Electric Dipole in a Uniform Electric Field – Rankers Physics

Electric Dipole: Practice Problem & Solution

An electric dipole has the magnitude of its charge as \(q\) and its dipole moment is \(p\). It is placed in a uniform electric field \(E\). If its dipole moment is along the direction of the field, the force on it and its potential energy are respectively:
\(2qE\) and minimum
\(qE\) and \(pE\)
Zero and minimum
Zero and maximum

Short Solution (Best for NEET):

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

In a uniform electric field, the net force on a dipole is always zero. The potential energy is \(U = -pE \cos(0^\circ) = -pE\), which is the minimum potential energy.

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Similar Practice Questions

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1. The electric dipole is situated in an electric field as shown in figure. The dipole and electric field are both in the plane of paper. The dipole is rotated about an axis perpendicular to the paper at point A in anticlockwise direction. If the angle of rotation is measured with respect to the direction of the electric field then the torque for different values of the angle of rotation θ will be as represented in figure : [Take direction inside the paper as positive]  
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