’ Chapter 1

™ Electric Charges and

Fields

 Weightage for CBSE Board 2024

Unit I and II Combined À Chapter 1

Weightage is À Chapter 2
16 Marks À Chapter 3

It’s not fixed which chapters will

have more weightage, but overall weightage
will be 16 Marks. It may vary too in your
question paper.
` Syllabus
Electric charges, Conservation of charge,
Coulomb’s law-force between two- point charges,
forces between multiple charges; superposition
principle and continuous charge distribution.
Electric field, electric field due to a point charge,
electric field lines, electric dipole, electric field
due to a dipole, torque on a dipole in uniform
electric field.
Electric flux, statement of Gauss’s theorem and
its applications to find field due to infinitely long
straight wire, uniformly charged infinite plane
sheet and uniformly charged thin spherical shell
(field inside and outside).
§ 2024 SQP
š Question 1
An electric dipole placed in an electric field of
5
intensity 2 × 10 N/C at an angle of 30°
experiences a torque equal to 4Nm. The charge
on the dipole of dipole length 2 cm is

(a) 7 𝜇 C (c) 2 mC
(b) 8 mC (d) 5 mC

A Solution ¥ 1 Marks
𝜏
𝑞= [𝜏 = 𝑞𝐸 × 2𝑎 sin 𝜃]
2𝑎 𝐸 sin 𝜃
4
=
2 × 10−2 × 2 × 105 sin 30◦
−3
= 2 × 10 C = 2 mC

This type of same question was asked in 2023

question paper 55/5/1
§ 2023 55(B) Compart
š Question 2
The electric flux through a Gaussian spherical
surface enclosing a point charge 𝑞 is 𝜙. If the
charge is replaced by an electric dipole,
magnitude of its dipole moment being 2𝑞𝑎, the
flux through the surface will be :
𝜙
(a) 2𝜙 (b) 𝜙 (c) (d) Zero
2
A Answer ¥ 1 Marks
Zero

š Question 3
9
10 electrons are transferred to a pith ball with
charge 0 · 16nC. Its charge now is :
−10
(a) Zero (b) −3 · 2 × 10 C
−9 −10
(c) −1.6 × 10 C (d) 3 · 2 × 10 C
A Answer ¥ 1 Marks
Zero
š Question 4
Assertion (A) : The electrostatic field E is a
conservative field.
Reason (R) : Line integral of electric field E
around a closed path is non zero.
(a) Both Assertion (A) and Reason (R) are true
and Reason (R) is the correct explanation of
the Assertion (A).
(b) Both Assertion (A) and Reason (R) are true,
but Reason (R) is not the correct explanation
of the Assertion (A).
(c) Assertion (A) is true, but Reason (R) is false.
(d) Assertion (A) is false and Reason (R) is also
false.
A Answer ¥ 1 Marks
Assertion (A) is true, but Reason (R) is false.

š Question 5 [OR Section]

(i) Why do we use a small test charge to measure
an electric field ?
(ii) A small stationary positively charged particle
is free to move in an electric field. In which
direction will it begin to move ?
(iii) Two point charges 𝑄1 ( 40 𝜇𝐶) and 𝑄2 (−16 𝜇𝐶)
are placed along 𝑥−axis at 0 cm and 24 cm
from the origin respectively. Calculate the net
force on a third charge 𝑄3 (−2.5 𝜇𝐶) placed at
𝑥 = 36cm from the origin.
A Answer ¥ 5 Marks
(i) So that it does not disturb the distribution of
charges whose electric field is to be
measured. Otherwise field will be different
from the actual field.
(ii) It will move in the direction of electric field.
𝑘𝑄2𝑄3 𝑘𝑄1𝑄3
(iii) F = F2 − F1 = 2
− 2
𝑟23 𝑟13
9 −12
9 × 10 × 16 × 2.5 × 10
𝐹= 2
−
( 12 × 10 )
− 2
9 −12
9 × 10 × 40 × 2.5 × 10
2 2
( 36 × 10 )
−

9 −12 16 × 2.5 40 × 2.5

𝐹 = ( 9 × 10 × 10 ) 2
− 2
( 12 × −2
10 ) ( 36 × 10 )
− 2

𝐹 = 25 − 6.94
𝐹 = 18.06 N
§ 2023 55/C Compart
š Question 6
When a negative charge (−𝑄) is brought near
one face of a metal cube, the
(a) cube becomes positively charged
(b) cube becomes negatively charged
(c) face near the charge becomes positively
charged and the opposite face becomes
negatively charged
(d) face near the charge becomes negatively
charged and the opposite face becomes
positively charged

A Answer ¥ Set 2, 1 Marks

Face near the charge becomes positively charged
and the opposite face becomes negatively
charged
š Question 7
An electric dipole with dipole moment
𝑃® = 𝑃0𝑖ˆ − 𝑃0 𝑗ˆ is placed in an electric field
𝐸® = 𝐸1𝑖ˆ + 𝐸2 𝑗ˆ, where 𝑃0, 𝐸1 and 𝐸2 are constants.
The torque 𝜏® acting on the dipole is :
(a) 𝑃0 (𝐸2 − 𝐸1) 𝑘ˆ
(b) 𝑃0 (𝐸2 + 𝐸1) 𝑘ˆ
(c) −𝑃0 (𝐸2 + 𝐸1) 𝑘ˆ
(d) 𝑃0 (𝐸1 − 𝐸2) 𝑘ˆ
A Answer ¥ Set 3, 1 Marks
𝑃0 (𝐸2 + 𝐸1) 𝑘ˆ is the torque acting on the dipole

š Question 8
The inward and the outward electric flux
through a Gaussian surface are 2𝜙 and 𝜙
respectively.
(a) What is the net charge enclosed by the
surface ?
(b) If the net outward flux through the surface
were zero, can it be concluded that there
were no charges inside the surface ? Justify
your answer.
A Answer ¥ 2 Marks
(a) We know that, electric flux or electric field
lines entering in a closed surface ( 2𝜙) is −ve
and electric flux or electric field lines leaving
a closed surface (𝜙) is +ve.
Hence, net electric flux enclosed by the
surface, Φ = −2𝜙 + 𝜙
Now, according to Gauss theorem,
𝑞
Φ= Therefore, 𝑞 = Φ𝜖0
𝜖0
𝑞 = (−2𝜙 + 𝜙) 𝜖0 = −𝜙 𝜖0
(b) No. Net flux piercing out through a body
depends on the net charge contained in the
body. If net flux is zero, then it can be said
that net charge inside the body is zero. The
body may have equal amount of positive and
negative charges.

š Question 9
A sphere 𝑆1 of radius 𝑟1 enclosing a charge 𝑄1 is
surrounded by another concentric sphere 𝑆2 of
radius 𝑟2 (𝑟2 > 𝑟1) . If there is a charge −𝑄2 in the
space between 𝑆1 and 𝑆2, find the ratio of electric
flux through 𝑆1 and 𝑆2.
A Answer ¥ Set 2, 2 Marks
 𝑄 𝑄1 − 𝑄2
Φ1 = Φ2 =
𝜀𝑜 𝜀𝑜
Φ1 𝑄1
=
Φ 2 𝑄1 − 𝑄2
š Question 10
A uniform
 electric
 field is represented as
𝑁
®
𝐸 = 3 × 103
𝑖ˆ. Find the electric flux of this
𝐶
field through a square of side 10 cm when the :
(a) plane of the square is parallel to 𝑦 − 𝑧 plane,
and
(b) the normal to plane of the square makes an
angle of 60 with the 𝑥−axis.
◦

A Answer ¥ Set 3, 2 Marks

(a) Φ = 𝐸® · 𝐴𝑖ˆ = 𝐸𝐴
3 −4 −1 2
= 3 × 10 × 100 × 10 = 30 NC m

(b) Φ = 𝐸𝐴 cos 60 ◦
−1 2
= 15NC m
§ 2023 55/1/1 All Sets
š Question 11
A point charge situated at a distance 𝑟 from a
short electric dipole on its axis, experiences a
force 𝐹®. If the distance of the charge is 2𝑟 , the
force on the charge will be
®
F ®
F ®
F ®
F
(a) (b) (c) (d)
16 8 4 2
A Answer ¥ 1 Marks
Let charge q is placed at the distance r from the
dipole. Electric field due to the dipole at an axial
point is
1 2p
E= 3
4𝜋𝜀0 r
Force on a charge q placed at distance 𝑟 is
1 2pq
F = qE = 3
4𝜋𝜀0 r
If we doubled the distance
1 2pq
F =
′
3
4𝜋𝜀0 ( 2r)
" #
1 2pq 1 ®
F
 
′
F = ∴
4𝜋𝜀0 r3 8 8
 š Question 12
(i) State Coulomb’s law in electrostatics and write
it in vector form, for two charges.
(ii) Gauss’s law is based on the inverse-square
dependence on distance contained in the
Coulomb’s law. Explain.
(iii) Two charges 𝐴 (charge 𝑞) and 𝐵 (charge 2𝑞)
are located at points ( 0, 0) and (a, a)
respectively. Let 𝑖ˆ and 𝑗ˆ be the unit vectors
along 𝑥−axis and 𝑦−axis respectively. Find the
force exerted by 𝐴 on 𝐵, in terms of 𝑖ˆ and 𝑗ˆ.

A Answer ¥ 5 Marks
(i) Force between two point charges varies
inversely with the square of distance between
the charges and is directly proportional to the
product of magnitude of the two charges and
acts along the line joining the two charges.
−→ 1 𝑞1𝑞2 − →
𝐹12 = 3
𝑟12
4𝜋 ∈𝑜 𝑟12
−
→
Where 𝑟12 is a vector from charge 𝑞2 to charge
𝑞1 .
(ii) In derivation of Gauss’s law, flux is calculated
using Coulomb’s law and surface area. Here
1
coulomb’s law involves 2 factor and surface
2
𝑟
area involves 𝑟 factor. When product is
taken, the two factors cancel out and flux
becomes independent of 𝑟 .
−−→
(iii) 𝑟® = 𝐴𝐵 = 𝑎b 𝑖 + 𝑎b𝑗
−−→ √ 2 2
√
r = | 𝐴𝐵| = 𝑎 + 𝑎 = 2𝑎
1 𝑞1𝑞2
𝐹® = 2
ˆ
𝑟
4𝜋 ∈ 𝑜 𝑟

1 𝑞 × 2𝑞 (𝑎b 𝑖 + 𝑎 𝑗)
b
𝐹® = × √ × √
4𝜋𝜖𝑜 ( 2𝑎) 2 2𝑎
2
1 2𝑞 (b𝑖 + 𝑗)
b
𝐹® = × 2× √
4𝜋𝜖𝑜 2𝑎 2
 2
1 𝑞
𝐹® = ×√ × (b
𝑖+b
𝑗)
4𝜋𝜖𝑜 2𝑎 2

2
𝑞
𝐹® = √ (b
𝑖+b
𝑗)
4 2𝜋𝜖𝑜 𝑎2
2
1 𝑞
| 𝐹® | = 2
4𝜋 ∈ 𝑜 𝑎

š OR
(i) Derive an expression for the electric field at a
point on the equatorial plane of an electric
dipole consisting of charges 𝑞 and −𝑞
separated by a distance 2a.
(ii) The distance of a far off point on the
equatorial plane of an electric dipole is
halved. How will the electric field be affected
for the dipole?
(iii) Two identical electric dipoles are placed
along
√ the diagonals of a square ABCD of side
2 m as shown in the figure. Obtain the
magnitude and direction of the net electric
field at the centre ( O) of the square.
A Answer ¥ 5 Marks
(i) The magnitudes of the electric fields due to
the two charges +𝑞 and −𝑞 are given by
 𝑞 1
E+𝑞 = × 2
4𝜋𝜖𝑜 𝑟 + 𝑎2
𝑞 1
E−𝑞 = × 2 2
4𝜋𝜖𝑜 𝑟 + 𝑎
The components normal to dipole axis cancel
away. The components along the dipole axis add
up.
Total electric field is opposite to dipole moment.
𝐸® = − 𝐸+𝑞 + 𝐸−𝑞 cos 𝜃 b


𝑝
−2𝑞𝑎
= 3/2
𝑝
b
2
4𝜋 ∈0 (𝑟 + 𝑎 ) 2

− 𝑝®
=
2
4𝜋 ∈0 (𝑟 + 𝑎 ) 2 3/2

(ii) At far off point 𝑟 ≫ 𝑎

− ®
𝑝
𝐸® = 3
4𝜋 ∈𝑜 𝑟
When distance is halved.
− 𝑝® − 8 𝑝®
𝐸® = 𝑟 3 = 3
4𝜋 ∈ 𝑜 𝑟
4𝜋 ∈𝑜
2
𝐸® becomes 8 times
(iii)
𝑝1 = 𝑞 × 2𝐶𝑚 (along OA)
𝑝2 = 𝑞 × 2𝐶𝑚 (along OD)
√︃
2
√
𝑝net = 𝑝1 + 𝑝22 = 2 2𝑞𝐶𝑚
Electric field at centre O
𝑘𝑝𝑛𝑒𝑡
𝐸=
2
(𝑟 + 𝑎 ) 2 3/2

at point O, r = 0, a = 1 m
√
𝑘 × 2 2𝑞 √
𝐸= 3
= 2 2 𝑘𝑞
1
√
2 2𝑞
= Along DC
4𝜋𝜖𝑜
Alternatively
 𝑘𝑞
𝐸= 2
𝑟
AC = BD = 2 m
r = OA = OB = OC = OD = 1 m
Electric field at O due to charges at B and D
𝑘𝑞 𝑘𝑞
E1 = EB + ED = 2
+ 2
1 1
= 2𝑘𝑞 along OB
Electric field at O due to charges at A and C
E2 = EA + EC
𝑘𝑞 𝑘𝑞
E2 = + = 2 𝑘𝑞 along OC
12 12
√︃
2 2
Enet = 𝐸1 + 𝐸2
√
√ 2 2𝑞
= 2 2kq = Along DC
4𝜋𝜖𝑜
Alternatively

Considering AB as dipole, electric field at O

2𝑘𝑞 × 𝑎 2𝑘𝑞𝑎
E1 = 3/ 2
= 3/2
 2  2 1 1
!  
1 1 +
√ + √ 2 2
2 2
= 2𝑘𝑞𝑎
Similarly considering DC as another dipole,
electric field at O
2𝑘𝑞 × 𝑎 2𝑘𝑞𝑎
E2 = 3/ 2
= 3/2
 2  2 1 1
!  
1 1 +
√ + √ 2 2
2 2
= 2𝑘𝑞𝑎
Enet = E1 + E2 = 4kqa
 1 1
= ×4×√ ×𝑞
4𝜋𝜖𝑜 2
√
√ 2 2𝑞
= 2 2kq = Along DC
4𝜋𝜖𝑜
§ 2023 55/2/1 All Sets
š Question 13
The magnitude of the electric field due to a point
charge object at a distance of 4.0 m is 9 N/C.
From the same charged object the electric field
of magnitude, 16 N/C will be at a distance of
(a) 1 m (b) 2 m (c) 3 m (d) 6 m
A Answer ¥ 1 Marks
As per given in your NCERT Book,
(Topic: Coulomb’s Law)
1 9
𝑘= = 9 × 10
4𝜋𝜖𝑜
9
9 × 10 × 𝑞


𝑘𝑞
𝐸1 = 2 ∴ ⇒9= 2
𝑟1 4
( 9 × 16) −9
𝑞= = 16 × 10
( 9 × 109)
For electric field 16 N/C
𝑘𝑞
𝐸2 = 2
𝑟2
9 −9
9 × 10 × 16 × 10


16 = 2
𝑟
2
 2
𝑟 =9
2
⇒ 𝑟2 = 3 m

š Question 14
An isolated point charge particle produces an
® at a point 3 m away from it. The
electric field E
® /4)
distance of the point at which the field is ( E
will be
(a) 2 m (b) 3 m (c) 4 m (d) 6 m
A Answer ¥ Set 2, 1 Mark
The electric field E produced by a point charge at
a distance 𝑟 from it is given by the equation:
𝑘𝑄
𝐸= 2
𝑟
Where 𝑘 is Coulomb’s constant and 𝑄 is the
charge on the particle.
Let the distance of the point where the electric
𝐸
field is be 𝑥 metres away from the particle.
4
So, the electric field at this point can be
calculated as:
𝐸 𝑘𝑄
= 2
4 𝑥
Also, we know that the electric field at a point 3
metres away from the particle is E. So we can
write:
𝑘𝑄
𝐸= 2
3
Equating these two equations, we get:

𝑘𝑄 𝑘𝑄
2
= 2
𝑥 3 ×4
By solving, we get:
2 2
⇒ 𝑥 = 3 × 4 = 36
⇒ 𝑥 = 6m

š Question 15
Assertion (A) : Work done in moving a charge
around a closed path, in an electric field is
always zero.
Reason (R) : Electrostatic force is a conservative
force.
(a) Both Assertion (A) and Reason (R) are true
and Reason (R) is the correct explanation of
the Assertion (A).
(b) Both Assertion (A) and Reason (R) are true,
but Reason (R) is not the correct explanation
of the Assertion (A).
 (c) Assertion (A) is true, but Reason (R) is false.
(d) Assertion (A) is false and Reason (R) is also
false.
A Answer ¥ 1 Marks
Both Assertion (A) and Reason (R) are true and
Reason (R) is the correct explanation of
Assertion(A).

š Question 16
(i) Use Gauss’ law to obtain an expression for the
electric field due to an infinitely long thin
straight wire with uniform linear charge
density 𝜆 .
(ii) An infinitely long positively charged straight
wire has a linear charge density 𝜆 . An
electron is revolving in a circle with a
constant speed 𝑣 such that the wire passes
through the centre, and is perpendicular to
the plane, of the circle. Find the kinetic
energy of the electron in terms of magnitudes
of its charge and linear charge density 𝜆 on
the wire.
(iii) Draw a graph of kinetic energy as a function
of linear charge density 𝜆 .
A Answer ¥ 5 Marks
(i) Flux through the Gaussian Surface is equal to
flux through the curved cylindrical part
= E × 2𝜋𝑟𝑙

The surface charge equal to 𝜆𝑙

Δ𝑄
where, 𝜆 = = linear charge density
Δ𝑙
According to Gauss’s law
𝑞 𝜆𝑙
𝐸 × 2𝜋𝑟𝑙 = =
𝜖0 𝜖0
 𝜆
𝐸=
2𝜋𝜖0𝑟
𝜆
(ii) As 𝐸 =
2𝜋𝜖0𝑟

The revolving electron experiences an

electrostatic force and provides necessarily
centripetal force.
2
𝑚𝑣
⇒ = 𝑒𝐸
𝑟
1 2
∴ Kinetic energy 𝐾 = 𝑚𝑣
2
By Substituting:
1 2
1 𝜆𝑟 1 𝑒𝜆
= 𝑚𝑣 = 𝑒𝐸𝑟 = 𝑒 =
2 2 2 2𝜋𝜖0𝑟 4𝜋𝜖0

This Question was repeated in 2019 (B), 2013

 𝑒𝜆
(iii) Kinetic energy 𝐾 =
4𝜋𝜖0
∴𝐾∝𝜆

This Question was repeated in 2013

§ 2023 55/3/1 All Sets
š Question 17
−16
An electron experiences a force 1.6 × 10 N î


→
− →
−
in an electric field E . The electric field E is
N N
   
3 3
(a) 1.0 × 10 î (b) − 1.0 × 10 î
C C
N N
   
−3 −3
(c) 1 · 0 × 10 î (d) − 1.0 × 10 î
C C
A Answer ¥ 1 Marks
N
 
3
(b) − 1.0 × 10 î is the correct option.
C
−16
1.6 × 10 N î


𝐹® = 𝑞𝐸® 𝐸® = 19
1.6 × 10− C

š Question 18
An infinitely long uniformly charged wire
4 −1
produces an electric field of 18 × 10 NC at a
distance of 1.0 cm. The linear charge density on
the wire is
−14 −1 −15 −1
(a) 1.12 × 10 Cm (b) 3.08 × 10 Cm
−9 −1 −7 −1
(c) 1.0 × 10 Cm (d) 1.0 × 10 Cm
 A Answer ¥ 1 Marks
−7 −1
(d) 1.0 × 10 Cm is correct

š Question 19
(i) Define electric flux and write its SI unit.
(ii) Use Gauss’ law to obtain the expression for
the electric field due to a uniformly charged
infinite plane sheet.
(iii) A cube of side L is kept in space, as shown in
→− N
the figure. An electric field E = ( A𝑥 + B) î
C
exists in the region. Find the net charge
enclosed by the cube.

A Answer ¥ 5 Marks
(i) Electric flux is the number of electric field
lines passing through an area normally.
𝜙 = 𝐸® · 𝐴®
 2
S.I. unit of electric flux Nm /C or V-m.
(ii) From
∫ Gauss’s law:
−
→ 𝑞
𝜙= 𝐸® · 𝑑 𝐴 =
𝜀𝑜
𝜎𝐴 𝜎
2𝐸𝐴 = 𝐸=
𝜀𝑜 2𝜀 𝑜
2
(iii) 𝜙𝐿 = 𝐸 Δ𝑆 cos 180 = −𝐸 Δ𝑆 = −𝐵𝐿
◦

𝜙𝑅 = 𝐸 Δ𝑆 cos 0 = 𝐸 Δ𝑆
◦
2 3 2
= (𝐴𝐿 + 𝐵)𝐿 = 𝐴𝐿 + 𝐵𝐿
3 2 2
Net flux = 𝜙𝐿 + 𝜙𝑅 = 𝐴𝐿 + 𝐵𝐿


− 𝐵𝐿
3
𝑞
Net flux = 𝐴𝐿 =
𝜖𝑜
3
Net charge enclosed by the cube is 𝑞 = 𝐴𝐿 𝜖0
§ 2023 55/4/1 All Sets
š Question 20
Two charges 𝑞1 and 𝑞2 are placed at the centres
of two spherical conducting shells of radius 𝑟1
and 𝑟2 respectively. The shells are arranged such
that their centres are 𝑑 [> (𝑟1 + 𝑟2)] distance
apart. The force on 𝑞2 due to 𝑞1 is :
1 q1q2 1 q1q2
(a) 2
(b) 2
4𝜋𝜀0 d 4𝜋𝜀0 ( d − r1)
1 𝑞1 𝑞2
(c) Zero (d) 2
4𝜋𝜀0 [𝑑 − (𝑟1 + 𝑟2)]
A Answer ¥ 1 Marks
(c) Zero is the correct option

š Question 21
A point charge 𝑞 is kept at a distance 𝑟 from an
infinitely long straight wire with charge density
𝜆 . The magnitude of the electrostatic force
experienced by charge 𝑞 is :
𝑞𝜆 𝑞𝜆 𝑞𝜆
(a) Zero (b) (c) (d)
2𝜋𝜀0𝑟 4𝜋𝜀0𝑟 𝜀0𝑟
A Answer ¥ Set 2, 1 Marks
𝑞𝜆
(b) is the correct option.
2𝜋𝜀0𝑟

š Question 22
A particle of mass 𝑚 and charge −𝑞 is moving
with a uniform speed 𝑣 in a circle of radius 𝑟 ,
with another charge 𝑞 at the centre of the circle.
The value of r is
1  q  1  q 2

(a) (b)
4𝜋𝜀0 m v 4𝜋𝜀0 m v
m q   m q 2
 
(c) (d)
4𝜋𝜀0 v 4𝜋𝜀0 v
A Answer ¥ Set 3, 1 Marks
1 q 2
(b) is the correct option
4𝜋𝜀0 m v

š Question 23
Two identical dipoles are arranged in x-y plane
as shown in the figure. Find the magnitude and
the direction of net electric field at the origin O.
A Answer ¥ 2 Marks
 →
−
Dipole moment due to dipole BA is 𝑝1 and dipole
moment due to dipole DC is 𝑝2.
→
−
→−
Electric field 𝐸®1 due to 𝑝1 is along OB.
→
− →−
Electric field 𝐸2 due to 𝑝2 is along OD.
Magnitude of resultant Electric field
−−→ √
𝐸𝑛𝑒𝑡 = 2 2𝐸
→
− →
− 1 𝑞
Since 𝐸1 = 𝐸2 = 𝐸 = · 2
√ 4𝜋𝜖0 𝑎
1 2 2𝑞
𝐸®𝑛𝑒𝑡 = · 2
4𝜋𝜖0 𝑎
Direction of 𝐸®𝑛𝑒𝑡 is 225° to 𝑥− axis.
Alternatively:
Considering CB as dipole, electric field at O
 √
2𝑘𝑞 × (𝑎/ 2)
𝐸1 = "
 2   2 3/2
#
𝑎 𝑎
√ + √
2 2
√
2𝑘𝑞 × 𝑎
𝐸1 =   3/2
3
1 1
𝑎 +
2 2
√
2𝑘𝑞
𝐸1 = 2
𝑎
Similarly considering AD as another dipole,
electric field at O
√
2𝑘𝑞 × (𝑎/ 2)
𝐸2 = "
 2   2 3/2
#
𝑎 𝑎
√ + √
2 2
√
2𝑘𝑞 × 𝑎
𝐸2 =   3/2
3
1 1
𝑎 +
2 2
√
2𝑘𝑞
𝐸2 = 2
𝑎 √ √ √
2𝑘𝑞 2𝑘𝑞 2 2𝑘𝑞
𝐸net = 𝐸1 + 𝐸2 = 2
+ 2
= 2
𝑎 𝑎 𝑎
Direction of 𝐸®𝑛𝑒𝑡 is 225° to 𝑥− axis.
š Question 24
Use Gauss’s law to obtain the expression for
electric field due to uniformly charged infinite
plane thin sheet.
A Answer ¥ Set 2, 2 Marks

Net flux through the Gaussian surface𝜙 = 2𝐸𝐴

𝑞
By Gauss Law 𝜙 =
𝜖0
𝑞
= 2𝐸𝐴 where, 𝑞 = 𝜎𝐴
𝜖0
𝜎𝐴
= 2𝐸𝐴
𝜖0
𝜎 𝜎
= 2𝐸 ⇒ 𝐸 =
𝜖0 2 𝜖0
 š Question 25
Use Gauss’s law to obtain the expression for
electric field due to a thin infinitely long straight
uniformly charged wire.
A Answer ¥ Set 3, 2 Marks

Flux through the Gaussian surface

= flux through the curved cylindrical part of the
surface
= 𝐸 × 2𝜋𝑟𝑙
The surface includes charges equal to 𝜆𝑙 ,
𝜆𝑙
Gauss law then gives 𝐸 × 2𝜋𝑟𝑙 =
𝜖0
𝜆
𝐸=
2𝜋𝜖0𝑟
§ 2023 55/5/1 All Sets
š Question 26
An electric dipole of length 2 cm is placed at an
5
angle of 30 with an electric field 2 × 10 N/C. If
◦
−3
the dipole experiences a torque of 8 × 10 Nm,
the magnitude of either charge of the dipole, is
(a) 4 𝜇 C (b) 7 𝜇 C (c) 8mC (d) 2mC
A Answer ¥ 1 Marks
𝜏
𝜏 = 𝑝𝐸 sin 𝜃 𝑝= 𝑝=𝑞×𝑑
𝐸 sin 𝜃
−3
8 × 10 −8
𝑝= = 8 × 10
5
1
2× 10 ×
2
−2
𝑑 = 2 cm = 2 × 10 m
Therefore,
−8
𝑝 8 × 10
𝑞= = 2
= 4 𝜇 C
𝑑 2 × 10−
 š Question 27
A charge 𝑄 is placed at the centre of a cube. The
electric flux through one of its face is
𝑄 𝑄 𝑄 𝑄
(a) (b) (c) (d)
𝜀0 6𝜀0 8𝜀0 3𝜀0
A Answer ¥ Set 2, 1 Marks
As the charge at the center of the cube, the flux
through each surface is same.
𝑄 𝑄
Using Gauss’s law, 6𝜙 = ⇒𝜙=
𝜀0 6𝜀 0
š Question 28
→
−
An electric dipole of dipole moment ( p ) is kept
→
−
in a uniform electric field E Show graphically
the variation of torque acting on the dipole (𝜏)
with its orientation (𝜃) in the field. Find the
orientation in which torque is
(i) zero (ii) maximum.
A Answer ¥ Set 2, 2 Marks
(i) Torque is zero for orientation corresponding
to 𝜃 = 0 and 𝜃 = 180
◦ ◦

(ii) Torque is maximum for orientation

𝜋 3𝜋
corresponding to 𝜃 = and 𝜃 =
2 2
§ 2023 55(B)
š Question 29
−12
The charge on a body is 8 × 10 C. It means that
the body has :
−12
(a) lost 8 × 10 electrons
10
(b) gained 4 × 10 electrons
8
(c) gained 2 × 10 electrons
7
(d) lost 5 × 10 electrons
A Answer ¥ 1 Marks
7
(d) lost 5 × 10 electrons is the correct option.

š Question 30
(i) What is an electric dipole ? Derive an
expression for the torque acting on an electric
dipole in a uniform electric field.
(ii) An electric dipole with dipole moment
−9
6 × 10 C−m is aligned at an angle of 30° with
the direction of a uniform electric field of
4 −1
magnitude 4 × 10 NC . Calculate magnitude
of the torque acting on the electric dipole.

A Answer ¥ 5 Marks
 (i) Electric Dipole:-
An arrangement of two equal and opposite
charges separated by a small distance. Consider
an electric dipole of charges ±𝑞 and length 2𝑙
kept in a uniform electric field E. The dipole
makes an angle 𝜃 with the uniform electric field.
Forces on two charges due to uniform electric
field, 𝑞𝐸 and −𝑞𝐸 are in opposite directions. The
distance between the line of action of two force
is 2𝑙 sin 𝜃. Torque due to the couple
𝜏 = force × perpendicular distance between the
two force
𝜏 = 𝑞𝐸( 2𝑙 sin 𝜃)
𝜏 = = 𝑞( 2𝑙) · 𝐸 sin 𝜃 = 𝑝𝐸 sin 𝜃
(ii) Magnitude of the torque on the electric dipole
𝜏 = 𝑝𝐸 sin 𝜃
−9 4
𝜏 = 6 × 10 × 4 × 10 × sin 30 ◦
−4
𝜏 = 1.2 × 10 Nm
š OR
(a) State Gauss’s Law in electrostatics. Using it,
derive an expression for the electric field due
to a uniformly charged thin spherical shell of
radius R at a point
 (i) outside, and (ii) inside the shell.
(b) A point charge of 4 𝜇 C is at the centre of a
cubic Gaussian surface, 1 m on edge. Find the
electric flux through one of the faces of the
Gaussian surface.

A Answer ¥ 5 Marks
(a) Gauss’s law in electrostatics states that net
electric flux linked with a closed surface
equals 1/𝜖𝑜 times the charge enclosed by the
surface.
Consider a conducting spherical shell of radius
𝑅, charge given to it is 𝑞.

(i) For point P outside the shell construct a

concentric sphere(Gaussian surface) of
radius𝑟(𝑟 > 𝑅)
Electric flux linked with the Gaussian sphere
2
𝜙𝐸 = 𝐸 · 4𝜋𝑟
Charge enclosed by the Gaussian spherical
surface = 𝑞
According to Gauss’s Law
𝑞
𝜙𝐸 =
𝜀𝑜
 2
𝑞
𝐸 · 4𝜋𝑟 =
𝜀𝑜
𝑞
𝐸= 2
4𝜋𝜀𝑜𝑟
(ii) For a point inside the shell Charge enclosed by
the Gaussian spherical surface of radius
𝑟 (𝑟 < 𝑅) = 0
′ ′

′2 𝑞𝑖𝑛
∴ 𝐸 · 4𝜋𝑟 = =0
𝜀𝑜
𝐸=0
(b) Net electric flux linked with the cube
′ 𝑞
𝜙E(net) =
𝜀𝑜
Electric flux linked with one face
′ 𝜙E(net) 𝑞
𝜙𝐸 = =
𝜀𝑜 6𝜀 𝑜
−6
′ 4 × 10 4 2 −1
𝜙𝐸 = = 7.5 × 10 Nm C
6 × 8.854 × 10−12
Question is asked to find the electric flux
through one of the faces of the Gaussian
surface not the net electric flux through the
surface.
That’s why flux has been divided by 6
š Question 31
After centuries of efforts, careful studies,
experiments and analysis by different scientists,
it was concluded that there are two kinds of
entities called the electric charge. The property
which differentiates the two kinds is called the
polarity of charge. The two kinds of charges
were named as positive (+) and negative (−) by
American scientist Benjamin Franklin.
A small sphere S1 with charge 8𝑞 is 1.6 m away
from another identical sphere S2 with charge
+2𝑞. The two spheres are brought in contact
with each other and then separated by a
distance 1.6 m. Initially the force between the
−4
two spheres was 8.1 × 10 N. Based on the above
facts, answer the following questions :

(i) Which sphere will transfer the electrons to the

other sphere after they were brought in
contact ?
A Answer ¥ 1 Marks
Electrons will be transferred from sphere S1 to
sphere S2 when brought in contact.
(ii) How does the net electric field at the midpoint
on the line joining the two spheres change
after contact ?

A Answer ¥ 1 Marks
Net electric field changes from non zero to zero
at the midpoint of line joining the centres of the
two spheres.

(iii) What was initial charge on spheres S1 and S2 ?

A Answer ¥ 2 Marks
1 𝑞1 𝑞2
= 𝐹
4𝜋𝜀0 𝑟 2
9 ( 8𝑞)( 2𝑞) −4
9 × 10 × = 8.1 × 10 N
1.6 × 1.6
−4
2 8.1 × 1.6 × 1.6 × 10
16𝑞 = 9
9 × 10
−4
2 8 . 1 × 1 . 6 × 1 . 6 × 10
𝑞 = 9
9 × 10 × 16
2 −16 −8
𝑞 = 9 × 16 × 10 ∴ 𝑞 = 12 × 10 C
−8
Charge on S1 = −8𝑞 = −96 × 10 C
−8
Charge on S2 = 2𝑞 = 24 × 10 C
OR
(iii) What is the charge on spheres S1 and S2 after
contact ?

A Answer ¥ 2 Marks
Charges on S1 and S2 after were brought in
contact −3𝑞 and −3𝑞
§ 2022 Term I 55/2
š Question 32
A negatively charged object X is repelled by
another charged object Y. However an object Z is
attracted to object Y. Which of the following is
the most possibility for the object Z?
(a) positively charged only
(b) negatively charged only
(c) neutral or positively charged
(d) neutral or negatively charged
A Answer ¥ 1 Marks
(c) neutral or positively charged

Explanation

▲ X is negatively charged. Since it is repelled by

Y, Y is also negatively charged.
▲ Now, if Z is neutral or positively charged then
it will be attracted by Y.

š Question 33
In an experiment three microscopic latex
spheres are spread into a chamber and became
charged with charges +3e,+5e and –3e
respectively. All the three spheres came in
contact simultaneously for a moment and got
separated. Which one of the following are
possible values for the final charge on the
spheres?
(a) +5e, –4e, +5e
(b) +6e, +6e, –7e
(c) –4e, +3.5e, +5.5e
(d) +5e, –8e, +7e
A Answer ¥ 1 Marks
(b) +6e, +6e, –7e

Explanation

▲ When three spheres are brought in contact

the net charge will be –3e + 3e + 5e = 5e
▲ When separated this 5e charge will be
distributed.
▲ In option (A), Total charge is 6e. So, this option
is not correct.
▲ In option (B), total charge is 5e. So, this option
is correct.
▲ In option (C), Total charge is 5e. But this
 violates quantization of charge principle.
Hence this option is not correct.
▲ In option (D), total charge is -10e, Hence this
option is not correct.

š Question 34
18
An object has charge of 1 C and gains 5.0 × 10
electrons. The net charge on the object becomes:
(a) −0.80 C (b) +0.80 C (c) +1.80 C (d) +0.20 C
A Answer ¥ 1 Marks
d) +0.20 C

Explanation
−19
Charge of 1 electron =−1.6 × 10 𝐶
18
So, Charge of 5.0 × 10 electrons
18 −19
= −5.0 × 10 × 1.6 × 10 𝐶 = −0.8𝐶
Already existing charge = 1C
So, net charge at present = 1 − 0.8 = 0.2𝐶

š Question 35
The magnitude of electric field due to a point
charge 2𝑞, at distance 𝑟 is E. Then the magnitude
of electric field due to a uniformly charged thin
spherical shell of radius R with total charge 𝑞 at
𝑟
a distance (𝑟 >> 𝑅) will be
2
𝐸
(a) (b) 0 (c) 2E (d) 4E
4
A Answer ¥ 1 Marks
(c) 2E

Explanation

Electric field due to the point charge

𝐾 × 2𝑞
=𝐸= 2
𝑟
Electric field due to the spherical shell
′𝐾 ×𝑞
=𝐸 = = 2 𝐸
(𝑟/2) 2

š Question 36
A square sheet of side 𝑎 is lying parallel to XY
plane at 𝑧 = 𝑎. The electric field in the region is
→
− 2ˆ
E = 𝑐𝑧 𝑘 . The electric flux through the sheet is
4
1 3
1 4
(a) 𝑎 𝑐 (b) 𝑎 𝑐 (c) 𝑎 𝑐 (d) 0
3 3
A Answer ¥ 1 Marks
 4
(a) 𝑎 𝑐

Explanation
→− → −
Flux = E · A
2ˆ 2ˆ 2 2
= 𝑐𝑧 𝑘 · 𝑎 𝑘 = 𝑐𝑧 𝑎
𝑧=𝑎
2 2
𝑧 =𝑎

š Question 37
Three charges 𝑞, −𝑞 and 𝑞0 are placed as shown
in figure. The magnitude of the net force on the
1
 
charge 𝑞0 at point 𝑂 is 𝑘 =
( 4𝜋𝜀0)
 √
2𝑘𝑞𝑞0 2𝑘𝑞𝑞0 1 𝑘𝑞𝑞0
(a) 0 (b) (c) (d) √
𝑎2 𝑎2 2 𝑎 2

A Answer ¥ 1 Marks
√
2𝑘𝑞𝑞0
(c)
𝑎2
Explanation

Positions of 𝑞0, −𝑞 and 𝑞 are shown. Both −𝑞 and

𝑞 charges are equidistant from 𝑞0. So, the
magnitude of both the forces on 𝑞0 will be equal.
The angle between the forces will be 90 as
◦

shown in the diagram. Hence the resultant force

√
= F2 + F2 + 2 F × F × cos 90◦
√ √ 𝑘𝑞𝑞0 √ 1
  
𝑞𝑞0
= 2F= 2× 2 = 2× × 2
𝑎 4𝜋𝜀0 𝑎
š Question 38
Four objects W, X, Y and Z, each with charge +q
are held fixed at four points of a square of side d
as shown in the figure. Objects X and Z are on
the midpoints of the sides of the square. The
electrostatic force exerted by object W on object
X is F. Then the magnitude of the force exerted
by object W on Z is
 𝐹 𝐹 𝐹 𝐹
(a) (b) (c) (d)
7 5 3 2
A Answer ¥ 1 Marks
𝐹
(b)
5
Explanation

Force on X by W is
2 2
𝑘𝑞 4𝑘𝑞
𝐹= 2
= 2
(𝑑/2) 𝑑
√︂
2
√︁
2 2
5 𝑑
𝑊𝑍 = 𝑑 + (𝑑/2) =
4
Force on Z by W is
2 2
′ 𝑘𝑞 4 𝑘𝑞 𝐹
𝐹 = 2= 2
=
5𝑑 5𝑑 5
4
š Question 39
Assertion (A) : A negative charge in an electric
field moves along the direction of the electric
field.
Reason (R) : On a negative charge a force acts in
the direction of the electric field.

(a) Both Assertion (A) and Reason (R) are true

and Reason (R) is the correct explanation of
the Assertion (A).
(b) Both Assertion (A) and Reason (R) are true,
but Reason (R) is not the correct explanation
of the Assertion (A).
(c) Assertion (A) is true, but Reason (R) is false.
(d) Assertion (A) is false and Reason (R) is also
false.

A Answer ¥ 1 Marks
Assertion (A) is false and Reason (R) is also false.

Explanation

Assertion is wrong since electron moves in

opposite direction of the electric field.
Reason is also false since on negative charge
force acts in the opposite direction of the electric
field.
§ 2020 55/C Compart
š Question 40
(a) A uniformly charged large plane sheet has
1
 
−15 2
charge density 𝜎 = × 10 C/m .
18𝜋
Find the electric field at point A which is
50 cm from the sheet.
Consider a straight line with three points P, Q
and R, placed 50 cm from the charged sheet
on the right side as shown in the figure. At
which of these points, does the magnitude of
the electric field due to the sheet remain the
same as that at point 𝐴 and why?

(b) Two small identical conducting spheres

carrying charge 10 𝜇 C and −20 𝜇 C when
separated by a distance of r, experience a
 force F each. If they are brought in contact
𝑟
and then separated to a distance of , what is
2
the new force between them in terms of F ?

A Answer ¥ 3 Marks
(a) Electric field due to a uniformly charged sheet
𝜎 −6
E= = 1 × 10 N/C outward
2𝜖 𝑜
At point Q For finite plane sheet, electric field
is uniform in the middle. At the edges it will
be curved.
10 + (−20)
(b) q1 = q2 =
′ ′
= −5 𝜇 C
2
′ 𝐹
𝐹 =
2
§ 2020 55/5/1 All Sets
š Question 41
The electric flux through a closed Gaussian
surface depends upon
(a) Net charge enclosed and permittivity of the
medium
(b) Net charge enclosed, permittivity of the
medium and the size of the Gaussian surface
(c) Net charge enclosed only
(d) Permittivity of the medium only

A Answer ¥ 1 Marks
Net Charge enclosed and permittivity of the
medium

š Question 42
A point charge is placed at the centre of a hollow
conducting sphere of internal radius r and outer
radius 2r. The ratio of the surface charge density
of the inner surface to that of the outer surface
will be
A Answer ¥ 1 Marks
 𝑄
Surface charge density 𝜎 =
𝐴
𝑞
Surface charge density on 𝜎1 =
4𝜋𝑟 2
𝑞
Surface charge density on 𝜎2 = 2
4𝜋( 2𝑅)
𝑞
𝜎1 4𝜋𝑟 2 4
= =
𝜎2 𝑞 1
4𝜋( 2𝑅) 2
š Question 43
Derive the expression for the torque acting on
an electric dipole, when it is held in a uniform
electric field. Identify the orientation of the
dipole in the electric field, in which it attains a
stable equilibrium.
A Answer ¥ 2 Marks

Force on 𝑞 is 𝑞E and a force on −𝑞 is −𝑞E. Hence

torque
𝜏 = 𝑞𝐸 × 2𝑎 sin 𝜃
𝜏 = 𝑃𝐸 sin 𝜃
𝜏® = 𝑃® × 𝐸®
For stable equilibrium 𝜃 = 0°
 š Question 44
(a) Write two important characteristics of
equipotential surfaces.
(b) A thin circular ring of radius 𝑟 is charged
uniformly so that its linear charge density
becomes 𝜆 . Derive an expression for the
electric field at a point P at a distance 𝑥 from
it along the axis of the ring. Hence, prove that
at large distances (𝑥 >> 𝑟) , the ring behaves
as a point charge.
A Answer ¥ 5 Marks
(a) For equipotential surfaces
▲ Potential has the same value at all points on
the surface.
▲ Electric field is normal to the equipotential
surface at all points
▲ Work done in moving any charge between any
two points on the equipotential surface is zero
(b) Electric field due to any elemental (point)
charge 𝑑𝑞, at point P.

1 dq
= dE = 2 2
4𝜋𝜀0 (𝑥 + 𝑟 )
This is directed along AP Its component along
the axis OP of the ring is

𝑥
= dE cos 𝜃 = dE√
𝑥 2 + 𝑟2
The component, perpendicular to the axis gets
cancelled by the elemental electric field due to
another elemental charge symmetrically located
on the other side of the axis. Hence total electric
field∫
𝐸= 𝑑 E cos 𝜃

1
∫
𝑑𝑞 𝑥
= 2 2
√
4𝜋𝜀0 (𝑥 + 𝑟 ) 𝑥 2 + 𝑟 2
1
∫
𝑥
= 𝜆 d 𝑙
4𝜋𝜀0 (𝑥 2 + 𝑟 2) 3/2
1 𝑥𝜆
= × 2 𝜋𝑟
4𝜋𝜀0 (𝑥 2 + 𝑟 2) 3/2

𝑄 𝑥
=
4𝜋𝜀0 (𝑥 2 + 𝑟 2) 3/2
Where 𝑄 = 𝜆 × 2𝜋𝑟
= total charge on the ring
This field is directed along the axis.
When 𝑥 much larger than 𝑟 , we have
 𝑄 𝑥 1 𝑄
𝐸= = 2
4𝜋𝜀0 (𝑥 )
2 3/ 2 4𝜋𝜀0 𝑥
This corresponds to the expression for the
electric field due to a point charge. Thus at large
distances the ring behaves like a point charge.

š OR
(a) State Gauss’s law on electrostatics and derive
an expression for the electric field due to a
long straight thin uniformly charged wire
(linear charge density 𝜆 ) at a point lying at a
distance r from the wire.
−1
(b) The magnitude of electric field (in NC ) in a
region varies with the distance r (in m) as
E = 10 r + 5. By how much does the electric
potential increase in moving from point at
r = 1 m to a point at r = 10 m.
A Answer ¥ 5 Marks
(a) Electric flux through of a closed surface is 1/𝜖◦
times the charge enclosed by the surface.
𝑞
Therefore; 𝜙𝐸 =
𝜖◦
Let the charge be uniformly distributed on a
wire
 ∫ ∫ ∫ ∫
𝜙= 𝑑𝜙 = 𝐸® · 𝑑 𝑠®1 + 𝐸® · 𝑑 𝑠®2 + 𝐸® · 𝑑 𝑠®3
∫ ∫ ∫
◦ ◦ ◦
= 𝐸𝑑𝑠1 cos 0 + 𝐸𝑑𝑠2 cos 90 + 𝐸𝑑𝑠3 cos 90
∫
=𝐸 𝑑𝑠1 = 𝐸 · 2𝜋𝑟𝑙
𝑞
by Gauss’s law = 𝐸 · 2𝜋𝑟𝑙
𝜀0
𝑞 1 𝜆
E= =
2𝜋𝜀0𝑟𝑙 2𝜋𝜀0 𝑟
(b) E = 10r + 5
dV = −E · dr
∫ ∫ 10 ∫ 10
dV = − ® d®r = −
E ( 10r + 5) dr
1 1
 "∫ #
10 ∫ 10
V=− 10𝑟 dr + 5dr
1 1
 2  10
𝑟 10
V = 10 + 5 (𝑟) 1
2 1

V = −5 [ 100 − 1] + 5 [ 10 − 1]
V = −5 × 99 + 5 × 9 = −540 V
§ 2019 55/5/1 All Sets
š Question 45
Derive an expression for the torque acting on an
electric dipole of dipole moment 𝑝® placed in a
uniform electric field 𝐸®. Write the direction
along which the torque acts.
A Answer ¥ 2 Marks

Force on either charge F = qE

Magnitude of torque = Either of force × ⊥
distance between them.
𝜏 = qE2a sin 𝜃
𝜏 = pE sin 𝜃
𝜏® = 𝑝® × 𝐸®
Direction is normal to the paper coming out of it.
š OR
Derive an expression for the electric field at a
point on the axis of an electric dipole of dipole
moment 𝑝®. Also write its expression when the
distance 𝑟 >> the length 𝑎 of the dipole.
A Answer ¥ 2 Marks

𝑞
𝐸− = 2
along (−) ®
𝑝
4𝜋𝜀0 (𝑟 + 𝑎)
𝑞
𝐸+ = 2
along (+) ®
𝑝
4𝜋𝜀0 (𝑟 + 𝑎)
∴ Total field at 𝑃, 𝐸 = 𝐸− − 𝐸+
1 1
 
𝑞
= −
4𝜋𝜀0 (𝑟 − 𝑎) 2 (𝑟 + 𝑎) 2
𝑞 2 𝑝𝑟
= 2
4𝜋𝜀0 (𝑟 − 𝑎 )
2 2

For 𝑟 >> 𝑎
1 2𝑝
𝐸=
4𝜋𝜀0 𝑟 3
š Question 46
Why is the direction of the electric field due to a
charged conducting sphere at any point
perpendicular to its surface ?
A Answer ¥ Set 2, 1 Marks
If electric field is not perpendicular but has a
component tangential to the surface of the
conductor, it will exert force on charge and make
them more. It means electrostatic condition is
violated.

š Question 47
Why can the interior of a conductor have no
excess charge in the static situation ?
A Answer ¥ Set 3, 1 Marks
Take any arbitrary closed surface S inside the
conductor. Since electric field inside the
conductor is zero, electric flux through S is also
zero. Hence by Gauss’s law there is no net charge
enclosed by S
OR
Electric field inside the conductor is zero
§ 2019 55 (B)
š Question 48
Why are electric field lines perpendicular at a
point on an equipotential surface of a conductor?
A Answer ¥ 1 Marks
The work done in moving a charge from one
point to another on an equipotential surface is
zero. If the field is not normal to an
equipotential surface, it would have a non zero
component along the surface. This would imply
that work would have to be done to move a
charge on the surface which is contradictory to
the definition of equipotential surface.
Alternatively
Work done to move a charge 𝑑𝑞 on a surface can
be expressed as
−
→
𝑑𝑊 = 𝑑𝑞( 𝐸® · 𝑑𝑟)
But 𝑑𝑊 = 0 on an equipotential surface
−
→
∴ 𝐸® ⊥ 𝑑𝑟
Equipotential surfaces for a charge −𝑞 is shown
alongside.

š Question 49
Using Gauss law, derive an expression for the
electric field at a point near an infinitely long
straight uniformly charged wire.
A Answer ¥ 3 Marks
Flux through the Gaussian Surface is equal to
flux through the curved cylindrical part
= E × 2𝜋𝑟𝑙
The surface includes charge equal to 𝜆𝑙
Δ𝑄
where, 𝜆 = = linear charge density
Δ𝑙
Gauss’s Law then gives

𝜆𝑙
𝐸 × 2𝜋𝑟𝑙 =
𝜖◦
𝜆
𝐸=
2𝜋𝜖◦𝑟
š OR
(i) An electric dipole of dipole moment 𝑝® is held
in a uniform electric field 𝐸®. Show that the
torque acting on the dipole is given by 𝑝® × 𝐸®.
(ii) How much work is required in turning the
electric dipole from the position of most
stable equilibrium to that of most unstable ?

A Answer ¥ 3 Marks
(i) Magnitude of torque = 𝑞𝐸 × 2𝑎 sin 𝜃
= 2𝑞𝑎𝐸 sin 𝜃
= 𝑝𝐸 sin 𝜃
Its direction is normal to the plane of the paper,
coming out of it.
The magnitue of 𝑃® × 𝐸® Is also PE sin 𝜃 and its
direction is normal to the paper, Thus 𝜏® = 𝑃® × 𝐸®

(ii) Work done in turning the dipole from most

stable euilibirium to most unstable
equilibrium position
W = 𝑈 𝑓 −𝑈𝑖
U = −pE cos 𝜃
𝑈𝑖 = −pE cos 0 = −pE
◦
𝑈 𝑓 − = −pE cos 180 = pE
◦

W = pE − (−p𝐸) = 2pE