Multiple Choice Questions

[1 mark]
Choose and write the correct option(s) in the following questions.
1. A body can be negatively charged by
(a) giving excess of electrons to it (b) removing some electron from it
(c) giving some protons to it (d) removing some neutrons from it.
2. How many electrons must be removed from an electrically neutral metal plate to give it a
positive charge of 1 × 10–7 coulomb?
(a) 6.25 × 1011 (b) 6.45 × 1013 (c) 6.25 × 10–11 (d) 6.45 × 10–13
3. The unit of permittivity of free space (e0) is
(a) CN–1m–1 (b) Nm2C–2 (c) C2 N–1m–2 (d) C2 N–2m–2
4. Which of the following is not a property of field lines?
(a) Field lines are continuous curves without any breaks
(b) Two field lines cannot cross each other
(c) Field lines start at positive charges and end at negative charges
(d) They form closed loops
5. Gauss's law is valid for
(a) Any closed surface (b) Only regular closed surfaces
(c) Any open surface (d) Only irregular open surfaces.
6. The spatial distribution of the electric field due to two charges (A, B) is shown in figure.
Which one of the following statements is correct?
(a) A is + ve and B is – ve and |A|>|B|
(b) A is – ve and B is + ve, |A|=|B| A B
(c) Both are + ve but A>B
(d) Both are – ve but A>B
7. The electric field due to a uniformly charged sphere of
radius R as a function of the distance from its centre is represented graphically by
(a) (b)
E
E

O R O R r
r

(c) (d)
E

O R r O R r

20 Xam idea Physics–XII

 8. When air is replaced by a medium of dielectric constant K, the force of attraction between two
charges separated by a distance r
(a) decreases K times (b) remains unchanged
(c) increases K times (d) increases K–2 times
9. A point positive charge is brought near an isolated conducting sphere (Fig. given below). The
electric field is best given by [NCERT Exemplar]

q +q
(i) (ii)

+q
+q

(iii) (iv)

(a) Fig (i) (b) Fig (ii) (c) Fig (iii) (d) Fig (iv)
10. The Electric flux through the surface [NCERT Exemplar]
S
S
S S
+ q
+ q + q
+ q

(i) (ii) (iii) (iv)

(a) in Fig. (iv) is the largest.
(b) in Fig. (iii) is the least.
(c) in Fig. (ii) is same as Fig. (iii) but is smaller than Fig. (iv)
(d) is the same for all the figures.
11. A hemisphere is uniformly charged positively. The electric field at a point on a diameter away
from the centre is directed [NCERT Exemplar]
(a) perpendicular to the diameter (b) parallel to the diameter
(c) at an angle tilted towards the diameter (d) at an angle tilted away from the diameter
12. A point charge +q, is placed at a distance d from an isolated conducting plane. The field at a
point P on the other side of the plane is
(a) directed perpendicular to the plane and away from the plane.
(b) directed perpendicular to the plane but towards the plane.
(c) directed radially away from the point charge.
(d) directed radially towards the point charge.
13. Figure shows electric field lines in which an electric dipole p is
placed as shown. Which of the following statements is correct?
 [NCERT Exemplar]
(a) the dipole will not experience any force.
(b) the dipole will experience a force towards right. p
–q +q
(c) the dipole will experience a force towards left.
(d) the dipole will experience a force upwards.

Electric Charges and Fields 21

 14. A point charge +q, is placed at a distance d from an isolated conducting plane. The field at a
point P on the other side of the plane is [NCERT Exemplar]
(a) directed perpendicular to the plane and away from the plane.
(b) directed perpendicular to the plane but towards the plane.
(c) directed radially away from the point charge.
(d) directed radially towards the point charge.
15. There are two kinds of charges—positive charge and negative charge. The property which
differentiates the two kinds of charges is called
(a) amount of charge (b) polarity of charge
(c) strength of charge (d) field of charge
16. A method for charging a conductor without bringing a charged object in contact with it is called
(a) electrification (b) magnetisation
(c) electromagnetic induction (d) electrostatic induction
17. If y E .dS = 0 over a surface, then [NCERT Exemplar]
(a) the electric field inside the surface and on it is zero.
(b) the electric field inside the surface is necessarily uniform.
(c) the number of flux lines entering the surface must be equal to the number of flux lines
leaving it.
(d) all charges must necessarily be outside the surface.
18. A cup contains 250 g of water. The number of negative charges present in the cup of water is
(a) 1.34 × 107 C (b) 1.34 × 1019 C (c) 3.34 × 107 C (d) 1.34 × 10–19 C
19. When the distance between two charged particles is halved, the Coulomb force between them
becomes
(a) one-half (b) one-fourth (c) double (d) four times.
20. Two charges are at distance d apart in air. Coulomb force between them is F. If a dielectric
material of dielectric constant K is placed between them, the Coulomb force now becomes
(a) F/K (b) FK (c) F/K2 (d) K2F
21. Two point charges q1 and q2 are at separation r. The force acting between them is given by
q1 q2
F = K 2 . The constant K depends upon
r
(a) only on the system of units (b) only on medium between charges
(c) both on (a) and (b) (d) neither on (a) nor on (b)
22. Which among the curves shown in figure possibly represent electrostatic field lines?

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

23. Three charges +4q, Q and q are placed in a straight line of length l at points at distance 0, l/2,
and l respectively. What should be Q in order to make the net force on q to be zero?
q
(a) –q (b) –2q (c) – (d) 4q
2
24. An electron falls from the rest through a vertical distance h in a uniform and vertically upward
directed electric field E. The direction of electric field is now reversed, keeping its magnitude
the same. A proton is allowed to fall from rest in it through the same vertical distance h. The
time of fall of the electron, in comparison to the time of fall of the proton is
(a) smaller (b) 5 times bigger (c) 10 times bigger (d) equal

22 Xam idea Physics–XII

 25. Two point charges A and B, having charges +q and –q respectively, are placed at certain
distance apart and force acting between them is F. If 25% charge of A is transferred to B, then
force between the charges becomes:
9F 16F 4F
(a) F (b) (c) (d)
16 3 3
Answers
1. (a) 2. (a) 3. (c) 4. (d) 5. (a) 6. (a)
7. (b) 8. (a) 9. (a) 10. (d) 11. (a) 12. (a)
13. (c) 14. (a) 15. (b) 16. (d) 17. (c), (d) 18. (a)
19. (d) 20. (a) 21. (c) 22. (b) 23. (a) 24. (a) 25. (b)

Fill in the Blanks [1 mark]

1. The quantisation of charge was experimentally demonstrated by _______________ in 1912.
2. The value of the permittivity of free space (ε0) in SI unit is _______________.
3. A simple apparatus to detect charge on a body is the _______________.
4. The process of sharing the charges with the earth is called _______________.
5. The concept of field was first introduced by _______________ and is now among the central
concepts in physics.
6. Two point charges are separated by some distance inside vacuum. When space between the
charges is filled by some dielectric, the force between two point charges _______________.
7. Two point charges, one coulomb each are separated by vacuum and placed I meter apart from
each other. The force acting between them is _______________.
8. Direction of electric field intensity due to a dipole on equatorial point is _______________ to the
direction of dipole moment.
9. Two equal and opposite charges of magnitude 0.2 × 10–6 C are 15 cm apart, the magnitude and
direction of the resultant electric intensity E at a point midway between the charge is ___________.
10. A proton at rest has a charge e. When it moves with high speed v, its charge is _______________.

Answers
1. Millikan 2. 8.854 × 10–12 C2N–1m–2 3. gold-leaf electroscope
4. grounding or earthing 5. Faraday 6. decreases 7. 9 × 109 N
8. opposite 9. 6.4 × 105 N/C, towards the –ve charge 10. e

Very Short Answer Questions [1 mark]

Q. 1. Sketch the electric field lines for two point charges q1 and q2 for q1 = q2 and q1 > q2 separated
by a distance d. [CBSE Chennai 2015] [CBSE 2019 (55/2/3)]
Ans. When the charges are equal, the neutral point N lies at the centre of the line joining the charges.
However, when the charges are unequal, the point N is closer to the smaller charge.

Electric Charges and Fields 23

 Q. 2 Draw the pattern of electric field lines, when a point charge –Q is kept
near an uncharged conducting plate. [CBSE 2019 (55/1/1)]
Ans. As –Q charge is kept near an uncharged conducting plate, positive
charge is induced on the plate due to electrostatic induction. The field
lines will be perpendicular to the metal surface.
Q. 3. Why do the electrostatic field lines not form closed loops?
[CBSE (AI) 2014, Allahabad 2015]
Ans. Electric field lines start from positive charge and terminate at negative
charge. If there is a single positive charge, the field lines start from the
charge and terminate at infinity. So, the electric field lines do not form closed loops.
Q. 4. Does the charge given to a metallic sphere depend on whether it is hollow or solid? Give
reason for your answer. [CBSE Delhi 2017]
Ans. No, Reason: This is because the charge resides only on the surface of the conductor.
Q. 5. Two identical conducting balls A and B have charges –Q and +3Q respectively. They are
brought in contact with each other and then separated by a distance d apart. Find the nature
of the Coulomb force between them. [CBSE 2019 (55/4/1)]
3Q – Q
Ans. Final charge on balls A and B = =Q
2
The nature of the coulomb force between them is repulsive.
Q. 6. Two insulated charged copper spheres A and B of identical size have charges qA and qB
respectively. A third sphere C of the same size but uncharged is brought in contact with the
first and then in contact with the second and finally removed from both. What are the new
charges on A and B? [CBSE (F) 2011]
qA q A + 2q B
Ans. New charge on A is and new charge on B is .
2 4
Q. 7. Fig. shows three point charges +2q, – q and +3q. The charges +2q
and –q are enclosed within a surface ‘S’. What is the electric flux due
to this configuration through the surface ‘S’? [CBSE Delhi 2010]
1
Ans. Electric flux = # (Net charge enclosed within the surface)
f0
1 1
  = ( 2q – q) = q
f0 f0
Q. 8. What is the electric flux through a cube of side 1 cm which encloses an electric dipole?
[CBSE Delhi 2015]
Ans. Net electric flux is zero.
Reason : (i) Independent to the shape and size.
(ii) Net charge of the electric dipole is zero.
Q. 9. Two metallic spheres A and B kept on insulating stands are in P A B
contact with each other. A positively charged rod P is brought near
the sphere A as shown in the figure. The two spheres are separated
from each other, and the rod P is removed. What will be the nature
of charges on spheres A and B? [CBSE 2019 (55/3/1)]
Ans. l Sphere A will be negatively charged.

l Sphere B will be positively charged.
Explanation: If positively charged rod P is brought near metallic sphere A due to induction

negative charge starts building up at the left surface of A and positive charge on the right surface
of B.

24 Xam idea Physics–XII

 A B A B A B

If the two spheres are separated from each other, the two spheres are found to be oppositely
charged. If rod P is removed, the charges on spheres rearrange themselves and get uniformly
distributed over them.
Q. 10. Two charges of magnitudes – 2Q and + Q are located at points (a, 0) and (4a, 0) respectively.
What is the electric flux due to these charges through a sphere of radius ‘3a’ with its centre at
the origin? [CBSE (AI) 2013]

Ans.

–2Q
Electric flux, z =
f0
Concept: Imagine a sphere of radius 3a about the origin and observe that only charge –2Q is
inside the sphere.
Q. 11. A metal sphere is kept on an insulating stand. A negatively charged
rod is brought near it, then the sphere is earthed as shown. On
removing the earthing, and taking the negatively charged rod away,
what will be the nature of charge on the sphere? Give reason for
your answer. [CBSE 2019 (55/3/1)]
Ans. The sphere will be positively charged due to electrostatic induction.
Explanation: When a negatively charged rod is brought near a metal sphere, the electrons will
flow to the ground while the positive charges at the near end will remain held there due to the
attractive force of the negative charge on the rod. On disconnecting the sphere from the ground,
the positive charge continues to be held at the near end. On removing the electrified rod, the
positive charge will spread uniformly over the sphere.

Q. 12. How does the electric flux due to a point charge enclosed by a spherical Gaussian surface get
affected when its radius is increased? [CBSE Delhi 2016]
q
Ans. Electric flux through a Gaussian surface, enclosing the charge q is z E =
f0

This is independent of radius of Gaussian surface, so if radius is increased, the electric flux
through the surface will remain unchanged.
Q. 13. A charge Q µC is placed at the centre of a cube. What would be the flux through one face?
[CBSE (F) 2010, (AI) 2012]
Q 1 Q
Ans. Electric flux through whole cube = f . Electric flux through one face = nVm.
0 6 f0
Q. 14. A charge q is placed at the centre of a cube of side l. What is the electric flux passing through
two opposite faces of the cube? [CBSE (AI) 2012]

Electric Charges and Fields 25

 Ans. By symmetry, the flux through each of the six faces of the cube will be same when charge q is
1 Q
placed at its centre. ` z E =
6 f0
1 q
Thus, electric flux passing through two opposite faces of the cube = 2. f
6 0
Q. 15. What orientation of an electric dipole in a uniform electric field corresponds to its (i) stable
and (ii) unstable equilibrium? [CBSE Delhi 2010][HOTS]
Ans. (i) In stable equilibrium the dipole moment is parallel to the direction of electric field (i.e., θ = 0).
(ii) In unstable equilibrium PE is maximum, so θ = π, i.e., dipole moment is antiparallel to
electric field.
Q. 16. What is the nature of electrostatic force between two point electric charges q1 and q2 if
(a) q1 + q2>0? (b) q1 + q2<0?
Ans. (a) If both q1 and q2 are positive, the electrostatic force between these will be repulsive.
However, if one of these charges is positive and is greater than the other negative charge, the
electrostatic force between them will be attractive.
Thus, the nature of force between them can be repulsive or attractive.
(b) If both q1 and q2 are –ve, the force between these will be repulsive.
However, if one of them is –ve and it is greater in magnitude than the second+ve charge, the
force between them will be attractive.
Thus, the nature of force between them can be repulsive or attractive.
R
Q. 17. Figure shows a point charge +Q, located at a distance from the centre
2
of a spherical metal shell. Draw the electric field lines for the given system.
[CBSE Sample Paper 2016]

Ans.

. 18. Sketch the electric field lines for a uniformly charged hollow cylinder shown
Q
in figure. [NCERT Exemplar][HOTS]
Ans.

26 Xam idea Physics–XII

 Q. 19. The dimensions of an atom are of the order of an Angstrom. Thus there must be large electric
fields between the protons and electrons. Why, then is the electrostatic field inside a conductor
zero? [NCERT Exemplar]
Ans. The electric fields bind the atoms to neutral entity. Fields are caused by excess charges. There
can be no excess charge on the inner surface of an isolated conductor. So, the electrostatic field
inside a conductor is zero.
Q. 20. An arbitrary surface encloses a dipole. What is the electric flux through this surface?
[NCERT Exemplar]
Ans. Net charge on a dipole = – q + q = 0. According to Gauss’s theorem, electric flux through the
surface, q 0
= = =0
f0 f0

Short Answer Questions–I [2 marks]

Q. 1. (a) An electrostatic field line is a continuous curve. That is, a field line cannot have sudden breaks.
Why is it so?
(b) Explain why two field lines never cross each other at any point. [CBSE (AI) 2014]
Ans. (a) An electrostatic field line is the path of movement of a positive
test charge (q0 → 0)
A moving charge experiences a continuous force in an electrostatic
field, so an electrostatic field line is always a continuous curve.
(b) Two electric lines of force can never cross each other because if
they cross, there will be two directions of electric field at the point
of intersection (say A); which is impossible.
Q. 2. Define electric dipole moment. Is it a scalar or a vector quantity? What are its SI unit?
[CBSE (AI) 2011, 2013, (F) 2009, 2012, 2013]
Ans. The electric dipole moment is defined as the product of either charge and the distance between
the two charges. Its direction is from negative to positive charge.
i.e., |p|=q(2l)
Electric dipole moment is a vector quantity.
Its SI unit is coulomb-metre.
Q. 3. Depict the orientation of the dipole in (a) stable, (b) unstable equilibrium in a uniform electric
field. [CBSE Delhi 2017]
Ans. (a) Stable equilibrium, θ = 0° P is parallel to E

(b) Unstable equilibrium, θ = 180° P is anti parallel to E

Q. 4. Two equal balls having equal positive charge ‘q’ coulombs are suspended by two insulating
strings of equal length. What would be the effect on the force when a plastic sheet is inserted
between the two? [CBSE AI 2014]

Electric Charges and Fields 27

 Ans. Force will decrease.
Reason: Force between two charges each ‘q’ in vacuum is
2
1 q
F0 =
4rf0 r2
On inserting a plastic sheet (a dielectric K > 1)
1 q2 F0
Then F = i.e., Force F =
4rf0 K r 2 K
The force between charged balls will decrease.
1
Q. 5. Plot a graph showing the variation of coulomb force (F) versus d 2 n , where r is the distance
r
between the two charges of each pair of charges: (1 µC, 2 µC) and (2 µC, – 3 µC). Interpret the
graphs obtained. [CBSE (AI) 2011]
1 q1 q2
Ans. F = .
4rf0 r2
1 1
The graph between F and 2 is a straight line of slope q1 q2 passing through origin in both
r 4 rf
the cases. 0

Since, magnitude of the slope is more for attraction, therefore, attractive force is greater than
repulsive force.
Q. 6. An electric dipole is held in a uniform electric field.
(i) Show that the net force acting on it is zero.
(ii) The dipole is aligned parallel to the field. Find the work done in rotating it through the angle
of 180°. [CBSE (AI) 2012]
Ans. (i) The dipole moment of dipole is | p | = q× ^2a h
Force on –q at A = – qE
Force on + q at B = + qE
Net force on the dipole = qE – qE = 0
(ii) Work done on dipole
W = dU = pE (cosi1 – cos i2)

= pE (cos 00 – cos 180°)

W = 2pE
Q. 7. (a) Define electric flux. Write its SI unit.
(b) A spherical rubber balloon carries a charge that is uniformly distributed over its surface. As
the balloon is blown up and increases in size, how does the total electric flux coming out of the
surface change? Give reason. [CBSE (F) 2016]
Ans. (a) Total number of electric field lines crossing a surface normally is called electric flux.
Its SI unit is Nm2C–1 or Vm.
q
(b) Total electric flux through the surface =
f0
As charge remains unchanged when size of balloon increases, electric flux through the
surface remains unchanged.

28 Xam idea Physics–XII

 Q. 8. (a) Define electric flux. Write its SI unit.
(b) “Gauss’s law in electrostatics is true for any closed surface, no matter what its shape or size
is.” Justify this statement with the help of a suitable example. [CBSE Allahabad 2015]
Ans. (a) Refer to above question.
(b) According to Gauss theorem, the electric flux through a closed surface depends only on the
net charge enclosed by the surface and not upon the shape or size of the surface.
For any closed arbitrary shape of the surface enclosing a charge the outward flux is the same
as that due to a spherical Gaussian surface enclosing the same charge.
Justification: This is due to the fact that
(i) electric field is radial and
1
(ii) the electric field E \ 2
R
Thus, electric field at each point inside a charged thin spherical shell is zero.
Q. 9. Two concentric metallic spherical shells of radii R and 2R are given charges Q1 and Q2
respectively. The surface charge densities on the outer surfaces of the shells are equal.
Determine the ratio Q1 : Q2. [CBSE (F) 2013]
Ans. Surface charge density σ is same.
∴ Charge Q1 = 4rR2 v

and Charge Q2 = 4r (2R) 2 v
Q1 4 rR 2 v 1
∴
= =
Q2 2
4r (2R) v 4

Q. 10. The sum of two point charges is 7 µC. They repel each other with a force of 1 N when kept 30cm
apart in free space. Calculate the value of each charge. [CBSE (F) 2009]
Ans. q1 + q2 = 7 × 10 –6 C … (i)
1 q q
1 2
  = 1 & q1 q2 = (4rf0) (0.30) 2
4rf0 (0.30) 2
1
or    q1 q2 = ×9×10 –2 = 10 –11 …(ii)
9×109
  (q1 – q2)2 = (q1 + q2)2– 4q1q2
  = (7×10–6)2 – 4×10–11
  = 49 × 10–12 – 40 × 10–12 = 9 × 10–12

q1 – q2 = 3×10–6 C …(iii)
Solving (i) and (iii), we get
q1 =5×10–6 C, q2=2×10–6 C
⇒ q1= 5 µC, q2 = 2 µC
Q. 11. Two identical point charges, q each, are kept 2 m apart in air. A third point charge Q of unknown
magnitude and sign is placed on the line joining the charges such that the system remains in
equilibrium. Find the position and nature of Q. [CBSE 2019 (55/1/1)]
Ans. System is in equilibrium therefore net force on each charge of system will be zero.
For the total force on ‘Q’ to be zero
q Q q
1 qQ 1 qQ
= x C (2–x) B
4rf0 x2 4rf0 (2 – x) 2 A
2m
⇒ x = 2 – x   ⇒ 2x = 2
⇒ x = 1 m
For the equilibrium of charge “q” the nature of charge Q must be opposite to the nature of
charge q.

Electric Charges and Fields 29

 . 12. Figure shows two large metal plates P1 and P2, tightly held against each other
Q
and placed between two equal and unlike point charges perpendicular to the line
joining them.
(i) What will happen to the plates when they are released?
(ii) Draw the pattern of the electric field lines for the system. [CBSE (F) 2009]
Ans. (i) Charges induced on outer surfaces of P1 and P2 are – Q and + Q respectively.
When plates are released, they will tend to move away from one another; plate
P1 moving towards +Q and P2 towards –Q due to attraction.
(ii) The field pattern is shown in fig.

Q. 13. Calculate the amount of work done in rotating a dipole, of dipole moment 3 × 10–8 Cm, from
its position of stable equilibrium to the position of unstable equilibrium, in a uniform electric
field of intensity 104 N/C. [CBSE (F) 2011]
–8 4
Ans. P = 3×10 Cm; E = 10 N/C
At stable equilibrium (θ1) = 0°
At unstable equilibrium (θ2)=180°
Work done in a rotating dipole is given by:
W = PE (cos θ1 – cos θ2) = (3 × 10–8) (104) [cos 0° – cos 180°] = 3 × 10–4 [1 – (–1)]
W = 6 × 10–4 J
Q. 14. Given a uniform electric field E = 5×10 3 it N/C, find the flux of this field through a square of
10 cm on a side whose plane is parallel to the Y-Z plane. What would be the flux through the
same square if the plane makes a 30° angle with the X-axis? [CBSE Delhi 2014]
Ans. Here, E = 5 ×10 i N/C, i.e., field is along positive direction of X-axis.
3 t

Surface area, A = 10 cm × 10 cm = 0.10 m × 0.10 m = 10–2 m2

(i) When plane is parallel to Y-Z plane, the normal to plane is along X-axis. Hence
θ = 0°
z = EA cos i = 5 # 103 # 10 –2 cos 0° = 50 NC –1 m2
(ii) When the plane makes a 30° angle with the X-axis, the normal to its plane makes 60° angle
with X-axis. Hence θ = 60°
z = EA cosi = 5×103 ×10 –2 cos 60° = 25 NC –1 m 2
Q. 15. Five point charges, each of charge +q are placed on five vertices of a regular hexagon of
side ‘l’. Find the magnitude of the resultant force on a charge –q placed at the centre of the
hexagon. [CBSE 2019 (53/3/1)]
Ans. The forces due to the charges placed diagonally opposite at the vertices of
hexagon, on the charge – q cancel in pairs. Hence net force is due to one
charge only.
2
1 q
Net force F =
4rf0 l2

30 Xam idea Physics–XII

 Q. 16. Represent graphically the variation of electric field with distance, for a uniformly charged
plane sheet. [CBSE Sample Paper 2017]
Ans. Electric field due to a uniformly charged plane sheet. E
v
E= E = Constant
2f 0
which is independent of distance.
So, it represents a straight line parallel to distance axis. r
Q. 17. A metallic spherical shell has an inner radius R1 and outer radius R2. A charge Q is placed at
the centre of the spherical cavity. What will be surface charge density on (i) the inner surface,
and (ii) the outer surface? [NCERT Exemplar]
Ans. When a charge + Q is placed at the centre of spherical cavity,
the charge induced on the inner surface = – Q
the charge induced on the outer surface = +Q
–Q
∴ Surface charge density on the inner surface =
4rR12
+Q
Surface charge density on the outer surface =
4rR22
Q. 18. The given figure shows the electric field lines around three point charges
A, B and C.
(a) Which charges are positive?
(b) Which charge has the largest magnitude? Why?
(c) In which region or regions of the picture could the
electric field be zero? Justify your answer.
(i) near A (ii) near B (iii) near C (iv) nowhere.
 [NCERT Exemplar] [HOTS]
Ans. (a) Charges A and C are positive since lines of force
emanate from them.
(b) Charge C has the largest magnitude since maximum number of field lines are associated with it.
(c) (i) near A.
Justification: There is no neutral point between a positive and a negative charge. A neutral
point may exist between two like charges. From the figure we see that a neutral point exists
between charges A and C. Also between two like charges the neutral point is closer to the charge
with smaller magnitude. Thus, electric field is zero near charge A.
Q. 19. Two isolated metal spheres A and B have radii R and 2R respectively, and same charge q. Find
which of the two spheres have greater energy density just outside the surface of the spheres.
[CBSE Sample Paper 2016]
Ans. Energy density,
1
U = f0 E2
2
v Q
But, E = =
f0 Af 0
2
1 f0 Q Q2 1

` U= & U = & U? & U A > UB Q q
2 A2 f2
0
2A 2 f 0 A2
Q. 20. Four point charges Q, q, Q and q are placed at the corners of a square
of side ‘a’ as shown in the figure. Find the resultant electric force on
a charge Q. [CBSE 2018]
q a Q

Electric Charges and Fields 31

 Ans. Let us find the force on the charge Q at the point C
Force due to the other charge Q
2
Q Q2
f p (along AC)
1 1
F1 = =
4rf0 (a 2 ) 2 4rf0 2a 2
Force due to the charge q (at B), F2
1 qQ
   = along BC Q
A Bq
4rf0 a 2
Force due to the charge q (at D), F3 a 2

1 qQ
  = along DC Q
4rf0 a 2 q F3
D C
a F23
Resultant of these two equal forces
F1
1 qQ ( 2 ) F2
F23 = (along AC)
4rf0 a2
∴ Net force on charge Q (at point C)
1 Q Q
F = F1 + F23 = = + 2 qG
4rf0 a 2 2
This force is directed along AC. (For the charge Q, at the point A, the force will have the same
magnitude but will be directed along CA)
Q. 21. Three point charges q, – 4q and 2q are placed at the vertices of an equilateral triangle ABC
of side ‘l’ as shown in the figure. Obtain the expression for the magnitude of the resultant
electric force acting on the charge q. [CBSE 2018]

A
q

–4q 2q
B C
l F2

q
Ans. Force on charge q due to the charge –4q θ = 120° A
2
4q
f 2 p , along AB
1
F1 =
4rf0 l
F1
Force on the charge q, due to the charge 2q
2
2q
f p , along CA
1 –4q 2q
F2 = B C
4rf0 l 2 l

The forces F1 and F2 are inclined to each other at an angle of 120°

Hence, resultant electric force on charge q
F = F12 + F 22 + 2F1 F2 cos i

  = F12 + F 22 + 2F1 F2 cos 120°

= F12 + F 22 – F1 F2

32 Xam idea Physics–XII

 2
=f p 16 + 4 – 8
  1 q
4rf0 l 2
2 3 q2
f p
1
=
4rf0 l2
Q. 22. A simple pendulum consists of a small sphere of mass m suspended by a thread of length l.
The sphere carries a positive charge q. The pendulum is placed in a uniform electric field of
strength E directed vertically downwards. Find the period of oscillation of the pendulum due
to the electrostatic force acting on the sphere, neglecting the effect of the gravitational force.
[CBSE 2019 (53/3/1)]
Ans. Restoring force:
Fr = –qE sin z
&
ma = –qE sin z φ

When f is small qEsinφ Q

&
ma = –qEz qEcos φ
qE
2
d x x
m = –qE
dt l E
2
d x E x
= –q m
dt 2 l
Comparing with equation of linear SHM
d2 x qE
= –~2 x & ~2 =
dt 2 m l
qE
&

ml
~=

2r ml
Now, T = ~ = 2r
qE

Short Answer Questions–II [3 marks]

Q. 1. (a) A point charge (+Q) is kept in the vicinity of uncharged conducting plate. Sketch electric
field lines between the charge and the plate.     [CBSE Bhubaneswar 2015]
(b) Two infinitely large plane thin parallel sheets having surface charge densities σ1 and σ2
(σ1> σ2) are shown in the figure. Write the magnitudes and directions of the net fields in
the regions marked II and III. [CBSE (F) 2014]

Ans. (a) The lines of force start from + Q and terminate at metal place inducing negative charge on
it. The lines of force will be perpendicular to the metal surface.

Electric Charges and Fields 33

 +Q

+++++++++++++++++
1
2f 0 ^ 1 2 h
(b) (i) Net electric field in region II = v –v

Direction of electric field is from sheet A to sheet B.

1
(ii) Net electric field in region III = ^v + v 2 h
2f 0 1
Direction is away from the two sheets i.e., towards right side.
Q. 2. A spherical conducting shell of inner radius r1 and outer radius r2 has a charge ‘Q’. A charge
‘q’ is placed at the centre of the shell.
(a) What is the surface charge density on the (i) inner surface, (ii) outer surface of the shell?
(b) Write the expression for the electric field at a point x>r2 from the centre of the shell.
[CBSE (AI) 2010]
Ans. (a) Charge Q resides on outer surface of spherical conducting shell.
Due to charge q placed at centre, charge induced on inner surface
is –q and on outer surface it is +q. So, total charge on inner surface
–q and on outer surface it is Q + q.
q
(i) Surface charge density on inner surface = –
4rr12
Q+q
(ii) Surface charge density on outer surface =

4rr22
(b) For external points, whole charge acts at centre, so electric field at distance x>r2,
1 Q+q
E (x) = .
4rf0 x2
Q. 3. A thin metallic spherical shell of radius R carries a charge Q
Q
on its surface. A point charge is placed at the centre C and
2
another charge +2Q is placed outside the shell at A at a distance
x from the centre as shown in the figure.
(i) Find the electric flux through the shell.
(ii) State the law used.
(iii) Find the force on the charges at the centre C of the shell and
at the point A. [CBSE East 2016]
Total enclosed ch arg e
Ans. (i) Electric flux through a Gaussian surface, z =
f0

Net charge enclosed inside the shell, q = 0

q
∴  Electric flux through the shell =0
f0

34 Xam idea Physics–XII

 1
(ii) Gauss’s Law: Electric flux through a Gaussian surface is times the net charge enclosed
f0
within it.
1
Mathematically, y E . ds =
f0
×q
(iii) We know that electric field or net charge inside the spherical conducting shell is zero. Hence,
Q
the force on charge is zero.
2
Q
2Q d Q + n 2
1 2 1 3Q
Force on charge at A, FA = =
4rf0 x2 4rf0 x2
Q. 4. Three point electric charges +q each are kept at the vertices of an equilateral triangle of side a.
Determine the magnitude and sign of the charge to be kept at the centroid of the triangle so
that the charges at the vertices remain in equilibrium. [CBSE (F) 2015] [HOTS]
Ans. The charge at any vertex will remain in equilibrium if the net force experienced by this charge
due to all other three charges is zero.
Let Q be the required charge to be kept at the centroid G.
Considering the charge at A,
Force F1 on charge at A due to charge at B
2
1 q
F1 = along BA
4rf0 a2

Force F2 on charge at A due to charge at C

2
1 q
F2 = along CA
4rf0 a2
Since angle between F1 and F2 is 60°.
2
1 q
F1 + F2 = 3 along GA
4rf0 a2
a
Also, the distance of centroid G from any vertex is
3
The nature of charge to be kept at G has to be opposite (– ve)
so that it exerts a force of attraction on charge (+q) kept at A to
balance the force F1 + F2

1 Qq 1 Q.3q
Force exerted by (– Q) kept at G on charge (+q) at A = = along AG
4rf0 a 2 4rf0 a2
c m
3
Equating the two forces, being equal and opposite
2
1 q 1 3Qq q
3
4rf0 a 2
=–
4rf0 a 2
& Q=–
3
Q. 5. (a) An infinitely long positively charged straight wire has a linear charge density λ Cm–1. An
electron is revolving around the wire as its centre with a constant velocity in a circular
plane perpendicular to the wire. Deduce the expression for its kinetic energy.
(b) Plot a graph of the kinetic energy as a function of charge density λ. [CBSE (F) 2013]
Ans. (a) Infinitely long charged wire produces a radical electric field.
m
E= ... (1)
2rf0 r

Electric Charges and Fields 35

 The revolving electron experiences an electrostatic force
and provides necessarily centripetal force.
mv 2
eE = ... (2)
r
em mv 2 em
= & mv2 =
2rf0 r r 2rf0
1 em
Kinetic energy of the electron, K = mv2 =
2 4rf0
(b)

Q. 6. Two small identical electrical dipoles AB and CD, each of dipole

moment ‘p’ are kept at an angle of 120° as shown in the figure. What
is the resultant dipole moment of this combination? If this system is
subjected to electric field (E ) directed along + X direction, what will be
the magnitude and direction of the torque acting on this?
[CBSE Delhi 2011, 2020 (55/2/1)]
Ans. Resultant dipole moment
pr = p12 + p22 + 2p1 p2 cos 120°

= 2p2 + 2p2 cos 120° _a p1 = p2 = p i

P1
1
= 2 p + ( 2 p ) # c – m = 2p 2 – p 2 = p ,
2 2
2
Using law of addition of vectors, we can see that the resultant
dipole makes an angle of 60° with the y axis or 30° with x - axis.
Torque, x = p # E ( x is perpendicular to both p and E ) P
120°
1
= pE sin 30° = pE. α
2
Direction of torque is into the plane of paper or along positive
Z-direction.
Q. 7. State Gauss’s law in electrostatics. A cube with each side ‘a’ is
P2
kept in an electric field given by E = C × rt, (as is shown in the
figure) where C is a positive dimensional constant. Find out
[CBSE (F) 2012]
(i) the electric flux through the cube, and
(ii) the net charge inside the cube.
Ans. Gauss’s Law in electrostatics states that the total electric flux
1
through a closed surface enclosing a charge is equal to
f0
times the magnitude of that charge.
q
z = y E . dS =
S f0

36 Xam idea Physics–XII

 (i) Net flux, z = z1 + z2
E
where z1 = E . dS
= 2aC dS cos 0° E
= 2aC × a2 = 2a3 C
   φ2 = aC × a2 cos 180° = – a3C
   φ = 2a3C + (–a3C) = a3C Nm2 C–1
(ii) Net charge (q) = ε0 × φ = a3C ε0 coulomb
q = a3C ε0 coulomb.
Q. 8. A hollow cylindrical box of length 1 m and
area of cross-section 25 cm2 is placed in
a three dimensional coordinate system as E E
shown in the figure. The electric field in the
region is given by E = 50 x it, where E is in
NC–1 and x is in metres.
Find
(i) net flux through the cylinder.
(ii) charge enclosed by the cylinder. [CBSE Delhi 2013]
Ans. (i) Electric flux through a surface, z = E .S
Flux through the left surface, φL = ES cos 180° = – ES = (– 50x)S
Since x = 1 m, φL = –50 × 1 × 25 × 10–4
= –1250 × 10–4 = – 0.125 N m2 C–1
Flux through the right surface,
φR = ES cos 0°
= ES = (50x)S
Since x = 2 m, φR = 50 × 2 × 25 × 10–4 = 2500 × 10–4 = 0.250 N m2 C–1
Net flux through the cylinder, φnet = φR + φL
= 0.250 – 0.125 = 0.125 N m2 C–1
(ii) Charge inside the cylinder, by Gauss’s Theorem
q
z net = & q = f0 z Net
f0
1
= 8.854×10 –12 ×0.125 = 8.854×10 –12 × = 1.107×10 –12 C
8
Q. 9. Two parallel uniformly charged infinite plane sheets, ‘l’ and ‘2’, have charge densities + σ and
–2 σ respectively. Give the magnitude and direction of the net electric field at a point
(i) in between the two sheets and (ii) outside near the sheet ‘1’. [CBSE Ajmer 2015]
Ans.

(i) Let E1 and E 2 be the electric field intensity at the point P1, between the plates. So,
| EP | = | E1 |+| E2 |
1
v 2v
   = f + f
0 0
3v
   = f            (directed towards sheet 2)
0
3v 3v
     E P1 = f (– tj) = – f tj
0 0

Electric Charges and Fields 37

 (ii) Outside near the sheet ‘1’, | E P2 | = | E 2 |–| E 1 |
2v v v
= – = (directed towards sheet 2)
2 f 0 2f 0 2f 0
v t v t
E P2 = (–j) = – j
2f 0 2f 0
Q. 10. A right circular cylinder of length ‘a’ and radius ‘r’ has its centre at the origin and its axis along
the x-axis so that one face is at x = + a/2 and the other at x = – a/2, as shown in the figure. A uniform
electric field is acting parallel to the x-axis such that E = E it for x > 0 and E = –E it for x > 0.
0 0

Find out the flux (i) through the flat faces, (ii) through the curved surface of the cylinder. What
is the net outward flux through the cylinder and the net charge inside the cylinder?
[CBSE Chennai 2015]
Ans. y

– E0 i E0 i
x x

(i) Flux through the flat faces (both)

z1 = E0 it.rr2 it = | E0 | rr2 [a it.it = 1]
(ii) Flux through the curved surface
z = E it. (2rra) tj
2 0

=0 [a it.tj = 0]
(Field and area vector are perpendicular to each other)
Net outward flux through the cylinder,
z net = 2z1 + z2
= 2E0 πr2
Q
According to Gauss’s theorem, z net = f
0
∴ Charge inside the cylinder
Q = 2πε0r2 E0
Q. 11. (a) ‘‘The outward electric flux due to charge +Q is independent of the shape and size of the
surface which encloses it.’’ Give two reasons to justify this statement.
(b) Two identical circular loops ‘1’ and ‘2’ of radius R each have linear charge densities –λ
and +λ C/m respectively. The loops are placed coaxially with their centres R 3 distance
apart. Find the magnitude and direction of the net electric field at the centre of loop ‘1’.
[CBSE Patna 2015]

38 Xam idea Physics–XII

 Ans. (a) In figure, a charge + Q is enclosed inside the surfaces S1 and S2.
(i) For a given charge Q the same number of electric field
lines emanating from the surfaces S1 and S2 depends on S2
S1
the charge Q and independent to the shape and size of the
surfaces of S1 and S2.
+Q
(ii) From Gauss’s law the net-outward electric flux through any
1
closed surface of any shape and size is equal to f times
0
Q
the charge enclosed within that surface i.e., f
0
(b) 2 + 1

R –
R

O2 Z=R 3 O1

Electric field at the centre O1 due to loop 1 is given by

E1 = 0 (As Z = 0)
Electric field at a point outside the loop 2 on the axis passing normally through O2 of loop 2
is
mR Z
E2 =
2f0 (R2 + Z2) 3/2
Since Z= R 3
mR R 3
=
2f0 (R2 + 3R2) 3/2
m 3
= towards right (As λ is positive)
16f0 R
So, net electric field at the centre of loop 1
E = E1 + E 2
m 3 m 3
= 0+ =
16f0 R 16f0 R
F
Q. 12. The electric field E due to any point charge near it is defined as E = lim where q is the test
q"0 q
charge and F is the force acting on it. What is the physical significance of lim in this expression?
q"0

Draw the electric field lines of point charge Q when (i) Q > 0 and (ii) Q < 0.
F
Ans. The physical significance of lim in the definition of electric field E = lim
q" 0 q" 0 q

The point test charge q produces its own electric field, hence it will modify the electric field
strength to be measured. Therefore, the test charge used to measure the electric field must be
too small.
The electric lines of force are shown in figure below.

Electric Charges and Fields 39

 Q. 13. Two charges q and –3q are placed fixed on x-axis separated by distance ‘d’. Where should a
third charge 2q be placed such that it will not experience any force? [NCERT Exemplar]
Ans.

Let the charge 2q be placed at point P as shown. The force due to q is to the left and that due to
–3q is to the right.

2q2 6q2

` = & (d + x) 2 = 3x2
4rf0 x2 4rf0 (d + x) 2

d 3d

` 2x2 – 2dx – d2 = 0 & x= !
2 2
(–ve sign shows charge 2q at p would be lie between q and –3q and hence is unacceptable.)
d 3d d

& x= + = (1 + 3 ) to the left of q.
2 2 2
Q. 14. Two point charges of + 5 × 10–19 C and +20 × 10–19 C are separated by a distance of 2 m. Find
the point on the line joining them at which electric field intensity is zero.
Ans. Let charges q1=+5×10–19 C and q2=+20×10–19 C be placed at A and B respectively. Distance
AB=2 m.
As charges are similar, the electric field strength will be zero between the charges on the line
joining them. Let P be the point (at a distance x from q1) at which electric field intensity is zero.
Then, AP = x metre, BP = (2 – x) metre. The electric field strength at P due to charge q1 is
1 q1
E1 = , along the direction A to P.
4rf0 x2
The electric field strength at P due to charge q2 is
1 q2
E2 = , along the direction B to P.
4rf0 (2 – x) 2

Clearly, E 1 and E 2 and are opposite in direction and for net electric field at P to be zero,
E 1 and E 2 must be equal in magnitude.
So, E1 = E2
1 q1 1 q2
& =
4rf0 x2 4rf0 (2 – x) 2

Given, q1 = 5×10–19 C, q2 = 20×10–19 C

5 # 10 –19 20 # 10 –19
Therefore, 2
=
x ( 2 – x) 2
1 x 2
or = or x= m
2 2– x 3
Q. 15. Two charges of value 2 mC and –50 mC are placed 80 cm apart. Calculate the distance of the
point from the smaller charge where the intensity is zero.
Ans.      

40 Xam idea Physics–XII

 The electric field cannot be zero at a point between the charges because the two charges are of
opposite signs. The electric field cannot be zero at a point to the right of B because magnitude
of charge at B is of opposite sign and is greater in magnitude than the charge at A.
Let the resultant electric field be zero at P located at a distance x metre to the left of point A.
∴ AP = x metre and BP = (x + 0.8) m
2 ×10 –6 50 ×10 –6

k = k
x2 ( x + 0. 8) 2
] x + 0.8g2
&

25
2
x =
] x + 0. 8 g
&
x=!
5
&
5x = ! ] x 0.8 g
+
⇒ 5x = x + 0.8
or 5x = – x – 0.8
⇒ 4x = 0.8
or 6x = –0.8
–0.8
⇒
x = 0.2 m or x= m
6
⇒ x = 0.2 m = 20 cm
The negative answer is not possible because in that case P will lie between the charges.
Therefore, x = 20 cm.

Long Answer Questions [5 marks]

Q. 1. (a) Find expressions for the force and torque on an electric dipole kept in a uniform electric field.
OR [CBSE (AI) 2014; 2019 (55/5/1); 2020 (55/3/1)]
An electric dipole is held in a uniform electric field. (i) Using suitable diagram show that
it does not undergo any translatory motion, and (ii) derive an expression for torque acting
on it and specify its direction.
(b) Derive an expression for the work done in rotating a dipole from the angle θ0 to θ1 in a
uniform electric field E. [CBSE East 2016]
OR
(i) Define torque acting on a dipole of dipole moment p placed in a uniform electric field
E . Express it in the vector form and point out the direction along which it acts.
(ii) What happens if the field is non-uniform?
(iii) What would happen if the external field E is increasing (i) parallel to p and (ii) anti-
parallel to p ?[CBSE (F) 2016]
Ans. (a) Consider an electric dipole placed in a uniform electric field of strength E in such a way that
its dipole moment p makes an angle θ with the
direction of E . The charges of dipole are – q and +q at
separation 2l the dipole moment of electric dipole,
p = q2l ...(i)
Force: The force on charge +q is, F 1 = qE , along the
direction of field E .
The force on charge – q is F 2 = qE , opposite to the
direction of field E .
Obviously forces F 1 and F 2 are equal in magnitude but opposite in direction; hence net
force on electric dipole in uniform electric field is
F = F1 – F2 = qE – qE = 0 (zero)

Electric Charges and Fields 41

 As net force on electric dipole is zero, so dipole does not undergo any translatory motion.

Torque: The forces F 1 and F 2 form a couple (or torque) which tends to rotate and align the
dipole along the direction of electric field. This couple is called the torque and is denoted by τ.
∴ Torque τ = magnitude of one force × perpendicular distance between lines of action of forces
= qE (BN) = qE (2l sin θ) = (q2l) E sin θ
= pE sin θ [using (i)] ...(ii)
Clearly, the magnitude of torque depends on orientation (θ) of the electric dipole relative to
electric field. Torque (τ) is a vector quantity whose direction is perpendicular to the plane
containing p and E given by right hand screw rule.
In vector form x = p # E ..(iii)

Thus, if an electric dipole is placed in an electric field in oblique orientation, it experiences no
force but experiences a torque. The torque tends to align the dipole moment along the direction
of electric field.
Maximum Torque: For maximum torque sin θ should be the maximum. As the maximum

value of sin θ = 1 when θ = 90°
∴ Maximum torque, τmax = pE
When the field is non-uniform, the net force will evidently be non-zero. There will be

translatory motion of the dipole.
When E is parallel to p , the dipole has a net force in the direction of increasing field.

When E is anti-parallel to p , the net force on the dipole is in the direction of decreasing
field.
In general, force depends on the orientation of p with respect to E .

(b) Let an electric dipole be rotated in electric field from angle θ0 to θ1 in the direction of electric
field. In this process the angle of orientation θ is changing continuously; hence the torque
also changes continuously. Let at any time, the angle between dipole moment p and electric
field E be θ then
Torque on dipole τ = pE sin θ
The work done in rotating the dipole a further by small angle dθ is
dW = Torque × angular displacement= pE sin θ dθ
Total work done in rotating the dipole from angle θ0 to θ1 is given by
i1
y pE sin idi = pE6– cos i@i1
i
W=
0
i0

= – pE[cos θ1 – θ0] = pE (cos θ0 – cos θ1) ..(i)

Special case: If electric dipole is initially in a stable equilibrium position (θ0 = 0°) and rotated

through an angle θ(θ1 = θ) then work done
W = pE[cos 0° – cos θ] = pE (1 – cos θ) ..(ii)

42 Xam idea Physics–XII

 Q. 2. Find an expression for the electric field strength at a distant point situated (i) on the axis and
(ii) along the equatorial line of an electric dipole. [CBSE (AI) 2013; (F) 2015; 2019 (55/5/1)]
OR
Derive an expression for the electric field intensity at a point on the equatorial line of an
electric dipole of dipole moment p and length 2a. What is the direction of this field?
[CBSE South 2016; 2019 (55/1/1)]
Ans. Consider an electric dipole AB. The charges –q and +q of dipole are situated at A and B
respectively as shown in the figure. The separation between the charges is 2a.
Electric dipole moment, p = q.2a
The direction of dipole moment is from –q to +q. 2a

(i) At axial or end-on position: Consider a

point P on the axis of dipole at a distance r a a
from mid-point O of electric dipole.
r–a
The distance of point P from charge +q at
r+a
B is

BP = r – a
and distance of point P from charge –q at A is, AP = r + a.
Let E1 and E2 be the electric field strengths at point P due to charges +q and –q respectively.
We know that the direction of electric field due to a point charge is away from positive charge
and towards the negative charge. Therefore,
1 q 1 q
E1 = (from B to P) and E2 = (from P to A)
4rf0 ^ r – a h 2 4rf0 ^ r + a h2

Clearly the directions of electric field strengths E1 are E2 along the same line but opposite
to each other and E1 > E2 because positive charge is nearer.
∴ The resultant electric field due to electric dipole has magnitude equal to the difference of

E1 and E2 direction from B to P i.e.
1 q 1 q
E = E1 – E2 =
–
4rf0 ^ h 4rf0
^ r + ah
2 2
r–a
q SS ^ r + ah – ^ r – ah WW
RS 2 2V
W
q 1 1
4rf0 > ^ 2H
= – = S W
r – ah ^ r + ah 4rf0 SSS
^ r – ah ^ r + ah WW
2 2 2 W

T X
q 4ra 1 2 ^ q2 a h r
=
=
4rf0
^r – a h
2 2 2 4rf0 2
^r – a h2 2

But q.2 a = p (electric dipole moment)

1 2pr
∴ E= ...(i)
4rf0 ^ 2
r – a2 h
2

If the dipole is infinitely small and point P is far away from the dipole, then r >> a, therefore
equation (i) may be expressed as
1 2pr 1 2p
E= or E = ..(ii)
4rf0 r 4 4rf0 r3
This is the expression for the electric field strength at axial position due to a short electric
dipole.
(ii) At a point of equatorial line: Consider a point P on
broad side on the position of dipole formed of charges

Electric Charges and Fields 43

 +q and –q at separation 2a. The distance of point P
from mid point (O) of electric dipole is r. Let E 1 and
E 2 be the electric field strengths due to charges +q
and – q of electric dipole.
From fig. AP = BP = r2 + a2
1 q
` E1 = along B to P
4rf0 r2 + a2 r
1 q
   E 2 = along P to A
4rf0 r + a2
2
a a
Clearly E 1 and E 2 are equal in magnitude i.e. , a

| E 1 |=| E 2 |or E1= E2

To find the resultant of E 1 and E 2 , we resolve them into rectangular components.
Component of E 1 parallel to AB = E1 cos θ, in the direction to BA
Component of E 1 perpendicular to AB = E1 sin θ along OP
Component of E 2 parallel to AB = E2 cos θ in the direction BA
Component of E 2 perpendicular to AB = E2 sin θ along PO
Clearly, components of E 1 and E 2 perpendicular to AB: E1 sin θ and E2 sin θ being equal
and opposite cancel each other, while the components of E 1 and E 2 parallel to AB : El cosθ
and E2 cos θ, being in the same direction add up and give the resultant electric field whose
direction is parallel to BA .
∴ Resultant electric field at P is E = El cos θ + E2 cos θ
1 q
But E1 = E2 =
4rf0 ^ r + a2 h
2

OB a a
From the figure, cos i = = =
^ r2 + a2 h
PB 2
r +a 2 1/2

1 q a 1 2qa
E = 2E1 cos i = 2× . =
4rf0 ^ r2 + a2h ^ 2 4rf0 ^ 2
r + a2 h r + a2 h
1/2 3/2

But q.2a=p=electric dipole moment ...(iii)

1 p
` E=
4rf0 ^ 2
r + a2 h
3/2

If dipole is infinitesimal and point P is far away, we have a << r, so a2 may be neglected as
compared to r2 and so equation (iii) gives
1 p 1 p
E= =
4rf0 ^ 2 h 3 / 2 4rf0 r3
r
i.e., electric field strength due to a short dipole at broadside on position
1 p
E= in the direction parallel to BA ...(iv)
4rf0 r3
Its direction is parallel to the axis of dipole from positive to negative charge.
It may be noted clearly from equations (ii) and (iv) that electric field strength due to a short dipole
at any point is inversely proportional to the cube of its distance from the dipole and the electric field
strength at axial position is twice that at broad-side on position for the same distance.
Important: Note the important point that the electric field due to a dipole at large distances falls
1 1
off as 3 and not as 2 as in the case of a point charge.
r r

44 Xam idea Physics–XII

 Q. 3. A charge is distributed uniformly over a ring of radius ‘a’. Obtain an expression for the electric
intensity E at a point on the axis of the ring. Hence show that for points at large distances from
the ring, it behaves like a point charge. [CBSE Delhi 2016]
Ans. Consider a point P on the axis of uniformly charged
ring at a distance x from its centre O. Point P is at
distance r = a2 + x2 from each element dl of ring. a

If q is total charge on ring, then, charge per metre

q
length, m = .
2ra
The ring may be supposed to be formed of a large
number of ring elements.
Consider an element of length dl situated at A.
The charge on element, dq = λ dl
∴  The electric field at P due to this element
1 dq 1 m dl
dE 1 = = , along PC
4rf0 r2 4rf0 r2
The electric field strength due to opposite symmetrical element of length dl at B is
1 dq 1 m dl
dE 2 = = , along PD
4rf0 r 2 4rf0 r2

If we resolve dE1 and dE2 along the axis and perpendicular to axis, we note that the components
perpendicular to axis are oppositely directed and so get cancelled, while those along the axis are
added up. Hence, due to symmetry of the ring, the electric field strength is directed along the axis.
The electric field strength due to charge element of length dl, situated at A, along the axis will be
1 m dl
dE = dE1 cos i = cos i
4rf0 r2
x
But, cos i = r
1 m dl x 1 mx
` dE = = dl
4rf0 r3 4rf0 r3
The resultant electric field along the axis will be obtained by adding fields due to all elements of
the ring, i.e.,
1 mx 1 mx
∴ E=y dl= y dl
4rf0 r3 4rf0 r3

But, y dl = whole length of ring = 2πa and r = (a2 + x2)1/2

1 mx
∴ E= 2ra
4rf0 (a2 + x2) 3/2
q
c mx
q 1 2 ra
As, m = , we have E = 2 ra
2ra 4rf0 (a2 + x2) 3/2
1 qx
or, E= , along the axis
4rf0 (a2 + x2) 3/2
1 q
=
At large distances i.e., x >> a, E 4rf0 x2 ,

i.e., the electric field due to a point charge at a distance x.

For points on the axis at distances much larger than the radius of ring, the ring behaves like a
point charge.

Electric Charges and Fields 45

 Q. 4. State and Prove Gauss theorem in electrostatics. [CBSE Ajmer 2015]
Ans. Statement: The net-outward normal electric flux through any closed surface of any shape is equal
to 1/ε0 times the total charge contained within that surface, i.e.,
y E : dS = f1 / q
S 0

where y indicates the surface integral over the whole of the closed surface,
S
dS
/ q is the algebraic sum of all the charges (i.e., net charge in coulombs) enclosed
by surface S and remain unchanged with the size and shape of the surface.
Proof: Let a point charge +q be placed at centre O of a sphere S. Then S is a
Gaussian surface.
Electric field at any point on S is given by
1 q
E=
4rf0 r2
The electric field and area element points radially outwards, so θ = 0°.
Flux through area dS is
dz = E . dS = E dS cos 0° = E dS
Total flux through surface S is
z= y dz = y EdS = E y dS = E × Area of Sphere
S S S
1 q q
z= 4rr2 or, z = f which proves Gauss’s theorem.
4rf0 r2 0

Q. 5. (i) Using Gauss Theorem show mathematically that for any point outside the shell, the field
due to a uniformly charged spherical shell is same as the entire charge on the shell, is
concentrated at the centre. [CBSE 2019 (55/4/1)]
(ii) Why do you expect the electric field inside the shell to be zero according to this theorem?
                OR            [CBSE Allahabad 2015]
A thin conducting spherical shell of radius R has charge Q spread uniformly over its
surface. Using Gauss’s theorem, derive an expression for the electric field at a point
outside the shell. [CBSE Delhi 2009]
Draw a graph of electric field E(r) with distance r from the centre of the shell for 0 ≤ r ≤∞.
OR
Find the electric field intensity due to a uniformly charged spherical shell at a point (i)
outside the shell and (ii) inside the shell. Plot the graph of electric field with distance from
the centre of the shell. [CBSE North 2016; 2020 (55/1/1)]
OR
Using Gauss’s law obtain the expression for the electric field due to a uniformly charged thin
spherical shell of radius R at a point outside the shell. Draw a graph showing the variation of
electric field with r, for r > R and r < R. [CBSE (AI) 2013; 2020 (55/2/1)]
Ans. (i) Electric field intensity at a point outside a uniformly charged thin spherical shell:
Consider a uniformly charged thin spherical shell of radius
R carrying charge Q. To find the electric field outside the
0
shell, we consider a spherical Gaussian surface of radius
r (>R), concentric with given shell. If E0 is electric field
outside the shell, then by symmetry electric field strength has
same magnitude E0 on the Gaussian surface and is directed
radially outward. Also the directions of normal at each point

46 Xam idea Physics–XII

 is radially outward, so angle between E0 and dS is zero at each point. Hence, electric flux

through Gaussian surface. z = y E 0 : dS .

S
z= y E : dS = y E0 dS cos 0 = E0 .4rr2
S S
Now, Gaussian surface is outside the given charged shell, so charge enclosed by Gaussian
surface is Q.
Hence, by Gauss’s theorem
y E 0 : dS = f1 # charged enclosed
S 0

1 1 Q
⇒
E0 4rr2 = f # Q & E0 =
0 4rf0 r2
Thus, electric field outside a charged thin spherical shell is the same as if the whole charge Q
is concentrated at the centre.
If σ is the surface charge density of the spherical shell, then
Q = 4rR2 v coulomb
1 4 rR 2 v R2 v
∴
E0 = =
4rf0 r 2
f0 r 2
(ii) Electric field inside the shell (hollow charged conducting sphere):
The charge resides on the surface of a conductor. Thus a hollow
charged conductor is equivalent to a charged spherical shell. To find
the electric field inside the shell, we consider a spherical Gaussian
surface of radius r (< R) concentric with the given shell. If E is the
electric field inside the shell, then by symmetry electric field strength
has the same magnitude Ei on the Gaussian surface and is directed
radially outward. Also the directions of normal at each point is
radially outward, so angle between E i and dS is zero at each point.
Hence, electric flux through Gaussian surface
= y E i .dS = y Ei dS cos 0 = Ei . 4rr2
S
Now, Gaussian surface is inside the given charged shell, so charge enclosed by Gaussian
surface is zero.
Hence, by Gauss’s theorem
y E i . dS = f1 × charge enclosed
S 0
1

& E i 4rr 2 = f # 0 & E i = 0
0
Thus, electric field at each point inside a charged thin
spherical shell is zero. The graph is shown in fig.
Q. 6. State Gauss theorem in electrostatics. Apply this theorem to obtain the expression for the
electric field at a point due to an infinitely long, thin, uniformly charged straight wire of
linear charge density λ C m–1. [CBSE Delhi 2009; 2020 (55/5/1)]
Ans. Gauss Theorem: Refer to point 12 of Basic Concepts.
Electric field due to infinitely long, thin and uniformly charged straight wire: Consider an
infinitely long line charge having linear charge density λ coulomb metre–1 (linear charge density
means charge per unit length). To find the electric field strength at a distance r, we consider a
cylindrical Gaussian surface of radius r and length l coaxial with line charge. The cylindrical
Gaussian surface may be divided into three parts:
(i) Curved surface S1 (ii) Flat surface S2 and (iii) Flat surface S3.

Electric Charges and Fields 47

 By symmetry, the electric field has the same
magnitude E at each point of curved surface
S1 and is directed radially outward.
We consider small elements of surfaces S1,
S2 and S3 The surface element vector dS1 is
directed along the direction of electric field
(i.e., angle between E and dS1 is zero);
the elements dS2 and dS3 are directed
perpendicular to field vector E (i.e., angle
between dS2 and E is 90° and so also angle between dS3 and E ).
Electric Flux through the cylindrical surface

yS E : dS = yS E : dS1 + yS E : dS2 + yS E : dS3

1 2 3

= yS E dS1 cos 0° + yS E dS2 cos 90° + yS E dS3 cos 90°

1 2 3

= y E dS1 + 0 + 0

= E y dS1 (since electric field E is the same at each point of curved surface)
= E 2rrl (since area of curved surface = 2 π rl)
As λ is charge per unit length and length of cylinder is l therefore, charge enclosed by assumed
surface = (λl)
∴ By Gauss’s theorem
y E : dS = f1 # charge enclosed
0

1 m
⇒ E 2rrl = f (ml) & E=
0 2rf0 r
Thus, the electric field strength due to a line charge is inversely proportional to r.
Q. 7. (a) Define electric flux. Write its SI unit.
(b) Using Gauss’s law, prove that the electric field at a point due to a uniformly charged
infinite plane sheet is independent of the distance from it.
(c) How is the field directed if (i) the sheet is positively charged, (ii) negatively charged?
[CBSE Delhi 2012, Central 2016]
Ans. (a) Electric flux: It is defined as the total number of electric field lines passing through an area
normal to its surface.
Also, z = y E . dS
The SI unit is Nm2/C or volt-metre.
(b) Let electric charge be uniformly
distributed over the surface of a
thin, non-conducting infinite sheet.
Let the surface charge density (i.e.,
charge per unit surface area) be σ.
We need to calculate the electric
field strength at any point distant r
from the sheet of charge.
To calculate the electric field strength near the sheet, we now consider a cylindrical Gaussian
surface bounded by two plane faces A and B lying on the opposite sides and parallel to the
charged sheet and the cylindrical surface perpendicular to the sheet (fig). By symmetry the
electric field strength at every point on the flat surface is the same and its direction is normal

48 Xam idea Physics–XII

 outwards at the points on the two plane surfaces and parallel to the curved surface.
Total electric flux
or yS E . dS = yS E . dS 1 + yS E . dS 2 + yS E . dS 3
1 2 3

yS E . dS = yS E dS1 cos 0° + yS E dS2 cos 0° + yS E dS3 cos 90°

1 2 3

= E y dS1 + E y dS2 = Ea + Ea = 2Ea

∴ Total electric flux = 2Ea
As σ is charge per unit area of sheet and a is the intersecting area, the charge enclosed by
Gaussian surface = σa
According to Gauss’s theorem,
1
Total electric flux = f × (total charge enclosed by the surface)
0
1
2Ea = f ^vah
v

i.e., .
` E=
0 2f 0
Thus electric field strength due to an infinite flat sheet of charge is independent of the
distance of the point.
(c) (i) If σ is positive, E points normally outwards/away from the sheet.
(ii) If σ is negative, E points normally inwards/towards the sheet.
Q. 8. Apply Gauss’s Theorem to find the electric field near a charged conductor.
OR
v
Show that the electric field at the surface of a charged conductor is E = f nt where σ is
0
surface charge density and nt is a unit vector normal to the surface in the outward direction.
[CBSE (AI) 2010]
Ans. Let a charge Q be given to a conductor, this charge
under electrostatic equilibrium will redistribute and the
electric field inside the conductor is zero (i.e., Ein=0).
Let us consider a point P at which electric field
strength is to be calculated, just outside the surface of
the conductor. Let the surface charge density on the
surface of the conductor in the neighbourhood of P be
σ coulomb/metre2 . Now consider a small cylindrical box
CD having one base C passing through P; the other base
D lying inside the conductor and the curved surface being perpendicular to the surface of the
conductor.
Let the area of each flat base be a. As the surface of the conductor is equipotential surface, the
electric field strength E at P, just outside the surface of the conductor is perpendicular to the
surface of the conductor in the neighbourhood of P.
The flux of electric field through the curved surface of the box is zero, since there is no
component of electric field E normal to curved surface. Also the flux of electric field through the
base D is zero, as electric field strength inside the conductor is zero. Therefore the resultant flux
of electric field through the entire surface of the box is same as the flux through the face C. This
may be analytically seen as:
If S1 and S2 are flat surfaces at C and D and S3 is curved surface, then

Total electric flux yS E . dS = yS E . dS 1 + yS E . dS 2 + yS E . dS 3

1 2 3

= yS E dS1 cos 0 + yS 0 . dS 2 + yS E dS3 cos 90°

1 2 3

yS E dS1 = Ea

Electric Charges and Fields 49

 As the charge enclosed by the cylinder is (σa) coulomb, we have, using Gauss’s theorem,
1
Total electric flux = f × charge enclosed
0
1
⇒ Ea = f ^va h
v
or E= f ...(i)
0 0
Thus the electric field strength at any point close to the surface of a charged conductor of any
shape is equal to 1/ε0 times the surface charge density σ. This is known as Coulomb’s law. The
electric field strength is directed radially away from the conductor if σ is positive and towards
the conductor if σ is negative.
If nt is unit vector normal to surface in outward direction, then
v
E = f nt
0

Obviously electric field strength near a plane conductor is twice of the electric field strength near a
non-conducting thin sheet of charge.
Q. 9. Consider a system of n charges q1, q2, ... qn with position vectors r1, r2, r3, ..., rn relative to some
origin ‘O’. Deduce the expression for the net electric field E at a point P with position vector
rp , due to this system of charges.
Ans. Electric field due to a system of point charges.
Consider a system of N point charges q1, q2, ..., qn,
having position vectors r1, r2, ..., rn with respect to
origin O. We wish to determine the electric field at
point P whose position vector is r . According to
Coulomb’s law, the force on charge q0 due to charge
q1 is
1 q1 q0
F1 =
4rf0 r 2 r1P
t
2p

where rt1P is a unit vector in the direction from q1 to P and r1P is the distance between q1 and P.
Hence the electric field at point P due to charge q1 is
F1 1 q1
E1 = = rt
q0 4rf0 r1P2 1P
Similarly, electric field at P due to charge q2 is

1 q2
E2 =
4rf0 r 2 r 2P
t
2P
According to the principle of superposition of electric fields, the electric field at any point due to
a group of point charges is equal to the vector sum of the electric fields produced by each charge
individually at that point, when all other charges are assumed to be absent.
Hence, the electric field at point P due to the system of n charges is

E = E1 + E 2 + … + E n
q1 q2 qn n q
= 2 rt1P + 2 rt 2P + ... + 2 rt nPG =
1 1
    = / 2i rt iP
4rf0 r1P r2P rnP 4rf0 i = 1 riP

50 Xam idea Physics–XII