 (b) –1 40 ( r / 2 )2 40 r 2
1
(c) 1 (d) − Q
2 q=−
4
Ans. (a) 26. Point charges +4q, –q and +4q are kept on the X-axis
Sol. at points x = 0, x = a and x = 2a respectively.
(a) Only –q is in stable equilibrium
(b) None of the charges is in equilibrium
(c) All the charges are in unstable equilibrium
(d) All the charges are in stable equilibrium
Ans. (c)
Sol.

Let, the side of square be x , and its diagonal be x 2 .

Now, the horizontal force = vertical force
kQq kq 2
F1 = F2 = 2
, and F3 = 2
x 2x At the present position all three charges are
in equilibrium.
ELECTROSTATICS 6

4kq 2 28. Assertion: Due to Coulomb’s force charges cannot

Force acting on -q = − due to both apply torque on each other.
a2
charges 4q in opposite directions. Clearly, -q Reason: Coulomb’s force is central force.
is in equilibrium. Force on each 4q charge is (a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and the
given by: Reason is the correct explanation of the
16q 2 4q 2 4q 2 4q 2 Assertion.
+k − k = k − k =0
(2a) 2 a2 a2 a2 (b) Both Assertion and Reason are true, but the
Reason is not the correct explanation of the
1
However, as F  , when they are displaced Assertion.
r2
(c) Assertion is true, but Reason is false.
slightly from this position, they will not
return to this position again. Hence, they are (d) Both Assertion and Reason are false.
in unstable equilibrium position. Ans. (a)
27. Electrical force between two point charges is 200 N. Sol. Since Coulomb’s force is central force. It acts along
If we increase 10% charge on one of the charges and line of joining two charges so net torque of this force
decrease 10% charge on the other, then electrical becomes zero.
force between them for the same distance becomes 29. Assertion: The Coulomb force is strongest force in
(a) 198 N (b) 100 N the universe.
(c) 200 N (d) 99 N Reason: The Coulomb force is stronger than the
Ans. (a) nuclear force inside nucleus.

Sol. Let two charges be q1 and q2 and r be the distance (a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and the
between them, then electrical force, Reason is the correct explanation of the
Assertion.
1 q1q 2
F=  = 200 N ... ( i ) (b) Both Assertion and Reason are true, but the
40 r 2
Reason is not the correct explanation of the
If q1 is increased by 10%, then Assertion.
110 (c) Assertion is true, but Reason is false.
q'1 = q1
100 (d) Both Assertion and Reason are false.
and q2 is decreased by 10%, then Ans. (d)
90 Sol. Among all four basic forces of nature (Gravitational,
q'2 = q2
100 Electromagnetic, Strong Nuclear and Weak Nuclear),
Then, electrical force between them is strong nuclear force is much stronger than
electrostatic force (Coulomb’s force). Moreover, it is
1 q '2 q '2
F' =  the strongest of all the four fundamental forces in
4 0 r 2 nature.
110 90
q  q 30. Assertion: If there is Coulomb attraction between
1 100 1 100 2
 F' = two bodies, both of them may not be charged.
4 0 r 2

Reason: They will be oppositely charged.

1 q1q 2 99
 F' =   ... ( ii ) (a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and the
4 0 r 2 100
Reason is the correct explanation of the Assertion.
From Eqs. (i) and (ii), we get
(b) Both Assertion and Reason are true, but the
99 Reason is not the correct explanation of the
F ' = 200 
100 Assertion.
 F ' = 198 N (c) Assertion is true, but Reason is false.
(d) Both Assertion and Reason are false.
7 ELECTROSTATICS

Ans. (c) 34. Electric lines of force

Sol. Coulomb attraction exists even when one body is (a) exist every where
charged, and the other is uncharged. If both are (b) exist only in the immediate vicinity of electric
charged then they must be oppositely charged
charge
otherwise any charge can attract any uncharged body.
So the reason is false. (c) exist only when both positive and negative
charges are near each other
Electric Field
(d) are imaginary
Ans. (d)
31. Electric lines of force about a negative point charge
are Sol. Electric lines of force are imaginary, which are
thought to be so for better understanding purposes.
(a) Circular, anticlockwise (b) Circular, clockwise
35. The figure shows some of the electric field lines
(c) Radial, inwards (d) Radial outwards corresponding to an electric field. The figure suggests
Ans. (c)
Sol. The electric lines of force will be radial and inwards
about a negative point charge. In point charge, its
direction is radial and will have negative charge. So,
its direction is inwards, pointing towards the charge. (a) EA  EB  EC . (b) EA = EB = EC
−4
32. A force of 2.25 N acts on a charge of 15 × 10 C (c) EA = EC  EB (d) EA  EC  EB
placed at point in field. Calculate the intensity of Ans. (c)
electric field at that point Sol. Electric field intensity at a particular point is
(a) 1500 NC-1 (b) 150 NC-1 directly proportional to the number of electric lines
(c) 15000 NC-1 (d) none of the above of forces crossing per unit area.
EA = EB …(i)
Ans. (a)
As, density of electric line of force in region A and
Sol. F = qE
C are more as compare to B.
F 2.25 Hence, EA  EB …(ii)
E= = = 15  102 = 1500NC−1
q 15 10−4
From Eqs. (i) and (ii), we get
33. Figure given here is plot of lines of force due to two EA = EC  EB
charges q1and q2. The signs of the two charges are:
36. Three charges, each of +4C, are placed at the
corners B, C, D of a square ABCD of side 1 m. The
electric field at the centre O of the square is

(a) both positive

(b) both negative
(c) upper positive, lower negative (a) 7.2 × 104 N towards A
(d) upper negative, lower positive (b) 7.2 × 104 N towards C
Ans. (b) (c) 3.6 × 104 N towards A
Sol. Electric lines of force start from the positive charge (d) 3.6 × 104 N towards C
and end at the negative charge. Since the electric lines
Ans. (a)
for both the charges are ending, therefore both q 1 and
Sol.
q2 are negative charges
ELECTROSTATICS 8

(b) Both Assertion and Reason are true, but the

Reason is not the correct explanation of the
Assertion.
(c) Assertion is true, but Reason is false.
(d) Both Assertion and Reason are false.
Ans. (b)
Sol. If electric lines of forces cross each other, then the
electric field at the point of intersection will have two
1
OA = OB = OC = OD = m directions simultaneously; this is not possible
2 physically. Since electric field is vector quantity so
EOB and EOC will cancel each other because of equal for resultant field principle of superposition is
magnitudes and opposite directions. applied.
1 q 39. Assertion: Three equal charges are situated on a
E Net = E OD = circle of radius r such that they form an equilateral
4 0 (OD) 2
triangle, then the electric field intensity at the centre
9  109  4  10 −6
 E Net = 2
= 72  103 N / C is zero.
 1 
  Reason: The forces on unit positive charge at the
 2 centre, due to three equal charges are represented by
As clear from the diagram, this field acts towards the three sides of a triangle taken in the same order.
A. Therefore, electric field intensity at centre is zero.
37. The point charges Q and –2Q are placed at some (a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and the
distance apart. If the electric field at the location of Q Reason is the correct explanation of the
is E, the electric field at the location of –2Q will be: Assertion.
3E (b) Both Assertion and Reason are true, but the
(a) − (b) –E Reason is not the correct explanation of the
2
Assertion.
E
(c) − (d) –2E (c) Assertion is true, but Reason is false.
2
(d) Both Assertion and Reason are false.
Ans. (c)
Ans. (a)
Sol. As field on Q is E, force on Q is F = QE
Sol.
Let field on –2Q be E’. So, force on –2Q will be
F' = −2QE '

Using Coulomb’s law, the forces on both will be

equal, i.e., F' = F or QE = −2QE ' .
E
So, E ' = −
2
38. Assertion: Electric lines of force never cross each Resultant of electric field intensity at O due to Band
other.
C is equal and opposite of that due to A.
Reason: Electric fields at a point superimpose to give
one resultant electric field.
(a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and the
Reason is the correct explanation of the
Assertion.
9 ELECTROSTATICS

Electric Field due to Continuous charge

distribution

40. The electric field strength due to a uniformly charged (a)

ring of radius R at a distance x from its centre on its
axis carrying charge Q has somewhere maximum
value on the axis. This is at distance
(a) x = R (b) x = 2R
R
(c) x = 0 (d) x = (b)
2
Ans. (d)
Sol.

(c)

(d)
1 Qx Ans. (b)
E=
4π 0
(R )
3
2
+x 2 2
Sol.

 −5 
 −3  2
Q 
dE 1 1
= + x   (R + x 2 2
) 2x ro
dx 40  2 3
 
2 
 (R + x 2 ) 2 
dE Q 1  3x 
2
= 3 
1− 2 
dx 40 R + x2 
(R 2 + x 2 ) 2 
For maximum E;
dE
=0
dx Inside a uniformly charged non-conducting sphere,
Q 1  3x 2 
3 
1 − =0
charge is uniformly distributed. So, the field is there.
4 0 2 2  R2 + x2  In such cases, the electric field is directly proportional
(R + x )
2

to the distance from the centre. Outside the sphere,

3x 2
1− =0 field is inversely proportional to the square of the
R + x2
2
distance. So, the graph flows as shown.
R 2 + x 2 = 3x 2
42. The charge density on the surface of a conducting
R
x= sphere is 64 × 10-7 C/m2 and the electric intensity at a
2 distance of 2 m from the centre of the sphere is 4
41. The electric field due to a uniformly charged non- 104 N/C. The radius of the sphere is
conducting sphere of radius R as a function of the (a) 0.83 m (b) 0.4 m
distance from its centre is represented graphically by
(c) 0.6 m (d) 0.38 m
Ans. (a)
ELECTROSTATICS 10

Sol. = 64  10-7 C/m2 ; E = 4 104 N/C 46. Forces exerted by a uniform electric field on an
electron having mass me and proton of mass mp are
q 1 q
= ;E = . represented as Fe and Fp respectively are related as
4R 2
40 r 2
F m
(a) Fp = Fe (b) e = e
Fp m p
E R2 Fe mp Fe me2
= (c) = (d) =
 0 r 2 Fp me Fp m2p
E 4 104
 R2 =  0 r 2 =  8.85  10−12  4 Ans. (a)
 64  10−7 Sol. The force (F) on charge q due to electric field
 R = 0.694 = 0.83m strength E is
43. The number of electrons to be put on spherical F = qE
conductor of radius 0.1 m, to produce an electric Here, E is uniform, hence Fp = Fe .
field of 0.036 N/C just above its surface, is:
47. A particle of mass 2 10−3 kg , charge 4 10−3 C
5 5
(a) 3.4 × 10 (b) 2.5 × 10
enters in an electric field of 5 V/m, then its kinetic
(c) 3.7 × 10 5 (d) 4.7 × 10 5 energy after 10 s is
Ans. (b) (a) 0.1 J (b) 1 J
(c) 10 J (d) 100 J
1 ne
Sol. E =  Ans. (c)
4 0 r 2 Sol. Force on a charge placed inside an electric field given
Er 2 0.036  0.1 0.1 as
n= 40 = = 2.5 105 F = qE
e 9 109 1.6 10−19
 ma = qE  a = qE / m
44. The electric intensity outside a charged sphere of
dv qE qE
radius R at a distance r(r > R) is  =  dv =
dt m m
R 2  r2
(a) (b) Integrating with proper limits,
0 r 2 0 R 2
t qE
0 dv = 0 m dt
v
r R
(c) (d)
0 R 0 r
1
Ans. (a) Now, v = qE ( t )
m
Sol. The electric intensity outside a charged sphere,
1 1 q2E2 t 2
kq k ( A ) KE = mv 2 = m
E= = 2 2 m2
1 q 2 E 2 t 2 ( 4  10 )  5  10
r2 r2 2
−3 2 2

 1  4R 2 R 2 = =
=  = 2 m 2  2  10−3
 40  r 0 r 2
2
= 10 J
45. A charged particle is free to move in an electric field.
It will travel 48. An electron moves through a small distance in a
(a) always along a line of force uniform electric field. The magnitude of electric field
(b) along a line of force, if its initial velocity is zero is 2 × 104 NC-1. Now, if the direction of field is
(c) along a line of force, if it has same initial velocity reversed keeping the magnitude same and a proton
in the direction of an active angle with the line of moves through the same distance, then which of the
force following options is correct?
(d) None of the above (a) The time of fall will be more in case of electron
Ans. (b) (b) The time of fall will be more in case of proton
Sol. Because E points is along the tangent to the lines of (c) The time of fall will be same in both cases
force. If initial velocity is zero, then due to the force,
(d) The time of fall will be independent of charge
it moves in the direction of E.
11 ELECTROSTATICS

Ans. (b)
Sol. The time required to fall through distance d can be
derived as:

1  qE  2dm
d =   t2  t =
2 m  qE

Since t  m , a proton takes more time.

2

49. A pendulum bob of mass m carrying a charge q is at

Consider element of charge dq = Rd , where
rest with its string making an angle  with the vertical
in a uniform horizontal electric field E. The tension in q
= [line charge density]
the string is R
mg qE mg qE For symmetry, X component of field at O cancels.
(a) or (b) or
sin  cos  cos  sin  Thus, the field at O due to element is
qE mg dE 0 = 2dE y
(c) (d)
mg qE  dE 0 = 2dE sin 
Ans. (b) 2dq
 dE 0 = sin 
Sol. For the equilibrium of the bob, 40 R 2
2Rd
 dE 0 = sin 
40 R 2
/ 2
2
  dE0 =  sin d
40 R 0

q
 E0 = 2
2  0 R 2
51. A small sphere carrying a charge ‘q’ is hanging in
between two parallel uncharged plates by a string of
T sin  = qE and T cos  = mg length L. Time period of the pendulum is T0. When
qE mg the parallel plates are charged, creates electric field E
Therefore, T = or T = between the plates, the time period changes to T. The
sin  cos 
ratio T/T0 is equal to
50. Charge q is uniformly distributed over a thin half
ring of radius R. The electric field at the centre of the
ring is
q q
(a) (b)
2  0 R 2
2
4  0 R 2
2

q q
(d)  qE 
1/ 2
 
3/ 2
4 0 R 2 2 0 R 2
(c) g+ m   g 
(a)   (b)  
Ans. (a)  g   g + qE 
   m 
Sol. 1/ 2
 
 g 
(c)   (d) None of these
 g + qE 
 m 
Ans. (c)
ELECTROSTATICS 12

Sol. dE y = −dE sin 

− kdq sin 
dE y =
R2
− kRd sin 
dE y =
R2

–k
R 0
Ey = sin d

–k –2k
 – cos 0 =

Ey =
R R
l 2k 2
T0 = 2 Ey = =
g R 4 0 R
qE 
g = g +  Ey = [ R = a]
m 2 0 a

l l 53. A thin conducting ring of radius R is given a charge

T = 2  T = 2
g  qE  +Q. The electric field at the centre O of the ring due
g +  to the charge on the part AKB of the ring is E. The
 m
electric field at the centre due to the charge on the
1
 2 part ACDB of the ring is
T g T  g 
=  = 
T0 qE T0  g + qE 
g+
m  m
52. A semi-circular arc of radius ‘a’ is charged uniformly
and the charge per unit length is . The electric field
at the centre of this arc is
 
(a) (b)
2 0 a 2 0 a 2

 2 (a) 3 E along KO (b) E along OK

(c) (d)
4 2  0 a 2  0 a (c) E along KO (d) 3 E along OK
Ans. (a) Ans. (b)
Sol. Sol. Electric field due to the given charge on the ring is
zero at centre ‘O’. So, the electric field due to AKB
is equal and opposite to electric field due to ACDB,
from the principle of superposition.
Since E is field strength of AKB along KO, so
electric field due to ACDB acts along OK and is
equal to E.
54. An oil drop having a mass 4.8×10-10 g and charge
2.4×10-18C stands still between two charged
horizontal plates separated by a distance of 1 cm. If
now the polarity of the plates is changed,
instantaneous acceleration of the drop is (g = 10ms-2)
kdq (a) 5 ms-2 (b) 10 ms-22
dE =
R2
(c) 15 ms-2 (d) 20 ms-2
Due to symmetry Ex =0
 13 ELECTROSTATICS

Ans. (d) (a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and the
Sol. As drop is in equilibrium, mg = qE Reason is the correct explanation of the
Assertion.
mg
E= (b) Both Assertion and Reason are true, but the
q Reason is not the correct explanation of the
4.8 10−10 10−3 10 Assertion.
E= = 2 106 V / m
2.4 10−18 (c) Assertion is true, but Reason is false.
Now, when polarity is changed, force from electric (d) Both Assertion and Reason are false.
field also comes in the direction of mg. Ans. (d)
So, Fnet = mg + qE = ma Sol. Electric field at the nearby point will be resultant of
existing field and field due to the charge brought. It
q
a =g+ E may increase or decrease if the charge is positive or
m negative as electric field depends on nature of charge
2.4 10−18  2 106 and depending on the position of the point with
a = 10 + = 20 ms −2
4.8 10−10 10−3 respect to the charge brought.
55. Assertion: If a proton and an electron are placed in 57. Assertion: The graph of the intensity of electric field
the same uniform electric field. They experience (E) inside a uniformly charged non-conducting sphere
different acceleration. with the distance r from the centre of the sphere is a
straight line passing through the origin.
Reason: Electric force on a test charge is
independent of its mass. Reason: Inside a uniformly charged non-conducting
sphere, the electric field at a distance r is from the
(a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and the
KQ
Reason is the correct explanation of the centre is given by E = 3 r.
Assertion. R

(b) Both Assertion and Reason are true, but the (a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and the
Reason is not the correct explanation of the Reason is the correct explanation of the
Assertion. Assertion.

(c) Assertion is true, but Reason is false. (b) Both Assertion and Reason are true, but the Rea
son is not the correct explanation of the
(d) Both Assertion and Reason are false.
Assertion.
Ans. (b)
(c) Assertion is true, but Reason is false.
Sol. F = qE
(d) Both Assertion and Reason are false.
Electron and proton have same amount of charge so Ans. (a)
they have same magnitude of Coulomb’s force. They Sol. Electric field inside solid non-conducting sphere is
have 1 Qr r
E in = . = Ein  r. So graph is a straight
different accelerations because they have different 40 R 3 30
 F line.
masses  a =  .
 m
Therefore, both assertion and reason are true but Gauss’s Law
reason is not the correct explanation of the assertion.
56. Assertion: A point charge is brought in an electric 58. A plane area of 100 cm2 is placed in uniform electric
field. The field at a nearby point will increase, field of 100 N/C such that the angle between area
whatever be the nature of the charge. vector and electric field is 60º. The electric flux
Reason: The electric field is independent of the through the surface is
nature of charge. (a) 0.5 Wb (b) 5 Wb
(c) 1 Wb (d) 0
ELECTROSTATICS 14

Ans. (a) Ans. (b)

Sol. Sol. The number of lines of force passing normally
Electic Flux () = E.A = EA cos  through the unit area of a surface situated in an
  = 0.01m2 100N / C  cos 60o electric field is called flux density or electric flux
  = 0.5Wb density through that surface, which is equal to E.
62. The electric flux through a closed surface area S
59. Electric flux through a surface element dS = 5iˆ placed
enclosing charge Q is  . If the surface area is
in an electric field E = 4iˆ + 4jˆ + 4kˆ is
doubled, then the flux is
(a) 10 units (b) 20 units (a) 2 (b)  / 2
(c) 4 units (d) 16 units
(c)  / 4 (d) 
Ans. (b)
Ans. (d)
Sol.  = E  dS, E = 4iˆ + 4jˆ + 4kˆ
q
Sol. By Gauss’ law, E =
and dS = 5iˆ 0
  = ( 4iˆ + 4jˆ + 4kˆ )  ( 5iˆ )  Flux will remain same, i.e.  .

 = 20 units [ flux through a closed surface due to enclosed

charge does not depend upon surface area]
60. A square surface of side L meters is in the plane of
63. A point charge of value 10-7 C is situated at the centre
the paper. A uniform electric field E (volt/m), also of cube of 1 m side. The electric flux through its total
in the plane of the paper, is limited only to the lower surface area is
half of the square surface, (see figure). The electric
(a) 113 × 104 Nm2/C (b) 11.3 × 104 Nm2/C
flux in SI units associated with the surface is
(c) 1.13 × 104 Nm2/C (d) none of these
Ans. (c)
q enclosed 10−7
Sol. = = = 1.13  104 Nm 2 / C
0 8.854  10−12

(a) EL2/2 (b) zero 64. A charge q is located at the centre of a cube. The
electric flux through any face is
(c) EL2 (d) EL2/(2  0 )
q 2q
(a) (b)
6 ( 4 0 ) 6 ( 4 0 )
Ans. (b)
Sol. Electric flux,
4q q
For upper half, E = 0, 1 = 0 (c) (d)
6 ( 4 0 ) 6 ( 4 0 )
For lower half,
Ans. (c)
2 =  E.dS = EdScos  = EdScos90o =0
Sol. According to Gauss’s Law, electric flux passing
61. The number of lines of force passing normally q
through any closed surface around a charge q is .
through unit area of a surface situated in an electric 0
field is called as: Due to symmetry of electric field around the charge,
(a) surface charge density and all the six faces of the cube being equivalent, the
(b) electric flux density through that surface which is 1 q
electric flux through any face is times the flux ,
equal to E 6 0
(c) linear density 4q
which is equal to .
(d) molecular density 6 ( 4 0 )
15 ELECTROSTATICS

65. Consider the Gaussian surface that surrounds part of (c) 20Cm−2 (d) 8Cm−2
charge distributions. Then contribution of the electric
Ans. (a)
field at a point A arises from charges

Sol.

(a) q1 and q2 only (b) q1 and q4 only

(c) q1, q2and q1 only (d) all of these
Ans. (d) q inside = 0
Sol. Net electric field at a point A is due to all charges in q
its surroundings  E.ds =  0
=0
66. Gauss’s law is valid for E=0
(a) any closed surface
69. A solid sphere of radius R has a uniform distribution
(b) only regular closed surfaces
of electric charge in its volume. At a distance x from
(c) any open surface its centre for x < R, the electric field is directly
(d) only irregular open surfaces proportional to
Ans. (a) (a) 1/x2 (b) 1/x
Sol. Gauss’s law is valid for any closed surface not (c) x
(d) x2
necessary to be a regular closed surface.
Ans. (c)
67. If the flux of the electric field through a closed
surface is zero then Sol.

(a) Electric field must be zero everywhere on the

surface
(b) Total charge inside the surface must be zero
(c) Electric field must be uniform throughout the
closed surface
(d) Charge outside the surface must be zero
Ans. (b)
Sol. According to Gauss’s law, if total electric flux
Consider a small sphere of radius x the charge
through a closed surface is zero, then, the total charge
carried by this sphere is given by
inside the surface must be zero and also, the electric
field due to charge inside the surface must be zero. Q 4
Q' =  x 3
4 3 3
q enclosed R
Also,  E  dA = 0
=0E=0 3
Q 3
68. A hollow insulated conduction sphere is given a Q' = .x
R3
positive charge of 10C . What will be the electric
Electric field due to this charge on the surface of the
field at the centre of the sphere if its radius is 2
small sphere of radius x
metres?
Q' Q
(a) zero (b) 5Cm-2 E = k. 2
= k. 3 x
x R
ELECTROSTATICS 16

70. Assertion: The electric flux emanating out and

entering a closed surface are 8 103 V m and
2 103 V m, respectively. The charge enclosed by
the surface is 0.053 C.
Reason: According to Gauss’s theorem in
(a) – q (b) q/2
electrostatics, net flux enclosed  = q / o .
(c) – 2q (d) – q/2
(a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and the
Ans. (d)
Reason is the correct explanation of the
Assertion. Sol. Electrostatic potential energy of the given system is
given as
(b) Both Assertion and Reason are true, but the
 ( Qq + Qq + q 2 )
Reason is not the correct explanation of the 1 1
U=
Assertion. 4 0 a
(c) Assertion is true, but Reason is false. Given, U = 0
(d) Both Assertion and Reason are false. q
 2Qq = −q 2  Q = −
Ans. (a) 2

Sol. According to Gauss’s theorem in electrostatics, net 73. In bringing an electron towards another electron, the
flux enclosed  = q / o . We have electrostatic potential energy of the system
(a) decreases (b) increases
q =  o  = 8.85  10−12 ( 8  103 − 2  103 )
(c) remains same (d) becomes zero
= 53.10  10−9 C = 0.053C. Ans. (b)
Electric Potential Energy Sol. Electrostatic potential energy of system of two
71. Three charges −q, +Q and + q are placed in a straight electrons,

line as shown. If the total potential energy of the 1 ( −e )( −e ) 1 e2

U=  = 
system is zero, then the ratio q/Q is 4 0 r 4 0 r
Thus, as r decreases, potential energy U increases.
74. If a positive charge is shifted from a low potential
region to a high potential region, then electric
(a) 2 (b) 5.5 potential energy
(c) 4 (d) 1.5 (a) decreases
Ans. (c) (b) increases
Sol. Potential energy of the system, (c) remains same
(d) may increase or decrease
−kqQ kQq kq 2
− − =0 Ans. (b)
x x 2x
−4kqQ + kq 2 Sol. When positive charge is shifted from a low potential
 =0
2x to a high potential region, the electric potential energy
 kq 2 = 4 kQq  q / Q = 4 increases.
75. Two charges q 1 and q 2 are placed 30 cm
72. Three charges are placed at the vertex of an
equilateral triangle as shown in figure. For what value apart, as shown in the figure. A third charge q3 is
of Q, the electrostatic potential energy of the system moved along the arc of a circle of radius 40 cm from
is zero?
17 ELECTROSTATICS

C to D. The change in the potential energy of the Ans. (d)

q3 Sol. According to the work energy theorem, work done in
system is k, where k is
4 0 increasing the separation from a to 2a is W = Uf - Ui

1  q ( −2q ) q ( −2q ) ( −2q )( −2q ) 

Here, Ui =  + + 
40  a a a 
1
= [−2q 2 − 2q 2 + 4q 2 ] = 0
(a) 8q 1 (b) 6q 1 40 a
(c) 8q 2 (d) 6q 2 Similarly, U f is also zero.

Ans.(c)  U f − Ui = 0
Hence, W=0
Sol. AB = 0.3m
AC = AD = 0.4m 77. A 500 mC charge is at the centre of a square of side
10 cm. Find the work done in moving the charge of
BC = 0.32 + 0.42 = 0.5m 10 C between two diagonally opposite points on
BD = AD − AB = 0.1m the square.

1  q1q 2 q 2 q3 q1q3 
U=  + + 
40  r12 r23 r13 

1  q1q 2 q 2 q3 q1q3 
Ui = + +
40  AB BC AC 
1  q1q 2 q 2 q3 q1q3 
Ui = + +
40  0.3 0.5 0.4 

1  q1q 2 q 2 q3 q1q3 
Uf = + +
40  AB BD AD 
1  q1q 2 q 2 q3 q1q3 
Uf = + +
40  0.3 0.1 0.4 
1 q
U = U f − U i = 8q 2 q3  = 3 8q 2  (a) 2 J (b) 0 J
40 4 0
(c) 4 J (d) 25 J
76. Three point charges q, −2q and − 2q are placed at the Ans. (b)
vertices of an equilateral triangle of side a. The work Sol. The points A and B are equidistant from the centre of
done by some external force to increase their square where charge q = 500 C is located ; therefore,
separation to 2a will be points A and B are at the same potential i.e.,
1 2q 2 1 q2 VA = VB. Work done in moving charge q0 = 10mC
(a) (b)
4 0 a 4 0 2a from A to B is W = q0 (VB - VA) = 0
1 8q 78. As per the diagram, a point charge +q is placed at the
(c) (d) zero
4 0 a 2 origin O. Work done in taking another point charge –
Q from the point A [coordinates (0, a)] to another
ELECTROSTATICS 18

point B [coordinates (a; 0)] along the straight path AB q

Potential at point P, V1 =
is: 4 o d1
Where d1 = 3cm = 0.03 m
q
Potential at point Q, V2 =
4o d 2
Where d2 = 4cm = 0.04 m
Work done by the electrostatic force does not depend
 −qQ 1  on the path.
(a) Zero (b)  2 
2a
 40 a  W = q1 [V2 – V1]

 qQ 1  a  qQ 1   q q 
(c)   W = q1  − 
2 
. (d)  2 
. 2a
 4 0 a  2  40 a   4o d 2 4o d1 
qq 1 1
Ans. (a) W= 1  − 
4o  d 2 d1 
q1q 2
Sol. U=
40 r12 1
Value of = 9 109 NC−2 m −2
4o
( −Q) q Qq
UA = =−
40 ( OA ) 40 a  1
 W = 9 109  8 10−3  (−2 10−9 )  −
1 

 0.04 0.03 
( −Q ) q Qq
UB = =−  W = 1.2 J
40 ( OB) 40 a
Clearly, work done during the process is 1.27 J.
Qq  Qq 
WAB = UA − UB = − −− =0 80. Positive and negative point charges of equal
40 a  40 a 
 a  −a 
magnitude are kept at  0, 0,  and  0, 0, 
79. A charge of 8 mC is located at the origin. Calculate  2  2 
the work done in taking a small charge of –2 × 10-9 C respectively. The work done by the electric field
from a point P (0, 0, 3 cm) to a point Q (0, 4 cm, 0), when another positive point charge is moved from (–
via a point R (0, 6 cm, 9 cm). a, 0, 0) to (0, a, 0) is
(a) 1.2J (b) 2J (a) positive
(c) 4J (d) 1J (b) negative
Ans. (a) (c) zero
Sol. Charge located at the origin, q = 8 mC = 8 10 C-3 (d) depends on the path connecting the initial and
A small charge is moved from a point P to point R to final positions
point Q, q1 = - 2  10-9C Ans. (c)
The figure given below represents all points. Sol. A (- a, 0, 0), B (0, a, 0)
Point charge is moved from A to B
VA = V B = 0 [ A and B are at same distance]

 W=0
81. A bullet of mass 2 g is having a charge of 2C .
Through what potential difference must it be
accelerated, starting from rest, to acquire a speed of
10 m/s?
(a) 50 V (b) 5 KV
19 ELECTROSTATICS

(c) 50 KV (d) 5 V Velocity at 10 m is v :

Ans. (c) 1
mv 2 = ( VA − VB ) q
2qV 2
Sol. Velocity v =
 1
m 1
( 2 10−3 ) v2 = K 10−6 1 −  10−3
 10 
mv2 2 10 (10 )
−3 2 2
V= = = 50, 000V = 50 kV
2q 2 ( 2 10−6 ) v2 = K 
9 9
10−6 = 9 109  10−6 = 8100
10 10
82. An electron of mass m and charge e is accelerated
Thus, v = 90ms−1
from rest through a potential difference V in vacuum.
The final speed will be: 85. Two charged particles having charges 1C and –1C
and of mass 50 gm each are held at rest while their
2 eV e
(a) (b) v separation is 2 meters. Find the speed of the particles
m m
when their separation is 1 meter.
3 eV 2 eV (a) 0.20 m/s (b) 0.6 m/s
(c) (d)
m m (c) 0.3 m/s (d) 0.4 m/s
Ans. (d) Ans. (c)
1 2eV 1 
Sol. mv 2 = eV  v = Sol. Change in electrostatic P.E = 2  mv 2 
2 m 2 
83. A proton is about 1840 times heavier than an 1 1 10−12 1 1 10 −12
. − . = 50  10 −3 v 2
electron. When it is accelerated by a potential 4 0 1 4 0 2
difference of 1 kV, its kinetic energy will be:
9  109  10−12
(a) 1840 keV (b) 1/1840 keV  = 50  10 −3 v 2
2
(c) 1 keV (d) 920 keV
9  10−3
 v2 =
Ans. (c) 100  10−3
Sol. KE = Relative charge  accelerating potential  v2 =
9
 v = 0.3m / s
= 1e 1kV = 1keV 100

84. A particle of mass 2g and charge 1C is held at a
distance of 1m from a fixed charge 1mC. If the
particle is released it will be repelled. The speed of
particle when it is at a distance of 10m from the fixed
charge is:
86. Assertion: Work done in carrying + q charge from
one surface A to another surface B at the same
potential is zero.
Reason: Work done in moving a charge is product of
charge and potential difference.

(a) 90 m/s (b) 100 m/s (a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and the
Reason is the correct explanation of the
(c) 45 m/s (d) 55 m/s Assertion.
Ans. (a) (b) Both Assertion and Reason are true, but the
Sol. Potential at 1m from the charge Reason is not the correct explanation of the
Assertion.
K 10−3
VA = = K 10−3 (c) Assertion is true, but Reason is false.
1
Potential at 10m from the charge (d) Both Assertion and Reason are false.
K 10−3 Ans. (a)
VB = = K 10−4
10 Sol. Work done by electric force is given by q(V2 – V1)
Thus, both the assertion and reason are true and
Potential difference
reason is the correct explanation of the assertion.
VA − VB = K (10−3 −10−4 )
ELECTROSTATICS 20

Electric Potential 90. Two electric charges 12C and − 6C are placed 20
cm apart in air. There will be a point P on the line
joining these charges and outside the region between
87. Electric Potential is a: them, at which the electric potential is zero. The
(a) Scalar quantity (b) Vector quantity distance of P from −6C charge is
(c) Both of the above (d) None of the above
(a) 0.10 m (b) 0.15 m
Ans. (a)
(c) 0.20 m (d) 0.25 m
Sol. Electric potential is a scalar quantity. It has a
Ans. (c)
magnitude but it does not have direction. The electric
potential is defined as the amount of work done per Sol. Let charges are placed at A 12C and − 6C be
unit positive charge to bring it from infinity to that placed at B.
point, under the influence of electric field. Potential at point P is zero
88. The work done on a unit positive charge in bringing it Let it is at x unit from B, i.e. − 6 C.
from infinity to any point in the field is called
 VP = VA + VB = 0
(a) Electric potential at that point
1 qA 1 qB
(b) Electric intensity at that point   =−
40 ( 20 + x ) 4 0 x
(c) Capacity
12  10−6 − ( −6  10 )
−6
(d) Electric potential energy at that point =
20 + x x
Ans. (a)
 2x = 20 + x
Sol. The work done on a unit positive charge in bringing it
= 20 cm = 0.20 m
from infinity to any point in the field is called electric
potential at that point. The potential at infinity is 91. A hollow metal sphere of radius 5 cm is charged so
assumed to be zero. that the potential on its surface is 10 V. The potential
89. The electrostatic potential of a uniformly charged thin at the centre of the sphere is
spherical shell of charge Q and radius R at a distance (a) zero (b) 10 V
r from the centre is (c) same as at a point 5 cm away from the surface
Q Q (d) same as at a point 25 cm away from the surface
(a) for points outside and for points
4  0 r 40 R Ans. (b)
on surface of the sphere Sol. A hollow metal sphere has equipotential surface
from its center to outer surface, which suggests that
Q
(b) for both points inside and outside the shell all the points on this surface (whether it be outer
4  0 r
surface or the exact center of the sphere) have the
Q same potential.
(c) zero for points outside and for points
4  0 r 92. A solid spherical conductor is given a charge. The
inside the shell electrostatic potential of the conductor is
(d) zero for both points inside and outside the shell (a) Constant throughout the conductor
Ans. (a) (b) Largest at the centre
Sol. If charge on a conducting sphere of radius R is Q, (c) Largest on the surface
then potential outside the sphere, (d) Largest somewhere between the centre and the
1 Q surface
Vout =
4 0 r Ans. (a)
1 Q
At the surface of sphere, Vs =
40 R
21 ELECTROSTATICS

kq  1 
Sol. Electrostatic potential is given by V = [where, V = K V= .
r 3 4 0 3
1
k= ] 
4 0 V=
12 0
The electric field is equal to the potential gradient
95. The potential of a large liquid drop when eight liquid
with a negative sign and there is no electric field
drops are combined is 20 V. Then, the potential of
inside the conductor.
each single drop was
Hence, electrostatic potential of the conductor is
(a) 10 V (b) 7.5 V
constant throughout the conductor.
(c) 5 V (d) 2.5 V
93. Two charged spheres of radii R1 and R2 have equal
surface charge density. The ratio of their potential is Ans. (c)
(a) R1 /R2 (b) R2/R1 Sol. Volume of 8 drops = Volume of a big drop

(c) (R1/R2)2 (d) (R2/R1)2 4  4

  r 3   8 = R 3
Ans. (a) 3  3

Sol. Surface charge density is given as  8r = R 3

3

 2r = R ... ( i )
Q Q
= =
A 4R 2 According to charge conservation,
As, 1 =  2
8q = Q ... ( ii )
Q1 Q2
 =
4R12 4R 22 Potential of one small drop, V ' =
q
Q1 Q2 V R 40 r
 =  1 = 1
4 0 R1 4 0 R 2
2 2
V2 R 2 Q
Similarly, potential of big drop, V =
94. An arc of radius r carries charge. The linear density 4 0 R
of charge is  and the arc subtends an angle /3 at V' q R V ' q 2r
the centre. What is electric potential at the centre Now, =   = 
V Q r 20 8q r
  [from Eqs. (i) and (ii)]
(a) (b)
4 0 8 0  V' = 5 V
  96. Assertion: Electrons move away from a low potential
(c) (d)
12  0 16  0 region to high potential region.
Ans. (c) Reason: Because electrons have negative charge.
Sol. (a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and the
Reason is the correct explanation of the
Assertion.
(b) Both Assertion and Reason are true, but the
Reason is not the correct explanation of the
Assertion.
(c) Assertion is true, but Reason is false.
(d) Both Assertion and Reason are false.
Length of the arc = r/3 Ans. (a)
Charge of the arc q =  r/3 Sol. Electrons have negative charge and in an electric field
kq Kr negative charge moves from lower potential to higher
V= =
r 3r potential.
Electric Field and Potential
ELECTROSTATICS 22

RV V
(a) (b)
97. The electric potential at a point in free space due to a r2 r
charge Q coulomb is Q × 1011 V. The electric field at rV R 2V
that point is (c) (d)
R2 r3
(a) 40 Q  1022 V/m Ans. (a)
(b) 120 Q  10 V/m 22
Sol. Conducting sphere
(c) 40 Q  1022 V/m
(d) 120 Q  1022 V/m
Ans. (a)
Q
Sol. V= = Q 1011
40 r
If r > R
−11
Thus, 40 r = 10 1 Q Q
V= . = k.
4 0 R R
Q Q ( 40 ) Q ( 40 ) V.R Q
E= = = = 40 Q 1022 Vm−1 Q= E = k.
40 r ( 40 r ) (10 )
2 2 −11 2 k r2
VR VR
98. In a uniform electric field E = k. E= 2
kr 2 r
(a) All points are at same potential 100. Which of the following is proportional to the inverse
(b) no two points can have same potential square of distance r.
(c) pair of points separated by same distance must (a) The potential at a distance r from an isolated
have same difference of potential point charge
(b) Electric field at distance r from an isolated point
(d) none of these
charge
Ans. (d) (c) The force per unit length between two thin
Sol. Let E = Ei straight charged conductors separated by
(a) Then for two points (0,0) & (x,0) V(x, 0)–V(0, 0)= Ex distance r
Hence, all the points are not at same potential. (d) Electrostatic force between two large charged
(b) For 2 points B (0,0) and A (0,y) bodies kept at small separation apart.
B Ans. (b)
VA − VB =  E.dl
A
Sol. The electric field is proportional to the inverse square
0 of the distance r from an isolated point charge.
V0,y − V0,0 =  Edx = 0 Suppose a point charge (Q) produces an electric field
0
at a point P, that is at a distance r from it, then,
V0,y = V0,0
kQ
So, they have the same potential electric field of the point charge is given by E =
r2
(c) As seen above, if x=y, then (0,y) and (x,0) have
same distance from the origin but their potential 101. Which of the following is not the property of
difference is different. Hence, the correct answer is equipotential surfaces?
(d) (a) They do not cross each other
99. A conducting sphere of radius R is charged to a (b) They are concentric spheres for uniform electric
potential of V volt. Then the electric field at a field
distance r (> R) from the centre of the sphere would (c) Rate of change of potential with distance on them
be
is zero
23 ELECTROSTATICS

(d) They can be imaginary spheres

Ans. (b)
Sol. Equipotential surfaces are plane surfaces as the
uniform field is directed in a fixed direction for all
points.
The electric field is always perpendicular to
dV
equipotential surface as E = − .  VA = VC and VC  VB
dr
Now as the surfaces are equipotential, so it must be 104. The work done in moving a positive charge on an
spaced such that the surfaces have equal differences equipotential surface is
in potential and are separated by equal distances. (a) finite and positive (b) infinite
dV (c) finite and negative (d) zero
We have E = − , so it must have decreasing
dr Ans. (d)
potentials in the direction of the field. Sol. W = Potential difference × charge
102. What is not true for equipotential surface for uniform In an equipotential surface, potential at every point is
electric field? the same and therefore, potential difference between
(a) Equipotential surface is flat two points on the surface = 0. Hence, work done (W)
(b) Equipotential surface is spherical = 0.
(c) Electric field lines are perpendicular to
105. The electric field lines are closer together near an
equipotential surface
object A than they are near an object B, we can
(d) Work done is zero
conclude
Ans. (b)
(a) The potential near A is greater than near B
Sol. A surface with constant value of potential at all the
(b) The potential near A is less than near B
points is known as equipotential surface. Along x-
axis, for a uniform electric field, the equipotential (c) The potential near A is equal to potential near B
surfaces are planes normal to the x-axis, i.e., parallel (d) nothing about relative potential be predicted
to the yz-plane. This cannot be accomplished from a Ans. (d)
spherical surface.
Sol. In this case, we cannot come to a proper conclusion as
103. An electric field is spread uniformly in Y-axis. nothing can be predicted about relative potential.
Consider a point A as origin point. The coordinates of
106. Given a metallic uniformly charged sphere. The
point B are equal to (0, 2) m. The coordinates of point
radius of the sphere is increased keeping its potential
C are (2, 0) m. At points A B, and C, electric
same. What is the effect on the value of the electric
potentials are VA ,VB and VC , respectively. From the
field intensity at its surface?
following options, which is correct?
(a) increases (b) decreases
(a) VA = VC  VB (b) VA = VB = VC (c) remains constant (d) nothing can be said
(c) VA = VB  VC (d) VA = VC  VB Ans. (b)
Ans. (d) kQ
Sol. Electric potential V =
R
Sol. Potential decreases in the direction of electric field.
Dotted lines are equipotential lines. V = constant
kQ kQ 1
Electric Field (E) = = 
R2 R R
kV
E=
R
Since radius is increased therefore
Electric field decreases.
ELECTROSTATICS 24

107. From a point charge, there is a fixed-point A. At A, 4 3 4

r ( n ) = R 3
there is an electric field of 500V/m and potential 3 3
difference of 3000 V. Distance between point charge R 3
R
and A will be: = n  = n1/3
r3 r
(a) 6 m (b) 12 m  R = rn 1/3

(c) 16 m (d) 24 m Let Q be the final charge on the bigger droplet.

Ans. (a) By conservation of charge, nq = Q
kq kq
Sol. E= 2 ; V= Potential of smaller droplets is V =
1 q
d d 40 r
V 3000
Thus, d = = = 6m Potential of bigger droplet is
E 500
1 Q 1 nq
V' = =
108. A particle of mass m and charge q is placed at rest in 40 R 40 r ( n )1/3
a uniform electric field E and then released. The
kinetic energy attained by the particle after moving a V ' = n1−1/3 V = Vn 2/3
distance y is: 111. The electric potential at any point x, y, z in metres is
given by V = 3x2. The electric field at a point (2, 0, 1)
(a) qEy2 (b) qE2y
is
(c) qEy (d) q2Ey
(a) 12 Vm-1 (b) – 6 Vm-1
Ans. (c)
(c) 6 Vm-1 (d) – 12 Vm-1
Sol. K.E. acquired = Work Done = Force × Distance
Ans. (d)
= qE  y = qEy
Sol. Electric potential is given in ,
109. There is an electric field E in x-direction. If the work V = 3x 2
done on moving a charge of 0.2 C through a distance
As, E = − ( V / x )
of 2 m along a line making an angle 60° with x-axis
 
 E = −  ( 3x 2 ) = −6x
is 4J, then what is the value of E?
(a) 3 N/C (b) 4 N/C  x 
(c) 5 N/C (d) 20 N/C E ( 2,0,1) = −6 ( 2 ) = −12 Vm −1
Ans. (d)
112. The potential at a point x (measured in  m) due to
Sol. W = F.r = Fr cos  = qEr cos  some charges situated on the x-axis is given by:

4 = ( 0.2 )( E )( 2 ) cos 60o 2

V (x) = 20/(x – 4) volt
4 The electric field E at x = 4  m is given by
E= = 20 NC−1
( 0.2 ) ( 2 cos 60 0
) 5
(a) V / m and in the –ve x direction
110. n identical mercury droplets charged to the same 3
potential V coalesce to form a single bigger drop. The 5
potential of new drop will be
(b) V / m and in the +ve x direction
3
(a) V/n (b) nV
10
2 2/3 (c) V / m and the –ve x direction
(c) nV (d) n V 9
Ans. (d) 10
(d) V / m and in the +ve x direction
Sol. As, volume of n identical droplets = volume of bigger 9
droplet Ans. (d)
25 ELECTROSTATICS

20 Sol. For a spherical shell;

Sol. V(x) = volt
(x 2
− 4) Electric field;
For r < R, E = 0
dV d  20 
Now, the electric field E = − =−  2 
dx dx  x − 4  For r > R, E =
kQ
r2
Differentiating on both sides, we get;
Electric potential;
 
−20(2x)  = 40x
E = − For r  R, V =
kQ
= constant
( )  ( x − 4)
 x2 − 4 2  2 2
R
kQ
Now, at x = 4m (given) For r  R, V =
r
40  4 10
E= = volt/m Thus, correct option would be (d).
(4 − 4)
2
2 9
114. The potential of the electric field produced by point
The value of the electric field E is positive, hence
charge at any point (x,y,z) is given by V = 3x + 5 ,
2
the electric field is in the positive x -direction.
where x, y are in metre and V is in volt. The intensity
113. Consider a thin spherical shell of radius R with its
of the electric field at ( −2,1, 0 ) is
centre at the origin carrying uniform positive surface
charge density. The variation of the magnitude of the (a) +17 Vm−1 (b) −17 Vm−1
electric field |E (r)| and the electric potential V (r) −1 −1

with the distance r from the centre, is best represented (c) +12Vm (d) −12Vm
by which graph? Ans. (d)
Potential, ( V ) = 3x 2 + 5
Intensity of the electric field
dV
= = 6x
dx
= 6 ( −2 )( E at x = −2 ) = −12 Vm−1
(a)
115. The electric potential at a point (x, y, z) is given by V
= – x2y – xz3 + 4. The electric field at that point is:
(a) E = ˆi ( 2xy + z3 ) + ˆjx 2 + k3xz
ˆ 2

(b) E = ˆi 2xy + ˆj( x 2 + y2 ) + kˆ (3xz − y2 )

(b)
(c) E = ˆiz3 + ˆjxyz + kz
ˆ 2

(d) E = ˆi ( 2xy − z3 ) + ˆjxy2 + kˆ 3z2 x

Ans. (a)
Sol.
(c)
 V V V 
E = − + + 
 x y z 
E = − ( −2xy − z3 ) i + ( − x 2 ) j + ( −3xz 2 ) k 
 
E = i ( 2xy + z3 ) + jx 2 + k3xz 2

(d) 116. Assertion: The value of V and E at the middle point

Ans. (d) of the line joining an electron and a proton is zero.
ELECTROSTATICS 26

−14 −1
Reason: V is a vector and E is a scalar. (c) 3.72  10 C − m
−46
(a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and the (d) 1.1 10 C − m
2

Reason is the correct explanation of the Assertion. Ans. (a)

(b) Both Assertion and Reason are true, but the Sol. The electric dipole moment is equal to
Reason is not the correct explanation of the p = 1.6 10−19  4.3 10−9
Assertion.
[ p = q  2l]
(c) Assertion is true, but Reason is false.
= 6.88  10 −28 C − m
(d) Both Assertion and Reason are false.
119. What is the angle between the electric dipole
Ans. (d)
moment and the electric field strength due to
k q it on the equatorial line?
Sol. V= = 0, as  q = −e + e = 0.
r (a) 0° (b) 90º
Unit positive charge held at the centre will be repelled (c) 180° (d) none of these
by proton and attracted by electron with same force. Ans. (c)
Therefore, E cannot be zero. The assertion is wrong.
Sol. As electric dipole moment and electric field
Now V is scalar and E is a vector so reason is also
are in opposite direction so, t he angle between
wrong.
electric dipole moment and electric field on the
117. Assertion: At a point in space, the electric field o
equatorial line is 180 .
points toward north. In the region, surrounding this
point the rate of change of potential will be zero 120. Let E a be the electric field due to a dipole in
along the east and west. its axial plane distant l and let E q be the
field in the equatorial plane distant l, then
Reason: Electric field due to a charge is the space
the relation between E a and E q will be:
around the charge.
(a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and the (a) E a = 4 E q (b) E q = 2 E a
Reason is the correct explanation of the (c) E a = 2 E q (d) E q = 3 E a
Assertion. Ans. (c)
(b) Both Assertion and Reason are true, but the 2p p
Reason is not the correct explanation of the Sol. E a = Ee =
40 d 3 4 0 d 3
Assertion.
(c) Assertion is true, but Reason is false. Ea = 2Eq
(d) Both Assertion and Reason are false. 121. A charge situated at a certain distance along the axis
Ans. (b) of an electric dipole experience a force F. If the
distance of the charge from the dipole is doubled,
Sol. Since the electric field is directed from south to north
then the force acting on it will become
hence rate of change of potential will be along this
F
direction, but it is zero along east and west. Reason is (a) 2F (b)
also true but does not explain the assertion. 2
F F
(c) (d)
4 8
Electric Dipole Ans. (d)
Sol. The electric field at a point distance r from electric
118. dipole is
The electric dipole moment of an electron and a 1 2p
E= . ( axial line )
proton 4.3 nm apart is 40 r 3
−28
(a) 6.88 10 C − m where, p is dipole moment and r is the distance of
−29 2 −1
(b) 2.56  10 C − m charge from centre of dipole.
27 ELECTROSTATICS

1 size of the dipole), then the electric field at that point

or E
r3 is proportional to
Force on charge, (a) p - 1 and r - 2 (b) p and r - 2
F = QE (c) p 2 and r - 3 (d) p and r - 3
1
or F 3 Ans. (d)
r
3
F2  r1  E=
p 1
 =  Sol. .
4 0 ( r 2 + a 2 )3/ 2
F1  r2 
Given, r1 = r, r2 = 2r
Now for, r >> a, we have
and F1 = F
p 1
F2  r  1
3
E= .
 =  = 40 ( r 3 )
F  2r  8
F Now, angle between paxi and p is zero.
 F2 =
8
kp
122. Three charges are arranged on the vertices of an E equitorial =
r3
equilateral triangle as shown. The dipole moment of
the combination is E  p  E  r −3
124. Three point charges + q, −2q and + q are placed at
points ( x = 0, y = a, z = 0 ) , ( x = 0, y = 0, z = 0 ) and
( x = a, y = 0, z = 0) , respectively. The magnitude and
direction of the electric dipole moment vector of this
charge assembly are
(a) zero (b) 2qd (a) 2qa along + y − direction

(c) 3qd (d) 3qd 2qa along the line joining points
(b)
( x = 0, y = 0, z = 0 ) and ( x = a, y = a, z = 0 )
Ans. (c)
(c) qa along the line joining points
Sol.
( x = 0, y = 0, z = 0) and ( x = a, y = a, z = 0 )
(d) 2qa along + x − direction
Ans. (b)
Sol. Choose the three coordinate axes as x y, and z and
plot the charges with the given coordinates as shown

→
| P net |= p 2 + p 2 + 2p 2 cos 60o
= 3p
= 3qd
O is the origin at which −2q charge is placed. The
123. A point Q lies on the perpendicular bisector of an
system is equivalent to two dipoles along x and y-
electrical dipole of dipole moment p. If the distance
directions, respectively. The dipole moments of two
of a point from the dipole is r (much larger than the
dipoles are shown in figure. The resultant dipole
ELECTROSTATICS 28

moment will be directed along OP, where

P  ( a,a,0 ) . The magnitude of resultant dipole
moment is
p ' = p2 + p2 = ( qa ) + ( qa )
2 2

= 2qa
p = (500 10−6 )(10 10−2 ) = 5 10−5 Cm
125. The electric field due to an electric dipole at a
distance r from its centre at axial position is E. If the r = 25cm = 0.25m
o
dipole is rotated through an angle of 90 about its
perpendicular axis, the electric field at the same point
l = 5cm = 0.05m
will be  
2pr
E E = 9  109  
( )
(a) E (b)  r 2 − l2 2 
4 
(c)
E
(d) 2E
E=
( 9 10 ) ( 2 ) ( 5 10 ) ( 0.25)
9 −5

2
Ans. (c) (( 0.25) 2
− ( 0.05 ) )
2 2

Sol. When a dipole AB of very small length is taken, then E = 6.25  10 N / C

7

for a point P located at a distance r from the axis the

electric field is given by 127. Assertion: A point charge placed at any point on the
axis of an electric dipole at some large distance
1 2p
E= . ... ( i ) experiences a force F. The force acting on the point
40 r 3
charge when its distance from the dipole is doubled is
F
.
8
1
Reason: Coulomb’s law obeys F  .
r3
where, p is dipole moment. When dipole is rotated by (a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and the
90o, then electric field is given by Reason is the correct explanation of the
Assertion.
(b) Both Assertion and Reason are true, but the
Reason is not the correct explanation of the
Assertion.
(c) Assertion is true, but Reason is false.
(d) Both Assertion and Reason are false.
From Eqs. (i) and (ii), we get Ans. (c)
E Sol. Force acting on a point charge in dipole field varies
E' =
2 F = qE
126. The electric intensity due to a dipole of length 10 cm kp
as and E= 3
and having a charge of 500 C , at a point on the r
1
axis at a distance 20 cm from one of the charges in F 3.
r
air, is
128. Assertion: On going away from a point charge or a
(a) 6.25 × 10 7 N/C (b) 9.28 × 10 7 N/C small electric dipole, electric field decreases at the
(c) 13.1 × 10 1 1 N/C (d) 20.5 × 10 7 N/C same rate in both the cases.
Ans. (a)
Sol.
29 ELECTROSTATICS

Reason: Electric field is inversely proportional to (c) Rotate by p/2

square of distance from the charge or an electric (d) Rotate by p
dipole.
Ans. (a)
(a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and the
Sol.
Reason is the correct explanation of the
Assertion.
(b) Both Assertion and Reason are true, but the
Reason is not the correct explanation of the
Assertion.
(c) Assertion is true, but Reason is false. -q charge is near the +Q as compare to +q, so
(d) Both Assertion and Reason are false. attractive force will be greater than repulsive force.
Ans. (d) Therefore, dipole moves towards the origin.
Sol. The rate of decrease of electric field is different in the 131. An electric dipole with a dipole moment 4 × 10-9 Cm
two cases. In case of a point charge, it decreases as is aligned at 30º with the direction of a uniform
1/ r 2 but in the case of electric dipole it decreases electric field of magnitude 5 × 104 NC-1. Calculate the
magnitude of the torque acting on the dipole.
more rapidly, as E 1/ r 3 .
(a) 10-4 Nm (b) 10-2 Nm

Dipole In Electric Field (c) 2  10-4 Nm (d) 5  10-3 Nm

Ans. (a)
129. If a dipole of dipole moment p is placed in
Sol. A dipole placed in a uniform electric field,
a uniform electric field then torque acting on
experiences a torque t = pE sin q which tends to align
it is given by
the dipole parallel to the direction of field.
(a)  = p.E (b)  = p  E Torque t = pE sin q
(c)  = p + E (d)  = p − E Here p = 4 × 10-9 C-m, E = 5 × 104 NC-1, q = 30º

Ans.(b) Torque t = 4 × 10-9 × 5 × 104 sin 30º

4 × 10-9 × 5 × 104 × 1/2 = 10-4 Nm
Sol. Dipole moment p = qa (where q is magnitude of
charge and a is distance between charges). When a 132. An electric dipole of moment ‘p’ is lying
along a uniform electric field ‘E’. The work
dipole of dipole moment p is placed in a uniform
done in rotating the dipole by 90° is
electric field E, the torque is given by the product of
(a) pE/2 (b) 2 p E
either force and the perpendicular distance between
the two forces. (c) p E (d) 2 p E
That is, Ans. (c)
 = qEa sin  Sol. W = pE = pEfinal − pEinitial = 0 − ( −pE ) = pE
This can also be shown as the cross product of dipole 133. An electric dipole has the magnitude of its
moment and electric field,  = p  E charge as q and its dipole moment is p. It is
placed in uniform electric field E. If its
130. A positive charge is fixed at the origin. An electric
dipole moment is along the direction of the
dipole, which is free to move and rotate, is placed on
field, the force on it and its potential energy
the positive x–axis. Its dipole moment is directed
are respectively
towards the positive x-axis. The dipole will :
(a) q. E and max. (b) 2 q. E and min.
(a) Move towards the origin
(c) q. E and p.E (d) zero and min.
(b) Move away from the origin
ELECTROSTATICS 30

−3 −3
Ans. (d) (a) 6  10 Nm (b) 3 10 Nm
Sol. U = −p.E = −pE  Minimum (c) 15  10 Nm
−3 −3
(d) 1.5 10 Nm
–dU dE Ans. (d)
F= =P =0 (Since E is constant)
Sol.
dr dr
→ Given, q = 0.05C = 5 10−8 C,
134. An electric dipole of dipole moment p is placed in 2a = 30 mm = 0.03 and E = 106 NC−1
→
uniform electric field E . It is then rotated by an angle Torque acting on an electric dipole placed in an
of . The work done is uniform electric field,
 = pE sin 
(a) pE sinθ (b) pE cosθ
For maximum torque,  = 90o
(c) pE (1-cosθ) (d) pE (1-sinθ)
 max = pE = E ( q  2a )
Ans. (c)
= 106  5  10−8  0.03
Sol.
= 1.5  10−3 N − m
o
Ui = - PE cos0 = - PE
137. An electric dipole placed in a non -uniform
Uf = - PE cos
electric field experience:
U = - PE cos + PE
= PE (1 - cos) (a) both, a torque and a net force
 W = PE (1 - cos) (b) only a force but no torque
135. A charge q is placed at (1, 2, 1) and other charge –q is (c) only a torque but no net force
placed at (0,1, 0) such that they form an electric (d) no torque and no net force
dipole. There exists a uniform electric field
Ans. (a)
E = 2i + 3j . What is torque experienced by the
Sol. If an electric dipole is placed in a non-uniform
dipole.
electric field, then the positive and negative charges
( )
(a) q 3i + 2 j + k N.m (
(b) q −3i + 2 j + k N.m) of the dipole will experience a net force. And as one
end of the dipole experiences a force in one direction
(c) q ( −3i + 2 j − k ) N.m (d) q ( i − 2 j + k ) N.m and the other end in the opposite direction, so the
dipole will have a net torque also.
Ans. (b)
138. Assertion: Electric dipole in non-uniform electric
Sol.
field may have translatory and rotational motion both.
→ → →
τ = p E Reason: Net force is always zero on dipole in non-
→   uniform electric field.
E = 2 i+ 3 j
(a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and the
→
      
p = q  i + j+ k  = q i + q j+ q k Reason is the correct explanation of the
 
Assertion.
ˆi ˆj kˆ
→
    (b) Both Assertion and Reason are true, but the
τ = q q q = q  −3 i + 2 j+ k  N.m
  Reason is not the correct explanation of the
2 3 0 Assertion.
(c) Assertion is true, but Reason is false.
136. An electric dipole consists of two opposite charges (d) Both Assertion and Reason are false.
each 0.05µC separated by 30 mm. The dipole is Ans. (c)
placed in a uniform external electric field of
Sol. When an electric dipole is placed in a non-uniform
106 NC −1 . The maximum torque exerted by the field electric field, the two charges of dipole experiences
on the dipole is unequal forces, therefore, the net force on the dipole
is not equal to zero. Due to two unequal forces, a
31 ELECTROSTATICS

torque is produced which rotate the dipole so as to 1 q1q 2 1 qq

align it in the direction of the field. When the dipole
gets aligned with the field, the torque becomes zero
and then the unbalanced force acts on the dipole and
the dipole then moves linearly along the direction of
field from weaker portion of the field to the stronger
portion of the field. So in non-uniform electric field,
motion of the dipole is translatory and rotatory both.
139. Assertion: When a dipole is placed along the uniform
electric field it is said to be in stable equilibrium.
Reason: If dipole is along the direction of field its
potential energy is maximum.
(a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and the
Reason is the correct explanation of the Assertion.
(b) Both Assertion and Reason are true, but the
Reason is not the correct explanation of the Assertion.
(c) Assertion is true, but Reason is false.
(d) Both Assertion and Reason are false.
Ans. (c)
Sol. When  = 0o that is, dipole is placed along the electric
field it is said to be in stable equilibrium, because
after turning it through a small angle, dipole tries to
align itself again in the direction of electric field.
Potential energy is minimum as Umin = −pEcos .
Dielectrics
140. When air medium in which two charges kept apart at
a distance r is replaced by a dielectric medium of
dielectric constant K, the force between the charges is
(a) remain unchanged (b) 1/K times
1 2
(c) 2 times (d) K times
K unless the actual values of charges and radii are
Ans. (b)
Sol. Force between two charged particles, when air is the
medium between them is given as
1 q1q 2
F= 
4 0 r 2
where, q1 and q2 are charge on the particles and r is
the distance between them.
Now, if a dielectric is inserted between them, the
force is given as
F' =  =  1 2
4 r 2 40 K r 2
1
= F ( As,  = K 0 )
K
Conductors And Its Properties
141. Which of the following figures cannot possibly
represent electrostatics field lines
(a) i, ii, iii, iv (b) i, ii, iii only
(c) i, iii, iv only (d) ii, iii, iv only
Ans. (c)
Sol. In figure (1), the field lines are not normal to the
surface, so it cannot represent electrostatic field lines.
In figure (3), the field lines intersect each other, so it
cannot represent electrostatic field lines.
In figure (4), closed loops are not formed in the area
between the field lines.
142. Two concentric metallic spherical shells are given
unequal positive charges. Then,
(a) the outer sphere is always at a higher potential
(b) the inner sphere is always at a higher potential
(c) both the spheres are at the same potential
(d) no prediction can be made about their potentials
known
Ans. (b)
Sol. Two concentric metallic spherical shells are given a
positive charge. The potential difference depends on
the radius of the spherical shells. As the inner sphere
has less radius, so the potential will be high. The
radius of outer-sphere has a large radius in
comparison to the inner sphere, then the potential is
less when compared to the inner sphere. Therefore,
the inner sphere has more potential than the outer
sphere.
ELECTROSTATICS 32

Sol. Electrostatic field at the surface of a conductor is

perpendicular to the surface.
145. The charge given to any conductor resides on its outer
surface, because
(a) the free charge tends to be in its minimum
potential energy state
(b) the free charge tends to be in its minimum kinetic
energy state
(c) the free charge tends to be in its maximum
potential energy state
143. The concentric spheres of radii R and r have similar (d) the free charge tends to be in its maximum kinetic
charges with equal surface densities (). What is the energy state
electric potential at their common centre?
Ans. (a)
 
(a) (R − r) (b) (R + r) Sol. Charge given to a conductor is uniformly distributed
0 0 at its outer surface to acquire its minimum potential
R  energy state.
(c) (d)
0 0
146. Surface charge density on uniformly charged sphere
Ans. (b)
is
Sol. Charge on outer sphere q1 = 4R 2 
(a) Directly proportional to the radius of the sphere
Charge on inner sphere q2 = 4r 2 (b) Inversely proportional to the radius of the sphere
1 q1 1 q2 (c) Directly proportional to the square of the radius of
v= + the sphere
4 0 R 4 0 r
1  q1 q 2  (d) Inversely proportional to the square of the radius
v= +
4 0  R r 
of the sphere
Ans. (d)
1  4R 2  4r 2  
v=  + 
4 0  R r  Sol. Surface charge density = Q
4R 2

 v = (R + r) 147. A circular metal plate of radius 10 cm is given a
0
charge of 20 C on its surface. The charge density of
144. Identify the false statement.
the plate is
(a) Inside a charged or neutral conductor, electrostatic
(a) 6.36 × 10-4 C/m2 (b) 2 × 10-6 C/m2
field is zero.
(c) 3  10-9 C/m2 (d) 3.184  10-4 C/m2
(b) The electrostatic field at the surface of the charged
conductor must be tangential to the surface at any Ans. (d)
point. Q 20 10−6
= = = 3.184 10−4 C / m 2
(c) There is no net charge at any point inside the Sol. 2R 2 2  3.14 10−2
conductor.
(d) Electrostatic potential is constant throughout the 148. The surface density of charge on a conductor situated
volume of the conductor. in air is 2 × 104 C/m2. The electric field intensity at a
(e) Electric field at the surface of a charged conductor point very near to its surface is
is proportional to the surface charge density. (a) 2.2 × 1015 N/C (b) 2.2 × 109 N/C
Ans. (b) (c) 3.3 × 107 N/C (d) 3.3 × 1015 N/C
33 ELECTROSTATICS

Ans. (a) Sol. Inside the conductor, net electric field is zero;
Sol.  = 2  10-4 C/m2 therefore, the potential difference is also zero. Due to
zero potential difference, potential remains constant

E= = 2.2  1015 N / C throughout inside total volume.
0
149. If a conductor is electrically neutral, then 152. Consider a non-spherical conductor shown in the
(a) Net charge on it should be zero figure which is given a certain amount of positive
(b) Potential on it should be zero charge. The charge distributes itself on the surface
(c) Both charge and potential should be zero such that the charge densities are 1, 2 and 3at the
region 1, 2 and 3 respectively. Then
(d) None of these may not be zero
Ans. (a)
Sol. The net charge on the conductor should be zero, as
conductor is electrically neutral. So, the potential of a
neutral conductor may not be zero and it depends on
the other charges available in the surrounding.
150. Which of the following may be discontinuous across
(a) 1  2  3 (b) 2  3  1
a charged conducting surface?
(a) Electric potential (c) 3  1  2 (d) 2  1  3
(b) Electric intensity Ans. (d)
(c) Both electric intensity and potential Sol.
(d) None of these Charge density is inversely proportional to radius of
Ans. (b) curvature, i.e.
Sol. For a conducting sphere Charge density  1
Einside = 0 Radius of curvature

KQ R3  R1  R 2
Eoutside =
r2 Therefore, as shown in figure,
Hence at the boundary, electric intensity E is 2  1  3

discontinuous, while VA − VB = E.dr ,potential
difference between two points on the surface, is an 153. Two charged metallic spheres of radii r1and r2 are
integral of a non-infinite quantity, which cannot be touched and separated. What is the ratio of their
discontinuous. surface charge density?
151. Assertion: Electrostatic potential is constant 1 r2 1 r1
throughout the volume of the conductor and has the (a) = (b) =
2 r1 2 r2
same value as on its surface.
1  rr
Reason: Electric field inside the conductor is zero. (c) = 1 (d) 1 = 2 1
2  2 r1 + r2
(a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and the
Reason is the correct explanation of the Assertion. Ans. (a)
(b) Both Assertion and Reason are true, but the Sol. Common potential:
Reason is not the correct explanation of the Assertion. k(Q1 − x) k(Q 2 + x)
V= =
(c) Assertion is true, but Reason is false. r1 r2
(d) Both Assertion and Reason are false. Q1 − x r1
 =
Ans. (a) Q 2 + x r2
Ratio of charge densities:
ELECTROSTATICS 34

Q1 − x of B but uncharged is brought in contact with B, then

1 4r12 Q − x r22 r1 r22 brought in contact with C and finally removed away
= = 1  = 
2 Q2 + x Q 2 + x r12 r2 r12 from both. The new force of repulsion between B and
4r22 C is
1 r2 (a)
F
(b)
3F
 = 4 4
2 r1
154. A conducting sphere of radius R and carrying charge (c) F (d) 3F
8 8
Q is joined to an uncharged conducting sphere of
radius 2R. The charge flowing between them would Ans. (d)
be Sol. Let the spherical conductors B and C have same
charge as q. The electric force between them is
(a)2Q (b) 4Q
3 1 q2
F=
4 0 r 2
(c) 2Q (d) Q
3 where, r being the distance between them. When third
Ans. (c) uncharged conductor A is brought in contact with B,
Sol. then charge on each conductor
qA + qB
qA = qB =
2
0+q q
= =
2 2
When this conductor A is now brought in contact
with C, then charge on each conductor
qA + qC
qA = qC =
When joined together 2
( q / 2 ) + q 3q
= =
2 4
Hence, electric force acting between B and C is
1 qBqC
F' =
4 0 r 2
1 ( q / 2 )( 3q / 4 )
=
4 0 r2
3  1 q 2  3F
When joined together, let charge flown from first =  =
8  4 0 r 2  8
sphere to the next sphere be x. Also, potentials at both
spheres can be equated and hence, we have: 156. A ball with charge – 50e is placed at the centre of a
k(Q − x) kx hollow spherical shell has a net charge of – 50e. What
= is the charge on the shell’s outer surface?
R 2R
k(Q − x) = x (a) – 50 e (b) Zero

x=
2Q (c) – 100 e (d) + 100 e
3 Ans. (c)
155. Two spherical conductors B and C having equal radii Sol. The net charge on the outer surface is
and carrying equal charges in them repel each other
( −50e − 50e ) = −100e.
with a force F when kept apart at some distance. A
third spherical conductor having same radius as that
35
157. Assertion: The lightning conductor at the top of high
building has sharp pointed ends.
Reason: The surface charge density of charge at
sharp points is very high resulting in setting up of
electric wind.
(a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and the
Reason is the correct explanation of the Assertion.
(b) Both Assertion and Reason are true, but the
Reason is not the correct explanation of the Assertion.
(c) Assertion is true, but Reason is false.
(d) Both Assertion and Reason are false.
Ans. (a)
Sol. A charged cloud induces opposite charge on pointed
conductors. At sharp points of the conductor surface
density of charge is very high and charge begins to
leak from the pointed ends by setting up oppositely
charged electric wind. This wind, when comes in
contact with the charged cloud, neutralizes some of
its charge lowering the potential difference between
the cloud and the building. This reduces the chances
of lightning striking the building (if the lightning
strikes the building, the charge is conducted to the
Earth and the building remains safe).
158. Assertion: The tyres of aircrafts are slightly
conducting.
Reason: If a conductor is connected to the ground,
the extra charge induced on the conductor will flow to
the ground.
(a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and the
Reason is the correct explanation of the Assertion.
(b) Both Assertion and Reason are true, but the
Reason is not the correct explanation of the Assertion.
(c) Assertion is true, but Reason is false.
(d) Both Assertion and Reason are false.
Ans. (a)
Sol. During take-off and landing, the friction between
tyres and the runway may cause electrification of
tyres. Due to conducting nature of tyre, the charge
ELECTROSTATICS
so collected is conducted to the ground and
electrical sparking is avoided.
159. Assertion: Electric field intensity within a conductor
is always zero.
Reason: Electric field lines of force can pass through
the conductor.
(a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and the
Reason is the correct explanation of the Assertion.
(b) Both Assertion and Reason are true, but the
Reason is not the correct explanation of the Assertion.
(c) Assertion is true, but Reason is false.
(d) Both Assertion and Reason are false.
Ans. (c)
Sol. Since conductor cannot hold net charge inside it, so
electric field intensity within a conductor is always
zero. Therefore, electric field lines of force cannot
pass through the conductor.
160. Assertion: During lightning, it is safe to sit inside the
car.
Reason: The hollow structure of car provides
electrostatic shielding.
(a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and the
Reason is the correct explanation of the Assertion.
(b) Both Assertion and Reason are true, but the
Reason is not the correct explanation of the Assertion.
(c) Assertion is true, but Reason is false.
(d) Both Assertion and Reason are false.
Ans. (a)
Sol. Since cars are made of metal, the net electric field
inside is always zero. So charge produced due to
lightning is distributed on the outer surface of the car
and finally transferred to Earth.
ELECTROSTATICS 36