Electrostats Theory+Sample Problem

ELECTROSTATICS
STUDY MATERIAL
ENGINEERING AND MEDICAL ENTERANCE
ELECTROSTATICS
Electric Charge
(1) Charge is the property associated with matter due to which it produces and experiences electrical and magnetic effects.
(2) It is known that every atom is electrically neutral, containing as many electrons as the
number of protons in the nucleus.
(3) Charged particles can be created by disturbing neutrality of an atom. Loss of electrons gives
positive charge (as then np > ne) and gain of electrons gives negative charge (as then ne > np) to
a particle. In charging mass of the body changes as shown below
4) Charges with the same electrical sign repel each other, and charges with opposite electrical
sign attract each other.
(5) Unit and dimensional formula
S.I. unit of charge is Ampere  sec = coulomb (C), smaller S.I. units are mC, C.
C.G.S. unit of charge is Stat coulomb or e.s.u. Electromagnetic unit of charge is ab coulomb
1C = 3  10 9 stat coulomb =
1
ab coulomb . Dimensional formula [Q] = AT 
10
(6) Charge is
Transferable : It can be transferred from one body to another .
Associated with mass : Charge cannot exist without mass but reverse is not
true.
Conserved : It can neither be created nor be destroyed.
Invariant : Independent of velocity of charged particle.
(7) Electric charge produces electric field (E) , magnetic field (B) and electromagnetic
→
radiations. → v = constant
→
v  constant
+ v =0 + +
→ → → → →
E only E and B E , B and Radiates energy
(8) Point charge : A finite size body may behave like a point charge if it produces an inverse
square electric field. For example an isolated charged sphere behave like a point charge at very
large distance as well as very small distance close to it’s surface.
(9) Charge on a conductor : Charge given to a conductor always + + + + + +
+
+
resides on it's outer surface. This is why a solid and hollow + +
+ +
+
+
+
conducting sphere of same outer radius will hold maximum equal + + +
+ +
+
+ +
charge. If surface is uniform the charge distributes uniformly on + + + + + +
(A) (B)
the surface and for irregular surface the distribution of charge,
i.e., charge density is not uniform.
It is maximum where the radius of curvature is minimum and vice versa. i.e., σ  (1 /R ) . This is
why charge leaks from sharp points.
(10) Charge distribution : It may be of two types
(i) Discrete distribution of charge : A system consisting of ultimate individual charges.
(ii) Continuous distribution of charge : An amount of charge distribute uniformly or non-
uniformly on a body. It is of following three types
(a) Line charge distribution : Charge on a line e.g. charged straight wire, circular charged ring
etc.
=
Charge
= Linear charge density, S.I. unit is C Dimension is [L–1TA]
Length m
(b) Surface charge distribution : Charge distributed on a surface e.g. plane sheet of charge,
Charge
conducting sphere, conducting cylinder of = = Surface charge density S.I. unit
Area
is C2 Dimension is [L–2TA]
m
(c) Volume charge density : Charge distributes through out the volume of the body e.g. charge
Charge
on a dielectric sphere etc. = = Volume charge density S.I. unit is C3
Volume m
Dimension is [L–3TA]
PHYSICS BY HITEN PARMAR Page 1 of 44
ELECTROSTATICS
(11) Quantization of charge : If the charge of an electron ( = 1.6  10 C ) is taken as elementary −19
unit i.e. quanta of charge, the charge on any body will be some integral multiple of e i.e.,
Q =  ne with n = 1, 2, 3 .... Charge on a body can never be  2 e , 17.2e or 10–5e etc.
3
(12) Comparison of charge and mass : We are familiar with role of mass in gravitation, and we
have just studied some features of electric charge. We can compare the two as shown below
Charge v/s mass
Charge Mass
(1) Electric charge can be positive, negative or (1) Mass of a body is a positive quantity.
zero.
(2) Charge carried by a body does not depend (2) Mass of a body increases with its velocity
upon velocity of the body. as m = m0
where c is velocity of light in
1 − v2 / c2
vacuum, m is the mass of the body moving
with velocity v and m 0 is rest mass of the
body.
(3) Charge is quantized. (3) The quantization of mass is yet to be
established.
(4) Electric charge is always conserved. (4) Mass is not conserved as it can be
changed into energy and vice-versa.
(5) Force between charges can be attractive or (5) The gravitational force between two
repulsive, accordingly as charges are unlike masses is always attractive.
or like charges.
Methods of Charging
A body can be charged by following methods.
(1) By friction : By rubbing two bodies together, both positive and negative charges in equal
amounts appear simultaneously due to transfer of electrons from one body to the other.
(i) When a glass rod is rubbed with silk, the rod becomes positively charged while the silk
becomes negatively charged. The decrease in the mass of glass rod is equal to the total mass of
electrons lost by it.
(ii) Ebonite on rubbing with wool becomes negatively charged making the wool positively
charged.
(iii) Clouds also get charged by friction.
(iv) A comb moving through dry hair gets electrically charged. It starts attracting small bits of paper.
(v) During landing or take-off, the tyres of an aircraft get electrified therefore special material is
used to manufacture them.
(2) By electrostatic induction : If a charged body is brought near an uncharged body, one side
of neutral body (closer to charged body) becomes oppositely charged while the other side
becomes similarly charged.
Induced charge can be lesser or equal to inducing charge (but never greater) and its maximum
value is given by Q' = −Q 1 −
1
where Q is the inducing charge and K is the dielectric constant
 K 
of the material of the uncharged body. It is also known as specific inductive capacity (SIC) of
the medium, or relative permittivity r of the medium (relative means with respect to free space)
Table: Different dielectric constants
Medium K Medium K
Vacuum 1 Mica 6
air 1.0003 Silicon 12
Paraffin vax 2.1 Germanium 16
Rubber 3 Glycerin 50
Transformer oil 4.5 Water 80
Glass 5–10 Metal 
(3) Charging by conduction : Take two conductors, one charged and other uncharged. Bring
the conductors in contact with each other. The charge (whether −ve or +ve ) under its own
repulsion will spread over both the conductors. Thus the conductors will be charged with the
same sign. This is called as charging by conduction (through contact).
Electroscope
It is a simple apparatus with which the presence of electric charge on a body is detected (see
figure). When metal knob is touched with a charged body, some charge is transferred to the gold
ELECTROSTATICS
leaves, which then diverges due to repulsion. The separation gives a rough idea of the amount of
charge on the body. When a charged body brought near a charged electroscope, the leaves will
further diverge, if the charge on body is similar to that on electroscope and will usually converge
if opposite. If the induction effect is strong enough leaves after converging may again diverge.
Coulomb’s Law
If two stationary and point charges Q 1 and Q 2 are kept at a distance r, then it is found that
force of attraction or repulsion between them is
Q1 Q 2
F i.e., F = kQ12Q 2 (k = Proportionality constant)
r2 r
Q1 Q 2 1 N -m 2
In C.G.S. (for air ) k = 1, F = Dyne In S.I. (for air) k = = 9  10 9
r 2
40 C2
1 Q Q
 F= . 12 2 Newton (1 Newton = 105 Dyne)
4  0 r
C2  Farad 
 0 = Absolute permittivity of air or free space = 8 .85  10 −12 = .
N −m2  m 
It’s Dimensional formula is [M −1 L−3 T 4 A 2 ]
Q1 Q 2 Q1 Q 2
(1) Vector form of coulomb’s law : Vector form of Coulomb’s law is F 12 = K. r 12 = K . rˆ12 ,
r3 r2
where r̂12 is the unit vector from first charge to second charge along the line joining the two
charges.
(2) Effect of medium : When a dielectric medium is completely filled in between charges
rearrangement of the charges inside the dielectric medium takes place and the force between the
Fair 1 Q Q
same two charges decreases by a factor of K (dielectric constant) i.e. Fmedium = = . 12 2
K 4 0 K r
(Here  0 K =  0  r =  = permittivity of medium)
If a dielectric medium (dielectric constant K, thickness t) is partially filled between the charges
then effective air separation between the charges becomes (r − t + t K )
K
1 Q1 Q 2 Q1 Q2
Hence force F =
4 0 (r − t + t K ) 2 r
(3) Principle of superposition : According to the principle of super position, total force acting
on a given charge due to number of charges is the vector sum of the individual forces acting on
that charge due to all the charges. Q
Consider number of charge Q1 , Q 2 , Q 3 …are applying force on a charge Q r1
Net force on Q will be Q1 r 2
r3 Qn
F net = F1 + F 2 + .... + F n −1 + F n
Q2
The magnitude of the resultant of two electric forces is given by Q3 Qn – 1
Fnet = F12 + F22 + 2 F1 F2 cos 
F2 sin 
and tan  =
F1 + F2 cos 
For problem solving remember following standard results.
F Fnet
F F
F2
90° 60° 45° 
45° 30° 22.5° 
F F F F1
F
120° 60° F F
F F
F
Table: Fundamental forces of nature

Force Nature and formula Range Relative strength
Force of gravitation Attractive F = Gm1m2/r2, obey’s Long range (between
between two masses Newton’s third law of motion, it’s a planets and between 1
conservative force electron and proton)

ELECTROSTATICS
Electromagnetic force (for Attractive as well as repulsive, obey’s
Long (upto few
stationary and moving Newton’s third law of motion, it’s a 10 37
kelometers)
charges) conservative force
Nuclear force (between Exact expression is not known till Short (of the order of 1039
nucleons) date. nuclear size 10–15 m) (strongest)
Weak force (for processes Short
Formula not known 1024
like  decay) (upto 10–15m)
Electrical Field
A positive charge or a negative charge is said to create its field around itself. Thus space around a charge in which another charged particle experiences
a force is said to have electrical field in it.

(1) Electric field intensity (E) : The electric field intensity at any point is defined as the force


experienced by a unit positive charge placed at that point. E = F
q0
Where q0 → 0 so that presence of this charge may not affect the source charge Q and its electric
field is not

changed, therefore expression for electric field intensity can be better written as
 F
E = Lim
q 0 →0 q0
(2) Unit and Dimensional formula
It’s S.I. unit is Newton = volt = Joule
coulomb meter coulomb  meter
and C.G.S. unit – Dyne/stat coulomb.
Dimension : [ E ] =[ MLT −3 A −1 ]

(3) Direction of electric field : Electric field (intensity) E is a vector quantity. Electric field due
to a positive charge is always away from the charge and that due to a negative charge is always
towards the charge.

(4) Relation between electric force and electric field : In an electric field E a charge (Q)
experiences a force F = Q E . If charge is positive then force is directed in the direction of field
while if charge is negative force acts on it in the opposite direction of field
(5) Super position of electric field (electric field at a point due to various charges) : The
resultant electric field at any point is equal to the vector sum of electric fields at that point due
   
to various charges i.e. E = E1 + E2 + E3 + ...
(6) Electric field due to continuous distribution of charge : A system of closely spaced electric
charges forms a continuous charge distribution. To find the field of a continuous charge
distribution, we divide the charge into infinitesimal charge elements. Each infinitesimal charge
element is then considered, as a point charge and electric field dE is determined due to this
charge at given point. The Net field at the given point is the summation of fields of all the
elements. i.e., E = dE . 
Electric Potential
(1) Definition : Potential at a point in a field is defined as the amount of work done in bringing
a unit positive test charge, from infinity to that point along any arbitrary path (infinity is point
W
of zero potential). Electric potential is a scalar quantity, it is denoted by V; V =
q0
Joule
(2) Unit and dimensional formula S. I. unit : = volt
Coulomb
C.G.S. unit : Stat volt (e.s.u.); 1 volt = 1 Stat volt
300
Dimension : [V ] = [ML2 T −3 A −1 ]
(3) Types of electric potential : According to the nature of charge potential is of two types
(i) Positive potential : Due to positive charge.
(ii) Negative potential : Due to negative charge.
(4) Potential of a system of point charges : Consider P is a point at which
net electric potential is to be determined due to several charges. So net
potential at P
(−Q4 ) + ... X

Q1 Q Q kQi
V =k +k 2 +k 3 +k In general V =
r1 r2 r3 r4 i =1
ri

ELECTROSTATICS
(5) Electric potential due to a continuous charge distribution : The potential due to a
continuous charge distribution is the sum of potentials of all the infinitesimal charge elements
dQ
in which the distribution may be divided i.e., 
V = dV , =  4 r
0
(6) Graphical representation of potential : As we +q –q +q +q

move on the line joining two charges then variation
of potential with distance is shown below Y
Y
(7) Potential difference : In an electric field V
V
potential difference between two points A and B is
defined as equal to the amount of work done (by
external agent) in moving a unit positive charge from X
O X
W x
point A to point B i.e., VB − VA = O x
q0 (A) (B)
Electric Field and Potential Due to Various Charge Distribution
(1) Point charge : Electric field and potential at point P due to a pointQ charge Q is P
Q  Q  1  Q r
E = k 2 or E = k 2 rˆ k = , V =k
 4 0 
r r   r
Graph E V
r r 
+ Ey
(2) Line charge: Electric field and potential due to a charged straight +

conducting wire of length l and charge density 
+
l P Ey
+ r 
k k
Ex = (sin + sin  ) and Ey = (cos  − cos  ) +
r r +
  r2 + l2 − l
V= log e  
2 0  r2 + l2 + l
 
(i) If point P lies at perpendicular bisector of wire i.e.  = ; E x = 2k  sin and Ey = 0
r
 2k  
(ii) If wire is infinitely long i.e. l →  so  =  = ; Ex = and Ey = 0  Enet = and
2 r 20 r
−
V= log e r + c
2 0
(iii) If point P lies near one end of infinitely long wire i.e.  = 0, and  =  +
2 +
k 2 k
| E x| =| E y| =  Enet = Ex2 + Ey2 =
+
+
r r
(3) Charged circular ring : Suppose we have a charged circular
+
P Ey
ring of radius R and charge Q. On it’s axis electric field and
potential is to be determined, at a point ‘x’ distance away from
Ey
the centre of the ring.
At point P
kQx kQ
E= ,V=
( x 2 + R 2 )3 / 2 x 2 + R2
At centre x = 0 so Ecentre = 0 and Vcentre = kQ

R
At a point on the axis such that x >> R E = kQ2 , V = kQ
+
+ +
+
x x +
+
R Q Q R +
If x =  , E max = and Vmax = +
P
2 6 3 0 a 2
2 60 +
+
+
+ +
E
Graph +
+
+
+
+ +
+
x O x

ELECTROSTATICS
(4) Some more results of line charge : If a thin plastic rod having charge density  is bent in
the following shapes then electric field at P in different situations shown in the following table
Bending of charged rod

+ + + + + +
+
+
+
+ r
r 
+
+
  +
+
 E r r
+ +
+ + +
E
2k  2k 
E= sin  E= cos 
r r
+ +
+ + +
+
+ +
+
+
+ 45° +
90° 90°
+ +
+ 45°
r
r
2k  E
2 k
E= E E=
r r
+ + + + + + + +
+ + +
+ + +
+
+ +
+ +
+ r
r +
+
E + +
+ +
+ 2 k + + + + + +
+ E=
r E =0
(5) Charged cylinder
(i) Non-conducting (ii) Conducting
uniformly charged charged cylinder
cylinder
+ + + + + +
+ + + + P + + P
+ + + + + +
+ + +
r + +
r
+
+ + + + + +
(A) (B)
If point of observation (P) lies outside the cylinder then for both type of cylindrical charge
−
distribution E out =
 , and Vout = log e r + c
2 0 r 20

If point of observation lies at surface i.e. r = R so for both cylinder E suface = and
2 0 R
−
Vsurface = log e R + c
20
If point of observation lies inside the cylinder then for conducting cylinder E in = 0 and for non-
r
conducting Ein =
20 R 2
E
Graph E
Ein  r
Ein=0
O r O r
r=R
(A) For non-conducting cylinder (B) For conducting cylinder
(6) Charged Conducting sphere (or shell of charge) : If charge on a conducting sphere of
radius R is Q (and  = surface charge density) as shown in figure then electric field and potential
in different situation are

ELECTROSTATICS
(i) Out side the sphere : If point P lies outside the sphere +Q P +Q +Q
R 2
and Vout = 1 . Q = R
1 Q 2
+ + + + + + + + +
E out = . 2 = + r + + r
P + +
4 0 r 0r 2
4 0 r 0r + + + + +
r
P +
(ii) At the surface of sphere : At surface r=R + R + + R + + R +
1 Q  1 Q R + + + + + +
So, Es = . = and Vs = . = + + + + + +
4 0 R 2  0 4  0 R  0 (A) Outside (B) At the surface (C) Inside
(iii) Inside the sphere : Inside the conducting charge sphere electric field is zero and potential
remains constant every where and equals to the potential at the surface.
Ein = 0 and Vin = constant = Vs
Graph R R
O O
E VS
Ein=0
O O r =R r
(A) r (B)
(7) Uniformly charged non-conducting sphere : Suppose charge Q is uniformly distributed in
the volume of a non-conducting sphare of radius R as shown below
(i) Outside the sphere : If point P lies outside the sphere
1 Q 1 Q
E out = . and Vout = .
4 0 r 2 4  0 r
Q
If the sphere has uniform volume charge density  =
4
R 3
3 +Q P +Q +Q
R 3
and Vout = R
3 + + +
+ +
then Eout = +
+ +
+ +
+
r
P +
+
+ +
3 0 r 2
3 0 r + r +
+ + r
+ + + + + P +
+ +
(ii) At the surface of sphere : At surface r = R + + + R + + + + R
+ +
+ R+ + + +
1 Q R 1 Q R 2 + + + + + +
Es = . = and Vs = . = + + + + + +
4  0 R 2 3 0 4 0 R 3 0 (A) Outside (B) At the surface (C) Inside
(iii) Inside the sphere : At a distance r from the centre
1 Qr r Q [3 R 2 − r 2 ]  (3 R 2 − r 2 )
E in = . = Ein  r and Vin =
1
=
4  0 R 3 3 0 4 0 2R 3 6 0
3 1 Q 3
At centre r=0 so, Vcentre =  . = Vs i.e., Vcentre  V surface  Vout
2 4 0 R 2
Graph + +
+
+ +
+ +
+ O R
+
+ O R
+ +
+ + +
+
E VC
Ein  r
VS
O r=R r O r=R r
(A) (B)
(8) Infinite thin plane sheet of charge : Consider a thin infinite non-
conducting plane sheet having uniform surface charge density is  .
Electric field and potential near the sheet are as follows E E
 r
E= (E  r o ) and V =− +C A
2 0 2 0
(9) Electric field due to two thin infinite plane parallel sheet of charge : Consider two large,
uniformly charged parallel. Plates A and B, having surface charge densities are  A and  B
respectively. Suppose net electric field at points P, Q and R is to be calculated.
1 B
At P, EP = −(E A + EB ) = − ( A +  B ) A
2 0
EA
1
At Q, E Q = (E A − E B ) = ( A −  B ) EA EB EA
2 0 R
Q EB
1 EB P
At R, ER = (E A + EB ) = ( A +  B )
2 0

ELECTROSTATICS
Special case + + + +
++
(i) If A = B =  then EP = ER = /0 and Eq = 0
+ + +
+
+ + + + + + +
(ii) If A =  and B = –  then EP = ER = 0 and EQ = /0 + + O +

+ +
•
 R
(10) Hemispherical charged body At centre O, E= V =
4 0 2 0 
(11) Uniformly charged disc : At a distance x from centre O on it’s axis R
     2 O
x + R2 − x
x
E= 1 −  V= x
2 0  x 2 + R 2  2 0  


If x → 0, E ~– i.e. for points situated near the disc, it behaves as an infinite sheet of charge.
2 0 Q2
Potential Due to Concentric Spheres Q1
(1) If two concentric conducting shells of radii r1 and r2(r2 > r1) carrying r2
uniformly distributed charges Q1 and Q2 respectively. Potential at the r1
surface of each shell
1 Q1 1 Q 1 Q1 1 Q2
V1 = . + . 2 V2 = . + .
40 r1 40 r2 40 r2 4 0 r2 Qc
Qb
(2) The figure shows three conducting concentric shell of radii a, b and c (a Qa
< b < c) having charges Qa, Qb and Qc respectively c
a
A
B
Potential at A Potential at B Potential at C b
1  Qa Qb Qc  1  Qa Qb Qc  1  Qa Qb Qc 
VA = + + VB = + + VC = + +
40  a b c  40  b b c  40  c c c 
(3) The figure shows two concentric spheres having radii r1 and r2 respectively
(r2 > r1). If charge on inner sphere is +Q and outer sphere is earthed then
(i) Potential at the surface of outer sphere
1 Q 1 Q' +Q
V2 = . + . = 0  Q' = − Q Q
4 0 r2 4 0 r2 r2
(ii) Potential of the inner sphere r1

1 Q 1 (−Q) Q 1 1 
V1 = . + =  − 
4 0 r1 4 0 r2 40  r1 r2 
(4) In the above case if outer sphere is given a charge +Q and inner sphere is earthed then
(i) In this case potential at the surface of inner sphere is zero, so if Q' is the charge induced on
inner sphere
1  Q' Q  r1 +Q
then V1 =  +  = 0 i.e., Q' = − Q r2
4 0  r1 r2  r2
r1
(Charge on inner sphere is less than that of the outer sphere.)
(ii) Potential at the surface of outer sphere
1 Q' 1 Q 1  r1  Q  r1 
V2 = . + . V2 = − Q + Q = 1 − 
4  0 r2 4  0 r2 4 0 r2  r2  4 0 r2  r2 
Relation Between Electric Field and Potential
(1) In an electric field rate of change of potential with distance is known as potential gradient.
(2) Potential gradient is a vector quantity and it’s direction is opposite to that of electric field.
(3) Potential gradient relates with electric field according to the following relation E = − dV ; This
dr
volt
relation gives another unit of electric field is .
meter
(4) In the above relation negative sign indicates that in the direction of electric field potential
decreases.
(5) Negative of the slope of the V-r graph denotes intensity of electric field i.e. tan  = V = − E
r

(6) In space around a charge distribution we can also write E = E x î + E y ˆj + E z kˆ
where Ex = − V , Ey = −
V
and Ez = − V
x y z
dV
(7) With the help of formula E=− , potential difference between any two points in an electric
dr
r2 r2
field can be determined by knowing the boundary conditions dV = − 
r1
E . dr = − 
r1
E. dr cos 

ELECTROSTATICS
Electric Lines of Force
(1) Definition : The electric field in a region is
represented by continuous lines (also called lines of
force). Field line is an imaginary line along which a + –
positive test charge will move if left free.
(2) Properties of electric lines of force
(i) Electric field lines come out of positive charge and go (A) (Radially outward) (B) (Radially inward)
into the negative charge.
(ii) Tangent to the field line at any point gives the
direction of the field at that point. + – + • +
N
EA
EB
B (C) (D)
(iii) Field lines never intersect each other.

(iv) Field lines are always normal to conducting surface.
(v) Field lines do not exist inside a conductor. – + –
(vi) The electric field lines never form closed loops. +
– + –
(While magnetic lines of forces form + +
+ +
–
+ –
closed loop) +
+ +
+
+ –
+
–
+ –
(vii) The number of lines –
originating or terminating on a (A) (B)
A charge is proportional to the
+ B
–
magnitude of charge
i.e. |Q|  number of lines.
In the figure | Q A | | Q B |
• X • Y •X • Y
(ix) If the lines of forces are equidistant and parallel
straight lines the field is uniform and if either lines of
force are not equidistant or straight line or both the field
will be non uniform, also the density of field lines is (A) EX = EY (B) EX > EY
proportional to the strength of the electric field.
Equipotential Surface
For a given charge distribution, locus of all points having same potential is called “equipotential
surface” regarding equipotential surface following points should keep in mind :
(1) The density of the equipotential lines gives an idea about the magnitude of electric field.
Higher the density larger the field strength.
(2) The direction of electric field is perpendicular V = V2
to the equipotential surfaces or lines. V1 V2 V3 V4 V5
(3) The equipotential surfaces produced by a V = V1

point charge or a spherically charge distribution
are a family of concentric spheres.
(4) For a uniform electric field, the equipotential
Equipote
surfaces are a family of plane perpendicular to the
Spherical E.P.S. V 1 > V2 > V3 > V4 > V5 ntial
field lines.
(5) A metallic surface of any shape is equipotential surface.
For a point charge
(6) Equipotential surfaces can never cross each other
(7) The work done in moving a charge along an equipotential surface is always zero.
Motion of Charge Particle in Electric Field
(1) When charged particle initially at rest is placed in the uniform field
Suppose a charge particle having charge Q and mass m is initially at rest in an electric field of
strength E. The particle will experience an electric force which causes it's motion.
(i) Force and acceleration : The force experienced by the charged particle is F = QE .
Acceleration produced by this force is a = F = QE
m m
(ii) Velocity : Suppose at point A particle is at rest and in time A B
t, it reaches the point B where it's velocity becomes v. Also if V S

ELECTROSTATICS
= Potential difference between A and B, S = Separation between
A and B
QEt
 v= =
2QV
m m
2Q V
(iii) Momentum : Momentum p = mv, p = m  QEt = QEt or p =m = 2mQ V
m m
2
(iv) Kinetic energy : Kinetic energy gained by the particle in time t is K = 1 mv 2 = 1 m  QEt  = Q E t
2 2 2
2 2  m  2m
1 2QV
or K= m = QV
2 m
(v) Work done : According to work energy theorem we can say that gain in kinetic energy = work
done in displacement of charge i.e. W = QV
where V = Potential difference between the two position of charge Q. ( V = E . r = Er cos  where
 is the angle between direction of electric field and direction of motion of charge).
If charge Q is given a displacement r = (r1î + r2 ˆj + r3 kˆ ) in an electric field
I
E = (E1î + E 2 ˆj + E 3 kˆ ).
The work done is W = Q( E . r ) = Q(E1 r1 + E 2 r2 + E 3 r3 ) . A B
II
Work done in displacing a charge in an electric field is path independent. WI = WII = WIII
(2) When a charged particle enters with an initial velocity at III
right angle to the uniform field
When charged particle enters perpendicularly in an electric field, it
describe a parabolic path as shown
(i) Equation of trajectory : Throughout the motion particle has Y
uniform velocity along x-axis and horizontal displacement (x) is
given by the equation x = ut
P(x, y)
Since the motion of the particle is accelerated along y–axis
2 u
So y =     ; this is the equation of parabola which shows y  x 2
1 QE x X
2  m  u 
Q 2 E 2t 2
(ii) Velocity at any instant : At any instant t, vx = u and vy = QEt so v =| v | = v x2 + vy2 = u 2 +
v
m m2
If  is the angle made by v with x-axis than
vy QEt vy
tan  = = .
vx mu 
Equilibrium of Charges
(1) Definition : A charge is said to be in equilibrium, if net force acting on it is zero. A system
of charges is said to be in equilibrium if each charge is separately in equilibrium.
(2) Type of equilibrium : Equilibrium can be divided in following type:
(i) Stable equilibrium : After displacing a charged particle from it's equilibrium position, if it
returns back then it is said to be in stable equilibrium. If U is the potential energy then in case
d 2U
of stable equilibrium is positive i.e., U is minimum.
dx 2
(ii) Unstable equilibrium : After displacing a charged particle from it's equilibrium position, if
it never returns back then it is said to be in unstable equilibrium and in unstable equilibrium
d 2U
is negative i.e., U is maximum.
dx 2
(iii) Neutral equilibrium : After displacing a charged particle from it's equilibrium position if it
neither comes back, nor moves away but remains in the position in which it was kept it is said
d 2U
to be in neutral equilibrium and in neutral equilibrium is zero i.e., U is constant
dx 2

ELECTROSTATICS
Different cases of equilibrium of charge
Suspended charge System of three collinear charge
Freely suspended charge
F = QE
In equilibrium In the following figure three charges Q1, Q
QE = mg and Q2 are kept along a straight line, charge
E=
mg +Q Q will be in equilibrium if and only if
Q |Force applied by charge Q1|
mg
= |Force applied by charge Q2 |
Suspension of charge from string
Q1 Q2
 Q
l T cos 
x1 x2
T 
x
T sin  QE
Q Q Q2Q
mg
In equilibrium i.e. 12 =
x1 x 22
T sin = QE ….(i)
T cos = mg ….(ii)
From equations (i) 2
and (ii) Q x 
 1 =  1 
T= (QE )
2 2
+ (mg ) Q2  x2 
and tan  =
QE This is the necessary condition for Q to be in
mg equilibrium.
If all the three charges (Q1, Q and Q2) are
similar, Q will be in stable equilibrium.
If extreme charges are similar while charge Q
is of different nature so Q will be in unstable
equilibrium.
Time Period of Oscillation of a Charged Body
(1) Simple pendulum based : If a simple pendulum having length l and mass of
bob m oscillates about it's mean position than it's time period of oscillation
l
T = 2
g
Case-1 : If some charge say +Q is given to bob and an l
electric field E is applied in the direction as shown in
 figure then equilibrium position of charged bob (point O

charge) changes from O to O.
l On displacing the bob from it’s equilibrium position 0. It will oscillate
O QE
under the effective acceleration g, where
mg mg' = (mg )2 + (QE )2  g' = g 2 + (QE / m )2 . Hence the new time period is
O mg
l l
T1 = 2 = 2 Since g' >g, so T1 < T i.e. time period of
(g )
1
g' 2
+ (QE/m ) 2 2
pendulum will decrease.

Case-2 : If electric field is applied in the downward direction then.  T
Effective acceleration g' = g + QE / m l →
E
l
So new time period T2 = 2  T2 < T
g + (QE/m )
mg + QE
QE
 Case-3 : In case 2 if electric field is applied in upward direction then,
→
l E effective acceleration. +
+ +Q
g' = g − QE / m +
+
+
R +
l
So new time period T3 = 2 π T3 > T + –q
g − (QE/m )
mg +
+
O +
x
(2) Charged circular ring : A thin stationary ring of radius R has a + +
+
positive charge +Q unit. If a negative charge – q (mass m) is placed at + +
+
+ +
+
ELECTROSTATICS
a small distance x from the centre. Then motion of the particle will be
simple harmonic motion.
4  0 mR 3
Having time period T = 2 π
Qq
(3) Spring mass system : A block of mass m containing a negative charge – Q is placed on a
frictionless horizontal table and is connected to a wall through an unstretched spring of spring
constant k as shown. If electric field E applied as shown in figure the block experiences an
electric force, hence spring compress and block comes in new position. This is called the
equilibrium position of block under the influence of electric field. If block compressed further
m
or stretched, it execute oscillation having time period T = 2 .
k
Maximum compression in the spring due to electric field = QE E

k
k m, – Q
Neutral Point and Zero Potential
A neutral point is a point where resultant electrical field is zero.
(1) Neutral point Due to a system of two like point charge : For
this case neutral point is obtained at an internal point along the line
joining two like charges. N
Q1 Q2
x1 x2
x
If N is the neutral point at a distance x 1 from Q1 and at a distance x 2 (= x − x1 ) from Q2 then

At N |E.F. due to Q1| = |E.F. due to Q2|
2
1 Q1 1 Q Q1  x 1 
i.e., . = . 2  = 
4 0 x 12 4 0 x 22 Q 2  x 2 

x x
Short Trick : x1 = and x2 =
Q 2 / Q1 + 1 Q1 / Q2 + 1
(2) Neutral point due to a system of two unlike point charge : For this condition neutral
point lies at an external point along the line joining two unlike charges. Suppose two unlike
Q1
charge Q1 and Q 2 separated by a distance x from each other. N Q2
l
x
Here neutral point lies outside the line joining two unlike charges and also it lies nearer to charge
which is smaller in magnitude.
If Q1  Q 2 then neutral point will be obtained on the side of Q1 , suppose it is at a distance l from
x
so
Q1 l=
( Q /Q2 1 −1 )
(3) Zero potential due to a system of two point charge
(i) If both charges are like then resultant potential is not zero at any finite point.
(ii) If the charges are unequal and unlike then all such points where resultant potential is zero
lies on a closed curve.
(iii) Along the line joining the two charge, two such points exist, one lies inside and one lies
outside the charges on the line joining the charges. Both the above points lie nearer the smaller
charge.
For internal point Q1 P
Q2
(It is assumed that | Q1 | | Q2 | ).
x1 x2
Q1 Q2 x
At P, =  x1 = x
x1 (x − x 1 ) (Q 2 /Q 1 + 1 )
Q1 Q2
For External point P
Q1 Q2 x
At P, =  x1 = x1
x1 (x + x 1 ) (Q 2 /Q 1 − 1 ) x
Electrostatic Potential Energy

ELECTROSTATICS
(1) Work done in bringing the given charge from infinity to a point in the electric field is known
as potential energy of the charge. Potential can also be written as potential energy per unit
W U
charge. i.e. V= = .
Q Q
(2) Potential energy of a system of two charge
Potential energy of Q1 = Potential energy of Q2 = potential energy of system U = k Q1 Q 2
r
QQ Q1 Q2
In C.G.S. U= 1 2
r A B
(3) Potential energy of a system of n charge r
k n QiQ j  1 
It is given by U=  k =



2 i, j rij  4  0 
i j
1
The factor of is applied only with the summation sign because on expanding the summation
2
each pair is counted twice.
 Q1Q2 Q2 Q3 Q1Q3 
For a system of 3 charges U = k  + + 

 r12 r23 r13 
(4) Work energy relation : If a charge moves from one position to another position in an electric
field so it’s potential energy change and work done by external force for this change is W = U f − U i
(5) Electron volt (eV) : It is the smallest practical unit of energy used in atomic and nuclear
physics. As electron volt is defined as “the energy acquired by a particle having one quantum of
charge (1e), when accelerated by 1volt” i.e. 1eV = 1.6  10 −19 C  1 J = 1.6  10 −19 J = 1.6  10–12 erg
C
(6) Electric potential energy of a uniformly charged sphere : Consider a uniformly charged
sphere of radius R having a total charge Q. The electric potential energy of this sphere is equal
3Q 2
to the work done in bringing the charges from infinity to assemble the sphere. U=
20  0 R
(7) Electric potential energy of a uniformly charged thin spherical shell : It is given by the
following formula
Q2
U=
8 0 R
(8) Energy density : The energy stored per unit volume around a point in an electric field is
given by
U 1
Ue = = 0 E2 . If in place of vacuum some medium is present then U e = 1  0  r E 2
Volume 2 2
Force on a Charged Conductor
To find force on a charged conductor (due to repulsion of like charges)
imagine a small part XY to be cut and just separated from the rest of E2
E1
the conductor MLN. The field in the cavity due to the rest of the X E2
conductor is E2, while field due to small part is E1. Then M + +
+ Y
+ + +
+ + +
Inside the conductor E = E1 − E 2 = 0 or E1 = E 2 +
E2 +
N
+
+ +
+ E1 + + + +

Outside the conductor E = E1 + E 2 = +
+
Inside + + + +
0 E=0 + + +
L +
+ + + + +

Thus E1 = E 2 = (A) (B)
2 0
(1) To find force, imagine charged part XY (having charge  dA placed in the cavity MN having
2
field E2). Thus force dF = ( dA)E 2 or dF = dA . The force per unit area or electrostatic pressure
2 0
dF 2
p= =
dA 2 0
(2) The force is always outwards as ( ) 2 is positive i.e., whether charged positively or negatively,
this force will try to expand the charged body. [A soap bubble or rubber balloon expands on
charging to it (charge of any kind + or –)]. Pout Pout
Equilibrium of Charged Soap Bubble
air + +
(1) For a charged soap bubble of radius R and surface PT
Pelec
tension T and charge density  . The pressure due to air

PT Pin
Pin
PHYSICS BY HITEN PARMAR + Page 13 of
+ 44
ELECTROSTATICS
surface tension 4 T and atmospheric pressure Pout act
R
radially inwards and the electrical pressure (Pel ) acts
radially outward.
4T  2
(2) The total pressure inside the soap bubble Pin = Pout + −
R 2 0
4T  2
(3) Excess pressure inside the charged soap bubble Pin − Pout = Pexcess = − .
R 2 0
4T 2
(4) If air pressure inside and outside are assumed equal then Pin = Pout i.e., Pexcess = 0 . So, =
R 2 0
2 8 0 T
(i) Charge density : Since 4T
=  = =
2T
R 2 0 R kR
8 0 T  2R
(ii) Radius of bubble R= (iii) Surface tension T =
 2
8 0
(iv) Total charge on the bubble Q = 8R 2 0 TR
8T 32 kT
(v) Electric field intensity at the surface of the bubble E= =
0 R R
8 RT
(vi) Electric potential at the surface V = 32RTk =
0
Equatorial axis
Electric Dipole
System of two equal and opposite charges separated by a small
fixed distance is called a dipole.
(1) Dipole moment : It is a vector quantity and is directed from A B
negative charge to positive charge along the axis. It is denoted – q +q Axial line
 2l
as p and is defined as the product of the magnitude of either of →
 p

the charge and the dipole length i.e. p = q (2 l )
Its S.I. unit is coulomb-metre or Debye (1 Debye = 3.3 × 10–30 C  m) and its dimensions are
M0L1T1A1.
(2) When a dielectric is placed in an electric field, its
atoms or molecules are considered as tiny dipoles. + – +
+ H+
O2– –
(A) (B)
–
+ H+
Water (H2O), Chloroform (CHCl3), Ammonia (NH3), HCl, CO molecules are
some example of permanent electric dipole. e
(3) Electric field and potential due to an electric dipole : If a, e g
and g are three points on axial, equatorial and general position
at a distance r from the centre of dipole
(i) At axial point : Electric field and potential are given as –q +q +

1 2p
Ea = . (directed from – q to +q) r
a
40 r 3
2l
1 p
Va = . . Angle between E a and p is 0o.
4 0 r 2
1 p 
(ii) At equatorial point : Ee = . (directed from +q to – q) and Ve = 0 . Angle between E e and p
4 0 r 3
is 180o.
(iii) At general point :
1 p 1 p cos 
Eg = . (3 cos 2  + 1) and Vg = . . Angle between E and p is ( + ) (where tan  = 1 tan  )
40 r 3 4 0 r2 2
(4) Dipole in an external electric field : When a dipole is kept in an →
p QE
uniform electric field. The net force experienced by the dipole is zero +Q
as shown in fig. QE

The net torque experienced by the dipole is –Q
 = pE sin τ = pE

ELECTROSTATICS
Hence due to torque so produced, dipole align itself in the direction of electric field. This is the
position of stable equilibrium of dipole.
+q
(i) Work done in rotation : Suppose initially, dipole is kept in a 2 +q
uniform electric field at an angle 1. Now to turn it through an angle 1
2 (with the field) Work done W = pE(cos1 − cos  2 ) .
–q
If 1 = 0o and 2 =  i.e. initially dipole is kept along the field then it –q
turn through  so work done W = pE(1 − cos  )
(ii) Potential energy of dipole : It is defined as work done in rotating a dipole from a direction
perpendicular to the field to the given direction, i.e. from above formula of work.
If 1 = 90o and 2 =   W = U = − pE cos
→
E
→
p
 = 0o, Stable equilibrium,  = 0, W = 0, Umin = – Pe
→
p
→
E
 = 90O, Not in equilibrium, max = pE, W = pE, U = 0
→
E
→  = 180o, Unstable equilibrium,  = 0, Wmax = 2pE , Umax = pE
p
(iii) Equilibrium of dipole : When  = 0o i.e. 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.
When  = 180o i.e. dipole is placed opposite to electric field, it is said to be in unstable
equilibrium.
(iv) Oscillation of dipole : In a uniform electric field if a dipole is slightly displaced from it’s
stable equilibrium position it executes angular SHM having period of oscillation.
I
T = 2 where I = moment of inertia of dipole about the axis passing through it’s centre and
pE
perpendicular to it’s length.
(5) Electric dipole in non-uniform electric field : In non-uniform electric field Fnet  0, net  0
Motion of the dipole is combination of translatory and rotatory motion
Table: Dipole-dipole interaction F
Potenti
Relative position of
Force al
dipole
energy
1 6 p1 p 2 +q
–q +q –q +q .
40 r4 1 2p p F'
→ → . 13 2
p1 p2 (attractiv 4 0 r –q
r e)
+q +q
F'  > F
→ → 1 3 p1 p 2
p1 p2 .
4 0 r4 1 pp
. 1 2
–q –q (repulsive 40 r 3
r
)
+q
–q +q
→
p1 →
p2 1 3p p
. 14 2
–q 4 0 r
r
(perpendi
0
cular to r
)

ELECTROSTATICS
Electric Flux
Electric flux is a measure of 'flow' of electric field through a surface. It is equal to the product
of an area element and the perpendicular component of E ,
integrated over a surface.
(1) Flux of electric field E through any area A is defined as. 
 = E.A cos or  = E. A dA
(2) In case of variable electric field or curved area.  = E. dA 

2
N -m
(3) It’s S.I. Unit is (Volt  m) or
C
(4) For a closed body outward flux is taken to be positive while inward flux is taken to be
negative.
Sphere A
A E E 

x E
90°
a
z a A
Negative flux Zero flux Positive flux
(A) (B) in = out = Ea2  T = 0
Gauss's Law and it's Application
(1) According to this law, the total flux linked with a closed surface called Gaussian surface.
(The surface need not be a real physical surface, it can also be an hypothetical one) is (1/ o)
 E  dA = ε
1
times the charge enclosed by the closed surface i.e.,  = (Q enc )
s o
(2) Electric field in  E. dA is complete electric field. It may be partly due to charge with in the
surface and partly due to charge outside the surface. However if there is no charge enclosed in
the Gaussian surface, then  E. dA = 0 .
(3) The electric field E is resulting from all charge, both those inside and those outside the
Gaussian surface.
(Keep in mind, the electric field due to a charge outside the Gaussian
surface contributes zero net flux through the surface, Because as
many lines due to that charge enter the surface as leave it). S1 S2 S4
Q Q + –
Flux from surface S1 = + , Flux from surface S2 = − ,
0 0 S3
+Q –Q
and flux from S3= flux from surface S4 = 0
→
E
Application of Gauss's law : See flux emergence in the
following cases
(1) If a dipole is enclosed by a surface –Q +Q
Qenc = 0
  =0
+Q1
(2) The net charge Qenc is the algebraic sum of all the enclosed positive, and
+Q2
negative charges. If Qenc is positive the net flux is outward; if Qenc is negative,
the net flux is inward. – Q3
1
= (Q1 + Q2 − Q3 )
0
(3) If a closed body (not enclosing any charge) is placed in an electric field (either uniform or
non-uniform) total flux linked with it will be zero
(4) If a hemispherical body is placed in uniform electric field then
flux linked with the curved surface calculated as follows
Curved + Circular = 0 R
Curved = −Circular

ELECTROSTATICS
= − (E  R cos 180 ) = +R 2 E
2
(5) If a hemispherical body is placed in non-uniform electric field as

shown below. then flux linked with the circular surface calculated as
follows
R
Circular = −Curved
Circular = − (E  2R 2 cos 0 ) = − 2R 2 E
(6) If charge is kept at the centre of cube

1 Q
 total = .(Q)  face =
0 6 0 Q
Q Q
 corner =  edge =
8 0 12  0
(7) If charge is kept at the centre of a face : First we should enclosed the charge by assuming a
Gaussian surface (an identical imaginary cube)
(A) (B)
Q
Total flux emerges from the system (Two cubes)  total =
0
Q
Flux from given cube (i.e. from 5 face only)  cube =
2 0 (B)
(A)
(8) If a charge is kept at the corner of a cube
For enclosing the charge seven more cubes are required so total flux from the 8 cube system is
Q Q
T = . Flux from given cube cube = . Flux from one face opposite to change, of the given cube
0 8 0
Q / 8 0 Q
 face = = (Because only three faces are seen).
3 24  0
(9) A long straight wire of charge density  penetrates a hollow body as shown. The flux emerges
from the body is
 =   (Length of the wire inside the body) + + + + + +
Capacitance
(1) Capacitance of a conductor : Charge given to a conductor increases it’s potential
i.e., Q  V  Q = CV
Where C is a proportionality constant, called capacity or capacitance of conductor. Hence
capacitance is the ability of conductor to hold the charge.
(2) It's S.I. unit is Coulomb = Farad (F)
Volt
Smaller S.I. units are mF, F, nF and pF ( 1mF = 10 −3 F , 1 F = 10 −6 F , 1nF = 10 −9 F , 1 pF = 1F = 10 −12 F )
(3) It's C.G.S. unit is Stat Farad 1 F = 9  10 11 Stat Farad .
(4) It's dimension : [C ] = [M −1 L−2 T 4 A 2 ] .
(5) Capacity of a body is independent of charge given to the body or it’s potential raised and
depends on shape and size only.
(6) Capacity of an isolated spherical conductor : When charge Q is given to a spherical Q + + ++
1 Q Q

+
conductor of radius R, then potential at the surface of sphere is V= = 4+ 0 R +
4  0 R V + R +
+ +
1 O +
C = 4 πε 0 R = .R +
+ +
9  10 9 + + +
If earth is assumed to be a conducting sphere having radius R = 6400 km. It’s theoretical
capacitance C = 711 F . But for all practical purpose capacitance of earth is taken infinity and its
potential V = 0 .

ELECTROSTATICS
(7) Energy of a charged conductor : Electrostatic potential energy of a conductor carrying
1 1 Q2
charge Q, capacitance C and potential V is given by U = QV = CV 2 =
2 2 2C
Combination of Charged Drops
Suppose we have n identical drops each having Radius – r, Capacitance – c, Charge – q, Potential
– v and Energy – u.
If these drops are combined to form a big drop of Radius – R, Capacitance – C, Charge – Q, Potential
– V and Energy – U then
(1) Charge on big drop : Q = nq
(2) Radius of big drop : Volume of big drop = n  volume of a single drop i.e., 4 R 3 = n  4 r 3 , R = n1 /3 r
3 3
(3) Capacitance of big drop : C = n c 1 /3
(4) Potential of big drop : V = Q = 1nq

/3
V = n 2 /3 v
C n c
(5) Energy of big drop : U = 1 CV 2 = 1 (n 1 / 3 c)(n 2 / 3 v)2
2 2
or U = n 5 /3 u
(6) Energy difference : Total energy of big drop is greater than the total energy all smaller drop.
U  1 
Hence energy difference U = U – nu = U − n  = U 1 − 2 / 3 
n5 / 3  n 
Redistribution of Charges and Loss of Energy
When two charged conductors joined together through a conducting wire, charge begins to flow
from one conductor to another from higher potential to lower potential.
This flow of charge stops when they attain the same potential.
Due to flow of charge, loss of energy also takes place in the form of heat through the connecting
wire.
Suppose there are two spherical conductors of radii r1 and r2 , Q1 Q2
r1 r2
having charge Q1 and Q 2 , potential V1 and V2 , energies U1 and C1 C2
V1 V2
U 2 and capacitance C 1 and C 2 respectively. U1 U2
If these two spheres are connected through a conducting wire, Q1= C1V1 Q2= C2V2
then alteration of charge, potential and energy takes place.
(1) New charge : According to the conservation of charge Q1 Q2
Q1' C r C1 C2
Q1 + Q 2 = Q1' + Q 2' = Q (say), also = 1 = 1 r1 r2
Q2' C 2 r2 V V
U1 U2
 r   r 
 Q 2' = Q  2  and similarly Q1' = Q  1  Q1=C1V
 r1 + r2   r1 + r2  Q2=C2V
(2) Common potential : Common potential

Total charge Q1 + Q 2 Q ' + Q 2' C V + C 2 V2
(V ) = = = 1 = 1 1
Total capacity C1 + C 2 C1 + C 2 C1 + C 2
(3) Energy loss : The loss of energy due to redistribution of charge is
given by
C1C 2
 U = Ui − U f = (V1 − V2 )2
2(C1 + C 2 )
Capacitor or Condenser
(1) A capacitor is a device that stores electric energy. or A capacitor is a pair of two conductors of any shape, which are close to each other and have
equal and opposite charge.
(2) The capacitance of a capacitor is defined as the magnitude of the charge Q on the positive
plate divided by the magnitude of the potential difference V between the plates i.e., C = Q
V
(3) A capacitor get’s charged when a battery is connected across the plates. Once capacitor get’s fully charged, flow of charge carriers stops in the circuit
and in this condition potential difference across the plates of capacitor is same as the potential difference across the terminals of battery.
(4) Net charge on a capacitor is always zero, but when we speak of the charge Q on a capacitor,
we are referring to the magnitude of the charge on each plate.
(5) Energy stored : When a capacitor is charged by a voltage source (say battery) it stores
the electric energy.
If C = Capacitance of capacitor; Q = Charge on capacitor and V = Potential difference across
Q2
capacitor then energy stored in capacitor U=
1 1
CV 2 = QV =
2 2 2C

ELECTROSTATICS
In charging capacitor by battery half the energy supplied is stored in the capacitor and
remaining half energy (1/2 QV) is lost in the form of heat.
Dielectric
Dielectrics are insulating (non-conducting) materials which transmits electric effect without
conducting.
Dielectrics are of two types – – +
+ +
(1) Polar dielectrics : A polar molecule has permanent electric dipole –
–

moment (p) in the absence of electric field also. But a polar dielectric has +
–
+
net dipole moment zero in the absence of electric field because polar
molecules are randomly oriented as shown in figure.
In the presence of electric field polar molecules tends to line up in the direction of electric field,
and the substance has finite dipole moment e.g. water, Alcohol, CO 2 , NH 3 , HCl etc. are made of
polar atoms/molecules.
(2) Non polar dielectric : In non-polar molecules, Each molecule has zero dipole moment in its
normal state.
When electric field is applied, molecules becomes induced electric dipole
e.g. N 2 , O 2 , Benzene, Methane etc. are made of non-polar
atoms/molecules
+
In general, any non-conducting, material can be called as a dielectric + – + – + –
but broadly non conducting material having non polar molecules + – + – + –
referred to as dielectric. +
Ei
– + – + –
(3) Polarization of a dielectric slab : It is the process of inducing equal + –
– + – +
and opposite charges on the two faces of the dielectric on the + –
application of electric field. – + – +
E
(i) Electric field between the plates in the presence of dielectric medium
is E' = E − Ei where E = Main field, E' = Induced field.
(ii) Dielectric constant of dielectric medium is defined as :
E Electric field between the plates with air
= =K
E ' Electric field between the plates with medium
(iii) K is also known as relative permittivity ( r ) of the material or SIC (Specific Inductive
Capacitance)
(4) Dielectric breakdown and dielectric strength : If a very high electric field is created in a
dielectric,. The dielectric then behaves like a conductor. This phenomenon is known as
dielectric breakdown.
The maximum value of electric field (or potential gradient) that a dielectric material can tolerate
without it’s electric breakdown is called it’s dielectric strength.
S.I. unit of dielectric strength of a material is V but practical unit is kV .
m mm
Capacity of Various Capacitor
(1) Parallel plate capacitor : It consists of two parallel metallic plates (may be circular,
rectangular, square) separated by a small distance. If A = Effective overlapping area of each
plate.
 Q
(i) Electric field between the plates : E = =
 0 A 0
d
(ii) Potential difference between the plates : V = E  d =
0
(iii) Capacitance : C =  0 A . In C.G.S. : C = A

d 4 d
(iv) If a dielectric medium of dielectric constant K is filled completely between the plates then
K 0 A
capacitance increases by K times i.e. C' =  C ' = KC
d
(v) The capacitance of parallel plate capacitor depends on A (C  A) + –
+ t –
and d  C   . It does not depend on the charge on the plates or the
1
+ –
 d A + –
potential difference between the plates. +
K –
(vi) If a dielectric slab is partially filled between the plates +

E
–
d

ELECTROSTATICS
0 A
 C' =
t
d −t+
K
(vii) If a number of dielectric slabs are inserted between the plate as shown
0 A A
K1 K2 K3
C' =
 t t t 
d − (t1 + t 2 + t 3 + ........) +  1 + 2 + 3 + ........ 

 1
K K 2 K 3  t1 t2 t3
(viii) When a metallic slab is inserted between the plates d

0 A
C' =
(d − t)
If metallic slab fills the complete space between the plates (i.e. t = d) or
both plates are joined through a metallic wire then capacitance becomes
infinite.
t
(ix) Force between the plates of a parallel plate capacitor.
 2A Q2 CV 2
| F| = = =
2 0 2 0 A 2d
A K=
(x) Energy density between the plates of a parallel plate capacitor.
Energy density = Energy = 1  0 E 2 .
Volume 2
Table: Variation of different variable (Q, C, V, E and U) of parallel plate capacitor d
Quantity Battery is Removed Battery Remains connected
A K A K
d d
V
Capacity C = KC C = KC
Charge Q = Q Q = KQ
Potential V = V/K V = V
Intensity E = E/K E = E
Energy U = U/K U' = KU
(2) Spherical capacitor : It consists of two concentric conducting spheres of radii a and b (a <
b). Inner sphere is given charge +Q, while outer sphere is earthed
(i) Potential difference : Between the spheres is –Q
Q Q
V= − a
40 a 40 b b
ab
(ii) Capacitance : C = 40 . . +Q
b −a
In C.G.S. C = ab . In the presence of dielectric medium (dielectric constant K) between the
b−a
spheres C' = 4 0 K ab
b−a
(iii) If outer sphere is given a charge +Q while inner sphere is earthed
a
Induced charge on the inner sphere b
a
Q' = − .Q and capacitance of
b
b2
the system C ' = 4 0 .
b−a
This arrangement is not a capacitor. But it’s capacitance is equivalent to the
sum of capacitance of spherical capacitor and spherical conductor i.e. b a Q –Q
2
b ab
4 0 . = 4 0 + 4 0 b
b−a b−a l
(3) Cylindrical capacitor : It consists of two concentric cylinders of radii

a and b (a < b), inner cylinder is given charge +Q while outer cylinder is
earthed. Common length of the cylinders is l then

ELECTROSTATICS
2 0 l
C=
b
log e  
a
Grouping of Capacitor
(1) Series grouping
(i) Charge on each capacitor remains same and equals to the main charge supplied by the
battery but potential difference distributes i.e. V = V1 + V2 + V3 C1 C2 C3
+Q –Q +Q –Q +Q –Q
1 1 1 1
(ii) Equivalent capacitance = + + or C eq = (C1−1 + C 2−1 + C 3−1 )−1 +
+
–
–
+
+
–
–
+
+
–
–
Ceq C1 C 2 C3 + – + – + –
Q + – + – + –
(iii) In series combination potential difference and energy V1 V2 V3
distributes in the reverse ratio of capacitance i.e., + –
1
V and U  1 . V
C C
(iv) If two capacitors having capacitances C1 and C2 are connected in series then
C1 C 2 Multiplica tion
C eq = =
C1 + C 2 Addition
 C2   C1 
V1 =  . V

and V2 =  . V

 C1 + C2   C1 + C2 
(v) If n identical capacitors each having capacitances C are connected in series with supply
voltage V then Equivalent capacitance C eq = C and Potential difference across each capacitor
n
V
V' = .
n
(vi) If n identical plates are arranged as shown below, they constitute
0 A
(n – 1) capacitors in series. If each capacitors having capacitance + – + – + – + –
d + –
+ – + – + – + –
0 A
then Ceq = + – + – + – + –
(n − 1)d + – + – + – + –
In this situation except two extreme plates each plate is common to adjacent capacitors.
(2) Parallel grouping
(i) Potential difference across each capacitor remains same and equal to the applied potential
difference but charge distributes i.e. Q = Q1 + Q2 + Q3 +Q1 – Q1
+ –
(ii) Ceq = C1 + C2 + C3 + –
+ –
+–
(iii) In parallel combination charge and energy distributes in the ratio Q1
+Q2 –Q2
of capacitance i.e. Q  C and U  C + –
+ –
Q2 ++ ––
(iv) If two capacitors having capacitance C1 and C2 respectively are
Q Q3 +Q3 –Q3
connected in parallel then C eq = C 1 + C 2 + –
+ –
+ –
+ –
 C1   C2 
Q1 =  .Q

and Q2 =  .Q

 C1 + C 2  C1 + C2
V
 
(v) If n identical capacitors are connected in parallel
Equivalent capacitance C eq = nC and Charge on each capacitor Q' = Q
n
If n identical plates are arranged such that even numbered of plates
are connected together and odd numbered plates are connected
together, then (n – 1) capacitors will be formed and they will be in 2 4 6
parallel grouping. 1 3 5 7
Equivalent capacitance C' = (n − 1) C
where C = capacitance of a capacitor =  0 A
d
Charging and Discharging of Capacitor in Series RC Circuit
As shown in the following figure (A) when switch +
C
– R +
C
– R
S is closed, capacitor start charging. In this V V V0
transient state potential difference appears across i
capacitor as well as resistor. When capacitor gets + – + –
S S V0
fully charged the entire potential difference V0
(A) Transient state (B) Steady state
appeared across the capacitor and nothing is left
for the resistor. [Shown in figure (B)]

ELECTROSTATICS
 −t 
(i) Charging : In transient state of charging charge on the capacitor at any instant Q = Q 0  1 − e RC 
 
 
 −t 
and potential difference across the capacitor at any instant V = V0  1 − e RC 
 
 
(Here Q and V are the instantaneous values of charge and potential difference while maximum
charge on capacitor is Q0 = CV0 ) Q0 Q0
(ii) Discharging : After the completion of
Q Q = Q0 e–t/RC
charging, if battery is removed capacitor starts Q Q = Q0(1 – e–t/RC)
discharging. In transient state charge on the
capacitor at any instant Q = Q 0 e − t / RC and O t O t
Charge on the capacitor increases Charge on the capacitor decreases
potential difference cross the capacitor at any
with time during charging with time during discharging
instant V = V0 e − t / CR .
(iii) Time constant () : The quantity RC is called the time constant as it has the dimension of
1
time during charging if t =  = RC , Q = Q0 (1 − e −1 ) = 0 .63 Q0 = 63% of Q0 ( = 0 . 37 ) or during discharging
e
it is defined as the time during which charge on a capacitor falls to 0.37 times (37%) of the
initial charge on the capacitor.
Kirchhoff’s Law for Capacitor Circuits E E
According to Kirchhoff’s junction law  q = 0 and Kirchhoff’s
–E +E
second law (Loop law) states that in a close loop of an electric
circuit  V = 0 C C
Use following sign convention while solving the problems. + – + –
V = – q/C V = + q/C
When an arrangement of capacitors cannot be simplified by the method of successive reduction,

then we need to apply the Kirchhoff’s laws to solve the circuit.
+ –
+ –
+ + e– – – – e–
+
SOME IMPORTANT POINTS TO REMEMBER + + – –
+ –
 After earthing a positively charged conductor + –
electrons flow from earth to conductor and if a
negatively charged conductor is earthed then
electrons flows from conductor to earth.
 When a charged spherical conductor placed inside a hollow insulated +Q
conductor and connected through a fine conducting wire the charge will
be completely transferred from the inner conductor to the outer conductor.
 Lightening-rod arrestors are made up of conductors with one of their ends
earthed while the other sharp, and protects a building from lightening
either by neutralising or conducting the charge of the cloud to the ground.
 With rise in temperature dielectric constant of liquid decreases.
 If X-rays are incident on a charged electroscope, due to ionisation of air by X-rays the
electroscope will get discharged and hence its leaves will collapse. However, if the
electroscope is evacuated. X-rays will cause photoelectric effect with gold and so the leaves
will further diverge if it is positively charged (or uncharged) and will converge if it is
negatively charged.
 Two point charges separated by a distance r in vacuum and a force F acting between them.
After filling a dielectric medium having dielectric constant K completely between the
charges, force between them decreases. To maintain the force as before separation between
them has to be changed to r K . This distance known as effective air separation.
 No point charge produces electric field at it’s own position.
 The electric field on the surface of a conductor is directly proportional to the surface charge
density at that point i.e, E  
 Two charged spheres having radii r1 and r2 , charge densities  1 and  2 respectively, then
E1  r2  Q 
the ratio of electric field on their surfaces will be = 1 = 22  = 
E2  2 r1  4r 2 
 In air, if intensity of electric field exceeds the value 3  10 6 N/C , air ionizes.

ELECTROSTATICS
 A small ball is suspended in a uniform electric field with →
the help of an insulated thread. If a high energy X–ray E
beam falls on the ball, X-rays knock out electrons from the
ball so the ball is positively charged and therefore the ball F= QE
is deflected in the direction of electric field.
X–Ray
 Electric field is always directed from higher potential to lower potential.

 A positive charge if left free in electric field always moves from higher potential to lower
potential while a negative charge moves from lower potential to higher potential.
 An electric potential can exist at a point in a region where the electric field is zero and it’s
vice versa.
 It is a common misconception that the path traced by a positive test charge is a field line
but actually the path traced by a unit positive test charge represents a field line only when
it moves along a straight line.
 An electric field is completely characterized by two physical quantities Potential and
Intensity. Force characteristic of the field is intensity and work characteristic of the field
is potential.
 For a short dipole, electric field intensity at a point on the axial line is double the electric
field intensity at a point on the equatorial line of electric dipole i.e. Eaxial = 2Eequatorial
1
 It is interesting to note that dipole field E decreases much rapidly as compared to the
r3
field of a point charge  E  2 .

1
 r 
 Franklin (i.e., e.s.u. of charge) is the smallest unit of charge while faraday is largest (1
Faraday = 96500 C).
 The e.s.u. of charge is also called stat coulomb or Franklin (Fr) and is related to e.m.u. of
emu of charge
charge through the relation = 3  10 10
esu of charge
 Recently it has been discovered that elementary particles such as proton or neutron are
composed of quarks having charge ( 1 / 3 ) e and ( 2 / 3 ) e. However, as quarks do not exist
in free state, the quanta of charge is still e.
 Inducting body neither gains nor loses charge.
 Dielectric constant of an insulator can not be 
 For metals in electrostatics K =  and so Q' = − Q; i.e. in metals induced charge is equal and
opposite to inducing charge.
 A truck carrying explosives has a metal chain touching the ground, to conduct away the
charge produced by friction.
 Coulombs law is valid at a distance greater than 10 −15 m.
 Ratio of gravitational force and electrostatic force between
(i) Two electrons is 10–43/1. (ii) Two protons is 10–36/1 (iii) One proton and
one electron 10–39/1.
 Decreasing order to fundamental forces FNuclear  FElectromag netic  FWeak  FGravitatio nal
 At the centre of the line joining two equal and opposite charge V = 0 but E  0.
 At the centre of the line joining two equal and similar charge V  0, E = 0 .
 Electric field intensity and electric potential due to a point charge q, at a distance t1 + t2
where t1 is thickness of medium of dielectric constant K1 and t2 is thickness of medium of
dielectric constant K2 are :
1 Q 1 Q
E= V =
4 πε 0 (t 1 K 1 + t 2 K 2 )2 4 πε 0 (t 1 K 1 + t 2 K 2 )
 ;
 If an electron (charge e and mass m) is moving on a circular path of radius r about a
positively charge infinitely long linear charge, (charge density ) then the velocity of
e
electron in dynamic equilibrium will be v = .
20 m

ELECTROSTATICS
 A metal plate is charged uniformly with a surface charge density . An electron of energy
W is fired towards the charged metal plate from a distance d, then for no collision of
electron with plate d = W 0
e
 It is a very common misconception that a capacitor stores charge but actually
a capacitor stores electric energy in the electrostatic field between the plates.
 Two plates of unequal area can also form a capacitor, but effective overlapping
d
area is considered.
 Capacitance of a parallel plate capacitor doesn't depends upon the charge given,
potential raised or nature of metals and thickness of plates.
 The distance between the plates is kept small to avoid fringing or edge effect + –
(non-uniformity of the field) at the boundaries of the plates. + –
 Spherical conductor is equivalent to a spherical capacitor with it’s outer + –
sphere of infinite radius. + –
 A spherical capacitor behaves as a parallel plate capacitor if it’s spherical + –

+ –
surfaces have large radii and are close to each other.
 The intensity of electric field between the plates of a parallel plate capacitor
(E = /0) does not depend upon the distance between them.
 The plates of a parallel plate capacitor are being moved away with some velocity. If the
plate separation at any instant of time is ‘d’ then the rate of change of capacitance with
time is proportional to 12 .
d
 Radial and non-uniform electric field exists between the spherical surfaces of spherical
capacitor.
 Two large conducting plates X and Y kept
Q Q2 Y
close to each other. The plate X is given a 1 X X Y
charge Q1 while plate Y is given a charge b d 
Q2 (Q1  Q2 ) , the distribution of charge on the
a c
four faces a, b, c, d will be as shown in the
following figure.
 When dielectric is partially filled between the plates of a parallel plate capacitor then it’s
capacitance increases but potential difference decreases. To maintain the capacitance and
potential difference of capacitor as before separation between the plates has to be
increased say by d ' . In such case
t
K=
 t − d'
 In series combination equivalent capacitance is always lesser than that of either of the
individual capacitors. In parallel combination, equivalent capacitance is always greater
than the maximum capacitance of either capacitor in network.
 If n identical capacitors are connected in parallel which are charged to a potential V. If these
are separated and connected in series then potential difference of combination will be nV.
 Two capacitors of capacitances C1 and C2 are charged to potential of V1 and V2 respectively.
After disconnecting from batteries they are again connected to each other with reverse
polarity i.e., positive plate of a capacitor connected to negative plate of other. Then common
potential is given by
Q1 − Q2 C1V1 − C 2 V2
V= =
C1 + C 2 C1 + C 2
 .

ELECTROSTATICS
ENGNEERING AND MEDICAL ENTRANCE

ELECTROSTATICS
SOLVED EXAMPLES
Example: 1 A soap bubble is given negative charge. Its radius will
(a) Increase (b) Decrease (c) Remain unchanged (d) Fluctuate
Solution: (a) Due to repulsive force.
Example: 2 Which of the following charge is not possible
(a) 1 .6  10 −18 C (b) 1 .6  10 −19 C (c) 1 .6  10 −20 C (d) None of these
1
Solution: (c) 1 .6  10 −20 C, because this is of electronic charge and hence not an integral multiple.
10
Example: 3 Five balls numbered 1 to 5 balls suspended using separate threads. Pair (1,2), (2,4) and (4,1) show electrostatic attraction,
while pair (2,3) and (4,5) show repulsion. Therefore ball 1 must be
(a) Positively charged (b) Negatively charged (c) Neutral (d) Made of metal
Solution: (c) Since 1 does not enter the list of repulsion, it is just possible that it may not be having any charge. Moreover, since ball no.
1 is being attracted by 2 and 4 both. So 2 and 4 must be similarly charged, but it is also given that 2 and 4 also attract
each other. So 2 and 4 are certainly oppositely charged.
Since 1 is attracting 2, either 1 or 2 must be neutral but since 2 is already in the list of balls repelling each other, it
necessarily has some charge, similarly 4 must have some charge. It means that though 1 is attracting 2 and 4 it does
not have any charge.
Example: 4 If the radius of a solid and hollow copper spheres are same which one can hold greater charge
(a) Solid sphere (b) Hollow sphere (c) Both will hold equal charge (d) None of these
Solution: (c) Charge resides on the surface of conductor, since both the sphere having similar surface area so they will hold equal
charge.
Example: 5 Number of electrons in one coulomb of charge will be
(a) 5 .46  10 29 (b) 6 .25  10 18 (c) 1.6  10 19 (d) 9  10 11
Q 1
Solution: (b) By using Q = ne  n =  n= = 6 .25  10 18
e 1 .6  10 −19
Example: 6 The current produced in wire when 107 electron/sec are flowing in it
(a) 1.6  10–26 amp (b) 1.6  1012 amp (c) 1.6  1026 amp (d) 1.6  10–12 amp
Q ne
Solution: (d) i= = = 10 7  1 .6  10 −19 = 1 .6  10 −12 amp
t t
Example: 7 A table-tennis ball which has been covered with a conducting paint is suspended by a silk thread so that it hangs between
two metal plates. One plate is earthed. When the other plate is connected to a high voltage generator, the ball
(a) Is attracted to the high voltage plate and stays there (b) Hangs without moving
(b) Swings backward and forward hitting each plate in turn (d) None of these
Solution: (c) The table tennis ball when slightly displaced say towards the positive plate gets attracted
towards the positive plate due to induced negative charge on its near surface.
The ball touches the positive plate and itself gets positively charged by the
process of conduction from the plate connected to high voltage generator. On +
–
getting positively charged it is repelled by the positive plate and therefore the ball + + + + –
touches the other plate (earthed), which has negative charge due to induction. On + + + + –
touching this plate, the positive charge of the ball gets neutralized and in turn the + + –
+
ball shares negative charge of the earthed plate and is again repelled from this + –
+
plate also, and this process is repeated again and again.
Here it should be understood that since the positive plate is connected to high voltage generator, its potential and
hence its charge will always remain same, as soon as this plate gives some of its charge to ball, excess charge flows
from generator to the plate, and an equal negative charge is always induced on the other plate.
Tricky example: 1
In 1 gm of a solid, there are 5  1021 atoms. If one electron is removed from everyone of 0.01% atoms of the solid,
the charge gained by the solid is (given that electronic charge is 1.6  10–19 C)
(a) + 0.08 C (b) + 0.8 C (c) – 0.08 C (d) – 0.8 C
Solution: (a) To calculate charge, we will apply formula Q = ne for this, we must have number of electrons. Here, number of electrons
n = .01 % of 5  1021
5  10 21  .01
i.e. n= = 5  10 21  10 −4 = 5  1017
100
So Q = 5  1017  1.6  10–19 = 8  10–2 = 0.08 C
Since electrons have been removed, charge will be positive i.e. Q = + 0.08 C
Example: 8 Two point charges +3 C and +8 C repel each other with a force of 40 N. If a charge of −5 C is added to each of
them, then the force between them will become
(a) −10 N (b) +10 N (c) +20 N
(d) −20 N
ELECTROSTATICS
−12
3  8  10 −12 2  3  10 F' 1
Solution: (a) Initially F =k and Finally F ' = −k so =−  F ' = −10 N
r2 r2 F 4
Example: 9 Two small balls having equal positive charge Q (coulomb) on each are suspended by two insulated
string of equal length L meter, from a hook fixed to a stand. The whole set up is taken in satellite
into space where there is no gravity (state of weight less ness). Then the angle between the string
and tension in the string is L
L
o 1 Q2  1 Q2 +Q
(a) 180 , . (b) 90 , . +Q
4  0 (2 L)2 4  0 L2
1 Q2 1 QL
(c) 180  , . (d) 180 o , .
4  0 2 L 2
4 0 4 L2
Solution: (a) In case to weight less ness following situation arises
+Q 180o +Q
1 Q2
So angle  = 180 
and force F = .
4  0 (2 L )2 L L
Example: 10 Two point charges 1 C & 5 C are separated by a certain distance. What will be ratio of forces acting on these two
(a) 1 : 5 (b) 5 : 1 (c) 1 : 1 (d) 0
Solution: (c) Both the charges will experience same force so ratio is 1:1
Example: 11 Two charges of 40 C and −20 C are placed at a certain distance apart. They are touched and kept at the same distance.
The ratio of the initial to the final force between them is
(a) 8 : 1 (b) 4 : 1 (c) 1 : 8 (d) 1 : 1
F1 q1 q 2 40  20 8
Solution: (a) Since only magnitude of charges are changes that’s why F  q1q 2  = = =
F2 q'1 q' 2 10  10 1
Example: 12 A total charge Q is broken in two parts Q1 and Q 2 and they are placed at a distance R from each other. The maximum
force of repulsion between them will occur, when
Q Q Q 2Q Q 3Q Q Q
(a) Q2 = , Q1 = Q − (b) Q 2 = , Q 1 = Q − (c) Q 2 = , Q1 = (d) Q1 = , Q 2 =
R R 4 3 4 4 2 2
Q1 Q 2 Q1 (Q − Q1 )
Solution: (d) Force between charges Q1 and Q 2 F=k =k
R2 R2
For F to be maximum,
dF
=0 i.e.,
d  Q1Q − Q12 
k
 ( )
 = 0 or Q − 2Q1 = 0, Q1 =
Q
dQ1 dQ1 
 R 2

 2
Q
Hence Q 1 = Q 2 =
2
Example: 13 The force between two charges 0.06m apart is 5 N. If each charge is moved towards the other by 0.01 m, then the force
between them will become
(a) 7.20 N (b) 11.25 N (c) 22.50 N (d) 45.00 N
Solution: (b) Initial separation between the charges = 0.06m
Final separation between the charges = 0.04m
2 2
1 F r  5  0 . 04  4
Since F  2
 1 =  2   =  =  F2 = 11 .25 N
r F2  1
r F2  0 . 06  9
Example: 14 Two charges equal in magnitude and opposite in polarity are placed at a certain distance apart and force acting between
them is F. If 75% charge of one is transferred to another, then the force between the charges becomes
F 9F 15
(a) (b) (c) F (d) F
16 16 16
Solution: (a) +Q/4 – Q/4
+Q –Q
A B A B
r r
2
Q
2 k . 
Finally F ' =  2  =
Q 4 F
Initially F = k 2
r r 16
Example: 15 Three equal charges each +Q, placed at the corners of on equilateral triangle of side a what will be the force on any charge
 1 
k = 
 4  0 

kQ 2 2kQ 2 2 kQ 2 3 kQ 2
(a) (b) 2
(c) 2
(d)
a 2
a a a2
Solution: (d) Suppose net force is to be calculated on the charge which is kept at A. Two charges kept at B and C are applying force on
that particular charge, with direction as shown in the figure.

ELECTROSTATICS
FC FB
2
Q 6
Since Fb = Fc = F = k +Q
a2 A
6
So, Fnet = FB2 + FC2 + 2 FB FC cos 60
3 kQ 2
Fnet = 3 F = +Q +Q
a2 B C
Example: 16 Equal charges Q are placed at the four corners A, B, C, D of a square of length a. The magnitude of the force on the charge
at B will be
3Q 2 4Q2 1 + 1 2  Q2  1  Q2
(a) (b) (c)   (d) 2 + 
4  0 a 2 4  0 a 2   4 a 2   4  a 2
 2  0  2  0 FC
Solution: (c) After following the guidelines mentioned above FD
Fnet = FAC + FD = FA2 + FC2 + FD +Q +Q FAC

A FA
B
kQ 2 kQ 2
Since FA = FC = and FD =
a2 (a 2 )2
2 kQ 2 kQ 2 
kQ 2 1 Q 2  1 + 2 2  D C
Fnet = +  2 =
+  = +Q
a2 2a 2 a2  2  4 0 a 2  2 

Example: 17 Two equal charges are separated by a distance d. A third charge placed on a perpendicular bisector at x distance, will
experience maximum coulomb force when
d d d d
(a) x = (b) x = (c) x = (d) x=
2 2 2 2 2 3
Solution: (c) Suppose third charge is similar to Q and it is q
F
So net force on it Fnet = 2F cos F
 
1 Qq x
Where F = . and cos  = q
4 0  2 d  2
d2
x +  x 2
+  
 4 
 4 x
1 Qq x 2Qqx
 Fnet = 2  .  =
4 0  2 d   2 1 / 2 3/2
  x 2 + d   2 d2 
2
x +   + 
 4  
4 x Q Q
4 
0
   4  B C
 
 
dFnet d  2Qqx 
for Fnet to be maximum = 0 i.e.  3/2
=0
dx dx   2 d2  
 4 0  x + 
 
  4  
 
−3 / 2 −5 / 2 
2 
2
 x 2 + d   d2  =0 d
or − 3x  x + 2
i.e. x =
 4 
  4 
  2 2
 

Example: 18 ABC is a right angle triangle in which AB = 3 cm, BC = 4 cm and ABC = . The three charges +15, +12 and – 20 e.s.u.
2
A +15 esu
are placed respectively on A, B and C. The force acting on B is
(a) 125 dynes (b) 35 dynes (c) 25 dynes (d) Zero
Solution: (c) Net force on B Fnet = FA2 + FC2 3 cm
15  12 12  20
FA = = 20 dyne FC = = 15 dyne B FC C
(3 )2
(4 )2 +12 esu 4 cm
– 20 esu
Fnet = 25 dyne
FA
Example: 19 Five point charges each of value +Q are placed on five vertices of a regular hexagon of side L. What
is the magnitude of the force on a point charge of value – q placed at the centre of the +Q +Q
hexagon
Q2 Q2 –Q
(a) k 2
(b) k 2
(c) Zero (d) Information is insufficient +Q
L 4L
Solution: (a) Four charges cancels the effect of each other, so the net force on the charge placed at
Q2 +Q +Q
centre due to remaining fifth charge is F = k 2 L
L

ELECTROSTATICS
Example: 20 Two small, identical spheres having + Q and – Q charge are kept at a certain distance. F force acts between the two. If in
the middle of two spheres, another similar sphere having + Q charge is kept, then it experience a force in magnitude
and direction as
(a) Zero having no direction (b) 8F towards +Q charge
(c) 8F towards – Q charge (d) 4F towards +Q charge +Q +Q –Q
Q2 C
Solution: (c) Initially, force between A and C F=k 2
A B FA FC
r r/2 r/2
When a similar sphere B having charge +Q is kept at the mid point of line joining
A and C, then Net force on B is r
Q2 kQ 2 kQ 2
Fnet = FA + FC = k + = 8 = 8 F . (Direction is shown in figure)
(r 2 )2 (r 2 )2 r2
Tricky example: 2
Two equal spheres are identically charged with q units of electricity separately. When they are placed at a distance 3 R
from centre-to-centre where R is the radius of either sphere the force of repulsion between them is
1 q2 1 q2 1 q2
(a) . 2 (b) . (c) . (d) None of these
4  0 R 4  0 9 R 2 4  0 4 R 2
1 q2
Solution: (a) Generally students give the answer but it is not true. Since the charges are not uniformly distributed,
4  0 (3 R) 2
they cannot be treated as point charges and so we cannot apply coulombs law which is a law for point charges. The
actual distribution is shown in the figure above. + + +
+ + + +
+ +
+ + + +
+ +
+ + + +
+ + +
+
 1 
Example: 21 A half ring of radius R has a charge of  per unit length. The electric field at the centre is  k = 

 4  0 
k 2k  k 
(a) Zero (b) (c) (d) dl
R R R
d
Solution: (c) dl = Rd 
 C
 
Charge on dl = Rd  .
Rd  . dl dE
Field at C due to dl = k = dE
R2
We need to consider only the component dE cos  , as the component dE sin  will cancel out because of the field
at C due to the symmetrical element dl,
 2 k  2  
 

 
Q
The total field at C is = 2 dE cos  = 2 cos  d  = 2k = 2 
R 0 R  2 0 R 
 
0
Example: 22 What is the magnitude of a point charge due to which the electric field 30 cm away has the magnitude 2 newton/coulomb
[1 / 4 0 = 9  10 9 Nm 2 ]
(a) 2  10 −11 coulomb (b) 3  10 −11 coulomb (c) 5  10 −11 coulomb (d) 9  10 −11 coulomb
1 Q Q
Solution: (a) By using E = . 2 ; 2 = 9  10 9   Q = 2  10 −11 C
4 0 r (
30  10 − 2
2
)
Example: 23 Two point charges Q and – 3Q are placed at some distance apart. If the electric field at the location of Q is E, then at the
locality of – 3Q, it is
(a) − E (b) E/3 (c) −3 E (d) – E/3
Solution: (b) Let the charge Q and – 3Q be placed respectively at A and B at a distance x
Now we will determine the magnitude and direction to the field produced by charge – 3Q at A, this is E as mentioned
in the Example. A B
3Q –3Q
 E = 2 (along AB directed towards negative charge) Q
x x
Q E
Now field at location of – 3Q i.e. field at B due to charge Q will be E' = 2 = (along AB directed away from
x 3
positive charge)
Example: 24 Two charged spheres of radius R1 and R 2 respectively are charged and joined by a wire. The ratio
of electric field of the spheres is

ELECTROSTATICS
R1 R2 R 12 R 22
(a) (b) (c) (d)
R2 R1 R 22 R 12
Q1 k . Q2 Q1 R
Solution: (b) After connection their potential becomes equal i.e., k . = ;  = 1
R1 R2 Q2 R2
2
E1 Q R  R
= 1   2  = 2 .
Ratio of electric field
E2 Q 2  R1  R1
Example: 25 The number of electrons to be put on a spherical conductor of radius 0.1 m to produce an electric field of 0.036 N/C just
above its surface is
(a) 2 . 7  10 5 (b) 2 .6  10 5 (c) 2 .5  10 5 (d) 2 .4  10 5
Q ne
Solution: (c) By using E = k 2 , where R = radius of sphere so 0.036 = 9  10 9   n = 2 .5  10 5
R (0.1)2
 1 
Example: 26Eight equal charges each +Q are kept at the corners of a cube. Net electric field at the centre will be  k = 
 4  0 
kQ 8 kQ 2kQ
(a) 2
(b) 2
(c) (d) Zero
r r r2
Solution: (d) Due to the symmetry of charge. Net Electric field at centre is zero.
+q q a q
a a a a
E=0
E=0
+q +q q
a q a
Square q 2q
Equilateral triangle
A B
Example: 27 q, 2q, 3q and 4q charges are placed at the four corners A, B, C and D of a square. The field
at the centre O of the square has the direction along.
(a) AB
(b) CB O
(c) AC
(d) BD
Solution: (b) By making the direction of electric field due to all charges at centre. Net electric field has D C
the direction along CB 4q 3q
Example: 28Equal charges Q are placed at the vertices A and B of an equilateral triangle ABC of side a. The
magnitude of electric field at the point A is
E
Q 2Q 3Q Q FC FB
(a) (b) (c) (d)
4 0 a 2 4  0 a 2 4  0 a 2 2 0 a 2
A
Solution: (c) As shown in figure Net electric field at A
E= E B2 + EC2 + 2 E B EC cos 60 60o
a a
1 Q
EB = EC = .
4 0 a 2
3Q
+Q a
+Q
So, E = B C
4  0 a 2
Example: 29Four charges are placed on corners of a square as shown in figure having side of 5 cm. If Q is one micro coulomb, then
electric field intensity at centre will be Q – 2Q
(a) 1 . 02  10 N / C upwards
7
(b) 2 . 04  10 7 N / C downwards
(c) 2 . 04  10 7 N / C upwards
–Q + 2Q
(d) 1 . 02  10 7 N / C downwards
Solution: (a) | E C|  | E A| so resultant of EC & E A is ECA = EC − E A directed toward Q
Q – 2Q
Also | E B |  | E D| so resultant of EB and E D i.e. A Enet EBD B
ECA
E BD = E B − E D directed toward – 2Q charge hence Net electric field at centre is
EC ED
E= (ECA )2 + (EBD )2 .… (i)
O
EB EA
D C
–Q +2Q

ELECTROSTATICS
10 −6
By proper calculations | E A | = 9  10 9  2
= 0 .72  10 7 N /C
 5 

  10 − 2 
 2 
2  10 −6 2  10 −6
| E B | = 9  10 9  2
= 1 . 44  10 7 N /C ; | E C | = 9  10 9  = 1 .44  10 7 N /C
2
 5   5 

  10 − 2  
  10 − 2 
 2   2 
10 −6
| E D | = 9  10 9  2
= 0 .72  10 7 N /C ; So, |E CA| = |E C| − |E A| = 0 .72  10 7 N/C
 5 

  10 − 2 
 2 
and | E BD | =| E B | − | E D | = 0 .72  10 7 N /C. Hence from equation – (i) E = 1 .02  10 7 N /C upwards
Example: 30 Infinite charges are lying at x = 1, 2, 4, 8…meter on X-axis and the value of each charge is Q. The value of intensity of electric
field and potential at point x = 0 due to these charges will be respectively
(a) 12  10 9 Q N/C, 1.8  104 V (b) Zero, 1.2  104V
(c) 6  10 9 Q N/C, 9  103 V (d) 4  10 9 Q N/C , 6  103 V
Solution: (a) By the superposition, Net electric field at origin
1 1 1 1 
E = kQ  2 + 2 + 2 + 2 + ...
1 2 4 8 
 1 1 1 
E = kQ 1 + + + + ... x=0 x=1 x=2 x=4 x=8
 4 16 64 
1 1 1
1+ + + + ... is an infinite geometrical progression it’s sum can be obtained by using the formula
4 16 64
a
S = ; Where a = First term, r = Common ratio.
1−r
1 1 1 1 1 4
Here a = 1 and r = so, 1 + + + + .....  = = .
4 4 16 64 1 −1/4 3
4
Hence E = 9  10  Q  = 12  10 Q N /C
9 9
3
1  1  10 −6 1  10 −6 1  10 −6 1  10 −6 
Electric potential at origin V =  + + + + .......
4 0  1 2 4 8 
 
 −6 1 1 1   1 
= 9  10  10 1 + + + + .......... ..  = 9  10 
9 3
 = 1 .8  10 volt
4
 2 4 8  1
1 − 
 2 
In the arrangement shown in figure +Q and – Q are alternatively and equally spaced from each other, the net potential at
1 Q log e 2
the origin O is V = .
4 0 x
+Q –Q +Q –Q
O x 2x 3x 4x
Example: 31 Potential at a point x-distance from the centre inside the conducting sphere of radius R and charged with charge Q is
Q Q Q
(a) (b) (c) (d) xQ
R x x2
Solution: (a) Potential inside the conductor is constant.
Example: 32 The electric potential at the surface of an atomic nucleus (Z = 50) of radius 9  10 5 V is
(a) 80 V (b) 8  10 6 V (c) 9 V (d) 9  10 5 V
ne 50  1 .6  10 −19
Solution: (b) V = 9  10 9  = 9  10 9  = 8  10 6 V +5 C
r 9  10 −15 – 5 C
– 7 C
Example: 33 Eight charges having the valves as shown are arranged symmetrically on a circle of radius
0.4m in air. Potential at centre O will be
(a) 63  10 4 volt (b) 63  10 10 volt (c) 63  10 6 volt (d) Zero +15 C O +7 C
Solution: (a) Due to the principle of superposition potential at O
1 28  10 −6 28  10 −6 +7 C – 5 C
V =  = 9  10 9  = 63  10 4 volt
4 0 0 .4 0 .4 +11 C

ELECTROSTATICS
Example: 34As shown in the figure, charges +q and –q are placed at the vertices B and C of an isosceles triangle. The A
potential at the vertex A is
1 2q 1 q 1 (−q )
(a) . (b) . (c) . (d) Zero a
4  0 a2 + b 2 4  0 a2 + b 2 4  0 a2 + b 2
Solution: (d) Potential at A = Potential due to (+q) charge + Potential due to (– q) charge b b
B C
1 q 1 (−q) + –
= . + =0 q q
4  0 a +b
2 2 4  0 a2 + b 2
Example: 35 A conducting sphere of radius R is given a charge Q. consider three points B at the surface, A at centre and C at a distance
R/2 from the centre. The electric potential at these points are such that
(a) VA = VB = VC (b) VA = VB  VC (c) VA  VB  VC (d) VA  VB = VC
Solution: (a) Potential inside a conductor is always constant and equal to the potential at the surface.
10
Example: 36 Equal charges of  10 −9 coulomb are lying on the corners of a square of side 8 cm. The electric potential at the
3
point of intersection of the diagonals will be
(a) 900 V (b) 900 2 V (c) 150 2 V (d) 1500 2 V
Solution: (d) Potential at the centre O Q Q
1 Q 10
V =4 . given Q =  10 −9 C  a = 8 cm = 8  10 −2 m
4 0 a / 2 3
10 O
 10 −9
V = 5  9  10 
9 3 = 1500 2 volt Q Q
8  10 − 2 a
2
Tricky example: 3
A point charge Q is placed outside a hollow spherical conductor of radius R, at a distance (r > R) from its centre C. The field
 1 
at C due to the induced charges on the conductor is  K = 
 4  0 
Q Q Q
(a) Zero (b) K (c) K 2 directed towards Q (d) K 2 directed away from Q
(r − R ) 2
r r
+ –
Solution: (c) A according to the figure shown below. The total field at C must be zero. The + –
Q + –
field at C due to the point charge is E = K 2 towards left. The field at C due + C +Q
r
+ –
KQ R
to the induced charges must be 2 towards right i.e. directed towards Q. + –
+ –
r r
Tricky example: 4
A point charge q is placed at a distance of r from the centre of an uncharged conducting sphere of radius R (< r). The
potential at any point on the sphere is
1 q 1 qR 1 qr 2
(a) Zero (b) . (c) . 2 (d) .
4 0 r 4 0 r 4  0 R
Solution: (c) Since, potential V is same for all points of the sphere. Therefore, we can calculate its value at the centre of the sphere.
1 q
 V = . + V ' ; where V = potential at centre due to induced charge = 0 (because net induced charge
4 0 r
1 q
will be zero)  V = . .
4 0 r

ELECTROSTATICS
Example: 37 A hollow metal sphere of radius 5 cm is charged such that the potential on its surface is 10 volts. The potential at the centre
of the sphere is
(a) Zero (b) 10 V (c) Same as at a point 5 cm away from the surface (d) Same as at a point 25 cm away from the surface
Solution: (b) Inside the conductors potential remains same and it is equal to the potential of surface, so here potential at the centre of
sphere will be 10 V
Example: 38 A sphere of 4 cm radius is suspended within a hollow sphere of 6 cm radius. The inner sphere is charged to a potential 3
e.s.u. When the outer sphere is earthed. The charge on the inner sphere is
1
(a) 54 e.s.u. (b) e.s.u. (c) 30 e.s.u. (d) 36 e.s.u.
4
Solution: (d) Let charge on inner sphere be +Q. charge induced on the inner surface of outer sphere will be –Q. +Q
So potential at the surface of inner sphere (in CGS)
Q Q
3= −
4 6 4cm
 Q = 36 e.s.u. 6cm
Example: 39 A charge Q is distributed over two concentric hollow spheres of radii r and (R  r) such that the surface densities are
equal. The potential at the common centre is
Q (R 2 + r 2 ) Q Q(R + r)
(a) (b) (c) Zero (d)
4  0 (R + r) R +r 4 0 (R 2 + r 2 )
Solution: (d) If q1 and q 2 are the charges on spheres of radius r and R respectively, in accordance with conservation of charge
Q = q1 + q 2 ….(i) q2
and according to the given problem  1 =  2

q1
q1 q2 q1 r2
i.e., =  = 2 …. (ii)
4r 2 4R 2 q2 R r
2 2 R
Qr QR
So equation (i) and (ii) gives q1 = and q 2 =
(R + r )
2 2
(R 2 + r 2 )
 q1 q 2 
1 1  Qr QR  1 Q ( R + r)
Potential at common centre V =  +  =  2 + 2 2 
= . 2
4 0  r R  4 0  (R + r ) (R + r )  4 0 (R + r 2 )
2
Example: 40 A solid conducting sphere having a charge Q is surrounded by an uncharged concentric conducting hollow spherical shell.
Let the potential difference between the surface of the solid sphere and that of the outer surface of the hollow shell
be V. If the shell is now given a charge of – 3Q, the new potential difference between the two surfaces is
(a) V (b) 2V (c) 4V (d) –2V
Q
Solution: (a) If a and b are radii of spheres and spherical shell respectively, potential at their surfaces will be + + +
+
1 Q 1 Q
Vsphere = . and Vshell = . + Sphere +
4 0 a 4 0 b + +
a +
+
and so according to the given problem. + + +
b
Q 1 1 
V = Vsphere − Vshell = − …. (i)
4 0  a b 
Now when the shell is given a charge –3Q the potential at its surface and also inside will change by
1  3Q 
V0 = −
4 0  b 
1  Q 3Q  1  Q 3Q 
So that now Vsphere =  −  and Vshell = −
4 0  a b  4 0  b b 
Q 1 1 
hence Vsphere − Vshell = − =V
4 0  a b 
Example: 41 Three concentric metallic spheres A, B and C have radii a, b and c (a  b  c) and surface charge densities on them are
 , −  and  respectively. The valves of VA and VB will be C
   a 2  a2 B
(a) (a − b − c), − b + c (b) (a − b − c), c
0 
0  b  c A b

   a
0  a2
    a2 b 2  
(c) 
(a − b − c), 0 − b + c (d)  − + c  and (a − b + c)
  c
  0  c c  0
   
Solution: (a) Suppose charges on A, B and C are q a , qb and q c
qa qb
Respectively, so  A =  =  q a =   4a 2 ,  B = − =  qb = −  4b 2
4a 2
4b 2

ELECTROSTATICS
qc
and  C =  =  qc =   4 c 2
4c 2
Potential at the surface of A
1  q a qb q c  1    4a 2 (− )  4b 2   4c 2 
VA = (VA )surface + (VB )in + (VC )in =  + +  =  + + 
4 0  a b c 4 0  a b c 

VA = a − b − c]
0
Potential at the surface of B
1  q a qb q c  1    4a 2   4b 2   4c 2    a 2 
VB = (VA )out + (VB )surface + (VC )in =  + +  =  − + =  − b + c
4 0  b b c  4 0  b b c   0  b 
Example: 42 Three positive charges of equal value q are placed at the vertices of an equilateral triangle. The resulting lines of force
should be sketched as in
(a) (b) (c) (d)
• •
Solution (c) Option (a) shows lines of force starting from one positive charge and terminating at another.
Option (b) has one line of force making closed loop. Option (d) shows all lines making
closed loops. All these are not correct. Hence option (c) is correct • +q
+q +q
• •
1 1
Example: 43A metallic sphere is placed in a uniform electric field. The lines of force follow the path (s) 2 2
shown in the figure as
3 3
(a) 1 (b) 2
(c) 3 (d) 4 4 4
Solution: (d) The field is zero inside a conductor and hence lines of force cannot exist inside it. Also, due to induced charges on its
surface the field is distorted close to its surface and a line of force must deviate near the surface outside the sphere.
Example: 44 The figure shows some of the electric field lines corresponding to an electric
field. The figure suggests
A B C
(a) E A  E B  E C (b) E A = E B = E C
(c) E A = E C  E B (d) E A = E C  E B
Solution: (c)
Example: 45 The lines of force of the electric field due to two charges q and Q are sketched in the figure. State if
(a) Q is positive and Q  q
(b) Q is negative and Q  q q
Q
(c) q is positive and Q  q

(d) q is negative and Q  q
Solution: (c) q is +ve because lines of force emerge from it and Q  q because more lines emerge from q 20 V
and less lines terminate at Q.
A
Example: 46 The figure shows the lines of constant potential in a region in which an electric field is present. • B
The magnitude of electric field is maximum at •
(a) A (b) B (c) C (d) Equal at A, B and C 50 V
Solution: (b) Since lines of force are denser at B hence electric field is maximum at B •C
40 V 30 V
Example: 47 Some equipotential surface are shown y 20 V 30 V 40 V
in the figure. The magnitude and
direction of the electric field is
    x
10 20 30
cm
(a) 100 V/m making angle 120o with the x-axis (b) 100
 =V/m
o
30o making angle 60 with the x-axis
ELECTROSTATICS
o
(c) 200 V/m making angle 120 with the x-axis (d) None of the above
Solution: (c) By using dV = E dr cos  suppose we consider line 1 and line y 20 V 30 V 40 V
2 then
(30 – 20) = E cos 60o (20 – 10) × 10–2 120o
30o
x
So E = 200 volt / m making in angle 120o with x-axis
dr
10 20 30 40
1 2
Example: 48 The electric field, at a distance of 20 cm from the centre of a dielectric sphere of radius 10 cm is
100 V/m. The ‘E’ at 3 cm distance from the centre of sphere is
(a) 100 V/m (b) 125 V/m (c) 120 V/m (d) Zero
k .q kqr
Solution: (c) For dielectric sphere i.e. for non-conducting sphere E out = and E in =
r2 R3
KQ 100  (0 . 2) 2  (3  10 −2 ) 2
E out = 100  KQ = 100  (0.2)2 so E in = = 120 V/m
(20  10 − 2 ) 2 (10  10 − 2 )3
Example: 49 In x-y co-ordinate system if potential at a point P(x, y) is given by V = axy ; where a is a constant,
if r is the distance of point P from origin then electric field at P is proportional to
(a) r (b) r–1 (c) r—2 (d) r2
dV dV dV
Solution: (a) By using E = − Ex = − = −ay , Ey = − = −ax
dr dx dy
Electric field at point P E = E x2 + E y2 = a x 2 + y 2 = ar i.e., E  r
Example: 50 The electric potential V at any point x, y, z (all in metres) in space is given by V = 4x2 volt. The electric
field at the point (1m, 0, 2m) in volt/metre is
(a) 8 along negative X-axis (b) 8 along positive X-axis
(c) 16 along negative X-axis (d) 16 along positive Z-axis
dV d
Solution: (a) By using E = −  E = − (4 x 2 ) = −8 x . Hence at point (1m, 0, 2m). E = – 8 volt/m i.e. 8 along –
dx dx
ve x-axis.
Example: 51 The electric potential V is given as a function of distance x (metre) by V = (5x2 + 10x – 9) volt. Value of
electric field at x = 1m is
(a) – 20 V/m (b) 6 V/m (c) 11 V/m (d) – 23 V/m
dV d
Solution: (a) By using E = − ; E = − (5 x 2 + 10 x − 9) = (10 x + 10 ) , at x = 1m E = −20 V /m
dx dx
Example: 52 A uniform electric field having a magnitude E0 and direction along the positive X-axis exists. If the
electric potential V, is zero at X = 0, then, its value at X = +x will be
(a) V(x)= +xE0 (b) V(x)= – xE0 (c) V(x)= x2E0 (d) V(x)= – x2E0
V (V − V1 ) {V (x ) − 0}
Solution: (b) By using E = − =− 2 ; E0 = −  V(x) = – xE0
r (r2 − r1 ) x −0
Example: 53 If the potential function is given by V = 4x + 3y, then the magnitude of electric field intensity at
the point (2, 1) will be
(a) 11 (b) 5 (c) 7 (d) 1
dV d
Solution: (b) By using i.e., E = E x2 + E y2 ; E x = − =− (4 x + 3 y ) = −4
dx dx
dV d
and Ey = − = − (4 x + 3 y ) = −3  E = (−4 ) 2 + (−3) 2 = 5 N /C
dy dy
Tricky example: 7
The variation of potential with distance R from a fixed point is as shown
5
below. The electric field at R = 5 m is
Potential in volts
(a) 2.5 volt/m 4
(b) – 2.5 volt/m 3

2 2
(c) volt /m
5 1
2
(d) − volt /m 0 1 2 3 4 5 6
5 Distance R in metres

ELECTROSTATICS
Solution: (a) Intensity at 5 m is same as at any point between B and C because the slope of BC is same throughout (i.e. electric field
−dV
between B and C is uniform). Therefore electric field at R = 5m is equal to the slope of line BC hence by E = ;
dr
(0 − 5 ) V
E=− = 2 .5
6−4 m
(5 − 0) V
✓ At R = 1m , E = − = −2 .5 and at R = 3m potential is constant so E = 0.
(2 − 0) m
Example: 54 A charge (– q) and another charge (+Q) are kept at two points A and B respectively. Keeping the
charge (+Q) fixed at B, the charge (– q) at A is moved to another point C such that ABC forms an
equilateral triangle of side l. The network done in moving the charge (– q) is
1 Qq 1 Qq 1
(a) (b) (c) Qql (d) Zero
4 0 l 4 0 l 2 4 0 A –q
kQ
Solution: (d) Since V A = VC =
l l l
so W = q (VC − V A ) = 0
B C
+Q l
Example: 55 The work done in bringing a 20 coulomb charge from point A to point B for distance 0.2 m is 2 Joule.
The potential difference between the two points will be (in volt)
(a) 0.2 (b) 8 (c) 0.1 (d) 0.4
Solution: (c) W = Q.V  2 = 20  V  V = 0.1 volt
Example: 56 A charge +q is revolving around a stationary +Q in a circle of radius r. If the force between charges
is F then the work done of this motion will be
F +Q
(a) F × r (b) F  2r (c) (d) 0 +q
2r
Solution: (d) Since +q charge is moving on an equipotential surface so work done is zero.
Example: 57 Four equal charge Q are placed at the four corners of a body of side ‘a’ each. Work done in
removing a charge – Q from its centre to infinity is Q a Q
A B
2 Q2 2 Q2 Q2
(a) 0 (b) (c) (d)
4  0 a  0 a 2 0 a
a O a
Solution: (c) We know that work done in moving a charge is W = QV –Q
Here W = Q (V0 − V )  V = 0  W = Q × V0
1 Q 4 2Q 2Q D C
Also V0 = 4  . = = a
4  0 a / 2 4  0 a  0 a Q Q
2
2Q
So, W =
 0 a
Example: 58 Two point charge 100 C and 5 C are placed at point A and B respectively with AB = 40 cm. The
work done by external force in displacing the charge 5 C from B to C, where BC = 30 cm, angle
 1
ABC = and = 9  10 9 Nm 2 /C 2
2 4 0
81 9 9
(a) 9 J (b) J (c) J (d) − J
20 25 4
Solution: (d) Potential at B due to +100 C charge is A
−6 + 100 C
100  10 9
VB = 9  10 9  −2
=  10 6 volt
40  10 4
Potential at C due to +100 C charge is
40 cm
−6 50 cm
100  10 9
VC = 9  10 9  =  10 6 volt
50  10 −2 5
Hence work done in moving charge +5C from B to C /2 + 50 C
W = 5  10 −6 (VC − VB ) B 30 cm C
9 9  9
W = 5  10 −6   10 6 −  10 +6  = − J
 5 4  4

ELECTROSTATICS
Example: 59 There is an electric field E in x-direction. If the work done in moving a charge 0.2 C through a
distance of 2 metres along a line making an angle 60 o with the x-axis is 4J, what is the value of
E
A
(a) 4 N/C (b) 8 N/C (c) 3 N/C (d) 20 N/C 0.2C
Solution: (d) By using W = q  V and V = Er cos  2m
So, W = qE r cos 
W = 4 j = 0.2  E  2  cos 60 60o
x
O
 E = 20 N/C
Example: 60 An electric charge of 20 C is situated at the origin of X-Y co-ordinate system. The potential
difference between the points. (5a, 0) and (– 3a, 4a) will be
a
(a) a (b) 2a (c) Zero B (–3a, 4a) (d)
2
kQ kQ
Solution: (c) VA = and VB = 5a
5a 5a
A (5a, 0)
 V A − VB = 0 Q 5a
Example: 61 Two identical thin rings each of radius R, are coaxially placed a distance R apart. If Q1 and Q2 are
respectively the charges uniformly spread on the two rings, the work done in moving a charge q
from the centre of one ring to that of the other is
Q 
q  1  ( 2 − 1)
q(Q1 − Q 2 )( 2 − 1) q(Q 1 + Q 2 ) 2
(d)  2 
Q
(a) Zero (b) (c)
4  0 R 2 4  0 R 4 0 R 2
Q1 Q2
Solution: (b) Potential at the centre of first ring VA = +
4 0 R 4 0 R 2 + R 2 Q1 Q2
Q2 Q1
Potential at the centre of second ring VB = +
4 0 R 4 0 R 2 + R 2
R R
1 2
( 2 − 1)(Q1 − Q 2 ) A B
Potential difference between the two centres V A − VB =
4 0 R 2
q( 2 − 1)(Q1 − Q 2 ) R
 Work done W =
4  0 R 2
Tricky example: 8
A point charge q moves from point A to point D along the path ABCD in a uniform electric field. If the co-ordinates
of the points A, B, C and D are (a, b, 0), (2a, 0, 0), (a, – b, 0) and (0, 0, 0) then the work done by the electric field in
this process will be
(a) – qEa Y
(b) Zero 
(c) 2E (a + b)q E
qEa A
(d)
2b
D X
Solution: (a) As electric field is a conservative field B
Y Hence the work done does not depend on path
C
A (a,b,0)
a2 + b2
b  W ABCD = W AOD = W AO + WOD
a O  = Fb cos 90o + Fa cos 180o = 0 + qEa (– 1)= – qEa
  X
D B
b
a2 + b2 a2 + b2
C q is placed at the centre of the line joining two equal charges Q. The system of the three charges will be in
Example: 62 A charge
equilibrium. If q is equal to
Q Q Q Q
(a) − (b) − (c) + (d) +
2 4 4 2
2
x /2 Q Q
Solution: (b) By using Tricky formula q = Q    q= since q should be negative so q = − .
 x  4 4

ELECTROSTATICS
Example: 63 Two point charges +4q and +q are placed at a distance L apart. A third charge Q is so placed that
all the three charges are in equilibrium. Then location and magnitude of third charge will be
L 4q
(a) At a distance from +4q charge,
3 9
L 4q
(b) At a distance from +4q charge, −
3 9
2L 4q
(c) At a distance from +4q charge, −
3 9
2L 4q
(d) At a distance from +q charge, +
3 9
Solution: (c) Let third charge be placed at a distance x 1 from +4q charge as shown
L 2L L
Now x 1 = =  x2 = +4q
Q
+q
q 3 3
1+
4q x1 x2
2 L
L/3 4q 4q
For equilibrium of q, Q = +4 q   =  Q=− .
 L  9 9
Example: 64 A drop of 10 −6 kg water carries 10 −6 C charge. What electric field should be applied to balance it’s
weight (assume g = 10 m/sec2)
(a) 10 V / m , Upward (b) 10 V / m , Downward (c) 0.1 V/m Downward (d) 0 .1V / m, Upward
Solution: (a) In equilibrium QE = mg
mg 10 −6  10
E= = = 10 V/m; Since charge is positive so electric field will be upward.
Q 10 −6
Example: 65 A charged water drop of radii 0.1 m is under equilibrium in some electric field. The charge on the
drop is equivalent to electronic charge. The intensity of electric field is
(a) 1 . 61 N / C (b) 25 .2 N / C (c) 262 N / C (d) 1610 N / C
4 3 
 r  . g −6 3
 = 4  (3.14 ) (0.1  10 )  10  10
3
Solution: (c) In equilibrium QE = mg ; mg 3 = 262 N/C
E= =
Q Q 3 1.6  10 −19
Example: 66 The bob of a pendulum of mass 8 g carries an electric charge of 39 .2  10 −10 coulomb in an
electric field of 20  10 3 volt / meter and it is at rest. The angle made by the pendulum with the
vertical will be
(a) 27o (b) 45o (c) 87o (d) 127o

Solution: (b) T sin  = qE , T cos = mg
qE
 tan  =
mg T cos
T 
39 .2  10 −10  20  10 3
tan  = =1 T sin  qE
8  10 −6  9 .8
  = 45 o
mg
Example: 67 Two small spherical balls each carrying a charge Q = 10 C (10 micro-coulomb) are suspended by
two insulating threads of equal lengths 1 m each, from a point fixed in the ceiling. It is found that
in equilibrium threads are separated by an angle 60o between them, as shown in the figure. What
1
is the tension in the threads. (Given : = 9  10 9 Nm / C 2 )
(4 0 )
(a) 18 N 60o
(b) 1.8 N
(c) 0.18 N Q Q
(d) None of these
Solution: (b) From the geometry of figure
r = 1m 30o 30
o
In the condition of equilibrium T sin 30 o = Fe 1m 1m
1 (10  10 −6 ) 2 T T cos 30o

T = 9  10 9 . 30o
2 12 +10 C Fe
T sin 30o
 T= 1.8 N r +10 C
mg

ELECTROSTATICS
Example: 68 Two similar balloons filled with helium gas are tied to L m long r
strings. A body of mass m is tied to another ends of the strings. Q Q
The balloons float on air at distance r. If the amount of charge on

the balloons is same then the magnitude of charge on each L
L
balloon will be  
1/2 1/2
 mgr 2   2k   mgr 
1/2
 2k 
1/2
(a)  tan   (b)  tan   (c)  cot   (d)  tan   m
 2k   mgr
2
  2k   mgr 
Solution: (a) In equilibrium R R
2 R = mg …. (i) Fe = T sin  …. (ii) R = T cos  …. (iii)
r
From equation (i) and (iii)
Fe
2T cos = mg …. (iv) T sin 
Dividing equation (ii) by equation (iv)
T
Q2
k 2 1/2 T cos  L L
1 F 1  mgr 2   
tan  = e  tan  = r   =  tan  
2 mg 2 mg  
 2k 
m
mg
Example: 69 Two similar charges of +Q as shown in figure are placed at points A and B. – q charge is placed
at point C midway between A and B. – q charge will oscillate if D
(a) It is moved towards A A B

(b) It is moved towards B +Q +Q
C –q
(c) It is moved along CD
(d) Distance between A and B is reduced
Solution: (c) When – q charge displaced along CD, a restoring force act on it which causes oscillation.
Example: 70 Two point charges (+Q) and (– 2Q) are fixed on the X-axis at positions a and 2a from origin
respectively. At what position on the axis, the resultant electric field is zero
3a
(a) Only x = 2a (b) Only x = − 2 a (c) Both x =  2 a
only (d) x =
2
k .Q k (−2Q)
Solution: (b) Let the electric field is zero at a point P distance d from the charge +Q so at P. 2 + =0
d (a + d ) 2
1 2 a
 =  d = P +Q – 2Q
d 2
(a + d ) 2
( 2 − 1) a x
2a
d
Since d > a i.e. point P must lies on negative x-axis as shown at a distance x from origin hence
a
x = d −a = − a = 2a
2 −1
Actually P lies on negative x-axis so x = − 2 a .
Example: 71 Two charges 9e and 3e are placed at a distance r. The distance of the point where the electric
field intensity will be zero is
r r
(a) ( 3 + 1) from 9e charge (b) 1 + 1 3 from 9e charge

r r
( )
(c) 1 − 3 from 3e charge (d) 1 + 1 3 from 3e charge
Solution: (b) Suppose neutral point is obtained at a distance x 1 from charge 9e and x 2 from charge 3e
x r r N
9e
By using x 1 = = = 3e
Q2 3e  1 
1+ 1+  1 +  x1 x2
Q1 9e  3 r
Example: 72 Two point charges – Q and 2Q are separated by a distance R, neutral point will be obtained at
R
(a) A distance of from – Q charge and lies between the charges.
( 2 − 1)
R
(b) A distance of from – Q charge on the left side of it
( 2 − 1)

ELECTROSTATICS
R
(c) A distance of from 2Q charge on the right side of it
( 2 − 1)
(d) A point on the line which passes perpendicularly through the centre of the line joining – Q
and 2Q charge.
Solution: (b) As already we discussed neutral point will be obtained on the side of charge which is smaller in
magnitude i.e. it will obtained on the left side of – Q charge and at a distance.
R R
l=  l=
2Q ( 2 − 1)
−1
Q
Example: 73 A charge of + 4C is kept at a distance of 50 cm from a charge of – 6C. Find the two points where
the potential is zero
(a) Internal point lies at a distance of 20 cm from 4C charge and external point lies at a distance
of 100 cm from 4C charge.
(b) Internal point lies at a distance of 30 cm from 4C charge and external point lies at a distance
of 100 cm from 4C charge
(c) Potential is zero only at 20 cm from 4C charge between the two charges
(d) Potential is zero only at 20 cm from – 6C charge between the two charges
x 50
Solution: (a) For internal point X, x1 = = = 20 cm and for external point Y,
 Q2  6
+1
 + 1 
4
 1
Q 
x 50 Y X
x1 = = = 100 cm 4C – 6C
 Q2  6
−1
 − 1  20cm
4
 Q1  100cm 50cm
Tricky example: 9
Two equal negative charges – q are fixed at points (0, a) and (0, – a) on the y-axis. A positive charge Q is
released from rest at the point (2a, 0) on the x-axis. The charge Q will
(a) Execute simple harmonic motion about the origin
(b) Move to the origin and remains at rest
(c) Move to infinity
(d) Execute oscillatory but not simple harmonic motion.
Solution: (d) By symmetry of problem the components of force on Q due to charges at A and B along y-axis will
cancel each other while along x-axis will add up and will be along CO. Under the action of this force
charge Q will move towards O. If at any time charge Q is at a distance x from O.
1 −qQ x A
F  2 F cos  = 2  –q
4 0 (a 2 + x 2 ) (a 2 + x 2 )1 2
1 2 qQx a
i.e., F=−
(a )
.
4 0 2
+x 2 3 2
O 
Q
As the restoring force F is not linear, motion will be oscillatory (with amplitude 2a) x C
but not simple harmonic. a 2a
–q
B
Example: 74 If the distance of separation between two charges is increased, the electrical potential energy of
the system
(a) May increases or decrease (b) Decreases
(c) Increase (d) Remain the same
Q1 Q 2
Solution: (a) Since we know potential energy U = k .
r
As r increases, U decreases in magnitude. However depending upon the fact whether both charges
are similar or disimilar, U may increase or decrease.
Example: 75 Three particles, each having a charge of 10C are placed at the corners of an equilateral triangle of
1
side 10cm. The electrostatic potential energy of the system is (Given = 9  10 9 N − m 2 /C 2 )
4 0

ELECTROSTATICS
10C
(a) Zero (b) Infinite (c) 27 J (d) 100 J
Solution: (c) Potential energy of the system,
10 cm 10 cm
 (10  10 −6 ) 2 
U = 9  10  9
 3 = 27 J
 0.1  10C 10C
10 cm
Example: 76 Three charges Q, +q and +q are placed at the vertices of a right- Q
angled isosceles triangle as shown. The net electrostatic energy of
the configuration is zero if Q is equal to
−q − 2q
(a) (b)
1+ 2 1+ 2 +q +q
(c) – 2 q (d) +q a
Qq k .q 2 Qq − 2q
Solution: (b) Potential energy of the configuration U = k . + + k. =0  Q=
a a a 2 2 +1
Example: 77 A charge 10 e.s.u. is placed at a distance of 2 cm from a charge 40 e.s.u. and 4 cm from another
charge of 20 e.s.u. The potential energy of the charge 10 e.s.u. is (in ergs) 10 esu
(a) 87.5 (b) 112.5 (c) 150 (d) 250
Solution: (d) Potential energy of 10 e.s.u. charge is 2 cm
4 cm
10  40 10  20
U= + = 250 erg .
2 4 40 esu
20 esu
Example: 78 In figure are shown charges q1 = + 2 × 10–8 C and q2 = – 0.4 × 10–8 C. A charge q3 = 0.2 × 10–8 C in
moved along the arc of a circle from C to D. The potential energy of q3 q3
(a) Will increase approximately by 76% C
(b) Will decreases approximately by 76%
80 cm
(c) Will remain same
(d) Will increases approximately by 12% A B
D
 q1 q 3 q 2 q 3  q1 60 cm q2
Solution: (b) Initial potential energy of q3 U i =  +   9  10 9 q
 0 . 8 1 
 q q q q  C
Final potential energy of q3 U f =  1 3 + 2 3   9  10 9
 0 . 8 0 . 2 
80
Change in potential energy = Uf – Ui

U f − Ui
Now percentage change in potential energy =  100 A B
D
ui 60
q q
80
 1 
q2q3  − 1   100
 0 .2  On putting the values ~– − 76 %
=
 q q 
q3  1 + 2 
 0 .8 1 
Tricky example: 10
Three charged particles are initially in position 1. They are free to move and they come in position
2 after some time. Let U1 and U2 be the electrostatics potential energies in position 1 and 2. Then
(a) U1 > U2 (b) U2 > U1 (c) U1 = U2 (d) U2  U1
Solution: (a) Particles move in a direction where potential energy of the system is decreased.
Example: 79 An electron (mass = 9.1  10 −31 kg and charge = 1 .6  10 −19 coul .) is sent in an electric field of
intensity 1  10 6 V / m . How long would it take for the electron, starting from rest, to attain one–
tenth the velocity of light
(a) 1.7  10 −12 sec (b) 1 .7  10 −6 sec (c) 1 .7  10 −8 sec (d) 1.7  10 −10 sec
QEt 1 (1 .6  10 −19 )  10 6  t −10
Solution: (b) By using v =   3  10 8 =  t = 1 . 7  10 sec .
m 10 9 .1  10 −31
Example: 80 Two protons are placed 10 −10 m apart. If they are repelled, what will be the kinetic energy of each
proton at very large distance
(a) 23  10 −19 J (b) 11 .5  10 −19 J (c) 2 .56  10 −19 J (d) 2 .56  10 −28 J
Solution: (d) Potential energy of the system when protons are separated by a distance of 10 −10 m is

ELECTROSTATICS
9  10 9  (1 .6  10 −19 ) 2
U= −10
= 23  10 −19 J P+ p+
10
According to law of conservation of energy at very larger distance, this energy is equally distributed
in both the protons as their kinetic energy hence K.E. of each proton will be 11 .5  10 −19 J .
Example: 81 A particle A has a charge +q and particle B has charge +4q with each of them having the same mass
m. When allowed to fall from rest through the same electrical potential difference, the ratio of
vA
their speeds will becomes
vB
(a) 2 : 1 (b) 1 : 2 (c) 1 : 4 (d) 4 : 1
1
Solution: (b) We know that kinetic energy K = mv 2 = QV . Since, m and V are same so,
2
v Q q 1
v2  Q  A = A
= = .
vB QB 4q 2
Example: 82 How much kinetic energy will be gained by an  − particle in going from a point at 70 V to another
point at 50 V
(a) 40 eV (b) 40 keV (c) 40 MeV (d) 0 eV
Solution: (a) Kinetic energy K = QV  K = (2e ) (70 − 50 ) V = 40 eV
Example: 83 A particle of mass 2g and charge 1  C is held at a distance of 1 metre from a fixed charge of 1mC .
If the particle is released it will be repelled. The speed of the particle when it is at a distance of 10
metres from the fixed charge is
(a) 100 m/s (b) 90 m/s (c) 60 m/s (d) 45 m/s
Solution: (b) According to conservation of energy 1 1 C
Energy of moving charge at A = Energy of moving charge at B mC
10 −3  10 −6 10 −3  10 −6 1 Moving charge B
9  10 9  = 9  10 9  +  (2  10 − 3 ) v 2 Fixed charge 1m
A
1 10 2
10m
 v 2 = 8100  v = 90 m/sec
Tricky example: 11
A mass of 1g carrying charge q falls through a potential difference V. The kinetic energy acquired by it is E.
When a mass of 2g carrying the charge q falls through a potential difference V. What will be the kinetic energy
acquired by it
(a) 0.25 E (b) 0.50 E (c) 0.75 E (d) E
Solution: (d) In electric field kinetic energy gain by the charged particle K = qV. Which depends charge and potential
difference applied but not on the mass of the charged particle.
Example: 84 If the magnitude of intensity of electric field at a distance x on axial line and at a distance y on
equatorial line on a given dipole are equal, then x : y is
(a) 1 : 1 (b) 1 : 2 (c) 1 : 2 (d) 3 2 : 1
1 2p 1 p x
Solution: (d) According to the question . = .  = (2)1 / 3 : 1
4 0 x 3 4 0 y 3 y
Example: 85 Three charges of (+2q), (– q) and (– q) are placed at the corners A, B and C of an equilateral triangle
of side a as shown in the adjoining figure. Then the dipole moment of this combination
+2q is
(a) qa A
(b) Zero a a
(c) q a 3
2 B C
(d) qa –q a –q
3
Solution: (c) The charge +2q can be broken in +q, +q. Now as shown in figure we have two equal dipoles inclined
at an angle of 60o. Therefore resultant dipole moment will be
P P
p net = p 2 + p 2 + 2 pp cos 60
= 3p
60O
= 3 qa

ELECTROSTATICS
Example: 86 An electric dipole is placed along the x-axis at the origin O. A point P is at a distance of 20 cm from
this origin such that OP makes an angle π/3 with the x-axis. If the electric field at P makes an angle
 with x-axis, the value of  would be
   3 2  3
(a) (b) + tan −1   (c) (d) tan −1  
3 3  2  3  2 
    y
Solution: (b) According to question we can draw following figure. E

As we have discussed earlier in theory  = +  P
3

1  3
tan  = tan   = tan −1 /3 
2 3 2 x
O
 −1 3
So,  = + tan
3 2
Example: 87 An electric dipole in a uniform electric field experiences
(a) Force and torque both (b) Force but no torque
(c) Torque but no force (d) No force and no torque
Solution: (c) In uniform electric field Fnet = 0, net  0
Example: 89 Two opposite and equal charges 4 × 10–8 coulomb when placed 2 × 10–2 cm away, form a dipole. If
this dipole is placed in an external electric field 4 × 108 newton/coulomb, the value of maximum
torque and the work done in rotating it through 180o will be
(a) 64 × 10–4 Nm and 64 × 10–4 J (b) 32 × 10–4 Nm and 32 × 10–4 J
(c) 64 × 10–4 Nm and 32 × 10–4 J (d) 32 × 10–4 Nm and 64 × 10–4 J
Solution: (d) max = pE and Wmax = 2pE  p = Q × 2l = 4 × 10 × 2 × 10–2 × 10–2 = 8 × 10–12 C-m
–8
So, max = 8 × 10–12 × 4 × 108 = 32 × 10–4 N-m and Wmax = 2 × 32 × 10–4 = 64 × 10–4 J
Example: 90 A point charge placed at any point on the axis of an electric dipole at some large distance
experiences a force F. The force acting on the point charge when it’s distance from the dipole is
doubled is
F F F
(a) F (b) (c) (d)
2 4 8
1
Solution: (d) Force acting on a point charge in dipole field varies as F  where r is the distance of point
r3
F
charge from the centre of dipole. Hence if r makes double so new force F ' = .
8
Example: 91 A point particle of mass M is attached to one end of a massless rigid non-conducting rod of length
L. Another point particle of the same mass is attached to other end of the rod. The two particles
carry charges +q and – q respectively. This arrangement is held in a region of a uniform electric
field E such that the rod makes a small angle  (say of about 5 degrees) with the field direction (see
figure). Will be minimum time, needed for the rod to become parallel to the field after it is set free
+q
 E
–q
mL  mL 3 mL 2mL
(a) t = 2 (b) t = (c) t = (d) t = 
2 pE 2 2 qE 2 2 pE qE
Solution: (b) In the given situation system oscillate in electric field with maximum angular displacement .
It’s time period of oscillation (similar to dipole)
I
T = 2 where I = moment of inertia of the system and p = qL
pE
T  I
Hence the minimum time needed for the rod becomes parallel to the field is t = =
4 2 pE
2 2
L L ML 2  ML 2  ML
Here I = M  +M  =  t= =
 
2  
2 2 2 2  qL  E 2 2qE

ELECTROSTATICS
Tricky example: 12
An electric dipole is placed at the origin O and is directed along the x-axis. At a point P, far away
from the dipole, the electric field is parallel to y-axis. OP makes an angle  with the x-axis then
(a) tan  = 3 (b) tan  = 2
1
(c)  = 45o (d) tan  =
2
Solution: (b) As we know that in this case electric field makes an angle  + with the direction of dipole
Y
1
Where tan  = tan 
2
Here  + = 90o   = 90 −  P
1 1
Hence tan( 90 −  ) = tan   cot  = tan 
2 2
 X
 tan 2  = 2  tan  = 2 O
Example: 91 Electric charge is uniformly distributed along a long straight wire of radius 1 mm. The +
+
charge per cm length of the wire is Q coulomb. Another cylindrical surface of radius +
50 cm and length 1 m symmetrically encloses the wire as shown in the figure. The
total electric flux passing through the cylindrical surface is
1m
Q 100 Q
(a) (b)
0 0
+
10 Q 100 Q + 50 cm
(c) (d)
( 0 ) ( 0 ) +
Solution: (b) Given that charge per cm length of the wire is Q. Since 100 cm length of the wire is enclosed so
Q enc = 100 Q
100 Q
 Electric flux emerging through cylindrical surface  = .
0
Example: 92 A charge Q is situated at the corner A of a cube, the electric flux through the one face
of the cube is
Q Q Q
(a) (b)
6 0 8 0
Q Q
(c) (d)
24  0 2 0
Solution: (c) For the charge at the corner, we require eight cube to symmetrically enclose it in a Gaussian
Q Q
surface. The total flux  T = . Therefore the flux through one cube will be  cube = . The cube
0 8 0
has six faces and flux linked with three faces (through A) is zero, so flux linked with remaining three

faces will . Now as the remaining three are identical so flux linked with each of the three faces
8 0
1 1  Q  1 Q
will be =    = .
3  8   0  24  0
Example: 93 A square of side 20 cm is enclosed by a surface of sphere of 80 cm radius. Square and sphere have
the same centre. Four charges + 2 × 10–6 C, – 5 × 10– 6 C, – 3 × 10– 6 C, +6 × 10– 6 C are located at the
four corners of a square, then out going total flux from spherical surface in N–m2/C will be
(a) Zero (b) (16 ) × 10– 6
(c) (8) × 10–6 (d) 36 × 10–6
Solution: (a) Since charge enclosed by Gaussian surface is
 enc. = (2  10 −6 − 5  10 −6 − 3  10 −6 + 6  10 −6 ) = 0 so  = 0
Example: 94 In a region of space, the electric field is in the x-direction and proportional to x, i.e., E = E 0 xî .
Consider an imaginary cubical volume of edge a, with its edges parallel to the axes of coordinates.
The charge inside this cube is
1 1
(a) Zero (b)  0 E 0 a 3 (c) E0 a 3 (d)  0 E0 a 2
0 6

ELECTROSTATICS
Solution: (b) The field at the face ABCD = E0 x 0î . Y C G
 Flux over the face ABCD = – (E0x0)a2
The negative sign arises as the field is directed into the cube. H
D
a
The field at the face EFGH = E 0 (x 0 + a)î . x0
B F
 Flux over the face EFGH = E 0 (x 0 + a) a 2 a
E
The flux over the other four faces is zero as the field is parallel to the A a
X
surfaces.
1
 Total flux over the cube = E 0 a 2 = q Z
2
where q is the total charge inside the cube.  q =  0 E 0 a 3 .
Tricky example: 13
In the electric field due to a point charge + Q a spherical closed surface is drawn as shown by the dotted circle.
The electric flux through the surface drawn is zero by Gauss’s law. A conducting sphere is inserted intersecting
the previously drawn Gaussian surface. The electric flux through the surface
(a) Still remains zero
(b) Non zero but positive +Q
(c) Non-zero but negative
(d) Becomes infinite
Solution: (b) Due to induction some positive charge will lie within the Gaussian surface drawn and hence flux becomes
something positive.

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ELECTROSTATICS

Table: Fundamental forces of nature

PHYSICS BY HITEN PARMAR Page 3 of 44

PHYSICS BY HITEN PARMAR Page 4 of 44

(6) Graphical representation of potential : As we +q –q +q +q

At centre x = 0 so Ecentre = 0 and Vcentre = kQ

PHYSICS BY HITEN PARMAR Page 5 of 44

PHYSICS BY HITEN PARMAR Page 6 of 44

PHYSICS BY HITEN PARMAR Page 7 of 44

(ii) If A =  and B = –  then EP = ER = 0 and EQ = /0 + + O +

(ii) Potential of the inner sphere r1

PHYSICS BY HITEN PARMAR Page 8 of 44

(iii) Field lines never intersect each other.

(3) The equipotential surfaces produced by a V = V1

PHYSICS BY HITEN PARMAR Page 9 of 44

PHYSICS BY HITEN PARMAR Page 10 of 44

pendulum will decrease.

Maximum compression in the spring due to electric field = QE E

If N is the neutral point at a distance x 1 from Q1 and at a distance x 2 (= x − x1 ) from Q2 then

Electrostatic Potential Energy

PHYSICS BY HITEN PARMAR Page 12 of 44

tension T and charge density  . The pressure due to air

PHYSICS BY HITEN PARMAR Page 14 of 44

PHYSICS BY HITEN PARMAR Page 15 of 44

(2) In case of variable electric field or curved area.  = E. dA 

PHYSICS BY HITEN PARMAR Page 16 of 44

(5) If a hemispherical body is placed in non-uniform electric field as

(6) If charge is kept at the centre of cube

PHYSICS BY HITEN PARMAR Page 17 of 44

(4) Potential of big drop : V = Q = 1nq

(2) Common potential : Common potential

PHYSICS BY HITEN PARMAR Page 18 of 44

but broadly non conducting material having non polar molecules + – + – + –

(iii) Capacitance : C =  0 A . In C.G.S. : C = A

(vi) If a dielectric slab is partially filled between the plates +

PHYSICS BY HITEN PARMAR Page 19 of 44

(viii) When a metallic slab is inserted between the plates d

(3) Cylindrical capacitor : It consists of two concentric cylinders of radii

PHYSICS BY HITEN PARMAR Page 20 of 44

PHYSICS BY HITEN PARMAR Page 21 of 44

When an arrangement of capacitors cannot be simplified by the method of successive reduction,

PHYSICS BY HITEN PARMAR Page 22 of 44

 Electric field is always directed from higher potential to lower potential.

field of a point charge  E  2 .

PHYSICS BY HITEN PARMAR Page 23 of 44

 Spherical conductor is equivalent to a spherical capacitor with it’s outer + –

sphere of infinite radius. + –

 A spherical capacitor behaves as a parallel plate capacitor if it’s spherical + –

PHYSICS BY HITEN PARMAR Page 24 of 44

ENGNEERING AND MEDICAL ENTRANCE

PHYSICS BY HITEN PARMAR Page 26 of 44

Fnet = FAC + FD = FA2 + FC2 + FD +Q +Q FAC

PHYSICS BY HITEN PARMAR Page 27 of 44

PHYSICS BY HITEN PARMAR Page 28 of 44

PHYSICS BY HITEN PARMAR Page 29 of 44

PHYSICS BY HITEN PARMAR Page 30 of 44

PHYSICS BY HITEN PARMAR Page 31 of 44

and according to the given problem  1 =  2

PHYSICS BY HITEN PARMAR Page 32 of 44

(a) (b) (c) (d)

(c) q is positive and Q  q

(a) 2.5 volt/m 4

(b) – 2.5 volt/m 3