Chapter 1 Physics

The study of electric

charges at rest, the
forces between them
and the electric fields
associated with them.

CHAPTER 1.0:
Electrostatics

1
 Chapter 1 Physics
Overview:

Electrostatics

Coulomb’s Equipotential
Electric field
law surface

Electric field Charge in uniform Electric Potential

strength Electric field potential energy

2
 Chapter 1 Physics
Learning Outcome:

1.1 Coulomb’s law

At the end of this chapter, students should be able to:
 State Coulomb’s law,
Qq kQq
F= = 2
4 0 r 2
r
 Sketch the electric force diagram.
 Apply Coulomb’s law for a system of point charges.

3
 Chapter 1 Physics
1.1 Coulomb’s law
1.1.1 Electric charges and conservation of charges
 There are two kinds of charges in nature – positive and negative
charge.
⚫ Charges of opposite sign attract one another – attractive
force.
⚫ Charges of the same sign repel one another – repulsive
force.
 Principle of conservation of charges state the total charge
in an isolated system is constant (conserved).
 Charge is quantized.
⚫ Electric charge exists as discrete “packets” and written as

Q = Ne
where e : fundamental amount of charge, 1 .6  10 C-19

Q : electric charge
N : positive integer number = 1,2,...
4
 Chapter 1 Physics
1.1.2 Coulomb’s law
 states that the magnitude of the electrostatic (Coulomb or
electric) force between two point charges is proportional to
the product of the charges and inversely proportional to the
square of the distance between them.
Q1 Q2
 
F + + F
r
Figure 1.1
 Mathematically,
Q1Q2 kQ1Q 2
F 2 F=
where r r2
F : magnitude of electrostatic force
Q 1 , Q 2 : magnitude of charges
r : distance between two point charges
k : electrostatic (Coulomb) constant = 9 .0 10 9 N m 2 C −2 5
 Chapter 1 Physics
1
 Since k= , hence the Coulomb’s law can be written as
40
 1  Q1Q2 
F =   2 
 40  r 
where  0 : permittivity of free space (vacuum or air)
(  0 = 8 . 85  10 − 1 2 C 2 N − 1 m − 2 )
 If Q1 and Q2 are charges of opposite sign, the force (F) acting
on each charge is attractive as shown in Figure 1.2.
Q1 Q2
 
+ F F -
r
Figure 1.2
⚫ This mean that F is directed towards the neighbouring
charge and will result in both charges moving towards each
other.
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 Chapter 1 Physics
 If Q1 and Q2 are both positive or both negative charges, the
force (F) acting on each charge is repulsive as shown in Figure
1.1.
⚫ This mean that F is directed away from the neighbouring
charge and will result in a separation of the two charges if
they are free to move.
 Figures 1.3a and 1.3b show the variation of electrostatic force
with the distance between two charges.
F F

G radient,
m = k Q1Q 2

1
0
Figure 1.3a r 0 Figure 1.3b r2
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 Chapter 1 Physics
 Charge is a scalar quantity.
 The S.I. unit of the charge is coulomb (C).
 1 Coulomb is defined as the total charge transferred by a
current of one ampere in one second.
 Note :
⚫ The sign of the charge can be ignored when substituting
into the Coulomb’s law equation.
⚫ The sign of the charges is important in distinguishing the
direction of the electric force .

8
 Chapter 1 Physics
1.1.3 Newton’s law of gravitation and Coulomb’s
law
 Table 1.1 shows the comparison between Newton’s law of
gravitation and Coulomb’s law.
Newton’s law of
Coulomb’s law
Gravitation
Only attractive force Attractive or repulsive force

Force due to mass Force due to charge

interaction interaction
The force is a long-range The force is a short-range
forces. force.
The equation of the The equation of the electric
gravitational force : force :
Gm1m 2 kQ1Q2
Fg = Fe =
r2 r2
Table 1.1 9
 Chapter 1 Physics
Example 1.1 :
Two point charges, Q1= 85 C and Q2= −50 C are separated by a
distance of 3.5 cm as shown in Figure 1.4.

Q1 Q2
+ -
3 . 5 cm
Figure 1.4
Determine the magnitude and direction of
a. the electric force that Q1 exerts on Q2.
b. the electric force that Q2 exerts on Q1.
(Given Coulomb’s constant, k = 9.0  109 N m2 C−2)

10
 Chapter 1 Physics
Solution : Q 1 = 85  10 − 6 C ; Q 2 = 50  10 − 6 C ; r = 3 . 5  10 − 2 m
Q1   Q2
F21 F12
+ -
 3 . 5 cm
where F1 2 : force by charge 1 on charge 2
F 2 1 : force by charge 2 on charge 1
a. By applying the Coulomb’s law equation, thus
 kQ1Q 2
F12 =
r2
F12 =
(9 .0  10 9 )(85  10 −6 )(50  10 −6 )
(3.5  10 )
−2 2

F1 2 = 3 . 12  10 4 N
Direction : to the left (towards Q1) 11
 Chapter 1 Physics
Solution : Q 1 = 85  10 − 6 C ; Q 2 = 50  10 − 6 C ; r = 3 . 5  10 − 2 m
b. By applying the Coulomb’s law equation, thus
 kQ1Q 2
F21 =
r2
F21 =
(9 .0  10 9 )(85  10 −6 )(50  10 −6 )
(3.5  10 )
−2 2

F 2 1 = 3 . 12  10 4 N
Direction : to the right (towards Q2)
Note:
 The magnitude of both forces is the same but opposite in
direction where in the vector form,
 
F1 2 = − F2 1
 The characteristic of electric force exert on both charges is
attractive force.
12
 Chapter 1 Physics
Example 1.2 :
Three point charges lie along the x-axis as shown in Figure 1.5.

Q1 = 12 μ C Q 2 = − 20 μ C Q 3 = 36 μ C
+ - +
12 cm 20 cm
Figure 1.5
a. Calculate the magnitude and direction of the total electrostatic
force exerted on Q1.
b. Suppose the charge Q2 can be moved left or right along the line
connecting the charges Q1 and Q3. Determine the distance from
Q3 where Q2 experiences a nett electrostatic force of zero.
(Given permittivity of free space, 0 = 8.85  10−12 C2 N−1 m−2)

13
 Chapter 1 Physics
Solution : Q 1 = 12  10 − 6 C ; Q 2 = 20  10 − 6 C ; r1 2 = 12  10 − 2 m
Q 3 = 36  10 − 6 C ; r1 3 = 32  10 − 2 m
a.  Q1  Q Q
F31 F21 2 3
+ - +
r12
r13
By applying the Coulomb’s law equation, thus
kQ1Q2
F21 =
r12 2

=
( )(
9 109 12 10−6 20 10−6 )( )
( )
2
−2
12 10
F 2 1 = 150 N
Direction : to the right (towards Q2)
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 Chapter 1 Physics
= 12  10 − 6 C ; Q 2 = 20  10 − 6 C ; r1 2 = 12  10 − 2 m
Solution : Q 1
Q 3 = 36  10 − 6 C ; r1 3 = 32  10 − 2 m
a. and
F31 =
kQ1Q3
F31 =
( 9  10 9
)(12  10 −6
)( 36  10 −6
)
( 32 10 )
2 2
r13 −2

F31 = 38.0 N
Direction : to the left
Therefore the
 total electrostatic
 force on Q1 is given by
F1 = F21 + F31
F1 = F 2 1 − F3 1
= 150 − 38.0
F1 = 112 N
Direction : to the right (towards Q2)

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 Chapter 1 Physics
Solution : Q 1 = 12  10 − 6 C ; Q 2 = 20  10 − 6 C ; Q 3 = 36  10 − 6 C
; r1 3 = 32  10 − 2 m
b. Q1  Q  Q
F12 2 F 32
3
+ - +
r13 − x x
r13
The nett force acting on Q2 is zero thus
 
F12 = F32
kQ1Q2 kQ2Q3
2
=
r12 r232
12  10 −6 36  10 −6
=
(32  10 −2
−x )
2
x2
x = 0 .2 0 3 m OR 20 . 3 cm 16
 Chapter 1 Physics
Example 1.3 :
Figure 1.6 shows three point charges that lie in the x-y plane in a
vacuum. - Q = − 6 .0 μ C
1

17  20 cm

12 cm -
+
Q 2 = 4 .0 μ C Q 3 = − 5 .0 μ C
Figure 1.6
Calculate the magnitude and direction of the nett electrostatic force
on Q2.
(Given electrostatic constant, k = 9.00  109 N m2 C−2)
17
 Chapter 1 Physics
Solution : Q 1 = 6 . 0  10 − 6 C ; Q 2 = 4 . 0  10 − 6 C ;
Q 3 = 5 . 0  10 − 6 C ; r1 2 = 20  10 − 2 m;
r2 3 = 12  10 − 2 m Q1
-

r
17   12
F12


73 F32
+ r23 -
Q2 Q3
 The magnitude of the forces acting on Q2 are

F12 =
kQ1Q2
F21 =
(9 .0  10 )(6 .0  10 )(4 .0  10 )
9 −6 −6

r12
2
(20  10 ) −2 2

F2 1 = 5 .4 N 18
 Chapter 1 Physics
Solution : Q 1 = 6 . 0  10 − 6 C ; Q 2 = 4 . 0  10 − 6 C ;
Q 3 = 5 . 0  10 − 6 C ; r1 2 = 20  10 − 2 m;
r2 3 = 12  10 − 2 m

F32 =
kQ2 Q3
F32 =
(9 .0  10 9 )(4 .0  10 −6 )(5 .0  10 −6 )
r23
2
(12  10 ) −2 2

F3 2 = 12 . 5 N
 Construct a table to represents x and y components for all
forces acting on Q2 .
Force x-component (N) y-component (N)
 
 F12 cos 73  F12 sin 73 
F12
= 5 . 4 co s 7 3  = 1 . 5 8 = 5 . 4 sin 7 3  = 5 . 1 6
 
F32 F32 = 12 .5 0
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 Chapter 1 Physics
Solution :
 Vector sum the x and y components.
F 2x = 1 . 58 +12 . 5 = 14 . 1 N
F 2y = 5 . 16 + 0 = 5 . 16 N
 Therefore
⚫ the magnitude of the resultant electric force acting on Q2 is
 
F2 = ( F ) + ( F )
2x
2
2y
2
F2 = (14 .1)2 + (5 .16 )2
F 2 = 15 . 0 N
⚫ and its direction is given by
  F2 y   5 .16 
 = tan 
−1   = tan −1

  F2 x
  14 .1 

 = 20 . 1 
from the +x-axis (anticlockwise)
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 Chapter 1 Physics
Exercise 1.1 :
Given 0 = 8.85  10−12 C2 N−1 m−2
1. Two point charges are placed on the x-axis as follows :
Charge Q1 = +4.00 nC is located at x = 0.200 m, charge Q2 =
+5.00 nC is at x = −0.300 m. Determine the magnitude and
direction of the total electric force exerted by these two
charges on a negative point charge Q3 = −6.00 nC that is
placed at the origin.
(University physics,11th edition, Young&Freedman, Q21.20,
p.829)
ANS. : 2.4 N to the right
2. A point charge Q = −0.35 nC is fixed at the origin. Where must
a proton be placed in order for the electric force acting on it to
be exactly opposite to its weight?
(Given charge of proton, Qp= 1.60  10−19 C and mass of the
proton, mp = 1.67  10−27 kg )
(Physics,3rd edition, J.S.Walker, Q18, p.657)
ANS. : 5.55 km below Q 21
 Chapter 1 Physics
3. Four identical point charges (Q = +10.0 C) are located on
the corners of a rectangle as shown in Figure 1.7.

Q+ +Q
w
l
Q+ +Q
Figure 1.7
The dimension of the rectangle are l = 60.0 cm and
w = 15.0 cm. Calculate the magnitude and direction of the
resultant electric force exerted on the charge at the lower left
corner by the other three charges.
(Physics for scientists and engineers,6th edition,Serway&Jewett,
Q57, p.735)
22
ANS. : 40.9 N at 263
 Chapter 1 Physics
Learning Outcome:

1.2 Electric field

At the end of this chapter, students should be able to:
 Define and use electric field strength,

 F
E=
q0

kQ
 Use E= 2 for point charge.
r
 Sketch the electric field strength diagram.
 Determine electric field strength E for a system of
charges.

23
 Chapter 1 Physics
1.2 Electric field 
1.2.1 Electric field strength (intensity), E
 The electric field strength at a point is defined as the electric
(electrostatic) force per unit positive charge that acts at that
point in the same direction as the force.
Mathematically, 
 F
E=
q0

where E : electric field strength
F : electric force
q 0 : test charge
 It is a vector quantity.
 The unit of electric field strength is N C−1 OR V m− 1.
 The magnitude of electric field strength is given by
F
E=
q0 24
 Chapter 1 Physics
kQq0
 Since F = 2 , then the equation of electric field strength can
r
be written as
 kQq0 
 2  kQ Q
E = r  E= 2 OR E =
 q0  r 4 0 r 2
 
 
where Q : magnitud e o f a p o int charge
r : d istance b etw een a p o int and p o int charge
 Note:
⚫ The direction of the electric field strength, E depends on
the sign of the point charge only.
⚫ The direction of the electric force, F depends on both
signs of the point charge and the test charge.
⚫ These can be shown in Figures 1.8a, 1.8b, 1.8c and 1.8d.

25
 Chapter 1 Physics
 A positive point charge
a. Positive test charge (common)


F

+ E
Q q 0 ( + ve )

r
Figure 1.8a
b. Negative test charge

 
F E
+ q 0 ( − ve )
Q

r
26
Figure 1.8b
 Chapter 1 Physics
 A negative point charge
a. Positive test charge (common)


F
- E
Q q 0 ( + ve )

r
Figure 1.8c
b. Negative test charge


 F
- E q 0 ( − ve )
Q

r
27
Figure 1.8d
 Chapter 1 Physics
Example 1.4 :
Two point charges, Q1= −3.0 C and Q2= −5.0 C, are placed
12 cm and 30 cm from the point P respectively as shown in Figure
1.9.
Q1 Q2
P
- -
12 cm 30 cm
Figure 1.9
Determine
a. the magnitude and direction of the electric field intensity at P,
b. the nett electric force exerted on q0= +1 C if it is placed at P,
c. the distance of a point from Q1 where the electric field intensity
is zero.
(Given electrostatic constant, k = 9.00  109 N m2 C−2)

28
 Chapter 1 Physics
Solution : Q 1 = 3 . 0  10 − 6 C ; Q 2 = 5 . 0  10 − 6 C ;
r1 = 12  10 − 2 m; r2 = 30  10 − 2 m
a. Q1   Q2
E1P P E2 P
- -
r1 r2
By applying the equation of electric field intensity, thus
 kQ1
E1P = 2
r1

E1P =
(9 .00  10 )(3 .0  10 )
9 −6

(12  10 ) −2 2

E 1 P = 1 . 88  10 6 N C − 1
Direction : to the left (towards Q1)

29
 Chapter 1 Physics
Solution : Q 1 = 3 . 0  10 − 6 C ; Q 2 = 5 . 0  10 − 6 C ;
r1 = 12  10 − 2 m; r2 = 30  10 − 2 m
a. and
 kQ2
E2 P = 2 E2P =
(9 .00  10 )(5 .0  10 )
9 −6

r2 (30  10 ) −2 2

E 2 P = 5 . 00  10 5 N C − 1
Direction : to the right (towards Q2)
Therefore the electric field intensity at P is given by
  
E P = E1P + E 2P
E P = − E1P + E 2P
E P = − 1 . 88  10 6 + 5 . 00  10 5
E P = − 1 . 38  10 6 N C − 1
Direction : to the left (towards Q1)

30
 Chapter 1 Physics
Solution :
b. Given q = 1 . 0  10 − 6 C
0
From the definition of electric field intensity,
FP
EP =
q0
FP = q 0 E P
Therefore the nett electric force exerted on q0 is given by
( )(
F P = 1 . 0  10 − 6 1 . 38  10 6 )
F P = 1 . 38 N
Direction : to the left (towards Q1)

31
 Chapter 1 Physics
Solution : Q 1 = 3 . 0  10 − 6 C ; Q 2 = 5 . 0  10 − 6 C ;
r1 2 = 42  10 − 2 m
c. Q1   Q2
E1A A E 2 A
- -
x r12 − x
r12
The electric field at A is zero, hence
 
E1 A = E 2 A
kQ1 kQ2
2
= 2
r1A r2 A
3 .0  10 −6 5 .0  10 −6
=
x 2
(42  10 − x )
−2 2

x = 0 .1 8 3 m 32
 Chapter 1 Physics
Example 1.5 :
Two point charges, Q1= −2.0 nC and Q2= +3.2 nC, are placed
3.0 cm apart as shown in Figure 1.10.

Q1 -

3 . 0 cm

M
+
Q2 4 . 0 cm
Figure 1.10
Determine the magnitude and direction of the resultant electric
field intensity at point M.
(Given permittivity of free space, 0 = 8.85  10−12 C2 N−1 m−2)
33
 Chapter 1 Physics
Solution : Q 1 = 2 . 0  10 − 9 C ; Q 2 = 3 . 2  10 − 9 C ;
r1 M = 5 . 0  10 − 2 m; r2 M = 4 . 0  10 − 2 m
3
Q1 - sin  = = 0 .6
5
4
5 . 0 cm cos  = = 0 .8
3 . 0 cm  5
E1M 
+
 M E2 M
Q2 4 . 0 cm
The magnitude of the electric field intensities at point M due to the

( )
charges are
kQ1 9 109 2.0 10−9
E1M = 2 E1M =
( 5.0 10 )
2
r1M −2

E1M = 7.20  103 N C −1 34

 Chapter 1 Physics
Solution : Q 1 = 2 . 0  10 − 9 C ; Q 2 = 3 . 2  10 − 9 C ;
r1 M = 5 . 0  10 − 2 m; r2 M = 4 . 0  10 − 2 m
kQ2
E2M =
( 9  10 9
)(3.2  10 −9
)
E2M = 2
( )
2
−2
r2M 4.0 10
E 2 M = 1 . 80  10 4 N C − 1
Construct a table to represents x and y components for electric
field intensities at M.
Field x-component (N C−1) y-component (N C−1)
 
 − E1M cos  E1M sin 
E1M
= −7.20 10 ( 0.8) = −5.76 103
3
= 7.20 103 ( 0.6 ) = 4.32 103
 
E2 M E 2 M = 1 . 80  10 4 0
SUM  x
E =1.22  10 4
 y
E = 4.32  10 3
35
 Chapter 1 Physics
Solution :
Therefore
 the magnitude of the resultant electric field intensity at M is

EM = ( E ) + ( E )
x
2
y
2

(1.22 10 ) + ( 4.32 10 )

2 2
= 4 3

EM = 1.29  10 4 N C −1
 and its direction is given by
  Ey 
 = tan 
−1 
  Ex 


−1  4.32  10 3

= tan  4 
 1.22  10 
 = 19.5
from the +x-axis (anticlockwise)
36
 Chapter 1 Physics
Exercise 1.2 :
Given 0 = 8.85  10−12 C2 N−1 m−2
1. Determine the magnitude of the electric field at point P due to
the four point charges as shown in Figure 1.11 if q = 1 nC and
d = 1 cm.

Figure 1.11
(Fundamental of physics,6th edition, Halliday, Resnick & Walker,
Q11, p.540)
37
ANS. : zero
 Chapter 1 Physics
2. Calculate the magnitude and direction of the electric field at
the centre of the square in Figure 1.12 if q =1.0  10−8 C and
a = 5 cm.

Figure 1.12
(Fundamental of physics,6th edition, Halliday, Resnick &Walker,
Q13, p.540)
ANS. : 1.02  105 N C−1 ; upwards
38
 Chapter 1 Physics
Learning Outcome:

1.3 Electric potential (3 hours)

At the end of this chapter, students should be able to:
 Define electric potential, W
V=
 Use kQ q0
V= for a point charge and a system of
r charges.
 Calculate potential difference between two points.
 V = V fin al − V in itial
W
V =
q0
V
 Use E= for uniform E.
d 39
 Chapter 1 Physics
Learning Outcome:

1.3 Electric potential

At the end of this chapter, students should be able to:
 Deduce the change in potential energy, U between two
points in electric field.
U = q0V
 Calculate potential energy of a system of point charges.

 Q1Q2 Q1Q3 Q 2 Q3 
U = k  + + 
 r12 r13 r23 
 Define and explain equipotential lines and surfaces of
⚫ an isolated charge

⚫ a uniform electric field

40
 Chapter 1 Physics
1.3 Electric potential
1.3.1 Electric potential energy, U
 is a form of energy related to the position of an electric
charge in an electric field.
 is a scalar quantity and its unit is joule (J).
 Consider a positive point charge (+Q) held stationary at O
exerts a repulsive force Fe on a positive test charge (+q0) at P
as shown in Figure 1.13. 1 and 2 are two points on the line that
passes through points O and P.
2 
O
P 1
+ F FE
+Q r2 dr + q0
r
r1
Figure 1.13
41
 Chapter 1 Physics
 The test charge at P is moved by an external force, F through a
small distance dr towards point 2. dr is so small that the force
F can be considered to be constant. Thus the work done dW
by the electric force is given by
kQq0
dW = F dr cos180 and FE = 2
E
kQq0 r
dW = − 2 dr
r
 The total work done W12 in bringing the test charge (+q0) from 1
to 2 is given by
2  1
r2
1 dW = kQq0 r1  − r 2  dr
1
r2
1 1
W12 = kQq0   W12 = kQq0  − 
 r  r1  r2 r1 
where r1 : initial distance from a point charge
r2 : final distance from a point charge
42
 Chapter 1 Physics
 If the electric potential energy at both points (1 and 2) are
kQq0 kQq0
U1 = and U2 =
r1 r2
then the equation of total work done can be written as

W1 2 = U 1 − U 2 OR W12 = −U
where  U : change in the electric p o tential energy = U 2 − U 1
 If r1= and r2=r then the work done in bringing the test charge
from infinity to point 2(W ) is

kQq0  1  Qq0
W = U 2 = OR W = U 2 =  
r  4 0  r
where U : electric p o tential energy at a p o int
r : distance between the point and the point charge
k : electrostatic constant 43
 Chapter 1 Physics
1.3.2 Electric potential, V
 Electric potential of a point in an electric field is defined as the
potential energy per unit positive charge at that point in the
electric field.
U
V=
q0

OR is defined as the work done per unit charge in bringing

positive test charge from infinity to that point in the electric
field. W
V= 
q0
where q 0 : value of a test charge (including sign)
 It is a scalar quantity.
 The unit of electric potential is Volt (V) OR J C− 1.
44
 Chapter 1 Physics
kQq0 , then the equation of electric potential can be
 Since U =
r
written as
 kQq0 
 
V = r 
 q0 
 
 
kQ Q
V= OR V =
r 40 r
where Q : value o f a p o int charge (includ ing sign)
r : d istance b etw een a p o int and p o int charge
 Note:
⚫ The total electric potential at a point in space is equal to the
algebraic sum of the constituent potentials at that point.
⚫ The theoretical zero of electric potential of a charge is at
infinity.
45
 Chapter 1 Physics
⚫ The electric potential energy of a positively charged
particle increases when it moves to a point of higher
potential.
U = q 0V
⚫ The electric potential energy of a negatively charged
particle increases when it moves to a point of lower
potential.
⚫ The electric potential can be positive, negative or zero
depending on the signs and magnitudes of q0 and W.
⚫ If the value of work done is negative – work done by the
electric force (system).
⚫ If the value of work done is positive – work done by the
external force or on the system.
⚫ In the calculation of U , W and V, the sign of the charge
must be substituted in the related equations.

46
 Chapter 1 Physics
Example 1.6 :
Two point charges, Q1= −40 C and Q2= −30 C are separated by
a distance of 15 cm as shown in Figure 1.14.
B

13 c m

Q1 Q2
A
- 10 c m
-
5 cm
Figure 1.14
Calculate
a. the electric potential at point A and describe the meaning of the
answer,
b. the electric potential at point B.
(Given 0 = 8.85  10−12 C2 N−1 m−2)
47
 Chapter 1 Physics
Solution : Q 1 = − 40  10 − 6 C ; Q 2 = − 30  10 − 6 C
a. Given r1 A = 5  10 − 2 m ; r2 A = 10  10 − 2 m
Q1 Q2
A
- r r2A -
1A
The electric potential at point A is
V A = V1 A + V 2 A
 kQ1   kQ2 
= + 
 1A   2A 
r r
 Q1 Q2 
=k + 
 r1A r2A 
 −40  10 −6
−30  10 −6

= 9 10 
9
−2
+ −2 
 65 10 10 10 
VA = −9.90 10 V
9.90  106 joule of work is done by the electric field in
bringing 1 C of positive charge from infinity to the point A.
48
 Chapter 1 Physics
Solution : Q 1 = − 40  10 − 6 C ; Q 2 = − 30  10 − 6 C
b. Given r2 B = 13  10 − 2 m
( ) ( )
B
−2 2 −2 2
r1 B = 15  10 + 13  10
r1B r1 B = 19 . 9  10 − 2 m
r2 B

Q1 Q2
- −2
-
15  10 m
Therefore the electric potential at B is
V B = V1 B + V 2 B
 Q1 Q2 
=k + 
 r1B r2B 
 − 40  10 −6
−30  10 −6

= 9 10 9
−2
+ −2 
 19.9  10 13  10 
VB = −3.89  10 V 6
49
 Chapter 1 Physics
1.3.3 Electric potential difference, V
 Potential difference between two points in an electric field is
defined as the work done per unit charge in bringing a
positive test charge from a point to another point in the
electric field.
OR W
V =
q0
 Consider a positive test charge is moved by the external force,
F from point B to point A as shown in Figure 1.15.
A  B
+ F + q0
+Q r2
r1
Figure 1.15

50
 Chapter 1 Physics
 The potential difference between points A and B, VAB is given by

 V = V fin al − V in itial VAB = VA − VB

and

WBA
VAB =
q0
where W B A : w ork done in bringing pos itive tes t c harge
from point B to point A
V A : elec tric potential at point A
V B : elec tric potential at point B

51
 Chapter 1 Physics
 Note:
⚫ If the positive test charge moving from point A to point B, thus
the potential difference between this points is given by
WAB
VBA = VB − VA =
q0
where
W A B : w ork done in bringing pos itive tes t c harge
from point A to point B
V B A : potential differenc e betw een point B and point A
Therefore VAB = VA − VB
V A B = − (V B − V A )
V A B = −V B A

52
 Chapter 1 Physics
Example 1.7 :
Two points, S and T are located around a point charge of +5.4 nC
as shown in Figure 1.16.
S 8 .0 c m T

6 .0 c m

+
+ 5 .4 n C
Figure 1.16
Calculate
a. the electric potential difference between points S and T,
b. the work done in bringing a charge of −1.5 nC from point T to
point S.
(Given electrostatic constant, k = 9.00  109 N m2 C−2) 53
 Chapter 1 Physics
Solution : Q = 5 . 4  10 − 9 C
a. Given rS = 6 . 0  10 − 2 m
S 8 .0  10 − 2 m T

rS rT = (8 .0  10 ) + (6 .0  10 )
−2 2 −2 2

rT
rT = 10  10 − 2 m
Q +
The electric potential difference between S and T is given by
V ST = V S − V T
kQ kQ
VST = −
rS rT
1 1 
VST = k Q − 
 rS rT  54
 Chapter 1 Physics
Solution : Q = 5 . 4  10 − 9 C
a. V ST ( )(
= 9 .00  10 5 .4  10
9 −9
)


1
−2
−
1 
−2 
 6 .0  10 10  10 
V ST = 324 V
−9
b. Given q 0 = − 1 . 5  10 C
Therefore the work done in bringing the charge from point T to
point S is WTS
VST =
q0
WTS
324 =
(
−1.5 10 −9
)
WTS = −4.86 10−7 J

55
 Chapter 1 Physics
Example 1.8 :
A test charge q0 =+2.3 C is placed 20 cm from a point charge Q.
A work done of −25 joule is required in bringing the test charge q0
to a distance 15 cm from the charge Q.
Determine
a. the potential difference between point 15 cm and 20 cm from the
point charge, Q,
b. the value of charge Q,
c. the magnitude of the electric field strength at point 10 cm from
the charge Q.
(Given electrostatic constant, k = 9.00  109 N m2 C−2)

56
 Chapter 1 Physics
−6 −2
q
Solution : 0 = 2.3  10 C; WAB = 25 J; rA = 20  10 m;
rB = 15  10 − 2 m ;
B A
Q
+ q0
rB
rA
a. The electric potential difference between B and A is given by
WAB
VBA =
q0

VBA =
( −25 )
2.3 10−6
VBA = −1.09 107 V

57
 Chapter 1 Physics
Solution : q 0 = 2 . 3  1 0 − 6 C ; W A B = − 2 5 J; rA = 2 0  1 0 − 2 m;
rB = 15  10 − 2 m ;
b. By applying the equation of electric potential difference, thus
V BA = V B − V A
1 1 
VBA = k Q − 
 rB rA 
 1 1 
7
(
−1.09 10 = 9.00 10 Q 
 15  10
9
−2
−)20  10 −2 

−4
Q = −7.27 10 C
c. Given r = 0 .1 0 m
The magnitude of the electric field strength is
kQ
E= 2 E=
(9 .00  10 )(7 .27  10 )
9 −4

r (0 .10 ) 2

E = 6 . 54  10 8 N C − 1
58
 Chapter 1 Physics
1.3.4 Relationship between E and V
 Consider a positive test charge, q0 placed near a positive point
charge, Q. To move q0 towards Q by a small displacement (r),
work done (W) must be expended as shown in Figure 1.17.
+  + q0 FE
+Q F Δr
Figure 1.17
 The work done by the electric force FE is given by
W = FE r cos180
W = − FE r
FE
 Since W = q0 V then q0 V = − FE r and =E
q0
V
V = − Er OR E=−
r
where  V : pote ntia l diffe re nc e
r : change in displacement(distance)
E : electric field strength 59
 Chapter 1 Physics
 In the limit when r approaches zero,
 V 
E = limit  − 
r → 0
 r 
dV
E=−
dr
⚫ The negative sign indicates that the value of electric
potential decreases in the direction of electric field.
dV
⚫ is known as the electric potential gradient. It can be
dr
obtained from the gradient of a V against r graph.
 An alternative unit for electric field strength, E is volts per meter
where
−1 −1
1N C =1V m
60
 Chapter 1 Physics
 Consider a uniform electric field is produced by a pair of flat
metal plates, one at which is earthed and the other is at a
potential of +V as shown in Figure 1.18a.
d V
+ −
+ − V
+ −
+ −
+ −
+ −
+ −
+ −
+V V =0 r
Figure 1.18a 0 Figure 1.18b d
⚫ The V against r graph for pair of flat metal plates can be
shown in Figure 1.18b.
61
 Chapter 1 Physics
⚫ From the Figure 1.18b,
 The graph is a straight line with negative constant
gradient, thus
ΔV (0 − V )
E=− =−
Δr ( d − 0)
V
E=
d For uniform E such as
OR in capacitor.
 V = Ed

62
 Chapter 1 Physics
Example 1.9 :
Two parallel plates are separated 5.0 mm apart. The electric field
strength between the plates is 1.0  104 N C−1. A small charge of
+4.0 nC is moved from one conducting plate to another. Calculate
a. the work done on the charge, and
b. the potential difference between the plates.
Solution : d = 5 . 0  10 − 3 m; E = 1 . 0  10 4 N C − 1 ;
q 0 = 4 . 0  10 − 9 C
a. The work done on the charge is
W = F d = q0 E d
( )( )(
W = 4 . 0  10 − 9 1 . 0  10 4 5 . 0  10 − 3 )
W = 2 .0  1 0 −7 J
b. The potential difference between the plates is given by
V = Ed
V = (1 . 0  10 4 )(5 . 0  10 − 3 )
V = 50 V 63
 Chapter 1 Physics
1.3.5 Change in a potential energy and potential
energy for a system of point charges
Change in a potential energy, U
 From the definition of electric potential difference, V
W
ΔV = and W = U
q0
U
ΔV =
q0
Therefore the change in a potential energy is given by

U = q0ΔV

U 2 −U1 V 2 − V1
final initial 64
 Chapter 1 Physics
Potential energy for a system of point charges
 Consider a system of three point charges as shown in Figure
1.19. Q 2
r12 r23
Q1 r13
Q3
Figure 1.19
 The total electric potential energy, U can be expressed as
U = U 12 + U 13 + U 23
k Q1Q 2 k Q1Q3 k Q2 Q3
U= + +
r12 r13 r23
 Q1Q 2 Q1Q3 Q 2 Q3 
U = k  + + 
 r12 r13 r23 
65
 Chapter 1 Physics
Example 1.10 :
Two point charges, Q1= +2.0 C and Q2= −6.0 C, are placed
4.0 m and 5.0 m from a point P respectively as shown in Figure
1.20. Q2 -
5 .0 m

P
Q1 +
4 .0 m
Figure 1.20
a. Calculate the electric potential at P due to the charges.
b. If a charge Q3= +3.0 C moves from infinity to P, determine the
change in electric potential energy for this charge.
c. When the charge Q3 at point P, calculate the electric potential
energy for the system of charges.
(Given electrostatic constant, k = 9.00  109 N m2 C−2) 66
 Chapter 1 Physics
Solution : Q 1 = 2 . 0  10 − 6 C ; Q 2 = − 6 . 0  10 − 6 C
a. Given r = 4 . 0 m ; r = 5 . 0 m
1P 2P
The electric potential at point P is given by
V P = V1 P + V 2 P
 Q1 Q 2 
VP = k  + 
 r1P r2 P 
 
( )
−6 −6
2 . 0  10 − 6 . 0  10
V P = 9 .00  10 9  + 

 4 .0 5 .0 
V P = − 6300 V
b. Given Q 3 = 3 . 0  10 − 6 C
By applying the equation of change in electric potential energy,
thus U =Q V 3
 U = Q 3 (V P − V  ) and V  = 0
67
 Chapter 1 Physics
Solution : Q 1 = 2 . 0  10 − 6 C ; Q 2 = − 6 . 0  10 − 6 C
b. U = 3 . 0  10 − 6 ( − 6300 − 0 )
 U = − 1 . 89  10 − 2 J
c. Q2 -

r2 3 = 5 . 0 m
r1 2 = 3 . 0 m
P
Q1 + + Q3
r1 3 = 4 . 0 m
The total electric potential energy for the system of three
charges is given by
U = U 12 + U 13 + U 23
k Q1Q 2 k Q1Q3 k Q2 Q3
U= + +
r12 r13 r23
68
 Chapter 1 Physics
Solution : Q 1 = 2 . 0  10 − 6
C ; Q 2 = − 6 . 0  10 − 6 C
c. QQ QQ Q 2 Q3 
U = k  1 2 + 1 3
+ 
 r12 r13 r23 

U = 9 .00  10 9 
2 .(0  10 −6
)(− 6 . 0  10 )
−6
+
 3 .0
( )(
2 .0  10 −6 + 3 .0  10 −6 ) (+
)(
− 6 .0  10 −6 + 3 .0  10 −6 ) 

4 .0 5 .0 
U = − 5 . 49  10 − 2 J

69
 Chapter 1 Physics
1.3.6 Equipotential lines and surfaces
 is defined as the locus of points that have the same electric
potential.
 Figures 1.21a and 1.21b are example of the equipotential
surface.
 
A E E
A
B C
+ B
C

Figure 1.21b : a uniform

Figure 1.21a : a point charge
electric field produced by
an infinite sheet of charge
70
 Chapter 1 Physics
 The dashed lines represent the equipotential surfaces
(lines).
 The equipotential surfaces (lines) always perpendicular to the
electric field lines passing through them.
 The electric field points in the direction of decreasing
electric potential.
 From the Figure 1.21a, the electric field more intense near
the charge, where the equipotentials are closely spaced, than
it is far from the charge.
 From the Figures 1.21a and 1.21b, V A = V B  V C
then the work done to bring a test charge from B to A is given by
WBA = q0VAB
WBA = q0 (VA − VB )
Note: W BA = 0
No work is done in moving a charge along the
same equipotential surface.
71
 Chapter 1 Physics
Learning Outcome:

1.4 Charge in a uniform electric field

At the end of this chapter, students should be able to:
 Explain quantitatively with the aid of a diagram the
motion of a charge in a uniform electric field for
⚫ stationary charge.
⚫ charge moving perpendicularly to the field.
⚫ charge moving parallel to the field.
⚫ charge in dynamic equilibrium.
 Use V for uniform E.
E=
d

72
 Chapter 1 Physics
1.4 Charge in a uniform electric field
 Consider a stationary particle of charge q0 and mass m is
placed in a uniform electric field E, the electric force FE
exerted on the charge is given by
FE = q0 E
 Since only electric force exerted on the particle, thus this force
contributes the nett force, F and causes the particle to
accelerate.
 According to Newton’s second law, then the magnitude of the
acceleration of the particle is
F = FE = ma
q0 E
q0 E = m a a=
m
 Because the electric field is uniform (constant in magnitude
and direction) then the acceleration of the particle is constant.
73
 Chapter 1 Physics
 If the particle has a positive charge, its acceleration is in the
direction of the electric field (Figure 1.22a). If the particle has
a negative charge (electron) , its acceleration is in the
direction opposite the electric field (Figure 1.22b).
++++ + + + ++ + +++ + +++ ++ ++++ + ++
+ FE
 a  
E FE E a-
−− −− −− −−−−−−− −− −− −− −−−−−−−
Figure 1.22a Figure 1.22b
 Consider an electron (e) with mass, me enters a uniform electric
field, E perpendicularly with an initial velocity u, the upward
electric force will cause the electron to move along a
parabolic path towards the upper plate as shown in Figure
1.22c.
74
 Chapter 1 Physics
sxx
++++ ++ + ++ + + ++ v
 -
E
sy
u
-
q0
−− −− −− −−−−−−−
Figure 1.22c
⚫ Therefore the magnitude of the electron’s acceleration is
given by
eE
a = ay = direction : upwards since ax = 0
me
⚫ The path makes by the electron is similar to the motion of a
ball projected horizontally above the ground.

75
 Chapter 1 Physics
 The components of electron’s velocity after pass through
the electric field are given by
x-component : v x = u = constant
y-component : v y = u y + a y t and u y = 0
eE
vy = t
me
 The position of the electron is
s x = ut
and
1
s y = u yt + a yt
2
1  eE  2
s y =  t
2  me 
76
 Chapter 1 Physics
Example 1.11 :


u

Figure 1.23
Figure 1.23 shows an electron entering a charged parallel plates
with a speed of 5.45  106 m s−1. The electric field produces by the
parallel plates has deflected the electron downward by a distance
of 0.618 cm at the point where the electron exits. Determine
a. the magnitude of the electric field,
b. the speed of the electron when it exits the parallel plates.
(Physics, 3rd edition, J. S. Walker, Q78, p.661)
(Given e=1.60  10−19 C and me=9.11  10−31 kg) 77
 Chapter 1 Physics
Solution : u = 5 . 45  10 6 m s − 1 ; s x = 2 . 25  10 − 2 m;
s y = − 0 . 618  10 − 2 m
a. The components of the initial velocity for electron are
u x = u = 5 . 45  10 6 m s − 1 and u y = 0
The time taken by the electron travels from one end to another
end of the plates is given by
s x = u xt 2 . 2 5  1 0 − 2 = 5 . 4 5  1 0 6−t9
t = 4 .1 3  1 0 s
Therefore the magnitude of the electric field is
1 2 eE
s y = u y t − a y t and a y =
2 me
1  eE  2
s y = 0 −  t
2  me 
  − 19
E
 (4 .13  10 )
1 1 . 60 10
− 0 .618  10 = − 
−2
− 31 
−9 2

2  9 .11  10  E = 4 1 2 6 N C −1 78
 Chapter 1 Physics
Solution : u = 5 . 45  10 6 m s − 1 ; s x = 2 . 25  10 − 2 m;
s y = − 0 . 618  10 − 2 m
b. The components of the final velocity for electron are
v x = u x = 5 . 45  10 6 m s − 1
eE
v y = u y − a y t and a y =
 eE  m e
v y = 0 −  t
 me  −19
 1 .60  10 (4126 ) 
v y = − − 31

 (
4 .13  10 −9
)
 9 .116  10 − 1 
v y = − 2 . 99  10 m s
Therefore the final speed of the electron in the uniform electric

(5 .45  10 ) + (− 2 .99  10 )
field is
v = vx + v y 6 2 6 2
2 2
v=
−1
v = 6 .2 2  1 0 m s
6 79
 Chapter 1 Physics
Example 1.12 :
A 4 µC particle of mass 1.22 g is travelling horizontally at a
constant velocity 5 m s−1. It then enters an upward uniform
electric field of 3 kN C−1. Explain quantitatively with the aid
of the diagram, the motion of the particle in the electric field.
Solution : qo=410−6 C; m=1.2210−3 kg; v=5 m s−1;
E=3 103 N C−1
−− −− −− −−−−−−−
qo FE
v v = 5 m s −1 =constant
+ +
W E
+ ++ + + + +++++++
( )( )
Apply: FE = qo E = 4 10−6 3 103 = 0.012 N
( )
W = mg = 1.22 10−3 ( 9.81) = 0.012 N
Thus FE = W 80
 Chapter 1 Physics
Exercise 1.3 :
Given 0 = 8.85  10−12 C2 N−1 m−2; me= 9.11  10−31 kg;
e=1.60  10−19 C
1. An electron beam enters at right angle into a uniform electric
field between two horizontal plates separated of 5.0 cm apart.
The plates are connected across a potential difference of
1000 V. The length of the plates is 10.0 cm. The beam is
deflected vertically at the edge of the field by a distance of
2.0 cm. Calculate the speed of the electrons entering the field.
ANS. : 2.97  107 m s−1
2. At a certain distance from a point charge, the magnitude of the
electric field is 500 V m−1 and the electric potential is
−3.00 kV. Calculate
a. the distance to the charge.
b. the value of the charge.
(Physics for scientists and engineers,6th edition,Serway&Jewett,
Q17, p.788)
ANS. : 6.00 m; −2.00 C 81
 Chapter 1 Physics
3. Four point charges are located at the corners of a square that
is 8.0 cm on a side. The charges, going in rotation around the
square, are Q, 2Q, −3Q and 2Q, where Q = 4.8 C as shown
in Figure 1.24.

Q + + 2Q

2Q + - − 3Q
Figure 1.24
Determine the electric potential at the centre of the square.
ANS. : 1.53  106 V
82
 Chapter 1 Physics
4. Initially two electrons are fixed in place with a separation of
2.00 m. How much work must we do to bring a third electron
in from infinity to complete an equilateral triangle?
(Fundamental of physics,7th edition, Halliday, Resnick & Walker,
Q79, p.653)
ANS. : 2.30  10−22 J
5. Two point charges, Q1= +q and Q2= +2q are separated by
1.0 m as shown in Figure 1.25.
1 .0 m
Q1 + + Q2
Figure 1.25
Determine the position of a point where
a. the nett electric field intensity is zero,
b. the electric potential due to the two charges is zero.
(Fundamental of physics,7th edition, Halliday, Resnick & Walker,
Q81, p.653)
ANS. : 0.41 m, U think 83
Chapter 1 Physics

84