Gauss's Law: Practice Problem & Solution

Solution Explained:

To solve this problem, we apply the core principles of Gauss's Law. Understanding the underlying formula is key to arriving at the correct answer below:

The electric field at the equator of a dipole is $E \propto \frac{p}{r^3}$. When the dipole strength is doubled ($p' = 2p$) and the distance is doubled ($r' = 2r$), the new field is $E' \propto \frac{2p}{(2r)^3} = \frac{1}{4} \frac{p}{r^3} = E/4$.